Living in Reunion Island: the ultimate expat guide

Choosing your city or neighborhood in Réunion considerably influences daily quality of life. Between the northern administrative capital, western beach resorts, highland coolness, and southern dynamism, each area presents advantages and constraints. Here's a detailed overview of main settlement options to help determine what best matches your priorities.

Saint-Denis: the administrative capital

Prefecture and main city of Réunion, Saint-Denis concentrates administrations, company headquarters, and central services. This city of 150,000 residents offers the widest range of professional opportunities, notably in public sector, business services, and commerce. Its historic downtown preserves remarkable Creole heritage with colonial villas and administrative buildings.

Housing costs remain high: expect EUR 700 to EUR 900 for a one-bedroom apartment downtown, EUR 1,400 to EUR 1,800 for three bedrooms. Property purchase reaches EUR 2,800/m² on average. Most sought-after neighborhoods include Bellepierre, La Montagne, and Sainte-Clotilde in the Hauts, where climate coolness compensates slightly higher rates.

Saint-Denis has excellent educational infrastructure with numerous primary, secondary establishments, and Université de La Réunion on its main campus. CHU Félix Guyon ensures top-tier care. However, automobile traffic becomes problematic during rush hours, and parking proves often complicated downtown. The absence of real beaches nearby pushes residents westward for beach weekends.

Saint-Gilles-les-Bains: the beach resort

Located on the west coast, Saint-Gilles-les-Bains constitutes the island's premier tourist resort. Its protected lagoon, white sand beaches, marina, and relaxed atmosphere attract those prioritizing quality of life and water sports. Indian Ocean sunsets here are legendary.

This attractiveness has a price: rents range between EUR 800 and EUR 1,000 for a two-room, EUR 1,500 to EUR 2,000 for a four-room. Property purchase often exceeds EUR 3,500/m² for seafront properties. The market remains tight with sustained year-round demand.

Local employment focuses on tourism, dining, shops, and services. Public and private schools cover needs through middle school, but nearest high school is in Saint-Paul. Local medical infrastructure is adequate, with several practices and a clinic, but emergencies require reaching Saint-Paul or Saint-Denis. Saint-Gilles particularly suits retirees, self-employed workers, and families accepting commutes to employment hubs.

Saint-Pierre: dynamic south

The island's second city with 80,000 residents, Saint-Pierre establishes itself as the south's economic hub. Its lively downtown, developed waterfront, renowned street market, and numerous restaurants create a vibrant, convivial atmosphere. Sunnier and less humid than the north, the city enjoys pleasant year-round climate.

Property prices remain slightly below Saint-Denis: EUR 600 to EUR 800 for a two-room rental, EUR 1,200 to EUR 1,600 for a four-room. Purchase negotiates around EUR 2,500/m² to EUR 3,000/m² depending on sectors. Residential neighborhoods of Terre-Sainte and Ravine-Blanche in the Hauts attract families for their tranquility.

Saint-Pierre hosts CHU Gabriel Martin, ensuring access to all specialized care. Complete educational offering ranges from preschool through high school, with several reputed public and private establishments. Le Tampon university campus, 10 km away, offers higher education. The job market diversifies between public sector, commerce, services, and agri-food industry. Proximity to volcano and cirques also makes it an ideal base for nature enthusiasts.

Saint-Paul: between city and nature

The island's most extensive commune with 105,000 residents, Saint-Paul groups very diverse realities. Historic downtown preserves peaceful charm with its waterfront market and colonial buildings. The west coast includes Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, L'Hermitage, and La Saline, tourist beach areas. Saint-Paul's Hauts (Le Guillaume, Plateau Caillou) offer coolness and green spaces.

This diversity reflects in property prices: from EUR 500 to EUR 1,200 for a three-room depending on coastal proximity. Purchase varies from EUR 2,000/m² in Hauts to EUR 3,500/m² on seafront. Families particularly appreciate the Hauts for their calm residential setting, quality schools, and intermediate position between beaches and mountains.

The Hauts: coolness and tranquility

Areas situated at altitude above 500 meters, called les Hauts, attract those fleeing coastal heat. Le Tampon (15,000 residents), La Plaine-des-Cafres, Cilaos, Salazie, or La Plaine-des-Palmistes offer cooler temperatures, lush vegetation, and tropical mountain ambiance.

Le Tampon, southern dormitory town, offers moderate rents: EUR 500 to EUR 700 for a three-room. Purchase ranges between EUR 1,800/m² and EUR 2,500/m². The town has schools, shops, and university campus, but local employment opportunities remain limited, forcing many residents to descend daily toward Saint-Pierre or Saint-Louis.

