Move from the UK to France
Learn all you need to know about getting a Visa for France
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Move from the UK to France
What is the process?
Relocating from the United Kingdom to France involves several key steps to ensure a smooth transition. Here’s a comprehensive guide to assist you:
1. Determine the Appropriate Visa
Since Brexit, British citizens are now considered non-EU nationals and require a visa for stays longer than 90 days. The main visa options include:
Long-Stay Visitor Visa (Visa de Long Séjour Visiteur) – Ideal for individuals who wish to reside in France without working. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial means.
Work Visa – Required for those who have secured employment in France. The French employer usually handles part of the process.
Talent Passport (Passeport Talent) – For highly skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, researchers, and artists.
Student Visa – For individuals enrolled in an educational program in France.
French Investor Visa – For applicants making a significant investment in the French economy.
2. Prepare Necessary Documentation
Valid Passport – Ensure your U.K. passport is valid throughout your stay.
Visa Application Form – Complete the correct form for your selected visa type.
Financial Proof – Bank statements showing sufficient funds.
Health Insurance – Private medical insurance that covers you in France.
Background Check – Obtain a police clearance (ACRO certificate) from U.K. authorities.
Medical Certificate – A doctor’s statement confirming good health (if required).
3. Submit Your Visa Application
Apply through the French Consulate or TLScontact centre responsible for your region in the U.K.
Processing times vary, so apply well in advance of your intended move.
4. Plan Your Move
Housing – Research and secure accommodation in France.
Shipping Belongings – Arrange transport of personal items and check customs rules.
Financial Arrangements – Consider opening a French bank account for local transactions.
5. Upon Arrival in France
Validate Your Visa (VLS-TS) – If you have a long-stay visa serving as a residence permit, validate it online within three months via the OFII platform.
Apply for a Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour) – If required, submit your application at the local Préfecture.
Register at Your Local Town Hall (Mairie) – Some municipalities request this.
Enroll in the French Healthcare System (CPAM) – After three months of residence, you may qualify for public health coverage.
Obtain a Tax Identification Number (Numéro Fiscal) – Necessary for administrative and financial procedures.
6. Understand Tax Obligations
As a French resident, you’ll be subject to French tax rules.
France and the U.K. have a double-taxation treaty, but it’s advisable to consult a tax expert familiar with both systems.
7. Integrate into French Life
Language – Learning French greatly improves integration and daily life.
Healthcare – Familiarize yourself with how the French system works.
Community Engagement – Joining local groups or activities can help you build connections.
Type of French visas
France offers a variety of visas depending on the purpose and duration of your stay. Since Brexit, British citizens are considered non-EU nationals and must apply for the appropriate visa if staying longer than 90 days. Below are the main types of visas available:
1. Short-Stay Visa (Schengen Visa)
For visits of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Allows travel within the Schengen Area.
Typically issued for tourism, business, family visits, or short training programs.
Not valid for work or long-term residency.
(Note: U.K. nationals generally do not need a Schengen visa for short stays, but they are still limited to 90/180 days.)
2. Long-Stay Visa (Visa de Long Séjour – VLS)
For individuals planning to stay in France for more than 90 days. Typically issued for 1 year and may require additional residence permits afterward.
Common Long-Stay Visa Categories for U.K. Nationals:
Long-Stay Visitor Visa (VLS-TS Visiteur) – For retirees or financially independent individuals who wish to live in France without working. Requires proof of sufficient funds and private health insurance.
Work Visa (Salarié or Travailleur Temporaire) – For those who have secured a work contract with a French employer. The employer initiates part of the process.
Talent Passport (Passeport Talent) – For highly skilled workers, entrepreneurs, researchers, artists, or innovators contributing significantly to France’s economy.
Student Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant) – For individuals enrolled at a French educational institution.
Family Reunification Visa – For joining a spouse or close family member legally residing in France.
3. Specialized Visas
Entrepreneur/Business Visa – For those creating or investing in a French business.
