Why move to France from the Netherlands?

The charm of France has been drawing Dutch expats for many years. One of the primary motivations is the distinct and attractive lifestyle on offer. The French work culture, for instance, is noticeably different from the Dutch, focusing more on work-life balance and leisure time. Additionally, the country’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and gastronomic delights make it an irresistible destination.

What are the legal requirements to move to France?

As with any international move, there are legal requirements that you must meet before moving to France from the Netherlands. If you are an EU citizen, you can live and work in France without a visa. However, if you are a non-EU citizen, you will need to obtain a long-stay visa and residence permit.

Regardless of your status within the EU, you will need to register with your local French authorities within three months of your arrival to obtain a social security number and health insurance. It’s essential to research and understand all the legal requirements before making your move to avoid any complications.

What is the cost of living in France?

On the whole, it’s a bit more expensive to live in France than in the Netherlands, though this can also depend on your lifestyle and expenditure patterns. Costs can also rise or fall depending on your location, a bustling metropolis like Paris, for example, versus a smaller, more rural town or village.

The table below compares the typical cost of living between the Netherlands and France as of January 2024. It’s important to note that the prices indicated for France are an average across the country. In Paris, especially, prices may be 30-40% steeper, with accommodation costs potentially even higher. Prices can also vary based on the type of product and service provider.

How do I find a job in France?

If you plan on working in France, it’s essential to start looking for a job before your move. The most common industries for expats are tourism, hospitality, teaching English, and technology.

You can search for job opportunities via online platforms such as: Indeed France, Pôle Emploi, and APEC – the national employment agency for professional and managerial job posts. Or reach out to recruitment agencies that specialise in helping expats find jobs.

Having a good understanding of the French language will also increase your chances of finding employment. We’ll cover this more in detail later in the guide.

What are popular residential areas in France for expats?

When it comes to settling down in France, expats have a variety of residential areas to choose from, each with its unique charm and appeal. Some of the best cities to live in France include Paris, Lyon, Bordeaux, Toulouse, and Marseille.

For those looking for a more relaxed lifestyle, the south of France is a popular choice. Cities like Nice and Cannes offer beautiful coastlines and warm weather year-round. Plus, they are known for their vibrant expat communities. The latest demographics show a total of 36,759 Dutch immigrants living in France.

How do I prepare for the move to France?

Make sure your healthcare is covered in France

France is known for its high-quality healthcare, but it’s essential to make sure you have adequate coverage before your move. If you are an EU citizen, you can obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) that will cover you for any necessary medical treatment.

If you are a non-EU citizen, take the time to research and secure private health insurance before your move. Health insurance is compulsory for everyone, whether you’re employed or not. Understanding how the French healthcare system works will be valuable as you navigate your healthcare needs in your new environment.

Have an understanding of French culture

France and the Netherlands each have unique cultures, and the more you interact with French locals, the more cultural differences you’ll discover. It’s a wonderful opportunity to broaden your horizons, enhance your communication skills, and boost your cultural understanding. But it helps to know what to expect. Here are two key cultural contrasts you’ll likely notice right away:

1. Hierarchy & Communication:

• In Dutch culture, people lean towards equality and straight talk. First names are often used, even in professional situations, and folks appreciate open, honest dialogue.
• In contrast, French culture values hierarchy and formality, with titles often used in conversation. Their communication style can be subtler, which might seem aloof if you’re used to Dutch directness.

2. Bureaucracy:

• Dutch administrative processes are generally efficient and simple.
• On the other hand, French bureaucracy is known for its intricacy and slower pace, which could be frustrating if you’re used to the Dutch approach.

A great way to dive into French culture is by tasting their scrumptious food, joining local events, and learning about French manners and traditions. Speaking the language will help you bond with locals and feel more at home in your new environment.

Learn the French language

Although many people in France can speak English, learning French will make your experience living there even more enjoyable, particularly if end up living in a more rural area. It will also increase your job prospects and help you navigate daily errands such as grocery shopping and interacting with locals.

You can start by taking classes, practicing with online tools or apps such as Babbel or Duolingo, or finding a language exchange partner. The more you immerse yourself in the language, the quicker you will learn and adapt to your new home.

We hope this guide has provided you with valuable information about moving to France from the Netherlands. Remember to do thorough research and plan ahead so that your move can be smooth and successful.

