Arranging suitable life insurance is another important consideration for expatriates.

If you apply for a bank loan, then a life insurance policy is often required as security - in such cases the policy can be limited to cover the loan period.

Some companies include free life insurance as an employee benefit, but you should check if the level of cover is adequate (sometimes only covers death as the result of an accident). Be aware that, should you die, social security payments to a widow or dependants amount to only 3 months' salary (maximum 6000 Euro).

Many French and foreign insurers sell life policies, but if you want yours to take advantage of, and comply with, French law, then take out cover IN FRANCE.

There is a 30-day 'cooling off' period with all French life insurance policies, during which you may cancel without being penalised.

Insurance premiums vary according to the amount insured, your age and health factors (reduction for non-smokers). Most insurers stipulate a maximum age for those taking out life insurance of between 45 and 60 years.