✅ How to Move to France from the UK Smoothly and Legally
Introduction
Have you been considering trading in the drizzly weather of the UK for the picturesque regions of France? You certainly wouldn't be alone in this thought. France has long been regarded as one of the most popular expat destinations for UK citizens. France has everything ‒ beauty, culture, and a more leisurely pace of life with far more enjoyment.
From the Parisian cafés to the lavender fields of Provence to the sun-drenched beaches of the French Riviera, with its varied landscapes and stillness, France has an appeal that cannot be found anywhere else. The French lifestyle ‒ focused on food, family, and a strong sense of community ‒ is something British citizens find hard to resist. Add in quality weather, quality health care, and its proximity to the UK, and you will easily see why so many are looking to relocate and start anew.
As one of the best countries to relocate from the UK, France offers a wide range of opportunities, and this guide covers everything from visa types to job prospects and healthcare options. If you are moving for work, retirement, or just to begin again, this guide will help you plan and start your adventure in France with confidence.
Why Move to France from the UK?
Relocating to France from the United Kingdom is not only a change of location, but it's also an integrated way of life focused on balance, visual aesthetics, and quality of life. Each year, thousands of British expatriates move to France, and for good reason.
1. Improved Quality of Life
France offers a slower pace of life while placing emphasis on family, leisure, and well-being. Long lunches, long walks in the countryside, and shortened workweeks provide people with the time to enjoy life outside of work. Many expatriates even note that their stress level has been dramatically reduced since moving to France.
2. Close to the United Kingdom
There is no need to travel halfway across the globe to achieve a new normal. France is a short flight away, or the London to Paris Eurostar train can take you there in under 2.5 hours, making it easy to visit family or fly home for the holidays.
3. Amazing food and culture
From flaky buttery croissants and fine wines, France is a food lover's paradise. However, it is not only about the food. France's rich history, art, and architecture create a sense that you are having cultural experiences each day. Whether you are in Paris or Provence, you can explore something inspiring each day.
4. Awesome Variety of Landscapes
Whether you prefer sunshine on the beach, rolling vineyards, slopes for skiing in the Alps, or little villages in the country, France has it all. Whether you prefer a city, coastal, or country lifestyle, there is a place in France for everyone.
5. Great Healthcare and Education
France offers some of the best healthcare in the world and is known for providing affordable healthcare. Education is also strongly supported, and there are some options available, such as public schools or British international schools for English-speaking children.
[Learn More: How Can Studying Health Science Abroad Shape Your Global Career]
6. Affordable Property and Cost of Living
Outside of Paris and larger cities, France, surprisingly, has affordable property, with some UK citizens in various articles sharing that they made it affordable to own larger homes or live in estates in the country, and that the prices of homes were much lower. In regions like Brittany, Dordogne, or Occitanie, this is especially true.
7. Strong Expat Communities
Don't worry about being alone! France boasts one of the largest British expat populations in Europe. With so many opportunities to socialize in your local area or online, you will find a good way to engage, connect, and settle into your new life.
How to move to France from the UK?
Moving to France from the United Kingdom may sound like quite a jump. However, it can be a much simpler task than you might first think, as long as you prepare properly. The situation has changed since Brexit took effect, which means UK citizens who were once EU residents are no longer, and you will therefore need to adhere to the necessary visa and residency formalities below, but with good planning, this is perfectly achievable.
Here are the preparation steps you can take to facilitate your move.
1. Select the most appropriate visa
Before you begin the move, be sure to understand the type of visa you will need, based on the intent of your relocation to France. Here are some common options for visas:
Long-term visa (Visa de long séjour): If you are relocating to live, work, or study in France for longer than 90 days.
Work visa: For individuals moving to France based on an employment offer from a French-based company.
Family visa: For individuals relocating or moving to France to be joined by their spouse or family member already established in France.
Retirement visa: For those relocating as a retiree, with proof of necessary income and health insurance.
For each visa type, there are various requirements; therefore, you are best to apply well in advance through the French Consulate in the UK.
2. Get Documents Read
You will have to gather some important documents that show:
• UK passport with a validity of at least 6 months before the expiration date
• Proof of accommodations in France
• Evidence of finances or employment contract
• Coverage of health insurance
• Certificate of Criminal Record (only if applicable)
Having these items ready at the time of application will reduce processing time to a minimum
3. Make Your Visa Application:
You should make your visa application through France-Visas.gouv.fr online, and then make an appointment at the nearest TLScontact location in the UK to present your biometrics and the documents you have submitted. Processing your application takes about 2–6 weeks, depending on the type of visa you are applying for.
4. Find Some Accommodation
Consider some areas you would want to live in based on your lifestyle. For instance, if you are living in Paris, you might research areas with transportation and amenities that suit you; if you are someone who prefers peace, you might research around Dordogne or Provence. Also, most expats choose to rent first to try out the local experience before purchasing property.