AGS Global Solutions Netherlands can help you with all aspects of your move, from packing to immigration, relocation, and destination support. Contact AGS Global Solutions Netherlands for a free quote and start planning your move to France.

As a Dutch citizen, you can travel to the USA for tourism or business under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. However, for longer stays, or if you plan on working, studying, or immigrating permanently, a visa is a must.

The type of visa you apply for will depend on your purpose of travel. For instance, a non-immigrant visa (for temporary stay) or an immigrant visa (for permanent residence). If you are moving for work, your employer may need to sponsor your H-1B visa. For study, an F-1 student visa will be necessary.

It’s important to start the application process well in advance of your planned move, as processing times can vary and often take several months. For more information about your visa requirements, you can access the webpage for the official US Embassy and Consulate in the Netherlands.

Cost of Living: Netherlands vs United States

The cost of living can vary greatly between the Netherlands and the USA, depending on the specific locations being compared. On average, the cost of living in the USA may be lower than in many Dutch cities; however, this is largely location dependent.

Major metropolitan areas such as New York City or San Francisco are notorious for their high living costs, exceeding that of Amsterdam or Rotterdam. Conversely, smaller American cities or towns could be significantly cheaper.

This difference extends to various aspects, including housing, groceries, transportation, and healthcare. It’s best to use online cost of living calculators for a more accurate comparison between the Netherlands and your chosen city or state in the USA.

Dutch vs American Healthcare Systems

In the Netherlands, healthcare is considered a fundamental right, with a publicly funded system that guarantees access to basic medical care for all citizens through mandatory health insurance. Dutch citizens often pay a fraction of the cost for healthcare services compared to their American counterparts.

Conversely, the United States primarily operates on a private healthcare system, where individuals often procure insurance through their employers or purchase it independently. It’s critical to note that the cost of healthcare services in the USA can be significantly higher, and those without insurance may face substantial out-of-pocket expenses. Therefore, before moving from the Netherlands to the USA, ensuring you have adequate health insurance coverage that suits your needs is paramount.

Navigating Transportation

In the Netherlands, the transport infrastructure is designed with a heavy emphasis on cycling and public transportation. Cities are bike-friendly, with dedicated cycling paths, and public transport is efficient, reliable, and often the preferred choice for commuting.

The United States, on the other hand, tends to favour automobile travel. While major cities like New York or San Francisco have robust public transportation systems, in many parts of the country, owning a car is almost a necessity due to the substantial distances and less developed public transport networks.

Therefore, when planning to relocate from the Netherlands to the United States, it’s important to consider your transportation needs and the associated costs, which may include purchasing a car and paying for vehicle insurance and fuel.

You can drive on your Dutch drivers license for the first 3 months (measured from the day you entered the United States). After that you will have to exchange it for a US driver’s license from the state where you live.

Tax Comparison: United States & The Netherlands

The tax systems in the Netherlands and the United States are different, so make sure to understand your tax obligations in both countries. In the Netherlands, the tax system operates on a progressive scale; the more you earn, the higher your tax rate. It covers income tax, value-added tax (VAT), and corporate tax.

On the other hand, the USA operates a federal tax system, where taxes are levied at the federal level, and sometimes local levels. This includes income tax, sales tax, and property tax. While the federal income tax is progressive like the Dutch system, state and local taxes can vary widely. It’s essential to understand these differences and potentially seek advice from a tax professional when planning your move.

The U.S. Education System for International Students

The U.S. education system offers diverse opportunities for international students. Unlike the relatively uniform education system in the Netherlands, American schools and universities vary greatly in terms of size, programmes, and culture.

The country is home to some of the world’s most acclaimed universities, attracting students from across the globe. Students in the USA have the freedom to choose from a broad range of subjects before specialising in their major, allowing for a holistic educational experience. However, it’s important to note that the cost of education, particularly for tertiary institutions, can be quite high. Scholarships, grants, and work-study programs are available to help offset these costs.

Also, navigating through the admission process may be different from what students are accustomed to in the Netherlands. Therefore, researching thoroughly, understanding admission requirements, and seeking assistance from school counsellors or educational consultants can be beneficial in making a smooth transition to the US education system.

