Living in Miami: practical guide to a successful expatriation

Miami, often referred to as the “Magic City”, attracts a large number of French people every year looking to make their American dream come true! This Floridian city, with its beaches, radiant climate and relaxed lifestyle, offers a unique living environment for singles, couples and families. However, expatriation to Miami requires careful preparation. Whether it’s for administrative formalities or for organizing day-to-day life. Good information is important for a stress-free relocation.

Miami’s advantages for expatriates

Miami’s subtropical climate guarantees pleasant temperatures all year round. Its beaches and turquoise waters offer an idyllic setting for relaxation and water sports. The city is also a cultural crossroads, with a thriving art scene, notably in neighborhoods such as the Design District and Wynwood, renowned for their graffiti and art galleries.

In addition to its natural attractions, Miami offers a relaxed lifestyle that appeals to those seeking a quality of life focused on leisure and serenity. Long sunny days encourage a laid-back lifestyle, marked by seaside activities and year-round summer dressing. The proximity of Everglades and Biscayne National Parks also allows nature lovers to discover exceptional tropical flora and fauna.

Miami is also a city of opportunity, especially for expatriates. Sectors such as tourism, international trade and finance offer a wide range of professional prospects. With its economic dynamism and cultural diversity, Miami is an ideal place to start a new chapter of life in sunny Florida.

Administrative procedures for expatriating to Miami

Before moving to Miami, it’s important to plan your move carefully. You’ll need to take all the necessary administrative steps. Depending on the length of your stay and your objectives, you’ll need to take several administrative steps.

Choosing the right visa for your situation

For stays of less than 90 days, a simple electronic travel authorization called ESTA is all you need. This is available online, and allows you to enter the USA without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program. For long-term expatriation, a visa is mandatory. There are two main categories of visa for the USA.

• Temporary visas: designed for extended but temporary residency (e.g. H-1B work visa, F-1 student visa, etc.).
• Permanent visas: like the Green Card, which allows you to live and work in the United States on a permanent basis. It can be acquired through marriage to a U.S. citizen, sponsorship by an employer or participation in a lottery (Green Card Lottery).

For entrepreneurs or investors, the E-2 visa is an attractive option, provided you make a significant investment in a company in the United States. This can be a complex process, which is why you should consult an immigration lawyer to maximize your chances of success.

Prepare your move before you leave

There’s more to expatriation than obtaining a visa. It’s also important to organize your departure and installation in Miami. Here are a few essential steps:

1. Passports and administrative documents: Check the validity of passports for your whole family. Don’t forget to bring authenticated copies of diplomas, medical records and important contracts or financial statements.
2. Moving: If you’re planning to transport furniture or personal items, use moving companies with expertise in international shipments. For larger shipments, opt for containerized transport.
3. Cancellation of contracts in France: Notify your service providers (telephone, electricity, water, insurance) of your move. Don’t forget to inform the French authorities of your change of residence.
4. Health and insurance: Take out international health insurance to ensure adequate protection from the moment you arrive. Healthcare costs are high in the U.S., so adequate coverage is crucial.

Cost of living and accommodation in Miami

The cost of living in Miami is generally higher than in France, with variations depending on the neighborhood. For example, areas such as Coral Gables, Coconut Grove and Brickell are renowned for their high rents. A monthly budget of around $4,200 is recommended to live comfortably. However, average salaries here are also higher, which partly offsets these expenses.

Finding a home in Miami can be a challenge, especially for expatriates. Between the distance, the specificities of the local real estate market and the differences between French and American legislation, getting professional help is often a wise solution.

The importance of support from a real estate agency

Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, using a local real estate agency, especially one that speaks French, is a valuable asset. These professionals know the specifics of the Miami market and can guide you through the entire process. They can :

• Identify properties that match your criteria and budget.
• Manage visits and carry out site inspections.
• Assist you in negotiating and drafting sales or rental contracts.

A local agent saves you time and helps you avoid mistakes, while guaranteeing a compliant transaction.

The best neighborhoods to live in Miami

Miami is a city of many facets, and each neighborhood offers a unique lifestyle. Here are some of the most popular, to suit different needs and budgets:

• Miami Beach: Ideal for those who dream of living by the sea. This neighborhood, especially South Beach, is known for its iconic beaches, Art Deco architecture and festive atmosphere.
• Coconut Grove: A residential neighborhood in the south of the city, appreciated for its lush vegetation, local boutiques and artistic ambience. Perfect for families or those seeking peace and quiet.
• Aventura: Located to the north, this neighborhood combines calm and quality of life. Close to amenities, it’s ideal for those seeking a peaceful atmosphere while remaining close to Miami.
• Brickell: Miami’s financial center, with its modern towers and residential buildings. This dynamic district attracts young professionals thanks to its proximity to offices, trendy bars and refined restaurants.
• North Beach: A more affordable alternative to the north of the city. In the midst of a major transformation, this quiet neighborhood is attracting more and more families looking for a friendly living environment at reasonable prices.

Integration and daily life in Miami

Miami is home to a dynamic French community, with around 30,000 French residents in the city. This presence means that new arrivals find invaluable support to ease their integration. Associations such as the French-American Chamber of Commerce regularly organize professional and social events, ideal for expanding your network and meeting other expatriates.

Schooling and learning English for children

If you’re moving to Miami as a family, integrating your children will be a priority. As English is essential to thrive in the U.S., it’s a good idea to prepare your children before you leave. English courses in France or immersion in a language school in Miami can help them overcome the language barrier.

To ensure a successful transition to school, many expatriates opt for international schools. For example, theÉcole Franco-Américaine de Miami offers a bilingual immersion program, aligned with the French Ministry of Education curriculum. From kindergarten to CM2, your children will evolve in a multicultural environment while maintaining a strong link with the French education system.