5. Register and Apply for Residential Permit
In France, you will need to register your arrival and apply for your Titre de Séjour (residential permit) within 3 months of arrival, to authorize your legal stay and access healthcare and other local amenities.
6. Open a French Bank Account
You will need a French bank account to pay rent and bills, as well as for daily expenses. The largest banks, such as BNP Paribas, Société Générale, and Crédit Agricole, welcome expats and offer services in English.
[Discover more: Explore the Top Student Bank Accounts You Should Know in 2025]
7. Establish Healthcare and Insurance
After receiving your residency status, register with France's healthcare system (PUMA). In the meantime, purchase private medical coverage. The French healthcare system is excellent and generally inexpensive.
8. Move Your Possessions
Employ international movers, or arrange for your necessities to move on your own. Review customs and importation rules for bringing belongings, vehicles, and pets from the UK to France. Depending on the case, you may need specific documents or other duties for items you import.
9. Embrace Life in France
Once the paperwork is completed, embrace a new lifestyle! You can learn some French, explore local markets, and connect with expat communities to adjust quickly.
[Find Now: Can International Students Still Apply for Upcoming Intakes in France]
Visa and Residency Requirements for UK Citizens (Post-Brexit)
Following Brexit, it is now necessary to proceed through formal visa and residency measures to move to France from the UK. UK citizens are no longer EU citizens, meaning you will require a long-stay visa if you are planning to stay in France for more than 90 days. The process is simple, but it does require planning and the correct documentation and paperwork.
Here is a breakdown of the main visa and residency options available to UK citizens.
1. Short-Stay (Tourist) Visa — Up to 90 Days
If you are traveling to France for a vacation, business trip, or family visit, you will not need a visa for stays of less than 90 days within 180 days. However, you will not be able to work or study during this period. All you will need is a valid UK passport and proof of accommodation and return travel.
2.Long-Stay Vis
If your stay in France is longer than 90 days, you'll need to apply for a long-stay visa, which serves as your temporary resident permit for the first year. Depending on your motivation to move, you can apply for different types:
- Work visa: If you have a job offer from a French employer
- Student visa: If you are attending a institution or university in France
- Family visa: If you are joining your spouse, partner, or dependent family member
- Visitor visa: For retirees or individuals who are not seeking employment and can prove their finances.
Once you enter France, you must validate your long-stay visa within 3 months of arrival in France to make it legal.
3. Temporary Resident Permit
Once your first year is up, you'll need to renew your status with a Carte de Séjour Temporaire, which is usually available for up to one year and is renewable. You'll be required to prove your income, health insurance, and registered address in France.
4. Multi-Year Residency Authorization (Carte de Séjour Pluriannuelle)
After living legally in France for a minimum of 1 year, you'll qualify for a multi-year residency authorization, which lasts up to 4 years. This will make your life, work, or study in France much easier as you won't have to apply for a residence authorization every year.
5. Permanent Residency (Carte de Résident)
After living in France legally for five years, UK citizens are entitled to apply for a permanent residency card. This card provides the same rights as a French citizen (except voting) and is valid for 10 years before requiring renewal. The application process will require proof of integration, proof of financial stability, and evidence of not having a criminal record.
6. Dual Citizenship Available
If you would like to stay on a longer-term basis, you can apply for French citizenship after living here continuously for five years (less if married to a French citizen). This will provide you with all of the full rights of an EU citizen, including free movement across all EU countries.
Documents Required for Visa Application
When applying for a French visa from the UK, make sure you have all the required documents ready to avoid delays or rejections. Here's a quick checklist:
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months after your stay, with two blank pages.
- Visa Application Form: Completed and printed from the France-Visas website.
- Passport Photos: Two recent photos (35mm x 45mm, white background).
- Proof of Accommodation: Hotel booking, rental agreement, or invitation letter from a host.
- Financial Proof: Recent bank statements (3 months), payslips, or proof of pension/savings.
- Travel Insurance: Must cover at least €30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation.
- Purpose of Stay Documents:
- Work visa – job offer or contract
- Student visa – admission letter
- Family visa – marriage or birth certificate
- Visitor visa – reason for travel and proof of funds
- Civil Status Proof: Birth or marriage certificate, translated into French if required.
- Criminal Record Certificate: May be needed for long-stay visas.
- Visa Fee Receipt: Proof of payment (usually around €99 for long-stay visas).
Cost of Living in France
Your location of residency primarily determines the cost of living in France. Major urban cities like Paris, Lyon, and Nice are on the higher side of living expenses, while smaller towns and rural areas provide a lower cost of living without a loss of comfort.
Housing is typically the most costly expense. In the capital city of Paris alone, renting a one-bedroom apartment ranges from 1200 to 2000 Euros/month; in smaller towns or rural areas, comparable options can be found from 600 to 1000 Euros/month. Utility expenses, which include electricity, water, internet, and some property taxes, usually add 150-250 Euros/month.
