BP25 7, rue Ancelle 92201 Neuilly-sur-Seine Cedex France 01 55 61 22 00 www.cso.nato.int
CSO Welcome booklet
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION 1. HOUSING 1.1 LOOKING FOR A HOME 1.2 DEFINING YOUR NEEDS 1.3 ADVICE ON WHERE TO LIVE 1.4 HOME INSURANCE 1.5 ADVICE ON SIGNING THE LEASE 1.6 MAIN SUBSCRIPTIONS: ELECTRICITY AND GAS, TELEPHONE, TV, COMPUTER CONNECTIONS 1.7 WEB SITES CONCERNING REAL ESTATE MARKET 2. TRANSPORT 2.1 CAR 2.2 CAR INSURANCE 2.3 LIST OF INSURANCE COMPANIES USED BY STAFF MEMBERS 2.4 FRENCH ROAD RULES 2.5 MORE WEB SITES 3. HEALTH 3.1 HEALTH CARE SYSTEM IN PARIS AND REGION 3.2 EMERGENCY SERVICES AND TELEPHONE NUMBERS 3.3 LIST OF HOSPITALS AND ENGLISH SPEAKING DOCTORS 3.4 CONSULTING YOUR FAMILY DOCTOR 4. SCHOOLING 4.1 CHOOSING A SCHOOL 4.2 LIST OF BILINGUAL AND INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS 4.3 THE FRENCH SCHOOL SYSTEM 4.4 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 5. ELEMENTS CONCERNING FRENCH CULTURE 5.1 GREETINGS 5.2 POLITENESS 5.3 GOOD MANNERS IN SOCIAL LIFE 5.4 COMMUNICATING WITH FRENCH PEOPLE 5.5 BOOKS ON THE SUBJECT 6. GENERAL INFORMATION AND ADVICE 6.1 A PLACE TO VISIT UPON ARRIVAL: THE TOWN HALL 6.2 THE GUIDE BOOK OF NEUILLY-SUR-SEINE 6.3 PLACES TO LEARN FRENCH IN THE PARIS DISTRICT 6.4 A SELECTION OF WEB SITES ABOUT FRANCE, PARIS 6.5 WEB SITES OF EMBASSIES FOR MEMBER COUNTRIES OF NATO 7. APPENDIX
7.1 INFORMATION AND ADMINISTRATIVE FORMALITIES ON THE ARRIVAL OF A NON-FRENCH STAFF MEMBER AND INFORMATION RELATING TO PRIVILEGES AND IMMUNITIES 7.2 ADMINISTRATIVE FORMALITIES ON DEPARTURE OF A STAFF MEMBER 7.3 INFORMATION AND FORMALITIES ON DEPARTURE OF A NON-FRENCH STAFF MEMBER
FORMS
CSO Welcome booklet
CSO Welcome booklet
INTRODUCTION
This welcome booklet has been written in order to facilitate your arrival and help you settle down. It contains information and practical advice which will help you gain time and become more familiar with your new environment.
The primary goal of this guide is to facilitate the integration of newcomers. It describes in a brief way the various administrative steps they will have to carry out when arriving or leaving the Collaboration Support Office (CSO). Although everything has been done to ensure the accuracy of this document, it does not constitute an official document and should not be quoted as such. Should you need additional information, feel free to contact the CSO Human Resources office, which will be happy to augment this booklet with your feedback and experience to the benefit of future newcomers.
We hope you will enjoy reading it and find it helpful!
1) Background
Following the departure of the North Atlantic Council, the NATO International Staff and the NATO Integrated Military Headquarters from France, a number of NATO Agencies remained on French territory.
The Secretary General has delegated the General Manager of the NATO/NSPA CEPS-Programme Office (CEPS-PO) in Versailles to act on his/her behalf vis-à-vis the French Authorities regarding the « immunities and privileges » of NATO Agencies in France (NSPA/CEPS-PO, NH90, CSO).
After negotiation, the French Authorities agreed to maintain for the benefit of these Agencies and their staff the so-called « immunities and privileges » previously enjoyed before the departure of the NATO International Staff from Paris.
In order to avoid any possible misunderstanding concerning the nature of these immunities and privileges, it must be clearly understood that they are not always rights but often favours granted by the French Authorities or informal arrangements which evolve over time and are thus liable to modification or withdrawal.
DESIGNATION & MISSION OF NATO AGENCIES IN FRANCE
NSPA/CEPS-PO Central Europe Pipeline Sytem Programme Office (Bureau de programme du Système des Oléoducs en Centre-Europe) 11 bis, rue du Général Pershing 78000 Versailles The Central Europe Pipeline System Programme Office has the full responsibility of the operational and technical control of the NATO Central Europe Pipeline network. The six state members are Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and the United States. CEPS-PO is also taking care, in connection with the national agencies of the country users, of the modifications it could be necessary to implement.
Besides the official mission of CEPS-PO for the management of the central-Europe pipeline network, the CEPS-PO General Manager, on delegation by the NATO Secretary-General is the proper authority in relation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to represent the NATO agencies in France.
CSO Welcome booklet
NH90 NH90 Helicopter (Programme de gestion OTAN pour la conception, le développement, la production et la logistique de l'hélicoptère OTAN des années 90) Le Quatuor - Bât. A 42, route de Galice 13082 Aix-en-Provence The NATO HELICOPTER D&D Production and Logistic Management Agency created since February 7, 1992, is in charge of the study, development, production and the logistics of the NATO helicopter for the Nineties (NH90). Five countries are concerned with this programme, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Portugal.
STO-CSO Collaboration Support Office (Bureau de Soutien à la Collaboration Scientifique) BP 25 92201 Neuilly-Sur-Seine Cedex Within the framework of the STO collaborative business model, the CSO provides executive and administrative support to the S&T activities conducted through the STO level 2 committees and level 3 working groups. In its areas of expertise, the CSO will provide assistance and support to the STB, its Chairperson, the Chief Scientist, and his/her office. The Collaboration Support Office (CSO) is located in Neuilly- sur-Seine (France).
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The Collaboration Support Office
The ‘Raison d’être’ of the CSO consists in the network of scientists who contribute their expertise in the following domains, organized in 6 Panels and 1 Group:
Applied Vehicle Technology (AVT) Human Factors & Medicine (HFM) Information Systems Technology (IST) NATO Modeling and Simulation Group (NMSG) Studies Analysis and Simulation (SAS) Systems Concepts and Integration (SCI) Sensors & Electronics Technology (SET)
The Collaboration Support Office is based at the 7 rue Ancelle in Neuilly sur Seine. This suburb, in the close vicinity of Paris, is located on right bank of the Seine. Easily accessible by car it is ideally served by the station "LES SABLONS" of the subway line 1.
The working hours of the CSO are adapted to the primarily administrative functions of the Office (08: 30 -12: 00 / 13: 30 -17:45). The weekly working time at the CSO is 38 hours. Note that military staff don’t wear uniform, except on special occasions such as awards ceremony.
1. HOUSING
1.1 Looking for a home We would advise you to start looking for a home as soon as possible and at least one month before your arrival in France. Looking for a home in Paris or the Paris suburbs will be time-and patience-consuming since demands are greater than offers, which leads owners and real estate agencies to be very demanding on contract terms. • Real estate agencies offer some advantages: an agency can facilitate your search by establishing your profile and proposing several homes according to your criteria. Generally an agency will take a commission of about one month’s rent. • A landlord will sometimes prove more flexible and may accept “special cases” which would probably be refused by agencies. It is easier to negotiate directly with a landlord since he is the one who sets the rent and chooses the tenant. • Prices vary according to the geographical zone (suburbs, Paris areas). Consulting http://tempsreel.nouvelobs.com/immobilier/ will help you know what to expect in terms of price per square meter.
• To obtain information about France’s main real estate agencies, you can visit : - http://www.seloger.com/
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• Main web sites for local newspapers with classified adverts: - http://www.lefigaro.fr/immobilier/ - http://www.explorimmo.com/
• If you prefer to rent direct from a landlord, please visit: http://www.pap.fr/
These sites will enable you to look for a home according to your wishes: flat or house, surface area, number of rooms, location, rent.
1.2 Defining your needs To rent a home in the Paris area, you can either contact a real estate agency or a landlord. In both cases, you will have to provide some administrative documents. But when negotiating with an agency or a landlord, you should bear in mind that the most important thing is to be trustworthy. Owners (landlords or agencies) will want to know if your income is sufficient and that you are a serious person. They will only accept to let you a home if you can convince them that it is the case.