Other Differences Between the Netherlands and the United States

• Language: The official language in the Netherlands is Dutch, while English is widely spoken as a second language. In the United States, the official language is English. However, there are many regions where Spanish is spoken as a first language.
• Culture: Dutch culture values directness and honesty, while the United States has a more individualistic and achievement-oriented culture. This can affect everything from work-life balance to social interactions.
• Weather: The Netherlands has a maritime climate with mild temperatures and frequent rain, while the United States has a more varied climate depending on the region. For example, some areas experience extreme cold in the winter and hot summers.
• Food: Dutch cuisine is known for its hearty stews, potatoes, and cheese. In contrast, American cuisine is diverse and often includes fast food and larger portion sizes.

Moving from the Netherlands to the United States can be an exciting adventure, but it’s essential to be prepared for the cultural, social, and economic differences between the two countries. Do your research, plan ahead, and be open to embracing new experiences in your new home.

Contact AGS Movers Netherlands for a customised moving experience that will guide you through each step of your relocation to the USA.

1. Spanish Visa Types

There’s no need to let Brexit stop you from exploring Spain. UK citizens can still enjoy up to 90 days of visa-free travel within a 180-day period. If you dream of soaking up the Spanish vibes for the long haul, you’ll need a long-term visa (visado nacionale). There are different immigration routes and visa types, depending on the reason for your stay, and each comes with its unique set of requirements.

If you’ve got a job waiting in Spain, for example, you’ll likely need to apply for a work permit (visado de trabajo y residencia) either as a paid employee, a self-employed entrepreneur, or an au pair lending your skills to a Spanish family. To retire in the land of siestas and fiestas, you’ll need a Non-Lucrative Visa.

While the requirements for each visa type differ, some common factors include a medical certificate that gives you a clean bill of health, a clean criminal record, and proof that you’ve got enough funds to support yourself. Heads up, some documents may need to be in Spanish so you’ll need to get them translated. To dive deeper into the specifics, make sure to visit the Spanish government’s official visa application portal. There, you’ll find all the details on what immigration routes to follow to make Spain your new home sweet home.

2. Finding Work in Spain

There are plenty of job opportunities in Spain for UK expats. In particular, the tourism, IT, engineering, finance, healthcare (especially pharmaceuticals), automotive, chemicals and sales sectors have many vacancies to fill.

The Spanish authorities have also recently revised the criteria for obtaining an EU Blue Card, making it easier than ever for highly skilled Brits to get a job.

You can start your job search on Empleate, the Spanish government’s online job portal, and Sistema Nacional de Empleo. Both websites are available in English.

Also be sure to visit the country’s most popular (but Spanish-only) job search websites: Indeed Spain, infoempleo, infojobs, and for vacancies in tech, tecnoempleo.

3. Find a Home in Spain

Surprisingly, it is generally easier to purchase a home in Spain than to rent one as the rental market is tight with a limited number of properties available. Owning your own home will also increase your chances of obtaining a Golden visa. But if you do decide to rent, here are some helpful tips:

• Whether you’re renting or buying, always get a written contract in place. It’s important to protect yourself and your rights.
• Spanish laws are generally on the tenant’s side, but it still pays to be cautious when signing a property agreement.
• Location matters. Places like Barcelona, Madrid, Palma de Mallorca, and Bilbao are dazzling but come with a hefty price tag. You’ll find more affordable housing in regions like Castilla la Mancha, La Rioja, and Extremadura.
• Long-term rental contracts typically run for 5 to 7 years, while short-term leases last 12 months. Choose wisely.
• Landlords foot the bill for the estate agents, not you.

To find your dream home, check out local newspapers, chat with the friendly locals, or browse real estate websites like Idealista, Fotocasa, and Spainhouses.

4. Spanish Schooling System

If you’re relocating with your little ones, making the right choices for their education will be a top priority.

The Spanish education system is governed by the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training, however the education standards and funding are managed by the local communities, which are automonous (Comunidades Autónomas). School is compulsory for children aged 6-16. Homeschooling is permitted but unlegislated.

In a nutshell, Spain’s education system has 4 stages:

 
Early Childhood Education 0-6 years
From newborn to 6-year-old cuties, you’ve got two cycles – 0-3 years old (nurseries) and 3-6 years (kindergarten). Nurseries are optional, but senior kindergarten is compulsory as it forms a crucial part of the country’s public education system.

Primary School 6-12 years
Primary education begins at age 6 and goes up to age 11. Public schools are free but each public school and/or teacher decides their preferred teaching methods, so research the results of your candidate schools before making any final decision.