French Tech Visa – A fast-track option for tech founders, investors, and startup employees.
Au Pair Visa – For young people living with a host family while studying French.
Working Holiday Visa – Available only to eligible nationalities (not U.K. citizens).
Researcher Visa – For academics conducting research at a French institution.
4. Residency Permits (After Entering France with a Long-Stay Visa)
Depending on your visa type, additional steps are required once you arrive:
VLS-TS (Visa Long Séjour Valant Titre de Séjour) – Certain long-stay visas act as a temporary residence permit. They must be validated online with OFII within the first 3 months after arrival.
Carte de Séjour (Residence Permit) – Needed for stays beyond the initial visa period or for specific categories (e.g., workers, family members, talent passport holders).
What documents do you need?
The documents needed for a French visa application depend on the type of visa you are applying for, but here are the common requirements for U.K. residents:
1. General Documents for Most French Visas
Completed Visa Application Form – Available through the France-Visas website.
Valid Passport – Must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay and contain at least two blank pages.
Passport-Sized Photos – Two recent biometric photos meeting French visa requirements.
Proof of Purpose for Stay – Varies by visa type (e.g., French work contract, university acceptance letter, proof of financial independence).
Proof of Accommodation – Rental contract, hotel reservation, or an attestation d’hébergement if staying with a host.
Proof of Financial Means – Recent U.K. bank statements, pension statements, employment letters, or savings proof demonstrating you can support yourself in France.
Health Insurance – Comprehensive private medical insurance valid in France, covering at least €30,000 for medical care and repatriation (required for long-stay visas).
Travel Itinerary – Flight details or other transportation reservations (one-way tickets often accepted for long-stay visas).
Police Clearance Certificate – An ACRO Police Certificate issued in the U.K. (replaces the FBI check required for U.S. applicants).
Medical Certificate – Required for certain visa categories, confirming you are in good health.
2. Additional Documents Based on Visa Type
For a Work Visa:
A French Contrat de Travail approved by the Ministry of Labour.
Sponsorship letter from the French employer confirming the job and conditions.
For a Talent Passport (Passeport Talent):
Proof of qualifications, achievements, professional experience, or investment.
Business plan or financial documentation for entrepreneurs or investors.
For a Student Visa:
Enrollment letter from a recognised French educational institution.
Proof of tuition payment or scholarship.
Accommodation proof (university housing confirmation or rental agreement).
For a Long-Stay Visitor Visa (Retirees or Non-Workers):
Proof of stable income or savings (typically around €1,400+ per month per person).
A letter explaining your intention to reside in France without working.
Proof of health insurance valid for the entire stay.
For a Family Reunification Visa:
Proof of family relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, civil partnership documentation).
Proof of the sponsor’s legal residence in France (residence permit).
3. Submitting Your Application
Apply through TLScontact or the French Consulate serving your region in the U.K.
Book an appointment and bring original documents plus photocopies.
Long-stay visa processing typically takes 2–3 months, so apply early.
What is the cost of living in France?
The cost of living in France varies significantly depending on the city, lifestyle, and spending habits. In general, France can be more affordable than major U.K. cities like London, Edinburgh, or Bristol—although Paris remains one of the most expensive places to live. Below is a breakdown of typical expenses to help U.K. readers understand how France compares.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is one of the biggest expenses, and prices vary widely.
Paris:
€1,200 – €2,500 (£1,020 – £2,130) per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre.Lyon, Bordeaux, Nice:
€700 – €1,500 (£595 – £1,280) per month.Smaller cities / rural areas:
€500 – €1,000 (£425 – £850) per month.
Buying property in Paris can exceed €10,000/m² (£8,500/m²), while smaller cities are far more affordable.
2. Utilities & Internet
Utilities (electricity, heating, water, waste):
€100 – €200 (£85 – £170) per month.High-speed internet + mobile plan:
€30 – €60 (£25 – £50) per month.