• List of documents to provide : - Copy of your passport or ID if you are a E.U. citizen. - Bank details: you will have to open a French bank account. - Proof of former renting or taxes on your last home, or that you have been hosted. - Evidence of salary for the last 3 months. - A certificate from the CSO indicating the nature of your work contract, its duration, your position and status; it should also state that you will not have to pay taxes in France since you are an international civil servant working for NATO. - A cheque for a deposit amounting to 1 or 2 months’ rent (sometimes 3), as a guarantee that you will take proper care of the place; at the end of your stay, you will be refunded after a final check by the landlord or agency. - A warrant or a bank caution: beware! This may vary from one agency to another. It is therefore strongly recommended to question the agency you will be dealing with about the warrant or caution that they will request. - Payment of the first month’s rent. To that end, make sure, as soon as possible, to have a French bank account with enough provision (possibly about 3000€) - To obtain the keys: A copy of your home insurance “multirisques habitation” contract will be required. The insurance must start before or on the day you obtain the keys.
1.3 Advice on where to live To choose where you will live, we advise you to take the following points into account :
• If you have children : you should choose the school you want them to attend and then try to find a home not too far away, in order to avoid long transportation time. Concerning the choice of school, please see the chapter on “Schooling”. • Transportation time in Paris and suburbs : although the public transportation network is well organised and will enable you to be car free, you must be aware that it is tiring and often crowded. Therefore living near the CSO would be an ideal choice; it is located on the west side of Paris, in Neuilly-sur-Seine. Furthermore, Neuilly-sur-Seine offers a pleasant environment with many residential areas; the Boulogne woods and a nice park called “Jardin d’acclimatation” with many activities for children are close at hand.
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Here are some examples of transport time for the underground : metro line n° 1 is the one that will enable you to get to the CSO (metro station : “Sablons”)
- East of Paris : Nation > Sablons = 30 m’ - Centre of Paris : Hôtel de Ville > Sablons = 20 m’ - North of Paris : Porte de la Chapelle > Sablons = 37 min - South of Paris : Denfert Rochereau > Sablons = 30 min - West of Paris : Charles de Gaulle-Etoile > Sablons = 10 min
To calculate how long it will take you to get somewhere by metro or bus, you can visit the RATP (French public transportation service) Web site : http://www.ratp.fr
To calculate how much time it will take you to get somewhere by car and how to get there, (anywhere in France, even from door to door) you can visit: http://www.mappy.com/?lang=en
In the chapter “Transportation”, you will find more information about transport in Paris and its suburbs.
1.4 Home insurance The Home insurance is often called “assurance habitation multirisques”. The contract covering damages that you could cause to someone is called “assurance en responsabilité civile” (“third part liability”). Home insurance is compulsory by law and you must provide the agency or landlord with a copy of the contract in order to obtain the keys to your new home.
• Basic coverage of the home insurance usually are : - Fire, explosions and related risks - Water damage - Broken window panes - Third party liability - Acts of terror and natural catastrophes - Storms, snow and hail - Limited legal assistance
• Insurance companies also offer optional guaranties. Some of them are also included in the propositions of insurance brokers : - Burglary and vandalism - Assistance in your home - Juridical protection - Electrical damage - Loss of food in case of freezer damage - Domestic accidents - Etc.
To compare the different services provided by the main insurance companies, visit http://www.assurland.com
1.5 Advice on signing the lease • Inventory of fixtures : before moving into your new home, you must establish a list of fixtures with the landlord or the real estate agency. You must check that the property is in good state, that
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the fixtures provided function correctly. Do not neglect this inventory. It will enable you to avoid problems at the end of your stay.
• Duties of the tenant : when you have lived in a house or flat since January 1st of the current year, you must pay a tax called “taxe d’habitation” (poll tax). This tax is due each year and its amount varies from one town to another. (For more details on taxes you must pay, please refer to the appendix). Being a tenant, you also have obligations stated in the renting contract, “le bail” (the lease), often signed for a duration of 3 years. According to a standard lease, a tenant will have to : - Live in the place according to its stated use - Take good care of the place and undertake repair jobs as stated in the lease - Give access in case of necessity, such as work being done in communal parts of the building, as well as give access so that maintenance of the rented place can be done. - A tenant is not allowed to transform the place and its equipment without written permission from the landlord. - Ask for authorisation from your landlord if you wish to let out a part of or the entire home or terminate your lease.
1.6 Main subscriptions: electricity and gas, telephone, tv, computer connections • Electricity and gas : contact EDF/GDF : when you settle in your new home, you can immediately be connected, upon arrival you will find a document left by EDF/GDF explaining how to proceed to obtain electricity and gas connections. If you wish more explanations, please visit the official site (available in English): http://bleuciel.edf.com/particuliers-45636.html
• Telephone : contact ORANGE. The delay in obtaining a phone line is about 48h. To become acquainted with the services offered by France Telecom, fees etc.., you can visit the following site (available in English): http://www.orange.com/en
• TV : all homes have the necessary aerial plugs in order to receive the 6 main French channels. Since 2005, the TV tax is included in the poll tax. If you don’t have a TV set, you must inform the tax office when you pay the tax. It is also possible to get cable or satellite TV but only if your home is equipped (ask the real estate agency or the landlord). Since 2004, it is also possible to obtain over 100 channels via ADSL (web).
• Web connection : companies providing web connections in France are battling for market shares and therefore offer also phone and TV services via the ADSL. We advise you to seek information about the latest prices since they often change due to market competition. Most of the time, you will have to register according to a process notified by the company of your choice. To obtain information about the different possibilities, visit the following : - http://www.dslvalley.com/adsl/comparatifadsl.php - http://www.comparatifadsl.net/comparatif-adsl.php - http://www.adsl-facile.com/
1.7 Web sites concerning real estate market • Web sites of the main groups in the Paris district
- http://www.4immobilier.tm.fr/ - http://www.avis-immobilier.fr/ - http://www.century21france.fr/ - http://fr.foncia.com/agence-immobiliere/Paris/ - http://www.fnaim.fr/ - http://www.guy-hoquet.com/ - http://www.keops.fr/
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- http://www.laforet.com/ - http://www.letuc.com/ - http://www.bourse-immobilier.fr/
• Web sites of real estate agencies in Neuilly-sur-Seine
- http://www.sadone.com/ - http://www.feau-immobilier.fr/
2. TRANSPORT
It should be stressed that it is not necessary to buy or rent a car to move about in Paris. Many Parisians do not own a personal vehicule. The high cost of buying and maintaining a car, heavy traffic and lack of parking space etc… have led many people to prefer public transport (metro, bus, RER, trains or taxi). Should that be your choice, we advise you to carefully choose the location of your new home, preferably in Paris or near your work place, and anyway not far from a metro, bus or RER line (or else near to a train station for suburban transport).
2.1 Car If you choose to buy a car in France, please refer to the appendix of the welcome booklet. Chapter “Information and administrative formalities on the arrival of a non-French Staff member and information relating to privileges and immunities” will give you all the information concerning taxes, conditions for buying or selling a car as an CSO staff member.
2.2 Car insurance The insurance called « assurance au tiers » (third party insurance) is mandatory in France. Third party insurance is the minimum guarantee of a car insurance contract. It covers damages caused to others by the driver who is responsible for an accident.
Legally, such an insurance contract is sufficient but you can add optional guarantees which could prove very useful in case of an accident. The insurance companies will offer them to you.
• Optional guarantees of car insurance : - All risk coverage : this has the advantage to insure you for any damage to your vehicule in case of an accident whether you are responsible or not. - Assistance guarantee : this would reimburse the cost of towing and returning your vehicle as well as your own transport expenses and those of your passengers in case of an accident or breakdown. Other companies offer this service. If, for instance this is covered by your bank, it will not be necessary to subscribe to the guarantee with your insurance company. - The guarantee for damages caused by natural catastrophes, which will only be applied if the prefect of the department issues a decree. - Driver’s guarantee : the most important. It covers the driver in case of bodily harm. That guarantee will only be applied in case of serious and costly accidents but of course that is when it is most needed.
• Excess : In case of damages (to cars, houses etc...) the insurance company will refund you for the cost of repairs minus an “excess” which is determined when subscribing to the insurance. You may usually choose the amount; of course, the higher the excess, the cheaper the insurance will be.
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Important note: if you already have a car insurance in your country, you should bring the “no claim certificate” and hand it to your company in France in order to preserve the bonus from your former company.