Spanish children generally attend the school nearest their home, but it’s fine to send your child to a school further away. Just bear in mind that if there are limited spaces available, these will be assigned according to a points system which considers various factors, including distance from the family home.

Secondary school 12-16 years
If they’re in their teens, your children will likely attend an Instituto (secondary school). The curriculum is set by the ministry of education, but as with primary schools, teachers are free to choose how to teach it. Secondary schools are also free, although you might have to pay for textbooks and stationery.

Bachillerato and Vocational Training 17-18 years
After receiving their Título de Graduado en Educación Secundaria Obligatoria (GESO), a certificate that confirms they have passed compulsory lower education, students can choose to continue with the last two years, called Bachillerato. Then they can pursue higher vocational training or head to university, provided they pass the admission test.

While most schools instruct their children in Spanish, Spain also has numerous international schools for children of English-speaking expats, including the British School of Barcelona, The British College, Cambridge House, the British School of Alzira, just to name a few.

5. Shipping to Spain from UK

Whether you’re taking only your most precious possessions or everything but the kitchen sink, you’ll be pleased to hear that if you’re moving to Spain, you don’t have to pay customs duties on the household goods you ship from the UK. That’s because they are considered to be for personal use.

For the same reason, you won’t be required to pay import tax on:

• Cars, motorbikes, and recreational boats
• Domestic animals
• Any tools you need to perform your job

To enjoy these exemptions, you will be required to prove you are moving to Spain permanently. The easiest way to do this, is to supply a copy of your registration certificate (certificado de empadronamiento). You’ll also need to draft a list of everything you’re bringing with you. Each item must be assigned an estimated value and an approximate date of purchase. All goods, including vehicles, should be at least 6 months old. Customs may request additional documents, depending on the circumstances of your move.

If this sounds like too much of a headache, a reputable moving company will be able to handle all the customs formalities on your behalf.

Moves to Spain from the UK usually take place via road. You might have to wait a bit for your belongings, but it’s the cheapest option. Air freight is costly, so save it only for the items you cannot be without, not even for a day.

6. Healthcare in Spain

As an expat who’s legally living or working in Spain, you’re automatically eligible to enjoy the benefits of Spain’s public health care system, the Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS). The SNS is renowned for its high-quality healthcare services, and it (mostly) comes free of charge.

You’ll enjoy full coverage for doctors’ visits, emergency trips, paediatric care, nursing/midwife services, and both inpatient and outpatient care. You’ll also be assigned a family doctor.

It does take several months after you move to Spain to become eligible for the SNS, however, and you must have valid private health insurance until you qualify.

Also, under the SNS, medicine prescriptions, wheelchairs, prosthetics, and orthopaedic equipment are only subsidised up to 40%. Non-emergency dental care, eye care, and eyeglasses are not covered at all.

For this reason, many expats opt for private insurance as well.

7. Driving in Spain with a UK license

Following an agreement between UK and Spanish authorities, UK expats living in Spain prior to 16 March 2023 are allowed to drive in the country for 6 months using their valid UK driving license. If you arrived in Spain after that date, you’ll be allowed to drive on your UK license for six months from the date you obtained a residence permit. After this period, you must exchange your UK driver’s license for a Spanish one, but no new driving tests are required.

You are allowed to drive UK-registered vehicles in Spain so long as you have a valid driver’s license and meet the necessary requirements. But bear in mind that driving a right-hand-drive car in a left-hand-drive country will be a challenge.

For one, overtaking will be almost impossible without a passenger, as oncoming traffic will be on your far side and you’ll have a limited view. Your insurer could also (not unreasonably) decide you are a higher risk and raise your premium.

You don’t need to own a car to survive in Spain, but many expats love to have personal rides because of the freedom it affords. Just be sure to consider all your options before packing your car into a container.

8. Opening a Bank Account in Spain

While your UK bank account is still good for a lot in Spain, you’ll need a Spanish IBAN number to set up utilities in your new home.

Luckily, opening an account in Spain as a UK expat is a breeze. All you must do is provide the necessary documents.

• Valid means of identification
• Spanish NIE (that’s your foreigner’s ID number)
• Some proof of your income or employment contract.
• Proof of an address in Spain,

You’ll can expect to receive your cards in less than a week. Be prepared to pay about €50 every year for maintenance fees and such.

9. Learning Spanish

Do you need to speak Spanish to live in Spain? You can get by without it, especially if you live in an expat hotspot like Costa del Sol or Malaga, but knowing the local language will make life so much easier.