The East: authenticity and affordable prices

The east coast, more humid and rainy, remains less economically developed. Towns of Saint-Benoît, Sainte-Rose, Bras-Panon, and Saint-André preserve authenticity and offer attractive property prices: EUR 400 to EUR 600 for a three-room rental, EUR 1,500/m² to EUR 2,000/m² for purchase.

The main barrier to settling in the East lies in restricted job market, dominated by agriculture and public sector. Daily commutes to Saint-Denis (50 km from Saint-Benoît) become taxing. However, for retirees, self-employed workers, or those with remote work, this region offers peaceful living, omnipresent nature, and warm residents, far from west coast tourist bustle.

Moving to Réunion Island requires understanding its unique administrative status. As a French overseas department and region, the island forms an integral part of the European Union. However, contrary to common belief, Réunion Island is not part of the Schengen Area. This particularity directly impacts entry and residence conditions based on your nationality.

EU and EFTA citizens

If you hold citizenship from the European Union or EFTA countries, settling in Réunion Island proves straightforward. A valid national identity card or passport suffices for entry, and you can stay indefinitely without time restrictions. For stays exceeding three months, registration with the prefecture of Réunion remains necessary to obtain a residence permit. As an EU citizen, you benefit from the right to work freely on the island without specific authorization.

Visa exemptions for tourist stays

Citizens from 85 countries can enter Réunion Island without a visa for tourist or business stays of up to 90 days. This list notably includes nationals from the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, South Africa, Mauritius, Seychelles, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and numerous Latin American countries including Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Mexico.

Pay particular attention to the fact that a standard Schengen visa does not allow entry to Réunion Island unless explicitly marked as valid for the island. This confusion regularly causes inconvenience for travelers.

Special arrangements for specific nationalities

Chinese and Indian nationals benefit from visa exemption for stays up to 15 days, provided they use an approved travel agency. Three options are available: purchase a complete package (flight and accommodation) through an agency in their home country offering Réunion, book through a local receiving agency, or take a direct flight while organizing the stay with a licensed local agency. Beyond 15 days, a visa remains mandatory through the French consulate or embassy.

Russian citizens can obtain a free visa on arrival for 15 days if arriving from Mauritius or Seychelles, facilitating Indian Ocean island circuits.

Short-stay visas

For nationalities requiring a visa, the cost reaches EUR 60 with processing time around 15 days. Applications must be submitted to the French embassy or consulate in your country of residence. Required documents include a passport valid three months beyond the planned departure date, a completed form, two ID photos, proof of accommodation and financial means, travel insurance covering the entire stay, and a return ticket.

Long-stay visas and residence permits

Any stay exceeding 90 days requires a long-stay visa. The cost reaches EUR 99 and processing times can extend over several months. Whether for studying, working, or family reunification, the procedure begins with an application to the French embassy or consulate with a complete file. Once in Réunion, validating this visa within three months of arrival becomes mandatory, followed by a residence permit application if applicable.

Since summer 2025, several major reforms have modified residence permit conditions for workers. The Talent - Qualified Employee passport now requires a salary threshold of EUR 39,852 gross annually, while the EU Blue Card requires EUR 59,373 gross annually. These new thresholds, established by decree 2025-539 of June 13th, merge several former categories and simplify procedures by eliminating the prior work authorization requirement.

A major new requirement concerns language: access to multi-year permits now requires A2 level French, certified by an MCQ test with minimum 80% pass rate as part of the OFII pathway. Some permits even require B2 level. Temporary permits are limited to three renewals maximum, encouraging progressive linguistic integration.

Arrival procedures

Since March 2025, the Réunion prefecture has modified its operating mode: online appointment booking becomes mandatory, as walk-in service is no longer available. This booking platform remains accessible until the day before your desired time slot. Most residence permit procedures have been digitized, considerably simplifying administrative processes for newcomers.

Réunion Island's labor market presents specific characteristics that warrant careful consideration before relocating. With an unemployment rate of 16.5% in Q2 2025, the island faces significantly more challenging employment conditions than mainland France, where the rate stands at 7.5%. This reality directly impacts job search strategies and opportunities available to newcomers.

Current employment landscape

In Q1 2025, the island counted 280,900 employed persons, with 81% on permanent contracts and 12% on fixed-term contracts. Job seekers numbered 66,000 people, a figure that remains concerning despite slight improvement from previous years. The activity rate sits at 57%, revealing a significant portion of the working-age population remains distant from the labor market.