2.3 List of insurance companies used by staff members In order to insure your car, you may use the services of the following insurance companies chosen by staff members of CSO. You may visit the following sites for more information :
- AXA : http://entreprise.axa.fr/ - NORWICH UNION : http://www.norwichunion.com/ - AGPM : http://www.agpm.fr/ - GAN : http://www.ganassurances.fr/vie-privee.html
2.4 French road rules In order to familiarise yourself with all the French rules of the road, including traffic signals, sign posting, road-markings, speed limits etc – a good place to start is to buy a copy of the "Code de la Route", the French Highway Code.
• Wherever you drive in France, some basic rules traffic and common-sense tips apply (These pointers are by no means exhaustive) : - Carry your driving licence, insurance documents and car registration documents at all times. If you are a resident then carry your “carte de séjour” or passport. (Spot checks are quite common, even in country areas). - If you’re not used to driving on the right hand side, don’t forget to always drive on the right ! : it’s often after a few days or weeks of successful right-side driving that usual left hand drivers “forget”, especially when pulling out of drives or small side roads. - Speed Limits (the second figure indicates the reduced speed limit in rainy conditions) . Motorways – 130/110 km/h (81/69 mph) . Dual Carriageways – 110/100 km/h (69/62mph) . Other roads – 90/80 km/h (56/50mph) . Built-up areas/towns – 50 km/h (31mph) or as signposted - Wearing a seatbelt is compulsory for the driver and passengers, even in the back seat. - Study the rules for priorities when entering and exiting roads, roundabouts, junctions etc; if in doubt give way to vehicles coming from your right. Come to a complete stop at stop signs. - By law you must carry a warning triangle, a yellow jersey and at least one breathalyzer. - By law you must adjust the direction of your headlamp beams for driving on the right, either by using the stick-on adapters or (on more modern cars) by making an adjustment to the lights. - Spare bulbs and fuses, first-aid kits and fire extinguishers are recommended but not a legal requirement. - Fines vary from around 30 Euros to over 3,000 Euros for serious speeding offences or more for drunken or reckless driving. Non-residents must pay in cash on the spot. Residents have 30 days to pay.
You may visit the following web sites for more information on French road rules: - http://driving.drive-alive.co.uk/driving-in-france.htm - http://www.discoverfrance.net/Boutique/Travel/Car_Leasing/index.shtml
2.5 More web sites Concerning public transport in Paris and the region, you can consult the following two sites:
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The RATP site may be consulted in several languages. It is very useful and convenient to help you get acquainted with the metro, buses and RER networks. It enables you to know the time necessary to go from one place to another in Paris or suburbs. We strongly advise you to consult this site after choosing the location of your lodging and calculate your time of transport to go to work: http://www.ratp.fr
SNCF site : it also enables you to obtain practical informations about your train travels throughout France including the suburbs of Paris: http://www.sncf.com
3. HEALTH
3.1 Health care system in Paris and its region Paris and its region have a great number of hospitals and clinics both public and private.
• Public establishments : the “Assistance Publique et Les Hôpitaux de Paris” can be found throughout the region and some of them are well known for the quality of services and their specialities. If you wish more information about the services of “Assistance Publique et les Hôpitaux de Paris”, visit the site : http://www.aphp.fr/
• Private establishments : among the private hospitals and clinics, the American Hospital of Paris is one of the best known and appreciated by English speaking expatriates. You can visit the following site to obtain more information of their services : http://www.american-hospital.org/
3.2 Emergency services and telephone numbers • SAMU is the national emergency organisation. It is a 24-hour service and gives medical assistance for all medical emergencies. Its ambulances are manned by teams of trained personnel, and are equipped with emergency equipment for any cardiac or respiratory resuscitation. SAMU should be called for life-threatening conditions that require the assistance of trained medical professionals. These include: cardiac or respiratory emergencies (chest pain and/or shortness of breath), severe bleeding, severe asthma, stroke, and trauma resulting in multiple injuries. Some advice when calling SAMU: Be brief and concise and give the precise address or location, your phone number, the caller’s and victim's names, the age of the victim and a description of his medical condition.
• Emergency numbers are listed in the front of all telephone directories
- Emergency Number (from anywhere in the European Union): 112 - SAMU : (Emergency Medical Team/Ambulance) 15 - Police Secours : 17 - Fire Department (pompiers) : 18 - American Hospital of Paris : 01 46 41 25 25 - Anti-Poison Center : 01.40.05.48.48 - Burn Center at l’Hôpital Saint-Louis : (Emergency) 01.42.38.51.61 (Service for Burns ) 01.42.49.99.70 - Hôpital Necker : (Children, Emergency Care) 01.44.49.40.00 - SOS Dentists : (private company for emergencies) : 01.45.26.15.54 - SOS Drugs : (Hopital Marmottan) (private comp. for emergencies) : 01.45.74.00.04 - SOS Drogue International : 01.55.34.76.20 / 01.55.34.76.21 - SOS Help English-speaking hotline : open daily 01.46.21.46.46
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(Only from 3:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m ) - SOS Laboratoire: 01.46.08.12.34 - SOS Medecins (private company for emergency doctors) 36.24 / 01.47.07.77.77
3.3 List of hospitals and English speaking doctors The following institutions, individuals, hospitals and/or doctors, have informed the US Embassy that they are qualified to practice in the categories specified, and that they are sufficiently competent in the English language to provide services to English-speaking patients.
• Hospitals in the district of Paris - American Hospital of Paris, 63 Blvd Victor Hugo, 92200 Neuilly-sur-Seine 01 46 41 25 25 - Hertford British Hospital, 3 rue Barbes, 92300 Levallois-Perret 01 47.59.59.59 - Hospital Foch, 40 rue Worth, 92150 Suresnes 01 46 25 20 00
• English speaking doctors (general practitioners) in Paris (by arrondissement) and surroundings: - Wilson (Dr) Stephen, 54 rue des Archives 75004 Paris 01 48 87 21 10 - Bryn (Dr) Agnès, 11 rue de Pot de Fer 75005 Paris 01 55.43.30.80 - Salzman (Dr) Nancy, 1 Avenue de Lowendal, 75007 Paris 01 45 63 18 43 - Slattery (Dr) Francis, 10, Avenue Eylau 75016 Paris, 01 47 42 02 34 - Tredup (Dr) Jurgen, 27 Passage Saint Ambroise 75011 Paris 01 43 55 03 21 - Bache, (Dr) Julia, 5 rue Léon Cogniet, 75017 Paris 01 47 63 42 07 - Jolly (Dr) Gunita, British Hospital 3 rue de Barbès, 92300 Levallois-Perret 01 46 39 22 00/36 /06.26.92.76.68
• Pharmacies - Swann (Anglo-American,) 6 rue de Castiglione, 75001 Paris 01 42 60 72 96 - Pharmacie anglaise des Champs Elysées,62 Avenue des Champs Elysées 75008 Paris 09.83.75.97.98 / 01.43.59.82.30 - British Pharmacy Villa Mayor, 1 rue Auber, 75009 Paris 01 42 65 88 29 - Cypel (Anglo-American), 37 avenue Marceau, 75016 Paris 01 47 20 57 37
A more complete list of physicians can be found on the web site of the American Embassy and in the Yellow Pages. General practitioners are listed under “médecins généralistes”, and specialists under “médecins qualifiés” and their speciality.
3.4 Consulting your family doctor There are two large groups of liberal practitioners : • The general practitioners also called “family doctors”: as from the social security reform of 2005, French people must now register with a family doctor and consult him before seing a specialist. The French Social Security determines the minimum fee for a consultation. • Specialists: they are often recommended by the family doctor but may also be consulted directly. Fees depend on the speciality. You are advised to obtain information before making an appointment.
Consulting a doctor: You may visit a general practioner without an appointment at his surgery during working hours. In such case, you will have to wait a certain time. It is easier to make an appointment by calling in
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advance. During your first visit, the doctor may require from you some administrative and medical information to better know you at the time and in the future. At the end of the consultation, the doctor will ask you to pay the fee in cash, cheque or credit card. He will hand you a health care form indicating the date of consultation, his name and the amount charged. You will send that form to your insurance company to get a refund. If you need medicine, the doctor will hand you a prescription mentioning his name and the list of medicines to buy in a pharmacy. You will use that prescription to get your treatment. (In France some medicine, especially antibiotics, can only be purchased with a doctor’s prescription).
Important note: If you are not an international civil servant, you should check your own medical insurance as to what they require to refund you.
4. SCHOOLING
4.1 Choosing a school In the Paris area, there are various possibilities as to your child’s schooling. Besides the standard French school system, there are bilingual or international schools (or establishments with international classes) offering a well adapted curriculum for foreign children due to spend only a few years in France. All French state schools are free of charge; the Ministry of Education manages them. There are also numerous private schools (mostly catholic, or offering special methods of education, i.e. bilingual or international schools). The fees vary greatly from one to another as each establishment chooses their own policy.
