Stay Abroad

Author: stayabroad

  • Can Foreigners Buy Lottery Tickets in France?

    Whether you’re visiting France for a short stay or living here longer-term, you may have noticed colorful displays of lottery tickets at local tabacs or supermarkets. But can foreigners legally participate in the French lottery system?

    1. Yes — Foreigners Can Play

    There are no nationality restrictions for purchasing lottery tickets in France. As long as you’re physically in the country and legally allowed to buy goods, you can play.

    You don’t need to show ID to buy most lottery tickets. Just walk into a FDJ (Française des Jeux) authorized vendor — like a Tabac (cigarette shop), newspaper stand, or even certain supermarkets — and purchase your ticket.

    2. Types of Lotteries You Can Try

    France offers a variety of national and European lottery games:

    • Loto (France’s main national lottery)
    • EuroMillions (pan-European lottery shared by several countries)
    • Amigo, Keno, Illiko scratch cards (instant win)

    EuroMillions is especially popular due to its massive jackpots and twice-weekly draws (Tuesday and Friday).

    3. How to Buy Tickets

    You can buy tickets in person or online via:

    • FDJ official website: www.fdj.fr (requires a French phone number and bank account)
    • Mobile apps: FDJ and approved platforms
    • In-store: Just ask for a “Loto” or “EuroMillions” ticket and choose your numbers — or go with a “Flash” (random pick)

    If you’re buying in-store, most vendors will also validate and pay smaller prizes.

    4. How to Claim Prizes

    • Up to €300: Claim directly at the shop where you bought the ticket
    • €301 – €30,000: Collect at an FDJ payment center or partner bank
    • Over €30,000: You’ll need to contact FDJ and visit their headquarters or designated payout center

    Don’t forget to sign the back of your ticket and keep it safe — it’s your only proof of ownership.

    5. Taxes on Winnings?

    France does not tax lottery winnings for residents or non-residents. That means:

    • If you win in France, you receive the full amount — no withholding tax
    • However, your home country may still require you to report the income

    Tip: Always check local tax rules or consult a financial advisor if the prize is substantial.

    Playing the lottery in France is easy and open to everyone — including foreigners. Whether you’re testing your luck or just enjoying a cultural experience, it’s a small way to dream big… even if just for a few euros.

    Bonne chance!

  • Can Foreigners Buy Lottery Tickets in Korea? Here’s What You Should Know

    While exploring Korea, some visitors are surprised to learn that they can legally participate in the national lottery. Whether you’re just visiting or staying longer, buying a lottery ticket can be a fun cultural experience — and possibly a lucky one too.

    1. Can Foreigners Buy Korean Lottery Tickets?

    Yes, absolutely. There are no restrictions that prevent foreigners from purchasing lottery tickets in Korea. The most common option is Lotto 6/45, and anyone can play — regardless of visa type or nationality.

    2. Where and How to Buy

    You can buy Lotto 6/45 tickets at:

    • Convenience stores (e.g., CU, GS25, 7-Eleven)
    • Official lottery booths found near subway exits and busy streets

    Each ticket costs 1,000 KRW, and you can choose your numbers or go for the automatic (random) selection. Tickets are available until 8 PM on Saturday, just before the weekly draw.

    You can check winning numbers on:

    • The official lottery website: www.dhlottery.co.kr
    • Posters at the store where you bought your ticket

    3. What Happens If You Win?

    Here’s how to claim your prize:

    • Less than 50,000 KRW:
      Redeem directly at the store where you bought the ticket.
    • Between 50,000 and 5 million KRW:
      Go to a branch of Nonghyup Bank (NH Bank) with your passport.
    • More than 5 million KRW:
      Visit the Nonghyup Lottery Division in Seoul.
      Bring your passport and bank account details. The tax is withheld automatically, so no paperwork is required at that stage.

    Note: You must claim your prize within 1 year of the draw date.

    4. Taxes in Korea (Already Withheld)

    • Winnings below 50 million KRW are taxed at 22%
    • Winnings above 50 million KRW are taxed at 33%

    This amount is withheld automatically before payout. So the money you receive is already post-tax — no additional paperwork required in Korea.

    5. Do You Have to Pay Taxes Again in Your Home Country?

    This depends on your country of residence and its tax treaty with Korea:

    • Some countries (like the United States, Canada, or Australia) may require you to report foreign winnings as part of your income.
    • Others (like Germany or France) do not tax lottery winnings at all.
    • If your country has a double taxation agreement with Korea, you may be eligible for a tax credit or exemption.

    It’s a good idea to check with your home country’s tax office or a financial advisor, especially for large winnings.

    6. Final Tips

    • Keep your ticket safe — no ID is printed on it, so it’s the only proof of purchase.
    • If you’re flying out of Korea soon, try to check the draw and claim your prize early.
    • Don’t bring your hopes up too high… but hey, someone always wins!

