How to Make Friends and Build Your Social Circle

Adjusting to Life as an Expat in France: How to Make Friends and Feel at Home

If you’re an expat in France who has recently moved, you might have felt like you’d never fully settle in. But now here you are: everything is finally unpacked, you’re getting used to your new home and neighborhood, the kids are in school, and you’ve learned the names of your coworkers.

So, what’s the next step? Making friends as an expat in France. Even if you’re already taking French lessons (and we hope you are!), nothing beats real-life conversations with native speakers to improve fluency. The more you practice speaking, the more confident and natural you’ll feel in your new language.

But beyond language learning, befriending native French speakers is key to integrating into life in France. Over the next few months, you’ll have plenty of questions—big and small—about how things work in your new country. Locals can offer invaluable guidance, from navigating the healthcare system to understanding cultural nuances.

And let’s not forget: as an expat, you’re far from your usual support system. While video calls with loved ones help, you need to build a new social network in France to truly feel at home.

Best Ways for Expats in France to Make Friends

Making friends with native French speakers may feel challenging at first, but small, consistent efforts will soon pay off. Here are some practical ways to build connections:

1. Share Food and Drink with Neighbors or Coworkers

Food is an essential part of French culture, and sharing a meal is a great way to bond. Invite your neighbors for coffee, bring pastries to work, or host an apéro (evening drinks and snacks) to break the ice.

2. Spend Time in Common Areas

If you live in an apartment complex, spend time in shared spaces like the courtyard, pool, or gym. Many buildings even host resident events—perfect for meeting locals in a casual setting.

3. Work from a Café or Coworking Space

If you work remotely, don’t stay cooped up at home. Working from a local café can help you meet people in your neighborhood. Coworking spaces in France are another great option to connect with professionals.

4. Get Involved in the Local Community

Do you have kids ? They can be your social bridge! Meet other parents at French schools, playgrounds, and local events. Join the PTA or volunteer for school activities to integrate faster. No kids ? Join local clubs, sports teams, or cultural associations.

5. Be Aware of Cultural Cues

Your daily habits and body language send signals. If you rush inside after work every day, neighbors may assume you’re not interested in connecting. Try spending more time outside or making eye contact and smiling—French social norms around personal space and greetings may differ from what you’re used to.

6. Use Meetup and Expat Groups

Websites like Meetup.com and Facebook groups for expats in France are excellent for finding people with shared interests. You may even find language exchange meetups where locals want to practice English while helping you with French—a win-win situation!

7. Don’t Be Afraid to Start Conversations

Worried about your French skills? Most people are more willing to help than you think. Let others know you’re learning and eager to improve. Simple phrases like “Je suis nouveau/nouvelle ici” (I’m new here) can open the door to friendly chats. To learn more about how to start conversation in French,

👉 Watch my video here : How to start conversations in french

Building Friendships as an Expat in France: A Rewarding Journey

Making friends in France takes time, but it’s one of the most enriching aspects of expat life. By putting yourself out there, you’ll not only expand your social circle but also deepen your understanding of French culture.

Want to improve your French and connect with locals? Our language coaching for expats in France helps you feel confident in conversations. Contact us for a free consultation.