Most jobs will require you to have a minimum level of Spanish. Being able to speak Spanish and English will make you a more attractive candidate and open more job opportunities.

Plus, you can expect official communication to be in Spanish, so if you want to get on without having to rely on a translator, it’ll be helpful to have some Spanish under your belt.

Learning Spanish before you make the move will give you a head start, so you won’t feel completely lost when you arrive. Free options include apps like Duolingo and Mondly. Another, more personal (paying) option is iTalki, a language learning platform that connects you to a tutor for real-time lessons. You can choose between private sessions or group classes, which are the more cost-effective option.

Trust AGS for a Seamless Move to Spain

Are you considering starting a new chapter in España? AGS has offices in the UK and Spain, so we are perfectly placed to get you to your new life in the sun.

Our experienced team can move your belongings from door-to-door and handle all the customs formalities on your behalf.

Get your free moving quote

The Central Plateau, known for its plains, rolling hills, and large lakes, is the most populous region, comprising 31% of the country. The south is dominated by the imposing Swiss Alps, while the north is home to the Jura, a sub-alpine mountain range that spans 11% of the country. Across these distinct regions, you will find four national languages: French, German, Italian, and Rumantsch.

Switzerland boasts a prosperous and modern market economy, with among the highest standards of living in the world. This is evident in the high GDP per capita, exceptional healthcare, and an effective social security system that ensures nobody is left behind. In addition, Switzerland offers high-paying jobs, efficient public transport, and a remarkably clean and safe environment. However, living there can be expensive, and certain costs may come as a surprise.

Top Five Swiss Cities to Live In

Geneva

French-speaking Geneva is the second-largest city in Switzerland, with close cultural and geographic ties to France. It is a financial hub and the European headquarters of several multinational organisations such as the United Nations and the World Health Organisation. Home to a vast number of international companies in various industries, there are also a variety of jobs in Geneva. The city has 18 international schools, of which 17 have English as the language of instruction (2023). These include the Institut International de Lancy, the International School of Geneva and Collège du Léman.

Living in this Swiss city is luxurious in every sense of the word, however, with the high standard of living comes a high cost. Considered pricey even by Swiss standards, the cost of living in Geneva is around 12% more expensive than London (2023). The following table compares basic costs between the two cities.

Accommodation	GENEVA	LONDON
One-bedroom Apartment	£1 778,69	£1 829,35
Three-bedroom Family Home	£3 781,45	£3 618,22
Transportation
Monthly Pass	£62,74	£153,00
Food
1 Litre Milk	£1,40	£1,12
1kg Chicken Fillets	£18,98	£6,69
McMeal from McDonalds	£13,44	£7,00
Lunch for 2 (3 Course, mid-range Restaurant)	£98,54	£65,00
Education
Kindergarten Per Year (Private)	£22 098,18	£18 401,88
Primary School Per Year (International)	£21 829,40	£17 933,33
Income
Average Monthly Salary After Tax	£5 027,97	£2 546,24

If Geneva is your city of choice, there are some administrative procedures you’ll be expected to complete when you arrive. You can find them here.

Fun Fact: The largest lake in Central Europe, Lake Geneva (also known as Lac Léman), fringes the city of Geneva.

Bern

If you’re looking for a new place to call home, Bern is another excellent candidate. This German-speaking city, the capital of Switzerland, has something for everyone, regardless of age or background. Although it’s 4.4% more expensive than London (2023), you’ll find its charm and amenities make it worth the cost. Bern is home to the national parliament and has an extensive public transport system and an abundance of job opportunities, attracting many foreigners, who account for more than 30% of the population. When you need a break, there are numerous cafes, museums, and scenic views to enjoy. Plus, Bern’s beautifully preserved old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, worth exploring again and again.

Fun Fact: Due to its numerous public fountains, Bern is commonly referred to as the “City of Fountains.”

Zürich

As Switzerland’s largest city, with an estimated population of 1.5 million (2023), Zurich is not only a cosmopolitan hub in the centre of this picturesque country, but also a globally ranked financial centre. And although the cost of living in Zürich is around 13% higher than in London, the city provides a high quality of living to justify the expense.