Disparities also mark age groups: unemployment particularly affects 15-24 year-olds with a rate of 38.1% in Q1 2025, while those 50 and over experience 12.7%. Women display an 18.9% unemployment rate versus 14.5% for men, illustrating persistent inequalities in Réunion's labor market.

Sectors hiring

Réunion's economy primarily relies on the tertiary sector, representing 77% of total employment. Services, commerce, and public administration constitute the island's main employers. Tourism remains an economic pillar with approximately 600,000 annual visitors, generating opportunities in hospitality, dining, and leisure activities.

Agriculture, though representing only 3% of jobs, maintains strategic importance. Sugarcane cultivation occupies 60% of arable land, producing 1.7 million tons annually. Production of vanilla, geranium, and vetiver also contributes to the local economy, particularly for export.

The construction sector mobilizes 11% of the workforce and experiences sustained activity, driven by infrastructure projects and urban development. Industry, concentrated around agri-food processing and renewable energy, employs 9% of workers. The public sector remains the island's largest employer, a characteristic of overseas territories.

Salaries and working conditions

French labor law applies fully in Réunion. The minimum wage reaches EUR 1,801.84 gross monthly for full-time work in 2025, or EUR 1,426.31 net. Average monthly salary settles around EUR 2,200 net, though significant disparities exist across sectors and skill levels.

Here's an overview of average monthly net salaries in main sectors:

Sources: INSEE, EURES

Legal working hours remain set at 35 hours weekly, with a minimum of five weeks annual paid leave. Collective agreements apply according to industry sectors and may offer additional benefits. For civil servants and public sector employees, a specific monthly premium for overseas territories, called sur-rémunération, increases base salary by 40% to 53% depending on seniority, compensating for higher living costs.

Starting a business

Entrepreneurship in Réunion benefits from the French legal framework while enjoying specific tax advantages for overseas territories. Business creation follows the same procedures as mainland France, with simplified steps through the online one-stop shop. Entrepreneurs can choose between several structures: micro-enterprise, sole proprietorship (EURL or SASU), or standard company (SARL, SAS).

Promising sectors for entrepreneurship include business services, tourism (accommodation, activities), local retail, digital technologies, and renewable energy. Insularity also generates constant needs in logistics and transport.

Support schemes exist for business creators: the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Réunion offers training and advice, while Réunion Entreprendre facilitates access to financing. Young companies can also benefit from temporary tax exemptions to encourage their launch.

Job hunting

Job searching in Réunion requires a methodical and targeted approach. France Travail (formerly Pôle Emploi) constitutes the main search channel, with agencies distributed across the territory. The website allows browsing offers and uploading your CV online.

For executives and intermediate professions, Apec (Association for Executive Employment) has an office in Saint-Denis. General job sites like Indeed, LinkedIn, or Monster also list Réunion-based positions, though the offering remains more limited than mainland France.

Professional networking plays a crucial role on an island of this size. Attending local professional events, joining business clubs, and contacting consular chambers can open unpublished opportunities. Unsolicited applications remain relevant, particularly with SMEs that don't systematically use traditional recruitment channels.

Finding accommodation in Réunion often ranks among newcomers' major concerns. The local property market presents distinctive characteristics, with variable prices by commune and sometimes limited supply in most sought-after areas. Between renting and buying, apartments and individual houses, choices depend on your budget, priorities, and installation plans on the island.

Renting: procedures and prices

Renting represents the preferred solution during initial settlement months, allowing time to discover neighborhoods and refine your property project. Réunion's rental market operates under the same rules as mainland France: three-year lease for unfurnished, one year for furnished, security deposit of one month's rent maximum, contradictory entry and exit inspection.

Monthly rents vary considerably by location and property standard. For a one-bedroom apartment downtown, expect between EUR 600 and EUR 900 in Saint-Denis or Saint-Pierre, and between EUR 500 and EUR 700 in more peripheral communes. A three-bedroom apartment downtown generally costs between EUR 1,200 and EUR 1,800, while outside centers, rates range from EUR 900 to EUR 1,400.

Rental applications require standard documents: ID, employment contract or last three months' pay slips (with income generally equal to three times rent), tax notice, bank details. Landlords frequently request joint guarantor, especially if you've just arrived without local rental history. The Visale guarantee, a free national scheme for under-30s and certain employees, can facilitate your search by acting as guarantor.

Property purchase

Becoming a homeowner in Réunion follows standard French procedures: signing preliminary sale agreement, obtaining mortgage if needed, notary visit for authentic deed. Notary fees represent approximately 7% to 8% of purchase price for existing property, and 2% to 3% for new construction.