    Disclaimer

    This post is for informational purposes only. Tax regulations may vary depending on your country of residence. Always consult a licensed tax expert if needed.

  • Paris Beauvais Airport: What You Need to Know

    Paris Beauvais Airport (BVA) is a small international airport located about 85 km north of Paris. While it’s not as well-known as Charles de Gaulle or Orly, many budget airlines operate out of this airport, making it a popular choice for travelers looking to save money.

    1. Airlines and Destinations

    Beauvais mainly serves low-cost airlines such as Ryanair, Wizz Air, and Volotea. These carriers connect the airport with a wide range of destinations across Europe, especially in Southern and Eastern Europe.

    If you are looking for cheap flights to cities in Italy, Spain, Portugal, or Eastern Europe, Beauvais might be your best bet.

    2. Pros of Using Beauvais Airport

    • Affordable fares: Flights from Beauvais are often much cheaper than those from major Paris airports.
    • Quick check-in and security: The airport is small, which often means faster procedures.
    • Accessible for budget travelers: Ideal if you’re backpacking or taking short trips within Europe.

    3. Limitations and Practical Concerns

    • Small size: The airport has limited seating and very few facilities. During peak times, it can be hard to find a place to sit.
    • Distance from Paris: The airport is quite far, taking about 75 minutes by shuttle bus to reach the city.
    • Night closure: The airport closes overnight, so if you arrive late, you cannot wait inside the terminal.
    • Few services: Don’t expect large restaurants, lounges, or many shops. Prepare in advance.

    4. Personal Note

    I’ve flown through Beauvais several times. What stands out most is the extremely affordable ticket prices, especially compared to other Paris airports. But when I arrived late once, I realized there was no easy way into the city — I had to stay overnight in a nearby hotel.

    The airport is extremely basic. If you’re used to large, comfortable terminals, it may come as a surprise. Still, if saving money is a priority, it’s worth considering — especially if you plan ahead.

    5. Tips Before You Go

    • Consider staying near the airport if your flight arrives late.
    • Bring your own snacks and water.
    • Book transportation to Paris in advance, especially the airport shuttle.
    • Be ready for minimal facilities and a no-frills experience.

  • Understanding France’s Residence Tax (Taxe d’Habitation): What You Need to Know in 2024

    France’s taxe d’habitation has seen major reforms in recent years. While it’s officially abolished for most residents, some people still receive tax notices—and if you’ve moved abroad after ending a lease, you might be wondering whether you’re still liable.

    1. What Is the Taxe d’Habitation?

    The taxe d’habitation is a local residence tax traditionally paid by the person occupying the property, not the owner. It helped fund local services such as waste collection, road maintenance, and schools.

    If you were renting a property in France on January 1st of a given year, you were generally responsible for paying this tax for that entire year—even if you moved out later.

    2. Has It Been Abolished?

    Yes, for primary residences, the tax has been completely abolished as of 2023. The French government began a gradual phase-out starting in 2018.

    • Main homes are no longer subject to this tax, regardless of the occupant’s income level.
    • However, certain types of properties are still taxed.

    3. Who Still Pays in 2024?

    Despite the reform, the taxe d’habitation still applies to:

    • Second homes (e.g., holiday properties or investment units)
    • Vacant properties in certain regions
    • Incorrect declarations (e.g., if your main home was misclassified)

    You must declare the occupancy status of all owned properties through the official tax portal.

    4. What If You Already Moved Abroad?

    If you left France after ending a lease, the key detail is whether you were living in the property on January 1st of the same year:

    • If you were still occupying the property on January 1, you may owe the tax for that year, even if you moved out in February or later.
    • If you vacated the property before January 1, you are likely not liable—but you must be able to prove it with documentation (such as flight confirmation, utility cancellation, or a termination letter).

    If you receive a tax notice after leaving France, you can file a correction request or submit supporting documents via the French tax website.

  • Parking Enforcement in Korea: What to Know as a Foreigner

    While many aspects of Korean life—like public transport, internet, and convenience stores—are impressively fast and efficient, parking enforcement is no exception.
    In fact, many foreigners are surprised by how quickly illegal parking is detected and fined in Korea.

    1. Real-Time Monitoring with CCTVs and Patrol Cars

    In most Korean cities, especially in Seoul and major metropolitan areas:

    • CCTV cameras continuously monitor roads for illegal parking
    • Patrol vehicles take photos of cars in no-parking zones
    • Sometimes you’ll see city workers with handheld devices taking snapshots of license plates

    Once the photo is taken, you can expect a fine notice sent to the vehicle owner’s address, often within days.

