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Practical guide

Create an email address, for free

Without an email address, many procedures are blocked: Actiris, social housing and this site. In 20 minutes, you can have a working address.

Before you start

  • A phone or computer with internet. No device? Go to a Digital Public Space (EPN): it's free, and someone can help you.
  • If possible, a GSM number: it helps to retrieve the account if you forget the password.
  • A place to write down the password (a notebook you keep).

The steps, in order

  1. Open the Gmail registration page

    On the phone or computer, open the browser and go to gmail.com. Press "Create an account", then "For me". Gmail is free and works in all languages.

  2. Give your name and surname

    Write them as you want them to appear in your messages. You will be asked for your date of birth so that Google can verify that you are an adult.

  3. Choose your address

    Example: prenom.nom@gmail.com. If it is already taken, add numbers. Write the exact address in your notebook, including every dot and number.

  4. What to know firstNever give your password to anyone: no public authority will ask you for it.

    Choose a password and note it

    A simple sentence that you can remember works well, for example three words joined together. Write it in your notebook next to the address. Without the password, you may lose access to the address.

  5. Add a GSM number if you have one

    Google sends a code by text message to verify the number. The number also lets you recover the account if you forget the password. You can skip this step if you do not have a phone.

  6. What to know firstIn an EPN, always log out before leaving (press your photo or initial, then "Log out").

    Test your address

    Send yourself a message, or ask someone to send you one. You see the message coming: your address works. You can now give it to CPAS, Actiris, or create your account on this site.

This guide offers guidance, never legal advice. Practice differs from one commune to another: call before you go. If you are in immediate danger, call 112.