• General factors to take into account: All factors in the following list are probably worth considering when making your choice of school. The factors may be of different importance according to your case - the list below is not intended to recommend any order of priority : - Your child's age - Your child's grades - His/her sensibility, special needs, and interests - Your budget - Your goals - Availability in the school - The area you live in As we already recommended, choose a school first, if possible (also taking into consideration commuting time to work and so forth) and then seek accommodation in that area. It is undoubtedly best to live close to the school : long rides to and from school are tiring for the children. It is also important for the children to make friends in the neighborhood, which will prove more difficult if their school is far away.
• Advice for your child’s adaptation: As long as you approach the adventure of moving to Paris as a wonderful opportunity, your child will be more likely to adopt the same attitude and thrive in his/her new environment. It is of course necessary to prepare your child and to associate him/her in the decisions you are taking since they also concern him/ her. Whatever type of school you choose, your child will go through an adaptation period, and you will need to spend time and energy to help him/her to adjust. This is even more necessary, if you decide to place your child in a French school. Attending elementary or secondary school in a French environment can be a difficult experience: an expatriate child, as well as dealing with language and cultural differences, must also cope with the French highly structured learning system. • If your child is particularly shy or has difficulty in making friends, a national or bilingual
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school will allow for an easier and smoother transition. Since these schools have a high turnover, there will always be many other "new" students. Your child should therefore feel rather comfortable, since he/she will be with other children who are experiencing the same changes. In any case we recommend that you pay special attention to your child in the first 3 months and help him/her to overcome his/her difficulties to adjust to his/her new school.
4.2 List of bilingual and international schools
1. MARYMOUNT INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL 72, boulevard de la Saussaye 92200 Neuilly-sur-Seine 01 46 24 10 51 http://www.marymount.fr/
2. THE BILINGUAL MONTESSORI SCHOOL 65 quai d'Orsay 75007 Paris 01 45 55 13 27 http://www.montessori-Paris.com
3. ECOLE ACTIVE BILINGUE SECTION JEANNINE MANUEL 70 rue du Theatre 75015 Paris 01 44 37 00 80 http://www.eabjm.org
4. EURECOLE (trilingual school) 5 rue de Lubeck 75116 Paris 01 40 70 12 81 http://www.eurecole.com
5. INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF PARIS 6 rue Beethoven 75016 Paris 01 42 24 09 54 http://www.isParis.edu
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6. COLLEGE-LYCEE INTERNATIONALE DE PARIS HONORE DE BALZAC 118, boulevard Bessières 75017 Paris 01.53.11.12.13 www.ac-paris.fr/serail/lyc-balzac/
7. THE AMERICAN SCHOOL OF PARIS 41 rue Pasteur 92210 St Cloud 01.41.12.82.82 http://www.asParis.org
8. LYCEE INTERNATIONAL 2 bis, rue du Cheval à Fer – BP70107 78101 St Germain en Laye Cedex 01.39.10.94.11 http://www.lycee-international.ac-versailles.fr/
4.3 The French school system • 2 to 6 years: Maternal or Preschool education: this instruction which is not compulsory is offered in the “écoles maternelles”.
• 6-10 years: Elementary Education: Compulsory Instruction at this level is the same for all children in all elementary schools. Elementary education includes three courses : - The preparatory course (6 years old) - The elementary course (7 to 8 years old) - The intermediate course (9 to 10 years old).
• 11 to 14 years : First Cycle: The “Premier Cycle” admits students who have been promoted from the cycle élémentaire (elementary school), at the level of the “classe de 6ème”. It covers four years : - 6e (11 years old) - 5e (12 years old) - 4e (13 years old) - 3e (14 years old)
• 15 to 17 years : Second Cycle Education: Following first cycle education, pupils are guided according to their aptitudes, interests, and their previous work towards one of the following branches of study or sections: - (L) Literature and the Humanities - (ES) Economics and Social Sciences - (S) Science and Mathematics - (STT, STI) Technology They will continue their studies in universities or « grandes écoles » based on the work that has been accomplished over these two important years.
• 18 years and older: Higher Education: Higher Education is offered in private institutions as well as in public establishments (Universities, grandes écoles, etc.)
• Public School Registration: contact the « Service des Ecoles » at the Town Hall or secondary school. It should be noted that French schools are usually over-crowded, and applications should
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be made in the spring before the fall term.
• Level of French: No knowledge of French is necessary for the lowest school levels and so the regular French nursery school (maternelle) is a good alternative for younger children. After a short adaptation period, your child will speak French and have native friends in the neighborhood. This may also help you as a family to become involved in the local community, as you get immediate and natural contact with French families through your child's school. Once a child reaches the age of seven or eight, it is recommended that he/she is fluent in French to enter a regular French school. If this is not the case, you will most likely want to check into the bilingual/international options. Other options will be a French school with an international section or at least a French school with the possibility of attending a special French class before integrating into a regular class. • Homework: In elementary schools, "devoirs" (homework) are not officially part of the programme, but teachers often give a lesson or an exercise to do at home as a complement to the work done in the classroom. In the "collège" or "lycée", homework is part of children's workload and it makes their "cartables" (school bags) weigh heavy almost every day.
4.4 School holidays School holidays amount to about 16 weeks over a year. The Ministry of Education fixes their dates.
• 5 periods as follows: - Autumn break : 2 weeks (October –November) - Christmas : 2 weeks (December –January) - Spring break : 2 weeks (February – March) - Easter : 2 weeks (April-May) - Summer : 2 months (July – August)
• School holidays calendar: Since 1995, each region of France belongs to a “zone”, so that everybody is not on holiday at the same time. The Paris district with its 3 “academies” (Paris, Créteil and Versailles) belongs to the C zone. You can find the dates in most diaries or calendars, but you can also consult the Ministry of Education web site : http://www.education.gouv.fr/pid25058/le-calendrier-scolaire.html You can also rely on the list of holidays that will be given to you by the CSO.
5. ELEMENTS CONCERNING FRENCH CULTURE
The French are proud of their history, their language and culture. They regard good manners and politeness as important. But in order to know them, their culture and way of life, nothing could replace direct observation of their behaviour. Accepting that what you may find a little strange or even really bizarre has a meaning, will be possible if you give up the idea that there is only one way of seeing and doing things. We will not give you any “recipes” for better communicating with French people, a human culture is too complex for that. We only wish to draw your attention to some ways of behaving which are regarded as “normal” by the French.
5.1 Greetings Various ways of greeting people: • Shaking hands is very common when meeting or leaving someone, together with a few words
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such as “bonjour, comment ça va?”. The handshake is rather brief and not too strong and is common between men as well as between men and women. While it is usual to shake hands with a person you meet for the first time, you will sometimes “faire la bise” (= kiss) a person you are being introduced to, if he/she is a friend of your friend, at a party for example. • “La bise” is practiced with persons you know well (friends or colleagues you are very friendly with). There is no rule to know how many “bises” you must do as the number varies from one region to another and even from one person to another; the best way is to give two, and continue if the person continues! Women kiss each other more than men who prefer handshakes or hugs (“accolades”). • Nodding or waving your hand happens when people meet at a certain distance (i.e. from each side of a street). If you don’t know the person well but you often meet him/her, nodding is sufficient. But if your relationship is closer and informal (a pal or friend), a little waving of the hand is better; it should be discreet so as not to embarrass the person, especially if he/she is not alone. If the person has not noticed you (or pretends not to) then you can abstain from waving.
5.2 Politeness • Punctuality : It is rude to come late to a business appointment (over 5 minutes). Generally speaking, French people consider punctuality as a mark of respect for the person you meet and, in case you are late, it is necessary to apologize. • When queuing, you have to patiently wait in line for your turn, as everyone does. It is very impolite to “overtake” or come directly to the counter to state your business. Anyone behaving that way will be severely stared at, or even told off. • In a lift, in public transport, in the street, staring at people is considered very rude, as well as speaking loudly to another person or on the phone.
5.3 Good manners in social life • When invited to dinner, it is considered improper to arrive in advance; it is better to come a little after the set time (10 to 20 minutes) ; but if you are sure to be 30 minutes (or more) late, you should tell your hostess so that she can adjust the cooking time. Guests usually bring flowers, chocolates or a good bottle of wine.