Utilities in France are generally cheaper than in the U.K., thanks to regulated energy pricing.
3. Groceries & Dining Out
Groceries in France are often cheaper than in the U.K., especially fresh bread, wine, dairy, and market produce.
Monthly groceries (one person):
€200 – €400 (£170 – £340)Baguette: €1 (£0.85)
Bottle of wine: €5 – €10 (£4.25 – £8.50)
Milk (1L): €1.20 (£1.00)
Local cheese: €5 – €15/kg (£4.25 – £13)
Eating out:
Budget restaurant meal: €12 – €20 (£10 – £17)
Three-course dinner for two: €50 – €100 (£42 – £85)
Coffee at a café: €2 – €4 (£1.70 – £3.40)
Dining out is usually more affordable than in London.
4. Transportation Costs
Public transport is efficient and often cheaper than in the U.K.
Paris monthly pass (Navigo):
€86 (£73)Single metro/bus ticket:
€2.10 (£1.80)Petrol:
€1.80 – €2.10 per litre (£1.53 – £1.78)Taxi starting fare:
€5 (£4.25)
Owning a car is generally more expensive in France due to fuel and insurance costs.
5. Healthcare Costs
France’s healthcare is high-quality and far cheaper than private healthcare in the U.K.
Public health insurance (PUMA):
€100 – €200 (£85 – £170) per month.Private health insurance:
€50 – €150 (£42 – £128) per month.Doctor visit (no insurance):
€25 (£21)
Prescription medication is typically significantly cheaper than in the U.K.
6. Education Costs
Public schools: Free (including higher education).
Private schools: €5,000 – €20,000 (£4,250 – £17,000) per year.
University tuition (non-EU): €3,000 – €5,000 (£2,550 – £4,250) per year.
International/American schools: €10,000 – €30,000 (£8,500 – £25,500) per year.
Overall, French education is much more affordable than U.K. private schooling and universities.
7. Entertainment & Lifestyle
Gym membership: €30 – €60 (£25 – £50) per month
Movie ticket: €10 – €15 (£8.50 – £13)
Museum entry: €10 – €20 (£8.50 – £17) (often free on first Sundays)
Cultural activities are typically cheaper than in the U.K.
8. Taxes & Cost of Living Adjustments
France has higher taxes than the U.K., but residents benefit from:
Universal healthcare
Low-cost education
Social protections
Subsidised childcare
VAT is 20%, and included in prices.
Bottom Line: Is France More Affordable Than the U.K.?
Paris ≈ London for rent, but cheaper for dining, transport, and healthcare.
Smaller French cities are much cheaper than many U.K. cities, especially for rent and groceries.
Everyday expenses like food, wine, public transport, and healthcare are usually lower in France.
What taxes will you pay?
As a U.K. citizen or resident relocating to France, you will become subject to French taxes once you meet the criteria for French tax residency. Since Brexit, U.K. nationals are treated as non-EU residents, but the U.K.–France double taxation treaty helps avoid being taxed twice on the same income.
1. Income Tax (Impôt sur le Revenu) in France
France uses a progressive income tax system. If you become a French tax resident, you must declare your worldwide income.
Current income tax brackets:
Up to €11,294 – 0%
€11,295 to €28,797 – 11%
€28,798 to €82,341 – 30%
€82,342 to €177,106 – 41%
Above €177,107 – 45%
Who is considered a French tax resident?
You are a French tax resident if any of the following apply:
You spend more than 183 days per year in France.
Your primary home (foyer) is in France.
Your main economic activity is in France.
If you are not a tax resident, you only pay tax on French-source income (e.g., salary from a French employer or rental income from French property).
2. Social Security Contributions (Charges Sociales)
If you work in France, you must contribute to the French social security system, which funds:
Healthcare
Pensions
Family benefits
Unemployment insurance
Contribution levels:
Employees: Approx. 20%–23% of salary
Employers: Approx. 40%–45% on top of gross salary
Self-employed: 25%–45% of net income
If you move to France without working (e.g., on a long-stay visitor visa), you may need private health insurance until you become eligible for PUMA, the French public healthcare system (typically after 3 months of residence).