Price per square meter shows significant gaps between communes and neighborhoods. In Saint-Denis, average price sits around EUR 2,800/m² for an apartment and EUR 3,200/m² for a house. In the island's Hauts (highlands), residential areas prized for coolness, prices reach EUR 3,000/m² to EUR 3,500/m². In Saint-Pierre and Saint-Paul, expect between EUR 2,500/m² and EUR 3,000/m² depending on sectors.

Housing types

Réunion housing is characterized by predominance of individual houses, representing about 70% of the housing stock. These houses, generally single-story, have a garden or courtyard, an element appreciated in tropical climate. Traditional wooden constructions, called cases créoles, still exist in some neighborhoods but have largely given way to modern concrete construction, better adapted to cyclone risks.

Apartments concentrate mainly in city centers and recent urban areas. Secure residences with pool and common areas multiply, particularly popular with young professionals and expatriates. Air conditioning becomes virtually essential at low altitude, where summer temperatures regularly exceed 30°C, while housing in the Hauts (above 500 meters altitude) benefits from natural coolness.

Utilities and expenses

Beyond rent or mortgage payment, several monthly charges add up. Electricity often represents the largest item, especially if using air conditioning. A monthly bill ranges between EUR 80 and EUR 150 for a two-bedroom apartment, but can climb to EUR 200 or more for a house with intensive air conditioning.

Water remains relatively affordable, with average bill of EUR 30 to EUR 50 monthly for a two-to-four-person household. Internet and landline cost between EUR 30 and EUR 60 monthly depending on operators and chosen speeds. Waste collection tax is generally included in property tax for owners, but may be passed to tenants through charges.

Living in Réunion generally costs more than mainland France, with insularity and remoteness increasing supply costs for many products. However, reduced VAT at 8.5% and specific overseas tax deductions partially offset this premium. Accurately anticipating your monthly budget allows approaching your installation confidently and avoiding financial surprises.

Cost of living overview

In September 2025, Réunion's cost of living stands approximately 15% to 25% above mainland France depending on expense categories. Food and imported products concentrate most of this gap, while services and housing remain comparable, even slightly lower in some rural areas. However, living standards heavily depend on your capacity to adopt local consumption habits: favor street markets, island-grown seasonal products, and limit purchases of mainland-imported products.

Monthly budget for single person

Here's a realistic estimate of monthly expenses for a person living alone in Réunion:

Source: Numbeo (September 2025)

Monthly budget for family of four

For a couple with two children, monthly expenses logically increase but benefit from economies of scale on certain items:

Source: Numbeo (September 2025)

Food and daily shopping

Food prices vary significantly based on your supply channel choices. Supermarkets (Carrefour, Super U, Leader Price, Score) practice relatively high rates, especially for imported products. A liter of milk costs approximately EUR 1.50, dozen eggs EUR 3.50, kilo of chicken EUR 10, kilo of rice EUR 2.

Street markets offer local fruits and vegetables at better prices with incomparable freshness. Tomatoes, zucchini, carrots, pineapples, mangoes are purchased between EUR 2 and EUR 4 per kilo depending on seasons, much cheaper than supermarkets.

A meal in an inexpensive restaurant costs around EUR 15, while dinner for two at mid-range establishment costs around EUR 65 with starter, main course, dessert, and drinks. Fast-foods offer menus between EUR 8 and EUR 12. A local beer on terrace runs EUR 4 - EUR 6, coffee EUR 2 - EUR 3.

Transportation and fuel

Owning a car becomes virtually essential in Réunion, as public transport remains limited. Unleaded 95 price hovers around EUR 1.60 per liter, slightly above mainland France. For a daily 20 km home-work commute, budget between EUR 120 and EUR 150 monthly fuel.

Purchasing a used vehicle occurs at prices 10% to 20% higher than mainland: expect EUR 8,000 to EUR 12,000 for a 5-year-old compact with 80,000 km. Auto insurance varies between EUR 50 and EUR 120 monthly depending on profile, vehicle age, and chosen coverage. Mandatory technical inspection every two years costs approximately EUR 70.

Managing your budget

Adopting local lifestyle allows substantial savings. Frequent street markets rather than supermarkets for fruits and vegetables, favor local fish and meats, cook at home rather than regularly ordering restaurant. Mainland-imported products (cheeses, charcuterie, wines) remain pleasures to consume moderately given their high prices.

Share transport costs by practicing carpooling for long journeys, a common and friendly practice on the island. For vacations, take advantage of Réunion's exceptional natural sites rather than systematically returning to mainland/home countries, thus saving expensive airline tickets. Finally, compare insurance offers, mutual insurance, and phone plans to optimize these recurring expenses.