There are numerous rules about the « savoir-vivre » (proper behaviour ) when eating: no speaking with a full mouth, keeping your mouth closed, no blowing on soup to cool it, and no one should start eating before the lady of the house does and so on. These negative rules are more or less complied with, according to people’s level of education. When leaving your hosts, the greetings may last a certain time; it is not uncommon that, after the normal “au-revoir” have been said, the conversation starts again for another 10 or 15 minutes. The idea of “leaving” is more like a “project” than a firm intention to be enacted immediately; to say it briefly, it means that an immediate departure will be considered abnormal and impolite. The next day, it is proper to send a message of thanks or telephone your hosts; also this custom is much more common in Germany or Anglo Saxon countries.
• Tips: although service is included in restaurant, hotel, or hairdresser’s bills most of the time, some people continue tipping. No longer compulsory, it has become a token of your satisfaction with the service received. Do not give too much or too little – 10 to 15 % if service is not included, and when it is, a little complement, i.e. the small change from your bill, if it is not negligible.
• « La galanterie française » one of the national prides, it regards essentially the relationship between men and women, with a long established origin in the courteous customs of the Middle Ages, when knights had to honour, serve and protect their lady. There are too many rules to be stated here but you will certainly have the opportunity to observe the most obvious ones, that can
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often be met in society. For example : - A “galant” man will open the door for a lady to pass before him. However, in some public places, such as a bar, the man will usually precede the lady, maybe to make sure that the place is pleasant and safe. - In the street, the man walks next to the curb, with the lady on his left, protected from any danger from the traffic. - At the train station and the airport, the man carries the heavy luggage; he will help take up a lady’s suitcases, and place them in the compartment. - In a staircase, the man precedes a lady, when going down, to prevent any possible fall. - At the restaurant, the man pulls slightly out a chair to invite the lady to sit down. Men should wait until all women are seated before they themselves may sit. The man serves drinks to his lady companion, offers her the dishes first, and pays the bill. - A man will help a lady to take off or put on her coat. He will see her to the door, or better to her home. If he gives her a lift, he will open the door for her before getting in the car; at destination, he will get out first to open the door for her.
5.4 Communicating with French people • The pleasure of conversation: Foreigners rightly feel that French people love conversation and that they take a real pleasure in expressing themselves, and exchange ideas on various subjects. To speak with eloquence, to give quick and clever replies is considered very valuable, and French people often speak passionately with each other. Changing topics is normal and is part of the art of conversing; this may sometimes aggravate foreigners as a waste of time. Gesture is often expressive and can even occasionally replace words (a shrug of the shoulders, for example).
• Use of the « vous » and the « tu »: the custom is to address with “vous” a person you do not know and you meet for the first time, your superior in the hierarchy, an older person. More generally “vous” is used as a mark of respect or if you want to maintain only a formal relationship. Addressing with “tu” is for persons within a familiar or intimate relationship, or close friendship. There are a great number of “spontaneous” use of the “tu” address: young children, for instance will use “tu” with adults, until the age of 7 or 8, when they learn about the circumstances when choice is necessary. In addition, young people of the same age group, teenagers, will spontaneously say “tu” to each other without distinction of sex. Members of a family use the “tu”; except in some rare cases, children never address their parents with “vous”. A spontaneous “tu” is also the rule in some clubs, societies etc, with the effect of reinforcing a feeling of unity and belonging to a group. Passing from the « vous » (formal) to the « tu » (informal) address is a common ritual marking the evolution of a developing relationship becoming more familiar. French people do not always know when that is possible, and it sometimes takes quite long before they change. This passage often happens when one of the person says “why don’t we say “tu”? it would be more simple” or “would you mind if we said “tu” to each other ?” if you are in any doubt, it is better to use “vous” and wait until someone “gives the signal”.
• To get to know your neighbours, develop a friendship with your colleagues, the parents of your child’s schoolmates’ or any other person: you can ask them to come for an “aperitif”. French people greatly appreciate chatting while drinking a glass of wine or fruit juice, and will gladly accept your invitation.
5.5 Books on the subject Here are some books to go deeper into the complexity and paradoxes of the French culture:
- The Simple Guide to France Customs & Etiquette, by Danielle Robinson - Culture Shock! France: A Guide to Customs and Etiquette, by Sally A. Taylor - French or Foe?: Getting the Most of Visiting, Living and Working in France, by Polly Platt
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- Culture Shock: Paris at Your Door, by Frances Gendlin - Sixty Million Frenchmen Can’t Be Wrong: Why We Love France but Not the French, by Jean- Benoit Nadeau, Julie Barlow - Au Contraire! Figuring Out The French, by Gilles Asselin, Ruth Mastron
6. GENERAL INFORMATION AND ADVICE 6.1 A place to visit upon arrival: the Town Hall
There you will find a lot of useful information (administrative, practical and legal) to get acquainted with your place of residence, your town and, if you live in Paris, your “arrondissement”. French people go there to obtain numerous administrative documents and free information about state services, at town, department and regional levels. Most Town Halls in France offer very effective services to help newcomers and you should not hesitate to go there for information or help. If they can’t give you an answer, they will tell you where to get the information you seek. As an example, but also because it is very well designed, you will be handed a guide book of the town of Neuilly-sur-Seine, where the Agency is located, upon your arrival at the CSO. Most French towns and Paris arrondissements offer similar guides which you can obtain at the Town Hall.
6.2 The guide book of Neuilly-sur-Seine This guide contains a lot of practical information about the following subjects : - History of the town, - A list of useful telephone numbers : public and private services, health, pharmacy, religion, education, child care, culture, leisure, sport, associations, tourist information, hotels, restaurants etc… - A directory of the main shopping places.
We advise you to make use of it and should you lose it, please feel free to ask for a new one at the Town Hall.
6.3 Places to learn French in the Paris district • CSO offers French and English courses where you and your family will be very welcome. For more information, please ask CSO HR.
• Here are more public or private Parisian organisations where you can pursue your acquisition of the French language : - Very well known and appreciated in foreigh countries, the Alliance Française has a place in Paris. Their site will provide you all useful information to enlist. L’Alliance française de Paris 101 bd Raspail 75006 Paris 01 42 84 90 00 www.alliancefr.org
- Adult courses of the Paris municipality : brochures and application forms are issued every year and available at the beginning of September in all arrondissement Town Halls. Although cheap, these courses are of high quality. Therefore you should get information early in September to know when enrolment starts.
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- University courses : Some Parisian universities and other establishments offer courses of French as a foreign language (FLE), for example :
Paris 4 Sorbonne [email protected] Language and civilisation courses at la Sorbonne
Institut catholique de Paris http://www.icp.fr/icp/index.php
6.4 A selection of web sites about France, Paris • General website about France offering touristic points of view for English speaking persons. http://www.discoverfrance.net • Web site of Neuilly-sur-Seine (only in French) http://www.ville-neuillysurseine.fr/ • Web site of the Paris Town Hall ; very comprehensive site in French with all information you may need for your leisure activities in Paris. http://www.paris.fr/ • To visit Paris in English : http://www.paris.fr/english and a different presentation of Paris in a more historical perspective in English and French : http://www.parisrama.com • Web site about Paris offering practical information : http://www.paris.org/ • The “yellow pages” web site is well made and enables you to find information very quickly. http://www.pagesjaunes.fr/pj.cgi?lang=en
6.5 Web sites of embassies for countries member of NATO - Belgium http://www.diplomatie.be/paris/ - Bulgaria http://www.amb-bulgarie.fr/ - Canada http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/canadaeuropa/france/ - Czech Rep http://www.mzv.cz/wwwo/?zu=paris - Denmark http://www.ambparis.um.dk/fr - Estonia http://www.est-emb.fr/ - Germany http://www.amb-allemagne.fr/ - Greece http://www.amb-grece.fr/default.htm - Hungary http://www.hongrie.org/ - Iceland no web site available - Italy http://sedi.esteri.it/ambparigi/ - Latvia http://www.paris.am.gov.lv/fr/ - Lithuania http://www.amb-lituanie-paris.fr/ - Luxembourg http://www.mae.lu/mae.taf?IdNav=111 - Netherlands http://www.amb-pays-bas.fr/ - Norway http://www.norvege.no/info/embassy.htm - Poland http://www.ambassade.pologne.net/ - Portugal http://www.embaixada-Portugal-fr.org/index%201.htm - Romania http://www.amb-roumanie.fr/flash.html - Slovakia http://www.mfa.sk/zu/index/podstranka.php?id=2027 - Slovenia no web site available - Spain http://www.amb-espagne.fr/ - Turkey http://www.tcparbsk.com (general consulate in France) - United Kingdom http://www.amb-grandebretagne.fr/ - United States french.france.usembassy.gov/
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7. APPENDIX
7.1 Administrative formalities on the arrival of a non-French staff member and information relating to privileges and immunities
2) Special cards serving as residence permits for non-French staff members
All nationals of countries subject to the need to obtain visas for a long stay in France must apply prior to their departure for a long-stay visa called "Visa D" from a French mission in their country of origin or residence.