    2. Instant Action in High-Risk Zones

    There are specific areas where enforcement is even faster:

    • Fire lanes, bus stops, and school zones
    • Double parking in narrow alleyways
    • Around hospitals and subway station exits

    In these areas, a car may be towed within minutes, not hours.

    3. How to Pay a Fine

    If you receive a fine:

    • You can pay it online at the local district office website
    • Some apps (like 정부24 or 서울시 주차) allow mobile payment
    • Paying early usually gives you a discount (around 20%), but if ignored, penalties will increase

    4. Prevention Tips for Foreign Residents

    • If you’re unsure about parking legality, look for painted curbs (yellow or red = no parking)
    • Use legal street parking apps like 모두의 주차장 (Modu Parking) or T map Parking
    • In apartment complexes, check if there are visitor spots or risk getting clamped

    5. Compared to France?

    If you thought Paris was strict — Korea is faster.
    The moment your car is left unattended in the wrong place, chances are you’re already being recorded.

  • The One Thing That Works Fast in France: Parking & Traffic Fines

    If you’ve lived in France—or even visited—you probably know how slow the administrative process can be.
    Bank accounts, paperwork, medical appointments… everything takes time.

    But there’s one exception:
    Parking and traffic enforcement.

    1. Parking Violations Are Detected Automatically and Fines Arrive Fast

    In Paris, patrol cars equipped with automatic license plate scanners constantly roam the streets.
    They check if your vehicle has paid for parking — and if not, you’re fined almost immediately.

    • Fines typically arrive at your registered address within a few days
    • The basic fine ranges from €35 to €50, and late fees can apply
    • Contesting a ticket is possible, but it’s not easy (and usually requires paperwork in French)

    Even foreign license plates and rental cars aren’t exempt.

    2. Speeding and Red Light Cameras Work Without Mercy

    France uses a wide network of fixed and mobile speed cameras (radars automatiques).
    Whether you’re a tourist, a resident, or driving a rental car — if you’re caught, you’ll get a fine.

    • Rental agencies often pay the fine first and then charge your card with an admin fee
    • Many of these cameras are not visibly marked, especially on highways and ring roads

    3. Don’t Expect ‘Slow Bureaucracy’ When It Comes to Fines

    Yes, a lot of things in France take time.
    But not this. Enforcement is fast, automated, and efficient.

    That’s why it’s best to:

    • Always pay for parking, even if it’s “just 10 minutes”
    • Avoid risk zones (like bus lanes or bike lanes)
    • Watch your speed, especially outside city centers

    4. Quick Tip: Just Use a Public Parking Garage

    If you’re unsure whether it’s okay to park on the street — don’t risk it.
    Public parking garages (parkings publics) are secure, and while not cheap, they save you from potential fines or even towing.

  • Parking in Paris: What You Need to Know by Arrondissement

    Parking in Paris can be a complex and costly affair, especially in the city center. Understanding the parking fees and regulations across different arrondissements can help you plan better and avoid unexpected fines.

    1. Central Paris (1st to 11th Arrondissements)

    • On-Street Parking Fees: In the central zones, on-street parking rates can be as high as €6 per hour.
    • Parking Fines: Failure to pay for on-street parking in these areas can result in fines of €50.

    2. Outer Paris (12th to 20th Arrondissements)

    • On-Street Parking Fees: In the outer districts, parking is slightly more affordable, with rates around €2.40 per hour.
    • Parking Fines: Non-payment in these areas can lead to fines of €35.

    3. Free Parking Opportunities

    • Sundays: Street parking is generally free on Sundays across Paris.
    • Bois de Vincennes Area: Some areas, like around the Daumesnil Lake in the Bois de Vincennes district, offer free parking, though these spots are limited and located on the outskirts.

    4. Increased Fees for SUVs

    Starting from September 2024, Paris has implemented higher parking fees for large SUVs

    • Central Paris: €18 per hour for the first two hours, escalating to €225 for six hours.
    • Outer Districts: €12 per hour for the first two hours, reaching €150 for six hours.

    This measure aims to reduce pollution and traffic congestion in the city.

    5. Enforcement and Payment

    • Digital Enforcement: Paris employs automated scanning vehicles to monitor parking compliance, reducing the chances of avoiding fines.
    • Payment Methods: Parking fees can be paid via parking meters or designated mobile apps.

  • Top 10 Korean Universities Popular Among International Students

    Not just in Seoul — a look at Korea’s most welcoming campuses for global students

    When choosing a university in Korea, many international students look beyond rankings. They care about support systems, English programs, and campus environment. Here’s a list of ten Korean universities that consistently attract foreign students, with city and campus details to help you navigate your options.