Groceries commonly cost one person between 200 and 400 Euros/month, and you can save even more by shopping at your local markets. Public transport is affordable and often very well organized, with prices for monthly passes in the 60-90 Euro range, and gas costs on average are 1.90 Euros/litre.
Healthcare in France has a reputation for being affordable and excellent. A typical basic doctor's visit will cost around 25-30 Euros, and you will be reimbursed for a significant part of your costs from the national health system.
Eating in major cities is quite affordable, typically around €15–€20 for a casual meal, and €30–€50 for a three-course restaurant dinner. Entertainment and sporting expenses, such as gym memberships and cinema tickets, typically range from €30–€50 for a month or between €10–€13 per ticket.
Families can benefit from France's strong education system. Publicly funded education is free, and private or international education costs between €3,000 €10,000 per year.
The overall cost of living in France is approximately 10–15% (this percentage can vary, of course, depending on where you live) cheaper than in the UK, especially when you avoid the major cities and the cultural capitals of France. It is possible to live comfortably and enjoy the French way of life with good cost and expense planning.
Conclusion
Moving to France from the UK is more than just a change of location; it is an opportunity to experience a lifestyle that is more centered around balance, culture, and quality of life. Whether you are interested in the more relaxed pace of rural France, the sophistication of Paris, or simply the sunny charm of the south, France has something for everybody.
The post-Brexit process does involve a few more steps - from visa arrangements to residency - but the process is entirely worth it. With its first-rate health system, delectable cuisine, and friendly societies, France still stands as one of the most beneficial experiences for a UK citizen looking to build a new life abroad.
If you plan thoroughly, sort your documents, and have an idea of the cost of living, it can be an easy and enjoyable transition. So, if you have dreamt of having fresh croissants for breakfast, walking to markets, or having more sunshine in your life, this could be a great time to consider your next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can UK citizens move to France after Brexit?
Yes, UK citizens can still move to France, but since Brexit, they must apply for the appropriate visa or residence permit. Visa-free travel is allowed for up to 90 days within any 180 days. For stays longer than that, a long-stay visa (visa de long séjour) is required.
2. Do UK citizens need a visa to live in France
Yes, UK citizens need a long-stay visa (VLS-TS) or residence permit to live, work, or study in France for more than 90 days. The visa must be validated within 3 months of arrival. Different visa types exist for employment, study, family reunion, or entrepreneurship.
3. What are the main visa types for moving from the UK to France?
Common options include the Work Visa, Student Visa, Family Visa, and Business/Entrepreneur Visa. Retirees can apply for a Visitor Visa if they can show sufficient financial means. Each visa type has unique eligibility and renewal requirements.
4. How long can UK citizens stay in France without a visa?
UK citizens can visit France visa-free for up to 90 days in 180 days. This applies to tourism, family visits, or short business trips. Longer stays require prior visa approval from the French Consulate.
5. How do I apply for a French residence permit after moving?
After entering France on a valid long-stay visa, UK citizens must register with the local prefecture and apply for a residence permit. This process confirms legal residence in France. Renewals are typically required every 1–4 years, depending on visa type.
6. What is the cost of living in France compared to the UK?
France's cost of living varies by region — Paris is 20–25% more expensive, while smaller cities like Lyon or Bordeaux are cheaper. Average monthly expenses for a single person range from €1,500 to €2,500. Healthcare and public transport are generally more affordable than in the UK.
7. Can UK citizens work in France?
Yes, but they need a work visa or residence permit that allows employment. Skilled professionals can apply under the Talent Passport Program, which offers fast-track residence for high-demand occupations. Many UK qualifications are recognized under EU equivalency agreements.
8. Can I retire in France from the UK?
Yes, retirees can apply for a long-stay visitor visa (visa de long séjour visiteur). You'll need to show proof of stable income or pension, private health insurance, and accommodation. France's healthcare and relaxed lifestyle make it a popular retirement destination.
9. Do UK citizens have access to French healthcare?
Yes, after registering and obtaining residence status, UK citizens can join the French public healthcare system (PUMA). Private health insurance is required initially, but can later transition to public coverage. France's healthcare ranks among the best in Europe.
10. Can I bring my family when moving from the UK to France?
Yes, dependents (spouse and children) can join you under family reunion provisions. Each family member needs an individual visa application. Once approved, they can access schooling, healthcare, and residence benefits.
11. Do UK citizens need to pay taxes in France after moving?
Yes, residents must pay French income tax on worldwide income if they live in France for more than 183 days per year. The UK and France have a double taxation treaty to prevent paying taxes twice. It's best to consult a cross-border tax advisor before relocating.
12. What are the best tips for relocating to France from the UK?
Start by securing your visa, housing, and healthcare coverage before moving. Learn basic French language skills to ease communication and integration. Finally, register with local authorities soon after arrival to complete your legal residency process.