Possessing a diplomatic or service passport, which is merely a travel document, does not entitle one to the guarantees and advantages provided for by conventions and international procedures. Consequently, NATO officials having non-resident status and their families receive, through the Protocol Department of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, an official status card (SPECIAL CARD).
The French Authorities consider as permanent residents adults of non-French nationality who, at the time of taking up their duties, had been residing in France for more than one year, whether or not they were engaged in a lucrative activity. Non-French staff members who, at the time of taking up a permanent post, are permanently resident in France, remain subject to the regulations governing the residence of non-French persons in France.1 Under the provisions governing the free movement of persons within the European Union (EU), Community nationals and European Economic Area (EEA) nationals do not need a long-stay visa. On arrival in France, they are requested to apply to the Protocol Department for a special residence permit.
1 According to article 14 of Law No. 2003-1119 dated 26th November 2003 relating to immigration control, foreigners staying in France and to nationality: « Les ressortissants des Etats membres de l’Union européenne, d’un autre Etat partie à l’accord sur l’Espace économique européen ou de la Confédération helvétique qui souhaitent établir en France leur résidence habituelle ne sont pas tenus de détenir un titre de séjour … » This text appeared in the "Journal Officiel" of the French Republic dated 27 November 2003 (p. 20136 etc.) Whereas, previously a person was supposedly to be in possession of a residence permit, this is now no longer necessary for working or for day-to-day activities. If justification of identity is requested, this can be done by producing a National Identity Card or Passport.
In accordance with Office Notice dated 11th April 2002 (CEPMA No. 6, NAHEMA No. 5 and HLMO No. …..), special cards are no longer issued to French personnel.
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SPECIAL CARDS are alike for all categories of foreign mission personnel. Abbreviations designatingg the different functions appear on the colored back of the card in the upper right-hand corner.
These cards do not confer all the privileges associated with the integral diplomatic statute granted to the Embassies Staff.
A staff member husband/wife receives the same type of card as his/her spouse. However, if the spouse is French, or if he/she has dual nationality (of which one is French), he/she does not receive a card. In this case, the staff members cannot enjoy the privileges normally granted to a non-French staff member married to a non-French spouse (see para. 20).
Children Staff members’ single children, including those legally adopted, can if desired, obtain a special card up to the age of 21 and as long as the staff member remains in function (the lower age limit which was fixed at 14 years old, no longer exists).
The possession of a special card is particularly recommended for children who travel alone in a country outside the European Union.
Upon reaching the age of 21, children holding a certificate wishing to reside on French territory must request a residence permit under the common law procedure, by contacting the Local Authorities, or if necessary, through the Protocol Office.
The Ministry recognises neither privileges, immunities, nor a minimal residence status and consequently, does not issue diplomatic, consular, special or equivalent cards to children under the guardianship of a staff member. Those concerned, can however, be admitted for residence by applying the common law regulations.
3)3 Procedure for obtaining Special Cards.
In view of the number of Embassies, Consulates and International Organisations in Paris, a certain time must necessarily elapse before the requested documents are received from the appropriate department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It is, therefore, pointless for staff members to ask the Personnel Section to hasten delivery of the documents which will generally take approximately 4 to 6 weeks.
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General
Special card requests are established by the Human Resources and Support office (CSO/HR) then transmitted to the Protocol Department under cover of NSPA/CEPS-PO.
Procedure for obtaining Special Cards
The application (see the form at the end of the booklet) is to be completed in 4 typed copies for the staff member and each member of his/her family (non-French citizen) for whom a card is requested. A photocopy of their passports, including a copy of the page bearing the visa “D” should be attached along with copies of marriage certificate, birth certificate for children.
Please see the forms at the end of the booklet to make sure you will have all necessary information at the time of completing them at the CSO (all boxes are mandatory).
4 recent passport photographs are to be attached to each application.
Miscellaneous
In the event of an upgrade or downgrade of a staff member, it is necessary to verify if the card attributed to him/her corresponds to his/her new status.
In the event of change of civil status of a female staff member on marriage, the organisation will forward a note in 5 copies giving the place and date of birth and nationality of the spouse and the date of marriage. The staff member will return his/her old card accompanied by two passport photographs.
How long are [special card] residence permits valid for ?
The duration of cards is limited. Admin will have them renewed when necessary. Whilst awaiting the renewal of the card, a certificate is given to the staff member. Special cards are usually issued for a period of three years. They may be renewed for a period of two years following which a new special residence permit will be issued. The same applies to dependants, it being understood that the period of validity of their permit cannot exceed that of the permit issued to the staff member.
Steps to take in the event of loss, theft or destruction of these documents
Loss or theft of diplomatic identity documents must first of all be reported to the police. The Protocol Department may issue a duplicate if they are given a loss or theft notification receipt or a damaged card together with a “note verbale” from the CSO and two passport- size photographs.
Only one duplicate will be issued.
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4) Immunities and privileges – principles
The aim of this booklet, based on recent instructions from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is to make it quite clear to all concerned what is meant by the « immunities and privileges » enjoyed by NATO International Civil Servants - under the Agreement on the Status of NATO, National Representatives and International Staff (OTTAWA Agreement dated 20th September, 1951). Historical review After the departure of the North Atlantic Council, the NATO International Staff and the NATO Integrated Military Headquarters from France, a number of NATO Agencies remained on French territory. After negotiation, the French Authorities agreed to maintain for the benefit of these Agencies and their staff the so-called « immunities and privileges » previously enjoyed before the departure of the NATO International Staff from Paris and decided to maintain the status-quo in respect of the number of CD cards issued, the rule being that the international civil servant attains a level corresponding to an A5 grade.
An exception is made for military organisations such as CSO, where the level of grade required is A4.
The NATO Secretary-general gave delegation to the NSPA/CEPS-PO General manager (ex CEPMA) to treat on his behalf with the French authorities the case file of privileges and immunities of the NATO agencies in France.
Privileges and immunities are granted to persons, not for their own personal benefit, but to assist them in performing their duties with complete independence under the North Atlantic Treaty. In accordance with the provision of Article 18 of the OTTAWA Agreement, officials of the Organisation shall:
(a) be immune from legal jurisdiction in respect of words spoken or written and of acts done by them in their official capacity and within the limits of their authority ; (b) be granted, together with their spouses and members of their immediate families residing with or dependent on them, the same immunities from immigration restrictions and aliens registration as are accorded to diplomatic personnel of comparable rank; (c) be accorded the same facilities in respect of currency or exchange restrictions as those accorded to diplomatic personnel of comparable rank; (d) be given, together with their spouses and immediate families residing with or dependent on them, the same repatriation facilities in time of international crises as those accorded to diplomatic personnel of comparable rank; (e) have the right to import their furniture and effects free of duty at the time of arrival to take up their post in the country in question and, on the termination of their functions in that country, to re- export such furniture and effects free of duty, subject in either case to such conditions as the Government of the country in which the right is being exercised may deem necessary; (f) have the right to import temporarily free of duty their private motor vehicles for their own personal use and subsequently re-export such vehicles free of duty, subject in either case to such conditions as the Government of the country concerned may deem necessary. Customs and tax advantages are granted to the members of the CSO on certain goods. Their importance varies according to the statute of the agent (cf. § VAT).
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Concerning the nature of these immunities and privileges, it is necessary to note that they are not always rights, but, generally, favors granted by the French Authorities, even practices which evollve in time ; therefore likely to be modified or withdrawn.
Relief from customs duty is granted for goods imported from non-European Union (EU) countries, directly or after having been subjected to a customs procedure with economic impact (customs warehouse, temporary admission, etc).
Arrticles for personal use constituting the removal of items belonging to diplomatic and consular staff are relieved from duties and taxes when imported into France from non-EU countries for the first time. This also applies to new articles included in the removal in reasonable quantities. Attention, staff members recruited by NATO must carry out their removal in a unique forwarding. Indeed, the tax-free importation is granted only once within six month as from the date of taking up of duties. This time can be increased to twelve months but only for the goods in the course of use coming either from the country of origin of the staff member or from the country where it is in functions. Some goods may be subjected to import restrictions. Full information on this subject is available from regional Customs directorates.