    1. Seoul National University (SNU)

    Location: Gwanak-gu, Seoul
    Korea’s most prestigious national university with a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It offers strong research infrastructure and scholarship opportunities for international students.
    Website: https://en.snu.ac.kr/

    2. Yonsei University

    Location: Sinchon, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
    Known for its global focus and Underwood International College (UIC), which offers liberal arts programs entirely in English.
    Website: https://www.yonsei.ac.kr

    3. Korea University (KU)

    Location: Anam-dong, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul
    A member of Korea’s “SKY” universities. Offers strong programs in business, law, and political science with growing international exchange programs.
    Website: https://www.korea.edu/sites/en/index.do

    4. Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU)

    Locations: Jongno-gu, Seoul (Humanities Campus) / Suwon, Gyeonggi-do (Natural Sciences Campus)
    One of the oldest institutions in East Asia, now supported by Samsung. Offers globally oriented education and active industry-academia cooperation.
    Website: https://www.skku.edu/eng/

    5. Hanyang University

    Locations: Seongdong-gu, Seoul / Ansan, Gyeonggi-do (ERICA Campus)
    Popular with engineering and business majors. Known for employment-focused programs and large foreign student population.
    Website: https://www.hanyang.ac.kr/web/eng

    6. KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology)

    Location: Daejeon
    Korea’s top science and technology university. Most graduate programs are fully in English. Offers full scholarships for many international students.
    Website: https://www.kaist.ac.kr/en/

    7. POSTECH (Pohang University of Science & Technology)

    Location: Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do
    A small, elite university with a focus on research. Strong partnerships with industry and a high student-to-faculty ratio.
    Website: https://www.postech.ac.kr/eng/index

    8. GIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)

    Location: Gwangju
    Graduate-level institution focusing on science and engineering. All programs are taught in English, and many international students receive full support.
    Website: https://www.gist.ac.kr/en/main.html

    9. Handong Global University

    Location: Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do
    Known for its Christian-based values and English-taught programs. Offers degrees in law, business, and global development. Strong sense of community.
    Website: https://www.handong.edu/eng/

    10. Kyungpook National University (KNU)

    Location: Daegu
    One of Korea’s top national universities outside Seoul. Strong programs in medicine, agriculture, and engineering.
    Website: https://en.knu.ac.kr

    When selecting a Korean university, consider more than just reputation. Campus culture, cost of living, and access to academic support all matter. Many regional schools offer excellent programs and a quieter, more immersive Korean experience.

  • Things to Know Before Driving in Paris

    “Especially Watch Out for Bicycles and Motorbikes.”

    If you’re planning to drive in Paris — whether with a rental car or your own vehicle — there’s something more important than traffic or GPS: bicycles and motorbikes.
    And yes, I say this from personal experience.

    1. Traffic is Dense, and the Rules Can Feel Chaotic

    Rush hour in Paris is no joke. The roads are narrow, traffic is thick, and roundabouts like the one at Arc de Triomphe can be nerve-wracking.
    But more than anything else, it’s what you don’t see right away that can be dangerous.

    2. Bicycles and Motobikes Have Priority — In Practice

    Parisians take cycling seriously. There are bike lanes everywhere, and cyclists often ride fast and close to cars — even when they’re not supposed to.

    • Expect bicycles to approach from the right even when turning.
    • Motorbikes often lane-split — weaving between cars during traffic.
    • Even if you think the road is clear, double-check mirrors and blind spots, especially when turning left or right.

    💬 I once had a minor collision while turning left. I had checked for a bicycle, thought the road was clear — but a cyclist came fast from my blind spot. Thankfully no one was hurt, but it was a wake-up call: bicycles always have priority in Paris.

    3. Rules You Might Not Expect

    • Cyclists do not always stop at red lights — they’re allowed to go straight or turn right in certain zones.
    • Bike lanes may be physically separated, or may look like regular lanes.
    • Pedestrians, bikes, and scooters often share space in residential zones.

    4. What You Can Do

    Here’s what I now always do while driving in Paris:

    • Pause a full second longer at every turn, especially if crossing a bike lane
    • Check mirrors twice, then check again
    • If I hear a motorbike engine nearby, I assume it’s in my blind spot
    • Avoid abrupt right turns — cyclists may be coming up quickly on your right
    • Open car doors slowly (use the Dutch reach method if possible)

    5. Is Driving in Paris Worth It?

    Honestly? If you’re not leaving the city, I’d suggest relying on public transport.
    Paris has excellent metro, tram, and bus systems — and you won’t have to worry about scratching a rental or dealing with bike lane etiquette.

    But if you must drive, just remember: the road isn’t yours alone — it belongs to the bikes too.

    Driving in Paris isn’t just about following the rules. It’s about sharing the road — and sharing it carefully.
    Especially with bikes and scooters. They move fast, they’re often hard to see, and yes — they often have the right of way.

    So take your time, drive defensively, and stay aware. Trust me — it’s better to arrive a few minutes late than to spend hours dealing with a report or repair.