Learn French for Expats: Your Survival Guide to Thrive in France 🇫🇷

Moving to France is exciting — but let’s be honest, not speaking French can feel like landing on another planet. The signs, the expressions, the cultural references… it’s overwhelming. Find some tips to learn French for expats here.

Whether you’re in Paris or any other French city, learning French isn’t just about conjugating verbs. It’s the key to making friends, feeling confident, and truly belonging. Here’s how to make it happen, step by step — even if you’re starting from scratch.

Don’t panic: 50% of expats start at zero

At Absolutely French, we welcome learners from over 70 countries, and half of them are complete beginners. You’re not alone. Our courses are designed for you to feel supported from day one.

In fact, we never teach from a textbook only. We teach real life: how to understand a joke, what to say at the bakery, how to deal with French administration (yes, that’s a whole lesson!).

Like that time Marta from Brazil confidently told the pharmacist she had “mal au poisson” instead of “mal au poignet” (pain in the fish vs. pain in the wrist). We all laughed together — and she never forgot the word for wrist again!

Choose the right environment and learn French for expats

Learning French online is easy. Sticking with it? Much harder. That’s why in-person group learning is our secret weapon.

Here’s why it works:

• You learn by speaking, not just listening

• You create bonds with people going through the same journey

• You’re gently pushed to dare, try, laugh, and impro

Plus, with our lunches and coffee breaks, you practice French without even realizing it.

🔗 Check out our immersive French courses in Paris

Set a small, meaningful goal

Forget about “being fluent.” Instead, try:

• I want to order a croissant confidently

• I want to introduce myself in a job interview

• I want to talk to my child’s teacher

French becomes easier (and way more fun) when it’s connected to your real life.

And if you’re looking to relaunch your career in France, our sister program Absolutely Talented can help:
🔗 www.absolutely-talented.com

Embrace the culture, not just the grammar

Learning French also means learning how the French think and live.

Why do they say “on n’est pas sorti de l’auberge”? What’s the deal with “tutoiement” and “vouvoiement”? We’ll guide you through all of it — with humor and empathy.

One of our learners, Jonathan from Canada, was so proud when he finally mastered “tutoyer” his gym coach… until he accidentally did it with his very formal neighbor. Oops. But it sparked a great discussion, and now they laugh about it every morning!

Want to explore on your own too? Check out this great tool from TV5Monde:
🔗 https://apprendre.tv5monde.com

Practice a little, every day (even when tired)

Learning a new language is like planting a tree. A little water every day goes a long way.

Watch a 5-minute French video. Read labels at the supermarket. Listen to a podcast while cooking. Bit by bit, your brain adapts — and suddenly, French starts making sense.

Many of our learners tell us that after a few weeks, they start dreaming in French. That’s always a magical moment. Even if the first dream is just you shouting “Baguette !” at a dog.

One last thing: You are not behind. You are just getting started
Everyone has an accent. Everyone makes mistakes. That’s what makes the experience so beautiful and human.

At Absolutely French, we celebrate every little win with you.
Because learning French is not just about language —
It’s about finding your place in France 💛