Is moving to France to learn French realistically a good idea?
Hello beautiful Redditors,
I would really love some honest advice.
I’ve been trying to learn French for quite a while now, but I’m struggling to make real progress. I’m probably around A2/B1 level, so still very much a beginner. I also have ADHD and generally find language learning difficult, so self-studying/online lessons have been tough.
One of the main reasons I want to improve my French is because it would significantly help my chances for Canadian PR in the future, although it’s not the only reason.
I’ve been considering moving to France for a few months to do an intensive French course while working a small part-time job to help cover living costs. My thinking is that the combination of immersion and classes would help me improve much faster than trying to learn online.
For context, I’m an EU citizen, still young, and don’t have major commitments like pets, a house, or a partner tying me down, so this feels like the best time in my life to try something like this.
My biggest fear is that I’ll end up in the same situation I had in Germany once. I struggled to find work because many jobs required German, and the cost of living became very stressful when I wasn’t earning enough. I’m worried the exact same thing could happen in France.
So I guess my questions are:
- Is this realistically a good idea?
- Has anyone here moved to France with limited French and managed okay?
- Which cities or regions would make the most sense for someone trying to balance affordability, work opportunities, and language immersion?
- Are there certain jobs foreigners commonly get while learning French?
- Would another French-speaking country actually make more sense than France?
Honestly, France makes me a bit nervous because of the stereotype that French people can be unfriendly or impatient with non-French speakers. I know stereotypes are often exaggerated, but I am still worried
I’d really appreciate realistic advice. Thank you 😄