Settling in Réunion means accessing the French healthcare system, recognized among the world's best. The island features modern medical infrastructure and qualified personnel, ensuring quality care. Whether employed, self-employed, or retired, understanding how Assurance Maladie (Health Insurance) works and complementary coverage options helps approach your relocation confidently.

Social security enrollment

Upon arrival as an employee, you're automatically enrolled in the general social security system. Your employer handles registration procedures and you receive your social security number plus your carte Vitale (health card) within weeks. This electronic card facilitates real-time reimbursement during medical consultations.

If self-employed, you must register with SSI (Sécurité sociale des indépendants) when creating your activity. Students automatically join the student health insurance scheme upon enrolling in higher education. For retirees moving to Réunion, maintaining rights acquired on the mainland or in another European country generally occurs seamlessly, though notifying your pension fund of your address change remains important.

Coverage and reimbursements

Health Insurance reimburses healthcare expenses according to rates set by social security. For a general practitioner consultation in sector 1 (conventional tariff), reimbursement reaches 70% after deducting a EUR 1 flat-rate participation. Specialists follow the same principle, though sector 2 fee supplements remain your responsibility.

Medicines are reimbursed at 65%, 30%, or 15% depending on therapeutic utility. Lab tests and medical exams generally benefit from 60% reimbursement, while hospitalizations are covered at 80% of daily tariff, though a daily hospital charge of EUR 20 in care wards and EUR 15 in psychiatry remains payable.

Mutual insurance and complementary coverage

Facing costs not covered by social security, subscribing to mutuelle (complementary health insurance) becomes virtually essential. These complementary plans cover all or part of the co-payment (unreimbursed portion), fee supplements, and sometimes uncovered services like osteopathy, dentistry, or optometry.

Employees often benefit from mandatory company mutual insurance, partly financed by the employer. If self-employed or unemployed, you can freely choose your mutual insurance from available offerings. Rates vary considerably based on age, family situation, and desired coverage level, generally ranging between EUR 50 and EUR 150 monthly for a single person.

Medical facilities in Réunion

The island counts several reference hospital establishments. The CHU de La Réunion (University Hospital), split between Saint-Denis (Félix Guyon) and Saint-Pierre (Gabriel Martin) sites, constitutes the top-tier structure with all medical and surgical specialties. Private clinics complete the care offering, notably Clinique Sainte-Clotilde, Polyclinique de l'Est, and Clinique Durieux in Saint-Denis.

Territorial coverage includes hospitals in main cities: Saint-Benoît, Saint-Paul, Saint-Louis, and Le Tampon. These establishments provide emergency services, specialist consultations, and routine hospitalizations. For local care, municipal health centers and multi-disciplinary health centers multiply, facilitating access to general practitioners, nurses, and physiotherapists.

Vaccinations and health precautions

No vaccines are mandatory for entering Réunion. However, staying current on universal vaccinations remains recommended: diphtheria, tetanus, polio, pertussis. If planning to travel to other regional countries like Madagascar, Comoros, or southern Africa, certain vaccines become necessary, notably against yellow fever, typhoid, or hepatitis A.

Chikungunya and dengue, two mosquito-transmitted diseases, circulate episodically on the island. Simple preventive measures significantly reduce risks: use repellents, wear long clothing in evening, install window screens, and eliminate standing water around your home. Réunion remains generally safe health-wise, without malaria or other serious endemic tropical diseases.

Tap water is drinkable throughout the territory. Air quality remains excellent, and food hygiene standards follow strict European regulations. The tropical climate nonetheless requires increased vigilance on food storage and proper hydration, particularly during the hot, humid season from November to April.

Living in Réunion means following the French tax system with advantageous adaptations specific to overseas departments. These specificities can represent substantial savings compared to mainland France, notably through reduced VAT and significant tax deductions. Understanding these mechanisms allows optimizing your tax situation legally.

Tax residency criteria

You're considered a Réunion tax resident if you meet one of three criteria: your permanent home is located in Réunion, you stay there more than 183 days per year, or your main professional activity is exercised there. In this case, you must declare all your worldwide income to French tax authorities. Foreign-source income remains taxable in France, except for bilateral tax treaties providing exemption or tax credit to avoid double taxation.

France has signed over 120 international tax treaties. If you receive income in a country with such an agreement with France, check specific provisions to determine where these revenues will be taxed and how to avoid double taxation.

Income tax with overseas deductions

France's progressive income tax system applies in Réunion with a major advantage: a 30% deduction on income, capped at EUR 6,904 per tax household for 2025. Concretely, if your net taxable income reaches EUR 50,000, you benefit from a EUR 6,904 deduction, reducing your taxable base to EUR 43,096. This deduction applies automatically during your tax return, without special procedures.

