Scams, driving, visas: five French practical updates

Avoiding scams

This article highlights some of the common practices employed by fraudulent traders in France, particularly when clients are desperate for emergency repairs.

Alongside listing advice for minor emergencies where tradespeople are not necessary, it provides links where you can check if the traders you want to hire are trustworthy.

Another article this week highlighted a roadside scam prevalent in the south-west of France, involving an apparently ‘broken down’ car and an anxious family looking for help.

The family claims not to have any money and instead offers victims some jewellery in exchange for cash to pay for a repair service.

The jewellery is however worthless, leaving those generous enough to offer help out of pocket.

Read more: Plumbers, locksmiths: how to avoid scams with urgent repairs in France

Read more: Police alert over breakdown scam on drivers in south-west France

Motorbike roadworthiness test dates announced

Contrôle technique (roadworthiness) tests – already mandatory for cars in France – will come into force from next spring for motorcycles and other vehicles.

The rollout will be staggered, to prevent an influx of vehicles needing to pass the test, and it is hoped the test will cost around €50.

Motorcyclists and mechanics alike are unhappy about the changes, with a lack of clarity and training being cited by the latter as a governmental failure on the measure.

Read more: Launch date set for obligatory CT tests for motorbikes in France

Documents needed for visa applications

An article from our ‘Explainer’ series, this looks at how to apply for a long-stay visa to stay in France.

It covers the necessary documents and application process, as well as the next steps, and who is eligible to apply.

It also looks at the different ways to collect your visa after the application process has been completed.

Read more: Explainer: The documents needed for French long-stay visa application

Snow tyre season begins

Snow tyres (or an acceptable alternative) will need to be used in certain areas from November 1 (next Wednesday), as the Loi Montagne comes into force.

They will be required in 34 departments, either in all communes or certain areas within each department.

Our map reviews the rules of each department.

Read more: MAP: The French areas that require snow tyres this winter

New electric car leasing scheme

Further details of the new scheme where people can lease an electric car for €100 per month have been announced.

Millions of households will be eligible for the scheme, which seeks to increase the number of those opting to choose an electric vehicle.

The scheme will also work in tandem with bonuses to buying electric cars.

We review who can get the bonus, as well as what cars are expected to be part of the scheme.

Read more: Lease an electric car in France for €100 a month - who can benefit?

We also published a monthly article on changes announced you may have missed in the last month, which you can read here.