Swiss German is the local language, but English-speaking jobs are plentiful and those with Swiss employment contracts enjoy four to five weeks paid leave per year. Additionally, parents have many English-speaking international schools to choose from, including the Zurich International School, the International School of Central Switzerland, and the Inter-Community School, which offer education for children from ages 3-18. For outdoor lovers, the Swiss Alps are a short hour away, offering endless opportunities to experience nature.

Fun Fact: Zurich has been ranked as “the city with the best quality of life” for over fifteen consecutive years by Mercer.

Basel

Situated on the Swiss border with Germany and France, Basel provides easy access to best that all three countries have to offer. An ancient city full of historic buildings, art galleries and annual festivals, it is no surprise that young professionals from everywhere flock to this vibrant city with plentiful job opportunities. However, depending on your budget and lifestyle, the cost of living in Basel could be expensive – 5% more expensive than London (2023). International schools here are similarly costly – around £27000 per year (2023). Your options for English-speaking international schools in Basel include the SIS Swiss International School Basel, International School Basel and Academia International School Basel.

Fun Fact: Each February, Basel hosts one of Europe’s largest carnivals, Fasnacht, which celebrates Swiss culture with costumes, colourful parades, and music.

Lausanne

Located at the centre of western Europe is the French-speaking city of Lausanne. As the historic birthplace of the chocolate industry, it offers an astounding array of confectionary, enough to satisfy any sweet tooth. Lausanne is also the most affordable of the five cities featured in this article, only  4% more expensive than London (2023). A large student body gives this bustling metropolis an upbeat and youthful feel. However, Lausanne has so much more to offer than just universities. Residents have their pick of museums, cafés, and bars, while the 500m altitude provides breath-taking views of Lake Geneva and the distant Alps. Indeed, Lausanne provides the rare combination of modern amenities and old charm set against a spectacular backdrop.

Fun Fact: The Swiss Federal Supreme Court and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) are located in Lausanne.

If you need help moving to Switzerland, contact AGS Movers. Our team is experienced in every aspect of international moving, from packing to customs clearance, and can offer you a tailored and stress-free move.

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La Tomatina – a popular and now touristy festival – is a tradition born during a parade of giants organised in the city in 1945. A dispute broke out between local teenagers and procession participants, leading to a general brawl with tomatoes being thrown at opponents. The following year, the same group of teenagers are said to have repeated the tomato throwing during the parade. Despite the authorities’ desire to stop this tradition, it has continued to this day, except during the years of Franco’s repressive regime.

A festival with strict rules

However, there is nothing spontaneous about the modern festival. The battle takes place in the city’s bullring, lasts only one hour from 11:00 am, and follows strict rules. The 160 000 tomatoes harvested from surrounding farms are stored for two days before the festival and must be crushed before being thrown. Hard objects are forbidden, clothes must not be torn or thrown away, and a white t-shirt is mandatory. Adults are not the only ones who can let off some steam with tomatoes: a child-friendly version is organised on the Saturday before the event, for children aged 4-14, in a safe environment away from the crowd.

Fiestas of International Tourist Interest

Every year, no less than 22 000 people participate in the festival, which has become the highlight of a week of festivities honouring the patron saint San Lluis Bertrán. As a sign of its popularity, La Tomatina was awarded the status of “Fiestas of International Tourist Interest” by the Spanish General Secretariat of Tourism in 2002.

La Tomatina festival makes you want to move to Spain?
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The role of DSPs in corporate mobility

As a DSP, James and his team work with companies to ensure the successful transfer of their employees on international assignments. Services range from organising visas and finding accommodation, to offering support for relocating spouses and cultural integration training.

These may seem like perks for the lucky few, but relocation success directly and significantly influences assignee performance, with some even ending their assignments prematurely after a bad experience. With so much at stake, it’s important to select a DSP that is up to the task.

A calibre apart

Originally a certification for international removals, FIDI’s FAIM accreditation expanded to include the DSP module in 2019. “The DSP certification follows the same principles that have built the FAIM reputation,” explains FIDI Communication Manager Magali Horbert. “It’s a signal to customers that a FAIM-certified provider’s DSP offering measures up to the same high standards as their international removal services.“

FAIM enjoys its reputation for good reason. Auditing powerhouse EY audits FIDI Affiliates every three years on more than 200 points, including supply-chain management, service quality and data security. Unlike other certification programmes, members must also submit documentation annually between audits to prove that they are still compliant.

