French admin glossary

The French administrative terms you will meet, in plain English.

attestation d'hébergement

A signed letter from whoever hosts you, used as proof of address when the bills are not in your name.

avis d'imposition

Your annual tax assessment. Required for CAF, housing applications and many administrative dossiers.

justificatif de domicile

Proof of address, under three months old. Usually an electricity bill, an internet bill, or a rent receipt.

numéro fiscal

Your 13-digit tax number. You need it to create an account on impots.gouv.fr.

quittance de loyer

A rent receipt issued by your landlord. It counts as proof of address and your landlord must provide one on request.

récépissé

Proof that your residence permit application was filed. It is a temporary document, not a permit, and many banks and employers refuse it.

RIB

Relevé d'identité bancaire — the slip carrying your IBAN and BIC. Employers and utilities ask for it constantly.

titre de séjour

Your residence permit — the physical card proving you may live in France.