The formalities provided for by regulations on, inter alia, the movement of firearms, ammunition and related materiel, health inspections and plant health inspections (including as part of the protection of endangered species of wild fauna and flora) and control of medicines are still enforceable. The importation of sums of money, securities or assets (banknotes, coins, traveller's cheques, letters of credit, etc.) must be declared to Customs on crossing the border when the amount carried is equal to or exceeds 7,600 € (or the equivalent in foreign currency).
Cats and dogs:
For further information please contact valid rabies vaccination certificate issued by a (Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, veterinarian in the country of origin Animal Protection Department) , 01 49 55 84 70 or document certifying that the animal comes from a country that has been without rabies for over three years and that it has stayed in that country for more than six months or since its birth. Importation is limited to three animals including one only aged from 3 to 6 months
Other authorized animals (pet birds, rodents, etc.)
Certificate issued by an official veterinarian in the country of origin.
When arriving from an overseas country experiences prove it is better the pet travel in the same aircraft than the staff member. When arriving by separate mean of transportation the completion of the process through veterinarian services, customs and airline desk can last several hours, and take you to go to several warehouses before you get your pet back.
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VALUE ADDED TAX (VAT) AND EXCISE DUTIES
VAT is an indirect tax incorporated in the price of goods and services. Therefore, VAT on the purchase of property and services intended to meet the requirements of foreign agents posted to France is not refunded in France.
However, as a courtesy, certain purchases of property or products on the domestic market may be exempted from duty and taxation under certain conditions:
personal vehicles of agents holding a "CD", "AT" or "FI" residence permit products subject to quotas such as liquor and fuels are the subject of annual quotas allocated to Missions within the limits set by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Finance.
In case of doubt concerning the possibility of bestowing privileges, it is strongly recommended that staff act very prudently before any purchase decision (tax free vehicles, for example) or before undertaking any administrative action. It is always better under those circumstances to take the advice of to the Administration and the personnel office (CSO/HR), for opinion. This prudence will avoid any misunderstandings or problems. Furthermore, any attempt by staff to obtain privileges being granted to Civil Servants of the same rank in European or other International Organisations is totally excluded.
Exemption from tax does not apply to municipal taxes or to television licences.
5) Tax free motor vehicles
Field of application of the privileged mode: Foreign staff member posted at the CSO and holding a special residence permit benefit from a customs and tax exemption on new or used vehicles whether bought in France or imported from a non-EU country or a Member country of the European Community (EC).
To qualify for exemption, you must own a vehicle registered on special series "CD" or "K" plates and drive it for personal use.
No registration request can be accepted before the Special residence permit card is issued. Neither French nationals, nor people having the dual nationality, French and foreign, or the residents of long duration, can profit from this privilege.
Personnal notes :
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Scope of Diplomatic privilege: Non-French CSO staff may obtain either one (in the case of single staff members) or two (in the case of married staff members) "CD" series car registration(s). Only married agents having the diplomatic statuts are entitled to have two tax free vehicles registered in CD plates according to the following conditions: - their spouse is not French; 2 - he/she has joined his/her spouse in France and - he/she has obtained a similar card as his/her spouse from the Ministry. 3 The spouse having a dual nationality (of which French) is considered as French by the French authorities. In this case, the staff member is entitled to only one vehicle registered in series "CD". The spouse obtaining an attestation of employment loses (except particular provisions to be checked with CSO/HR.), the right to the card similar to that of his spouse. In this case, the Staff member is entitled to only one vehicle registered in "CD" series.
Application for the allocation of two vehicles must be submitted in the diplomatic agent's sole name.
“K" series - Diplomatic privilege is granted for a single personal vehicle only.
When the vehicle is registered in the privileged series “ 403 CD … ” or “403 K …”, the "carte grise" (registration certificate) is issued free of charge to the owner.
Mandatory technical inspection of vehicles: Vehicles registered in special series (CD and K) are not concerned by this measure.
Your attention is drawn to the fact that since January 1, 2002, the time of resale of the vehicles registered in consular (403 K …”,) or diplomatic plates (403 CD …”) is two years as from the diplomatic registration date of this vehicle. Consequently, each new vehicle acquired before the expiry of this time can not be registered in series CD or K, but only in French normal series.This regulation is strictly enforced by French customs. Thus, before buying a new vehicle the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs kindly recommends Staff members to ask for information to CSO/HR, in order to avoid a rebuff from the Customs.
Resident staff member Non-French staff members who are considered by the French Authorities as residents cannot benefit from tax-free purchase of vehicles. They are required to have their vehicles registered under the common law procedures at their place of residence.
Official vehicles driven by staff members: The Organisation's 403 CD official vehicles can occasionally be driven by staff members other than the authorised chauffeurs. The Organisation should be able to testify that the vehicle is driven during the staff member's duties. It is essential that the person concerned be in possession of an authorisation from the Organisation, the blue card certifying employment of the staff member with NATO will attest to this authorisation.
2 A spouse who has double nationality (of which one is French) is considered as French by the French Authorities. In this case, the "CD" staff member has the right to possess only one vehicle registered CD.
3 A spouse who obtains a working permit loses the right to have a similar card as his/her spouse. In this case, the "CD" staff member has the right to possess only one vehicle registered CD.
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Recognition in France of foreign driving permits: French policy in this respect is based on strict reciprocity. The driving permit of origin is valid in France throughout the holder's stay provided that the foreign authorities having issued the permit grant, in similar circumstances, the same privilege to French nationals accredited to their country.
Importation without payment of duty (Customs text No. 94-015): Vehicles which have been in the possession of a person for twelve months, who decide to definitively reside in France, are exempt from paying taxes. This information is particularly interesting for non-resident staff members leaving on retirement and wishing to settle down in France.
Caravans and boats
The purchase of caravans and boats exempt from tax is not authorised by French Authorities.
6) Registration of vehicles in the special series
General
No request for registration may be made before the staff member has obtained his/her special card which indicates his/her rank or grade and his/her duties, and which also serves as a residence permit. Upon requesting registration, staff members must produce proof that the vehicle is insured with an insurance company authorised to operate in France. In order to avoid a delay in the registration of a new car it is imperative that the Staff members make the necessary steps to obtain all the documents they need to register their new vehicle.
Staff members entitled to registration of a vehicle in a special series are not necessarily obliged to possess a French driving licence, their valid national drivers licence is sufficient, on condition that it be in French or accompanied by an official translation into French. In certain cases a foreign driver’s licence may be exchanged for a French licence, if an Agreement has been signed between France and the country in question. In such cases, NSPA/CEPS-SO will request information from the Préfecture des Yvelines.
Registration procedure
New vehicle purchased in European Economic Community (EEC):
(a) Request for registration in the CD or K series, in 6 copies typed on form 2bis if the vehicle is purchased in a European Union country (EU), plus form 1 (certificate of VAT and customs duties exemption). (b) Registration certificate (photocopy) (c) Insurance certificate (photocopy) (d) Purchase invoice (photocopy) (e) Certificate of conformity (original)
Personnal notes :
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Vehicle purchased outside European Economic Community:
(a) Request for registration in the CD or K series, in 6 copies typed on form 2 if the vehicle is imported from a country outside the EEC. (b) Foreign registration certificate (original) (c) Insurance certificate (photocopy) (d) Purchase invoice (photocopy) (e) Certificate of conformity (original)
Second hand vehicle purchased in France and exempt from customs duties and taxes : If a non-French staff member entitled to registration in the special series purchases a vehicle which is already registered in the special series, he/she must send the CSO Administration a request for transfer in 2 copies, duly signed by both parties.
(a) Request for registration in CD or K series, in 6 copies typed on form 2b, plus form 1. (b) Registration certificate (WW card) (photocopy) (c) Insurance certificate (photocopy) (d) Purchase invoice (photocopy) (e) Request for transfer in 2 copies. (f) Registration authorisation.
Second-hand vehicle registered in the special series, sold to a staff member not entitled to the registration in the special series: The staff member is required to supply administration with a photocopy of the Customs clearance if the car is sold to a person not entitled to registration in the special series. Should the car be sold to a colleague entitled to this privilege, all that is required are two copies of the transfer authorisation. All necessary forms will be obtained from Admin.
Regularization of vehicles registered in CD or K plates: For any regularization (either sale, or export, or registration in French series or departure of the CSO), the staff member having a vehicle or vehicles registered in the CD or K series has to contact the Customs Office in Trappes in order to proceed to the regularization of the situation of its vehicles. He must, moreover, inform CSO/HR immediately. The Customs Office in Trappes (78) is the only office approved by the Customs General Directorate to clear the vehicles of the CSO agents.