As an additional form of customer protection, FIDI, in close collaboration with international auditing firm EY, has launched the Credit Risk Barometer (CRB) to check members’ financial soundness. In its pilot phase, the organisation aims to make the barometer a mandatory FAIM requirement. FIDI members with poor reports risk losing their accreditation, but for those in good standing, a CRB report will be a powerful marketing tool alongside the well-recognised FAIM brand.

An industry yardstick

As a living accreditation, that adapts to client demands and international legal requirements, James sees FAIM as the gold standard of global mobility. “Corporate and government clients know and trust the FIDI standard. Many request FAIM certification from their providers, so this logo, backed by FIDI and its reputation for excellence, is a must have for AGS UK as we grow our relocation business.”

Discuss your international assignment with James and the AGS UK team.

Branch manager of AGS Montenegro Darko Damjanovic visited Stara Maslina as a child. “I was impressed that it had endured through the ages in the face of climate and disease, witnessing the rise and fall of civilisations,” he recalls.

Since the usual lifespan of an olive tree is 500-700 years, this tree’s longevity is even more impressive.

A symbol of peace

Older still is the tree’s association with harmony and goodwill, which dates to ancient Greece. Following victories in battle, the Greeks would erect statues to Eirene, the goddess of peace, who held an olive branch or staff in her right hand. This association was later adopted by the Romans, the Arab world and much of modern Europe.

Today, you can view the fifth most ancient symbol of peace in person after paying the 1 EUR fee to enter the land on which it is situated. Of course, Stara Maslina no longer bears fruit – indeed, olives are fruit – but it is still a sight to behold.

Moving soon to Montenegro? Contact us for a free quote!

Child-operated trains were common in the USSR, so it’s not a novel concept, rather it’s a heritage that the Hungarian city has chosen to preserve.

More than just tradition
Would-be employees between 10 and 16-years old attend Gyermekvasútas Otthon to learn about and work on the train. While it may seem like the ideal way to skip school, it’s really an unconventional opportunity for extra-curricular education.

Once they have passed their railway workers exams, successful applicants are excused from school every two weeks to go on duty, but only if their grades don’t slip.

To the railway children, the train represents more than just tradition: selling tickets is an exercise in maths, operating switches is a lesson in physics, and welcoming foreign visitors is an English class.

Moving soon to or from Hungary?
Contact us!

As a thank you for their hard work throughout the year, each servant would receive a box of Christmas leftovers and gifts which they could take home to their families.

Here at AGS UK, we make every day boxing day. Along with boxing, packing and crating, we offer the full range of removal services to give you a break from the stress of moving.

We are pleased to announce that our Parisian branch recently renewed its ISO 14001:2015 certification. The ISO 14001 Certification is an internationally recognised standard for effective environmental management. Through a series of requirements, it provides a framework within which we as a branch can continue to improve our environmental performance.

This renewal is the result of the unstinting work by the team at AGS Paris, the flagship branch of the Mobilitas Group.

“I am pleased that AGS Paris has retained this certification on their already significant list of accomplishments,” commented AGS Group CEO Cédric Castro. “One of the AGS Group’s key principles has always been to grow sustainable business through environmentally friendly practices, and the successful renewal of this certification is another way in which we are able to put our principles into effect.”

The AGS Mobilitas Group has made a quantifiable impact worldwide through our partnership with the Planète Urgence NGO, which was formed in 2009 (https://planete-urgence.org).

As part of this agreement (one international move = one tree), over 240 000 trees have been planted in the last 10 years in Mali, Haiti, Indonesia and Madagascar, on behalf of our customers.

AGS Paris has long been a pioneer for the AGS Group in implementing environmentally-friendly processes to reduce greenhouse emissions.

In addition to the ISO 14001 certification, AGS Paris also holds the following certifications and accreditations:

• ISO 9001:2015, for quality management
• ISO 27001:2013, for confidentiality, integrity and availability of information as well as legal compliance
• FIDI FAIM and FAIM Plus, specific to the moving industry, developed by the International Federation of International Movers (FIDI) to assess the quality of the work supplied by a mover
• NG Storage, a French standard that guarantees quality and reliability of storage service
• Authorized Economic Operator, a European standard whose aim is to facilitate trade and better secure the flow of goods entering and leaving the European Union

AGS Paris is also a member of IAM (International Association of Movers), FIDI and LACMA. Our partnership with the members of these three international moving associations gives us access to a global network of partners and allows us to offer an excellent service to our clients, wherever they are in the world.