Tax brackets for 2025 remain identical to mainland France:

Source: Service-Public.fr

Reduced VAT: daily advantage

VAT in Réunion differs markedly from mainland France. The standard rate stands at 8.5% instead of 20%, a difference that favorably impacts purchasing power daily. The reduced rate of 2.1% applies to essential products like certain foods, reimbursable medicines, and press publications, versus 5.5% on the mainland. An intermediate rate of 1.75% also exists for specific products.

This advantageous taxation aims to partially offset higher living costs linked to insularity and remoteness. It applies automatically to all local purchases. However, imports from Europe or internationally may face customs duties, as Réunion applies an octroi de mer regime on certain products entering the territory.

Social contributions

As a Réunion resident, you remain liable for French social contributions. The CSG (General Social Contribution) and CRDS (Social Debt Repayment Contribution) apply to your activity income, replacement income, and assets.

On salaried activity income, deductible CSG reaches 6.8% while non-deductible CSG amounts to 2.4%, plus 0.5% CRDS, totaling 9.7%. For retirement pensions, three CSG rates exist based on income: 8.3% (normal rate), 6.6% (median rate), or 3.8% (reduced rate), plus 0.5% CRDS. Retirees with modest income may be fully exempted.

Filing and paying taxes

All tax procedures occur through your personal space on impots.gouv.fr. Income tax returns must be completed between mid-April and early June each year, with deadlines varying by department. Payment schedules are communicated through your online space, and automatic withdrawal can be set up to facilitate payments.

Settling your family in Réunion involves considering children's schooling. The island applies the French education system in its entirety, from preschool through high school and higher education. This pedagogical continuity greatly facilitates academic paths, whether coming from mainland France or planning a future return. International options remain limited however, compared to major metropolitan areas.

Local education system

Public education in Réunion follows exactly the same calendar, programs, and exams as mainland France. Children enter maternelle (preschool) from age 3 (or 2 depending on availability), then progress to école élémentaire (elementary) from 6 to 11, collège (middle school) from 11 to 15, and finally lycée (high school) until baccalaureate around age 18.

The Réunion academy manages all public establishments. Primary school enrollment occurs through your commune's town hall, which issues a registration certificate to present at your sector school. For middle and high school, assignment depends on your address and occurs through the rectorate, though you can request exceptions for out-of-sector establishments.

Public and private contract schools

Réunion's public schools offer quality free education, with teaching teams trained to national standards. Some establishments offer special sections: European classes, sports sections, arts options. General high schools prepare for general or technological bac, while vocational high schools train for technical and artisan professions.

The private contract sector, predominantly Catholic, constitutes an alternative appreciated by many families. These establishments follow official programs and their teachers are state-paid, but they maintain certain autonomy in their educational project and may apply moderate tuition fees, generally between EUR 500 and EUR 1,500 annually depending on level. Among the most known are Collège-Lycée Levavasseur in Saint-Denis, Lycée La Salle Saint-Michel in Saint-Denis, and Collège-Lycée Saint-Charles in Saint-Pierre.

Very limited international offering

Unlike major expatriation destinations, Réunion has only one true international school: Ma Kindy International School, located in Sainte-Clotilde near Saint-Denis. This establishment follows the British curriculum (Early Years Foundation Stage) and welcomes children aged 2 to 6 in a bilingual English-French environment. The absence of an international school offering complete curriculum through secondary can pose problems for families wishing to maintain English-language education or other international pedagogical systems.

Some public establishments offer international or European sections in middle and high school, allowing reinforced foreign language teaching with certain subjects taught in the target language. These sections prepare for baccalaureate with European or international mention, recognized in international university curricula. Places remain limited and admission occurs through application and sometimes interview.

Higher education

The Université de La Réunion, created in 1982, welcomes approximately 17,000 students across its two main campuses in Saint-Denis and Le Tampon. It offers training in most disciplines: letters, languages, humanities and social sciences, law, economics, management, science and technology, health. Offerings range from bachelor's to doctorate, including engineering degrees and professional masters.

The IAE Réunion, university management school, trains for management, business, and finance professions with curricula from professional bachelor's through master's. Several IUTs (University Technology Institutes) prepare for DUT and BUT in technical and tertiary fields: IT, civil engineering, business management, social careers.

Tuition and financial aid

Primary and secondary public education remains entirely free. Only auxiliary costs require planning: school supplies, cafeteria (rates modulated by income), school transport, educational outings. Cafeteria generally costs between EUR 2 and EUR 5 per meal depending on establishment and family quotient.