3. Capital Gains Tax (Impôt sur les Plus-Values)
You may owe capital gains tax if you sell assets such as real estate, stocks, or crypto.
Real Estate Capital Gains
19% base tax
+17.2% social charges
Reductions apply after 6 years
Full exemption after 30 years of ownership
Financial Investments (stocks, bonds, crypto)
A flat tax of 30% applies (known as the Prélèvement Forfaitaire Unique), including:
12.8% income tax
17.2% social charges
4. Real Estate Wealth Tax (Impôt sur la Fortune Immobilière – IFI)
France does not tax all assets, but if you own French real estate worth more than €1.3 million, you must pay IFI at rates between 0.5% and 1.5%.
5. Property Taxes: Taxe Foncière & Taxe d’Habitation
If you own property in France, these taxes apply:
Taxe Foncière
Paid annually by property owners
Based on the property’s notional rental value
Taxe d’Habitation
Phased out for most primary residences
Still applies to second homes, including homes owned by U.K. residents
6. Value-Added Tax (VAT – TVA)
Standard VAT rate: 20%
Reduced rates:
5.5% (most food, books)
10% (restaurants, transport)
VAT is already included in the displayed price.
7. U.K. Tax Obligations After Moving to France
Unlike U.S. citizens, U.K. citizens do not owe tax automatically to HMRC once living abroad. However, certain obligations may still apply.
You must:
Inform HMRC you’re leaving the U.K. (Form P85)
Continue paying tax on U.K.-source income, such as:
Rental income from U.K. property
U.K. pensions
Dividends from U.K. companies
The U.K.–France Double Taxation Treaty determines which country has taxing rights on each type of income.
Key points:
If France taxes income first, you can usually claim a foreign tax credit in the U.K., preventing double taxation.
Private U.K. pensions are typically taxed in France, not in the U.K.
U.K. state pensions are taxable in France, not in the U.K. (under the treaty).
You may need to continue filing a U.K. Self-Assessment return if you still have U.K.-source income.
Importantly, you do not file U.K. taxes simply for living abroad — only for income still tied to the U.K.
Summary: Your Tax Responsibilities as a U.K. Citizen Living in France
You will generally pay:
French income tax (0%–45%) if you become a French tax resident.
Social contributions (20%–45%) if employed or self-employed.
Capital gains tax (19%–30%) on real estate or investments.
Real estate wealth tax (IFI) if your French property is worth €1.3M+.
Property taxes (taxe foncière; taxe d’habitation for second homes).
VAT of 20% on goods and services.
U.K. taxes on U.K.-source income only, according to the double-taxation treaty.
Ready to navigate the complexities of moving from the UK to France? Contact our partners, experienced immigration lawyers, to receive personalized guidance, expert advice, and professional assistance with your visa application. Let us help make your extended stay in France a seamless and successful experience. Reach out to us now to start the process!
How can a lawyer help me with moving to France?
A lawyer can help you by providing legal advice and guidance throughout the application process. Some ways a lawyer can assist you include:
Eligibility assessment: A lawyer will evaluate your specific situation, whether it’s for work, study, retirement, or family reunification, to ensure you meet the criteria for the artist visa.
Document preparation: They can help you compile the necessary paperwork, which typically includes:
- Proof of financial means to support your stay.
- Proof of accommodation in France (lease or property ownership).
- Health insurance valid in France.
- A criminal background check.
- Specific documents depending on the purpose of the visa (employment contract, enrollment in a French institution, etc.).
Application submission: A lawyer will guide you through the submission process, ensuring that your application is properly filed with the French consulate in your country of residence or online. They can help avoid common mistakes that could lead to delays or rejections.