See also paragraph 2 of Article 7.3 Information and formalities on departure of a non- French staff member
Sale of vehicle: When a staff member in possession of a vehicle registered in the CD or K series sells this vehicle, he/she must notify the administration immediately. The transfer of the vehicle has to be registered by the Customs Office at Trappes to which the owner's copy of the registration authorisation is to be handed over.
Destruction under Customs control
In the event of destruction of a vehicle registered in the CD or K series, the staff member is required to supply CSO/HR with a destruction certificate and proof of Customs clearance of the vehicle.
In order to avoid delay in registration of a new vehicle, it is essential that staff members take necessary action to obtain all the documents that are required.
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It should be noted that the staff member is responsible for the customs clearance of the vehicle which he/she sells, even if it is purchased by a major car dealer who offers to perform this formality. If this customs clearance is not carried out, then the staff member is still responsible for it in all cases.
7) Real estate taxes
In order to assist staff members who wish to rent accommodation, details of the different taxes to which they will be subject are given below, together with a summary of the various other obligations of any tenant :
(a) Taxes payable directly by tenants (not applicable to persons in hotel accommodation) (i) Poll tax - A tax which is levied on 1st January of each year for all persons using premises designated for habitation. By virtue of French law, this tax is paid directly by the tenant and is due for the whole year. Its amount varies depending on the requirements of each locality and is calculated on the basis of the assumed rental value of the premises. This value depends on the surface area of the premises, the facilities and different features (gardens etc...). (ii) The television licence fee.
(b) Taxes payable in some municipalities by landlords but legally recoverable from tenants The failure to indicate these taxes in the lease agreement does not release the tenant from his/her obligation to pay. (iii) Garbage removal tax (iv) Waste water collection tax (v) Road sweeping tax - covers the cost sweeping the streets and roads (some municipalities)
(c) Tax payable by the landlord and not recoverable from the tenant – property tax
In the light of the above, tenants are advised to ensure that clauses are inserted into the tenancy agreement clearly indicating the taxes which are due from them.
8) “Comprehensive” insurance
Fire insurance
(a) Risks for rented property - This term apply to obligations entered into by the tenant with respect to the landlord in the event of the outbreak of a fire in the rented premises.
(i) In French law, the tenant is presumed as responsible in the event of a fire, unless it can be proved that the fire is a case of force majeure, or of circumstances outside of his/her control, or of a manufacturing defect. The tenant’s responsibility extends to his/her children, his/her employees and his/her guests. (ii) An insurance policy supplied to the landlord does not protect the tenant. The tenant must ensure his/her personal protection, to the extent to which he/she so wishes, by means of a separate insurance policy.
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Note: Risks for the landlord - Even if the tenant takes out an insurance policy which covers him/her against tenancy risks, the landlord is obliged to cover himself against his own risks for the property rented.
(b) Claims made by neighbours
This expression applies to the responsibility of the tenant for damage to neighbour’s property as the result of a fire having started on the tenant’s premises, where the neighbour can prove that responsibility. The tenant is also responsible for all acts committed by his/her children, his/her employees, and his/her guests. It is up to the tenant to ensure his/her own personal protection against any kind of damage to the extent which he/she considers useful.
(c) Water damage
For damage caused to a neighbour’s premises, as the result of an overflow etc...
(d) Theft
Based on an amount chosen by the tenant depending on the value of his/her furniture, jewellery etc...
9) Rationed duty-free goods
a) These are principally
(i) tax free petrol (ii) alcohol
7.2 Administrative formalities on departure of a staff member
On leaving the Organisation, staff members are obliged to return the special residency permits (Special Card) issued to them and their families by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to HR.
However, in order to assist staff members in their dealings with the Customs service or with any other National authority, a certificate will be issued to them stating that the staff member in question has handed in his/her Special card, since he/she is leaving the Organisation, but that he/she retains his/her privileges until the date of his/her final departure from the Organisation.
Before leaving the Organisation, the staff member and the Organisation should go through the administrative points contained in a document known as the “Outgoing Checklist” and the document should be signed by the Personnel Administrator.
1. Computer equipment 2. Finance 3. General Services 4. Security 5. Personnel
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a) Documentation and equipment
The staff member should return to the services concerned all books, documents, all NATO equipment, classified documents, the NATO Civilian Personnel Regulations, the different cards issued by the Organisation, such as: Agency Pass, French Ministry of Foreign Affairs card etc...The keys to his/her office.
b) Administrative information
The staff member provides a forwarding address and bank account details for the settlement of any sums outstanding to him/her.
c) Security
The staff member signs a statement of recognition of responsibility, which stipulates that he/she remains responsible for the safekeeping of classified information to which he/she has had access during the exercise of his/her functions in the Organisation.
Additional special remarks for NATO Civilian Staff Members:
d) Travel and removal expenses: Return travel expenses and removals are stipulated in articles 38 and 39.4 of the NATO Civilian Personnel Regulations (CPRs).
e) Pension/Leaving allowance: Where such documents are not already included in his/her personnel file, civilian staff members will be asked to provide a birth certificate and a marriage or divorce certificate. These certificates are essential to the NATO pension service in order to determine the staff member’s pension rights. Information concerning a pension should be provided to the Administration during the notice period of the staff member, in order that the different services involved in the processing of the pension have time to establish the file.
In accordance with NATO regulations, the leaving allowance will normally be paid to the staff member on the first day of the month which follows his/her departure (this measure is taken to avoid any payment having to be repaid to the Organisation in the event of the death of the staff member before the effective date of his/her departure - in such a case the Organisation would pay a survivor’s pension and not a leaving allowance, sick pay, thereby prolonging his/her contract etc...).
Staff affiliated to the Defined Contribution Pension Scheme (DCPS) (joining after 1 july 2005) will get either a lump sum or a pension depending on their age and the duration of the contribution to the DCPS at departure. DCPS members are invited to pay special attention to their good understanding of the DCPS organisation and conditions.
f) Education: A month prior to his/her departure, the staff member shall supply all the necessary justificatory documents concerning the education allowance which he/she may have received for his/her child or children on a provisional basis during the school year.
g) Health and welfare insurance: Concerning the ALLIANZ WORLDWIDE CARE insurance policy, the staff member depending on his/her status on departure from the Organisation (either retirement, return to his/her civil service, or change of employment) will receive from the Personnel administration the appropriate form to ensure his/her maintenance or otherwise in the ALLIANZ WORLDWIDE CARE scheme.
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h) Fiscal situation: Staff members are asked to inform Administration if they encounter any problems with the Fiscal Authorities.
7.3 Information and formalities on departure of a non-French staff member CSO/HR will assist at all stages of the processes described below.
1) Return of Special card/French Ministry of Foreign Affairs card
On departure from the Organisation, members of staff are obliged to return their cards and those given to members of their family to the Personnel administration.
However, in order to assist these staff members in their dealings with the Customs service and with other national authorities, they will be given a certificate in which the Organisation declares that the staff member has returned his/her card, since he/she is leaving the Organisation, but that he/she retains his/her privileges until the date of his/her final departure from the Organisation.
2) Regularisation of vehicles registered with CD or K plates
For any regularisation, either for export, or for registration in a French series, any staff member with a vehicle registered in the CD or K series must contact the Customs office at Trappes, in order to proceed with the regularisation of the situation or of the vehicle in their possession. Under no circumstances should the staff member leave France without having first regularised his/her situation with respect to the French Customs authorities. The procedure to be followed will be conveyed to him/her by the Customs. To date, he/she will hand back his/her CD or K plates and have the Customs service stamp the log book and enter the words "Vehicle registration plates returned on...... (date)” on it. Once the CD plates have been returned to the Customs Office, the vehicle will bear the French licence plates (the registration title “carte grise” shows both the FR and the CD/K numbers).
If the owner of a vehicle with a privileged registration plates which has not already been taxed in the European Union wishes to register it in his/her own name in a normal French series or to sell it in France to an individual or a professional he/she must pay the VAT, calculated on the market value of the vehicle on the day of the regularisation, to the Customs office concerned.
Obviously, if the vehicle is sold to a person entitled to fiscal and Customs privileges, the vehicle is not taxed prior to its sale.
Destruction under Customs supervision
In the event of destruction of a vehicle registered in the CD or K series, the staff member shall send to the administration a certificate of destruction signed by the Customs service.
It is stressed that the staff member is responsible for the Customs clearance of his/her vehicle.
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3) Miscellaneous
Any staff member leaving France definitively, shall give prior notice of such departure to the different administrative bodies such as: estate agent, tenants association, insurance company, electricity board etc.
Edition : January 2015
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FORMS
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Personal Notes:
HR Office at the CSO: Tel: +33 (0)1 55 61 22 22 / 23 Email: [email protected]