Your arrival at the University

Visa

Do I need a visa?

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Accommodation

Finding accommodation can sometimes be difficult, especially in Bordeaux. The University of Bordeaux has put together some tips and advice to help you in your search.

Once you have found accommodation, don't forget to take out home insurance, which is mandatory in France.

It is also possible, under certain conditions, to apply for financial assistance from the Family Benefits Agency -Caisse d'Allocation Familiale (CAF). The amount depends on the type of accommodation (furnished or unfurnished), the rent and your income.

The student life centres can help you find accommodation: bve.logement@u-bordeaux.fr

Finding accommodation in Bordeaux

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Opening a bank account

Opening a bank account in France makes it easier for you to pay your bills and receive your wages, and makes day-to-day life easier for long-term stays.
It is not legally possible to open a bank account in France from abroad. However, it can be opened very quickly once you have arrived in France.

Visit the Campus France website for more information, or contact the Welcome Centre for International Researchers (BACI).

Opening a bank account

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Insurances and Health

For more information about social security, repatriation insurance and the medical coverage you need to cover your medical expenses, visit the EURAXESS website or contact the Welcome Centre for International Researchers: accueil.chercheurs@u-bordeaux.fr.

And don't forget to take out home insurance, civil liability insurance, car/motorcycle insurance, etc.

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Income tax

If you are a resident in France for tax purposes, or if you have an employment contract in France, you are required to declare your income to the French Treasury Department.

The Welcome Centre for International Researchers can assist you in this process.

For more information on income tax

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Everyday life

The University of Bordeaux can help you organise your day-to-day life. Find out more about:

• the catering facilities on campus
• the resources available (university libraries, digital resources)
• cultural activities and events
• sport activities and events
• health facilites
• how to get around Bordeaux

Organise your day-to-day life in Bordeaux

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Doctoral School of Society, Politics & Public Health

PhD students of the Doctoral School of Society, Politics & Public Health (ED SP2) are committed to helping new arrivals to adapt and integrate into university life, particularly French or international candidates who did not do their Bachelor's or Master's degrees in Bordeaux or anywhere in France.

More specifically, our PhD students can help you:

• to navigate the PhD enrollment process;
• to comprehend the roles played by the various facilities (laboratories, doctoral schools, the Graduate Research School);
• by answering general questions, particularly those related to individual thesis committees;
• etc.

For individual support, simply send a request to edsp2@u-bordeaux.fr.