For public higher education, university registration fees reach EUR 170 for bachelor's and EUR 243 for master's in 2025, plus the CVEC (Student and Campus Life Contribution) of EUR 100. Scholarship recipients are exempted. The CROUS (Regional Center for University and School Works) manages income-based scholarships, student housing, and university restaurants where meals cost around EUR 3.50.

Moving to Réunion represents a particular logistical adventure due to insularity and distance. Between shipping personal belongings, anticipating administrative procedures, and organizing your arrival practically, careful preparation avoids many hassles. Here are essential steps for successful installation on the intense island.

Pre-departure checklist

1. Sort belongings judiciously. Maritime transport costs can reach several thousand euros depending on volume. Objectively assess what truly deserves shipping: sentimental-value furniture, specific equipment, tropical climate-appropriate clothing. Sell or donate the rest before departure.
2. Compare international mover quotes. Request at least three companies specializing in overseas moves. Verify their insurance, shipping times (generally 6 to 12 weeks), and after-sales service quality. A move from mainland France costs between EUR 3,000 and EUR 8,000 depending on volume.
3. Compile administrative files. Gather all official documents: diplomas, career records, medical files, family records. Have foreign documents certified and translated if necessary. Plan multiple copies of each important document.
4. Notify your institutions. Inform your bank, mutual insurance, insurances, tax office, family allowance office if applicable, pension fund of your address change. Some contracts will need canceling, others transferring.
5. Organize children's schooling. Contact Réunion academy and targeted schools as soon as possible. Registrations follow mainland calendar, with deadlines to respect for September start.
6. Subscribe provisional home insurance. You'll need to show insurance upon key handover. Some mainland insurers cover Réunion, otherwise inquire about local companies before arrival.
7. Plan temporary accommodation. Book lodging for initial weeks, while finding permanent residence. Budget approximately EUR 800 to EUR 1,500 depending on duration and standard.
8. Prepare installation budget. Beyond moving, anticipate first installation expenses: deposit and first rent, housing equipment, vehicle registration if importing one, essential purchases. Budget minimum EUR 5,000 to EUR 8,000 safety cushion.
9. Book flights in advance. Rates increase significantly close to departure dates and during school holiday periods. One-way from Paris/London costs between EUR 500 and EUR 1,200 depending on season and class.
10. Learn about customs formalities. Réunion being French territory, no customs formalities apply for moves from mainland. However, from a foreign country, specific documents may be required.

Upon arrival

Upon settling, several administrative procedures quickly become necessary. Open a local bank account to facilitate payments: main banks (BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole, Banque Postale, Caisse d'Épargne) are present on the island. Bring your ID, proof of address, and proof of income.

Register with Social Security if employed (your employer generally handles this) or with SSI if self-employed. Declare your address change to tax authorities through your personal space on impots.gouv.fr. If you have children, quickly finalize their school registrations with concerned establishments.

For your permanent housing, conduct entry inspection with utmost attention, photograph each room, and immediately report any defects to the landlord. Activate your electricity (EDF or alternative supplier), water, and internet contracts within days following move-in to avoid any cutoff.

Adapting to new lifestyle

Initial weeks serve to discover your new environment. Explore your neighborhood, identify local shops, street markets, medical centers, pharmacies. Take time to chat with neighbors, often welcoming and ready to share good tips and practical advice.

Tropical climate requires some adjustments: protect yourself from sun with high-protection sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses, hydrate abundantly, adapt outdoor activity schedules to avoid hottest hours between 11am and 3pm. During rainy season from November to April, always pack an umbrella and waterproof clothing.

Joining expatriate groups on social networks or local associations facilitates integration and allows quickly creating a social network. Forums like Expat.com overflow with practical advice and experiences shared by others who've lived this same installation journey.

Living in Réunion means far more than working in the tropics. The island offers a palette of activities and cultural discoveries transforming each weekend into adventure. Between volcanic hikes, western beaches, Creole heritage, and mixed gastronomy, you'll never lack opportunities for wonder and rejuvenation.

Outdoor activities and nature

Hiking unquestionably constitutes Réunion's premier activity. The island offers over 1,000 km of marked trails crossing landscapes of striking diversity. The three cirques — Mafate, Cilaos, and Salazie — UNESCO World Heritage listed, offer unforgettable treks between vertiginous ramparts, waterfalls, and isolated villages. The GR R2, circling the island at altitude, represents the ultimate challenge for seasoned hikers with its 140 km and 10,000 meters cumulative elevation gain.

Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world's most active volcanoes, offers accessible hiking to its crater. Observing an ongoing eruption, when nature permits, remains absolutely fascinating. Piton des Neiges, the island's highest point at 3,070 meters, is generally climbed over two days with overnight at Caverne Dufour lodge.

Thrill-seekers can indulge in canyoning through the island's countless ravines, paragliding from Saint-Leu or La Saline sites, or mountain biking on forest trails. Scuba diving reveals western lagoon seabeds, populated with turtles, rays, and multicolored tropical fish.

Beaches and water activities

The west coast concentrates the island's best beaches. L'Hermitage-les-Bains and its lagoon protected by coral barrier allow safe swimming and snorkeling meters from shore. Saint-Gilles attracts surfers to its Roches Noires and Boucan Canot spots, though caution is warranted due to occasional shark presence — protective nets secure certain swimming areas.

Saint-Leu, Réunion's surfing capital, regularly hosts international competitions. Waves are powerful and technical, reserved for experienced surfers. For beginners, surf schools offer lessons on suitable beaches.

Stand-up paddleboarding, sea kayaking, and sailing complete the nautical offering. Several clubs organize sea outings to observe humpback whales from June to October, a privileged moment to approach these ocean giants in their natural habitat.

Heritage and Creole culture

Réunion's built heritage reveals itself through traditional cases créoles wooden houses with colorful facades and shaded verandas. The historic Hell-Bourg quarter, elected France's most beautiful village, presents magnificent examples of this typical architecture. Bourgeois villas créoles in Saint-Denis testify to the island's colonial past.

Museums trace local history and traditions: the Musée Historique de Villèle (Saint-Gilles), former sugar estate, evokes slavery and marronage era. The Musée Stella Matutina (Saint-Leu) delves into sugarcane and rum history. In Saint-Denis, Maison Carrère exhibits Réunion art and crafts.

Colorful Tamil temples in Saint-André, Saint-Denis, or Saint-Pierre illustrate the Indian community's importance. Their public ceremonies, like firewalking or Cavadee processions, offer impressive spectacle rooted in Hindu traditions.

Gastronomy: mixed culinary journey

Réunion cuisine blends French, Indian, African, Chinese, and Malagasy influences. Cari (not to be confused with curry) constitutes the emblematic dish: meat or fish simmered with tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, and turmeric, served with rice, grains (red beans or lentils), and achards (marinated vegetables). Rougail saucisse, samoussas, and bouchons (steamed dumplings) are enjoyed everywhere.

Street markets overflow with tropical fruits: mangoes, lychees, Victoria pineapples, passion fruits, longans. Don't miss tasting gâteau patate, gâteau manioc, or bonbons piments during your visit. Rhum arrangé, fruit and spice maceration in white rum, comes in infinite jealously-guarded family recipes.

Restaurants offer wide range, from inexpensive Creole snack (count EUR 15 for complete meal) to elaborate gourmet tables (EUR 40 to EUR 80 per person). Beach restaurants at l'Hermitage or Saint-Gilles offer idyllic settings for enjoying freshly-caught fish and seafood.

Events and festivals

Réunion's calendar punctuates the year with festivities reflecting cultural diversity. Fête de la Musique in June mobilizes the entire island with séga, maloya, and current music concerts. Leu Tempo Festival in Saint-Leu celebrates world music, while Sakifo Musik Festival in Saint-Pierre annually attracts tens of thousands of spectators.

Religious festivals also rhythm local life: Dipavali, Hindu festival of lights, illuminates temples in October-November. Chinese New Year animates Asian neighborhoods in Saint-Denis and Saint-Pierre in January-February. Catholic processions and pilgrimages gather faithful throughout the year.

For sports, the Grand Raid in October, nicknamed Diagonale des Fous (Diagonal of the Crazies), constitutes one of the world's most extreme trail races with 170 km and 10,000 meters positive elevation across the entire island. Thousands of runners from worldwide compete in an atmosphere of collective madness.

Réunion Island opens doors to a unique experience: living under French status in an exceptional tropical setting, between active volcanoes and turquoise lagoons. This Indian Ocean island combines European legal and social security with island-style ease of living, fascinating cultural diversity, and landscapes that never cease to amaze.

Admittedly, the job market remains tight and cost of living exceeds many mainland regions, but overseas-specific tax advantages, wealth of intercultural exchanges, and quality of life setting largely compensate these constraints for those willing to adapt. Whether coming for a few years or to build your life, Réunion promises an intense human adventure and unforgettable memories.

Join the community now on the Expat.com forum dedicated to Réunion Island to exchange practical advice, good tips, and experiences with those who've already taken the leap. Welcome to the intense island!