Moving to French Polynesia
Visa, salary, cost of living, healthcare and lifestyle insights for professionals relocating to French Polynesia.
Why move to French Polynesia
French Polynesia attracts international professionals across Tourism, Pearls. With a oceania location, XPF currency, and moderate English proficiency, it ranks as a strong destination for skilled migrants.
Visa & work permits
French Polynesia offers five main visa pathways. Most working professionals enter on a sponsored work permit secured before arrival.
- Work Visa — Sponsored employment-based visa. (Processing: 30–90 days)
- Student Visa — For enrollment in recognized institutions. (Processing: 30–60 days)
- Permanent Residence — Long-term residency leading to citizenship. (Processing: 6–24 months days)
- Digital Nomad Visa — Live locally while working remotely for foreign clients. (Processing: 15–45 days)
- Investor Visa — Residency via qualifying investment. (Processing: 60–180 days)
Taxes & cost of living
French Polynesia applies a top marginal income tax rate of 25%. The country's overall cost index of 75 (NYC = 100) places it in the moderate bracket globally.
Best cities to live in French Polynesia
The following Tier-1 cities concentrate most international employment opportunities:
Frequently asked questions
Is it easy to get a work visa for French Polynesia?+
French Polynesia issues work visas to qualified foreign nationals, typically requiring a job offer from a local sponsor. Standard processing runs 30–90 days.
What is the average salary in French Polynesia?+
Salaries in French Polynesia vary by profession and city. Tier-1 cities pay 15–35% above national medians across most roles.
How much does it cost to live in French Polynesia?+
French Polynesia has a cost index of 75 relative to a New York baseline of 100. Tier-1 cities run higher.
Do I need to speak French to live in French Polynesia?+
English proficiency in French Polynesia is rated Moderate. Multinational employers commonly operate in English.
Can I bring my family to French Polynesia?+
Most French Polynesia work-permit categories allow dependent visas for spouses and children, subject to relationship proof and minimum income thresholds.