Navigating French bureaucracy: The visa process can involve complex and time-consuming administrative procedures. A lawyer can help you efficiently navigate these systems, making sure everything is in order for the visa decision.
Follow-up on the visa process: Lawyers can track the status of your visa application and ensure any additional documentation or clarifications requested by the consulate are promptly provided.
Residency permit (Carte de Séjour): Once you arrive in France, a lawyer can help with the next step: applying for your carte de séjour (residency permit). They will assist with the necessary appointments and paperwork to transition smoothly to residency.
Appeals and troubleshooting: If your artist visa is denied, a lawyer can help you appeal the decision and address any issues in your application that may have led to the rejection.
If you’d like to explore how we can support you with the French visa process, feel free to book a meeting with us.
Our team of experienced lawyers is ready to assist you and guide you through the entire application process. Let us help you make your dream of living and working in France a reality.
Life
Work
Quality Life for You and Your Family
Why France?
Obtaining a visa in France offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it opens an opportunity to live in one of Europe’s most captivating countries, with its vibrant cities, stunning coastline, and rich cultural heritage. Secondly, the visa enables access to France’s thriving digital and tech ecosystem, fostering networking opportunities and professional growth. Lastly, you will immerse in the warmth of French hospitality, savour its delectable cuisine, and explore its diverse regions while maintaining a flexible work-life balance.
Cultural immersion
Experience the rich French culture.
Location
Explore Europe without visa restrictions.
Stable economy
France has a stable and growing economy
Delicious cuisine
Taste world-renowned French food and wine.
Affordable living
Cost of living is lower compared to other European countries.
Healthcare access
Access to high-quality healthcare facilities and services.
Skilled workforce
France has a highly skilled and multilingual workforce.
Travel Opportunities
Explore diverse regions within France.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to move to France?
Yes — as a U.K. citizen, you’ll need a visa if you plan to stay in France for more than 90 days. Your visa type depends on your purpose of stay, such as visiting, working, studying, or retiring.
How do I apply for a French visa?
Start your application online through France-Visas, then book an appointment at TLScontact in the U.K. to submit your documents and biometric data. Processing time varies depending on the visa type.
Do I need to learn French to live in France?
Not mandatory, but very helpful. You can get by in major cities with basic French, but most administrative tasks, healthcare interactions, and daily life are easier if you speak the language.
Can I work in France as a UK citizen?
Yes, but you’ll need a valid work visa. Most applicants require sponsorship from a French employer, while highly skilled professionals may qualify for a Talent Passport.
How does healthcare work in France for expats?
Expats can join France’s public healthcare system (PUMA) after about three months of living in the country. Until then, private health insurance is required. Many residents also get a “mutuelle” (top-up insurance).
Can I buy property in France as a British?
Absolutely — there are no restrictions. However, buying a home does not grant residency rights; you’ll still need a visa or residence permit to live in France long-term.
What is the best way to move my belongings to France?
International removal companies are the most common option and can handle customs formalities. Since Brexit, you will need to complete a customs declaration for your household goods.
Can I drive in France with a UK license?
Yes, you can use your U.K. licence initially. After becoming a French resident, you may need to exchange it for a French licence. No driving test is usually required.
How do I open a bank account in France?
Most banks require ID, proof of residence, and visa documentation. Some allow online applications, while others ask for an in-person appointment. Digital banks can be a convenient temporary solution when you first arrive.
Is it difficult to adjust to life in France?
Most people adapt well, although language and administration can be challenging at first. Many expats appreciate the quality of life, culture, food, and healthcare once settled.
Our Team
For us, Lexidy is a way of life and what excites us the most is to be able to deliver the happiness and satisfaction of a successful immigration process. We want to help you achieve your goals and dreams, whether it’s residence in France or simply an investment.
Visit us: Rez-de-chaussée sur cour, 14 Rue de l’Abbé de l’Épée, 75005 ParisCall us: +33 1 76 40 35 43
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