Family-friendly neighborhoods

Miami offers several neighborhoods that are ideal for families, thanks to their pleasant living environment and adapted infrastructures:

• Coconut Grove: With its parks, renowned schools and peaceful atmosphere, this neighborhood is a favorite with expatriates.
• Coral Gables: Loved for its spacious homes and tree-lined streets, this neighborhood offers a secure environment and many family-friendly amenities.
• Miami Beach: In addition to its magnificent beaches, some areas like North Beach offer a quieter atmosphere and family-friendly accommodation.

Activities and leisure to fit in

Daily life in Miami is full of opportunities for families. Children can enjoy the many outdoor activities, such as parks, beaches or places like Zoo Miami and the Frost Science Museum. Parents, meanwhile, can take part in community events or join expat groups to exchange tips and experiences.

Thanks to Miami’s strong French-speaking presence, new arrivals benefit from invaluable support. Whether through associations, French schools or informal groups, they can quickly find their bearings and integrate fully into local life.

With the right preparation and by taking advantage of available resources, expatriating to Miami as a family can become an enriching and fulfilling experience for everyone.

Professional opportunities in Miami

Miami is a dynamic economic center offering many opportunities for expatriates. However, to work legally in this Floridian metropolis requires a work visa, often sponsored by an employer. So it’s crucial to focus your search and understand local requirements.

How to find a job in Miami

To identify professional opportunities in Miami, there are several strategies available to you:

• Job boards: Consult specialized job boards to find positions that match your skills. Beware: most employers prefer to recruit American citizens unless you have rare and sought-after qualifications.
• Professional social networks: Update your profile on platforms like LinkedIn and Viadeo, and connect with recruiters and local professionals.
• Recruitment agencies: Contact Miami-based agencies to share your CV and benefit from their expertise in the local market.
• CV preparation: Adapt your CV to American standards, without photos or mention of your marital status. A clear format focusing on your achievements is preferable.

If you’re interested in starting your own business in Florida, it’s highly recommended that you hire a local CPA. This professional will help you navigate the accounting and tax obligations specific to the state of Florida.

Growth sectors in Miami

Some of Miami’s economic sectors offer particularly attractive opportunities:

• Tourism: With its constant influx of visitors, Miami offers many job opportunities in restaurants, hotels and tourist services.
• Transportation and logistics: Thanks to its port and international airport, Miami is a crossroads for world trade.
• Finance: Brickell is the financial heart of the city, home to banks, law firms and investment companies.
• Entertainment and media: Culture and leisure are also booming sectors.
• Education: Bilingual schools and higher education establishments are often looking for qualified profiles.

Benefits for French expatriates

The French enjoy a good reputation in areas such as gastronomy and hospitality. Many of Miami’s upscale restaurants and bars are looking for qualified professionals to meet the expectations of a demanding clientele.

A strong professional network is essential in Miami. Attend events organized by French-American associations, such as the French-American Chamber of Commerce, to meet recruiters and other expatriates. These networking opportunities can open new doors and facilitate your professional integration.

Health and health insurance in Miami

Moving to Miami also requires careful planning when it comes to health coverage. The American healthcare system is renowned for its high costs, making private health insurance essential to cover medical expenses, even for routine consultations. An international health insurance policy tailored to your needs will ensure optimum coverage, particularly for hospitalization or emergency care. For expatriates, repatriation assistance is essential. Last but not least, it’s a good idea to check out your insurance’s healthcare network partners, so you can access quality doctors and facilities at lower cost.

Hospitals and medical care in Miami

In the event of an accident or urgent need for hospitalization during your expatriation, Miami boasts some of the best healthcare facilities in the United States. The city’s hospitals, such as Jackson Memorial Hospital and Baptist Health South Florida, are equipped with the latest medical technology and the skills of highly qualified doctors.

However, it is essential to emphasize that the American healthcare system differs considerably from that of France. In the U.S., access to care is conditional on your ability to cover the often exorbitant medical costs. Without proof of valid health insurance or sufficient financial resources, some hospitals may refuse to admit you.

Medical costs in Miami can be very high. For example:

• An MRI costs between $1,000 and $2,000.
• A day in hospital costs between $4,000 and $6,000.
• Treatment of a leg fracture can cost $20,000 to $30,000.

To cope with these expenses, comprehensive international health insurance is essential. Opt for coverage that reimburses at least 80% of medical costs, with no deductible, and includes hospitalization, specialized consultations and emergency care. What’s more, repatriation assistance cover can be useful in avoiding further financial complications.

Health insurance offers for French expatriates in Miami

Moving to Miami means taking out appropriate international health insurance, as medical costs in the U.S. are extremely high. Several companies offer specific solutions for French expatriates, providing optimal coverage for routine care, hospitalization and emergencies. These policies also offer guarantees such as repatriation assistance, essential to avoid unforeseen expenses in case of need.

Here is an overview of the types of formulas available:

Type of insurance	Key features	Benefits
Health insurance from the 1st euro	Immediate coverage without recourse to French Social Security.	Simple management and full coverage from the first euro spent.
Complementary CFE	Supplementary cover for members of the Caisse des Français de l’Étranger (CFE).	Compatible with the French social security system. Costs are often better controlled.
International premium insurance	Extended coverage including routine care, hospitalization, optical care, dental care and maternity.	Extended coverage for families or expatriates with complex healthcare needs.
Term insurance	Time-limited coverage for short stays or one-off assignments.	Ideal for short-term expatriation.

Don’t hesitate to compare the health insurance offers best suited to your life in Miami on Santexpat.fr. Our international health experts will help you find solutions tailored to your needs and budget.