Moving to France after Brexit (Updated 2024)

Embarking on a new life in France after Brexit in 2024 demands a clear understanding of the updated guidelines. The landscape has evolved significantly since January 1st 2021, particularly for UK nationals. From mandatory long-stay visas to nuanced regulations for second-home owners, every aspect requires careful consideration. This comprehensive guide is designed to illuminate the path forward, ensuring a seamless transition in the French lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking employment, pursuing studies or reuniting with family, knowing the intricacies of visa application and residency permits is paramount in the context of moving to France after Brexit.

Moving to France after Brexit: New guidelines for UK nationals

Are you thinking about moving to France after Brexit, here’s what changed after the 1st January 2021:

Mandatory long-stay visa: UK nationals intending to reside in France or a French overseas territory for over 90 days, whether for work, study, visit or family reasons, must secure a long-stay visa.
Temporary residency for second home owners: Those spending three to six months annually in France, who own second homes, aren’t considered residents. They must apply for a temporary long-stay visitor visa (VLS-T Visiteur).
Residency for extended stay: Second home owners spending more than six months a year in France are now considered French residents. They must apply for a long-stay visitor visa (VLC-TS Visiteur).
Revised family member status: Third country nationals and UK citizen family members residing in France are no longer classified as ‘family member of EU nationals’ (unless eligible under the Withdrawal Agreement).
Work visa for employment: Those aspiring to work in France must apply for a long-stay work visa and adhere to the stipulated conditions.
Study visa for academic pursuits: Students planning to pursue courses lasting longer than three months in France must apply for a French study visa.
Family reunification visa: To join a family member in France for over three months, one must apply for the relevant family visa.

Given the complexity of these changes, seeking guidance from a qualified immigration solicitor is highly recommended for a seamless transition into the French lifestyle. It ensures compliance with the updated regulations and a hassle-free relocation process.

French visas post-Brexit

Securing a visa is a critical step when considering moving to France after Brexit. The VLS-TS, known as the ‘Long-stay visa equivalent to residence permit’, grants a year-long stay on France. Within three months of arrival, registration at the French Immigration and Integration Office is mandatory, conferring rights akin to a residence permit.

The visa category primarily caters to workers, students and spouses of French citizens. If you don’t fall into these categories, obtaining a Type D long-stay visa along with a separate resident permit is necessary. As the initial 12-month term approaches its end, renewal applications can be submitted.

To initiate the process, visit the French Consulate in London’s website. Ensure you have the following documents at hand:

Valid passport
ID photograph
Proof of health insurance
Evidence of residency in France, like a property title or rental agreement
Financial statements demonstrating ample funds for sustenance during your stay.

Following document submission, proceed with the payment of the applicable visa fee and await processing. After five years of residence in France, you become eligible to apply for permanent residency. This comprehensive guide aims to streamline the visa application process for a smooth transition to France, particularly in the evolving landscape post-Brexit.

Applying for French residency

Once your visa for France has been granted and you’ve settled in, the next crucial step is applying for your French residency card, also known as a Carte de Séjour or Titre de Séjour. The French Government provides detailed information on the process, accessible on the ‘Démarche Intérieur’ website.

While you can initiate the application online here, attending a meeting at your local prefecture is typically a requirement, especially if you plan to stay in France for over a year. In such cases, you’ll likely apply for a Carte de Séjour Pluriannuelle, valid for four years.

Prior to application, a medical examination by the French Office for Immigration and Integration (OFII) is mandatory. The OFII will contact you directly once your visa has been approved, and the examination will be conducted at their nearest office to your residence. Following this, you’ll receive a certificate, which must be submitted along with your Carte de Séjour application.

The application process entails submitting an array of documents and paying the application fee (currently 225 €). This includes your long-stay visa, passport, a fully translated birth certificate, and proof of address (which must be less than six months old). Additionally, you’ll need to provide three passport-sized photos and the medical certificate issued by the OFII.

Depending on the type of Carte de Séjour or residence card you’re applying for, additional documentation may be requested. This could encompass proof of financial resources, certificates or evidence of health insurance or a valid work contract.

Following the submission of your online application, you’ll be invited for an interview at your local Prefecture. During this process, any supplementary documentation required will be communicated. It’s advisable to retain copies of all submitted documents. Maintaining a comprehensive dossier is key to a seamless application. Ensure you have a master file that remains intact, and create duplicated for third-party distribution. It’s advantageous to include documentation not specifically requested, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, proof of address, income statements, bank records, financial guarantees, and international health insurance.

After your interview, you’ll be provided with a Récepissé de Carte de Séjour, serving as proof of residency until your actual card arrives. The processing time for the card varies, taking a few weeks to several months, contingent on your specific Prefecture.

> You might be interested in this article: Understanding permanent residency in France

Opening a bank account in France

For non-citizens, opening a bank account in France is a viable option, with specific provisions for non-residents who have recently arrived in the country. The process typically entails a visit to your selected bank branch, where you’ll complete an application form and furnish the necessary supporting documents. While requirements may vary between institutions, you’ll generally need:

Your valid passport or another form of government-issued identification
Evidence of your French address
Relevant immigration documents, including your visa
Verification of your employment or student status

Notably, it’s worth considering that English-speaking staff may not be readily available in many banks. Bringing along a French-speaking companion for translation can be advantageous. Additionally, some of your documents may need to be translated into French to facilitate the process seamlessly.

> You might be interested in this article: Opening a french bank account for expats : The complete guide

Buying or renting a property in France

When considering moving to France after Brexit, securing accommodation is a paramount concern. The advantageous aspect is that property ownership in France isn’t exclusive to citizens, presenting an opportunity for expatriates to invest in their own slice of French living.

Opting for rental accommodation is a practical choice for many newcomers. This avenue ensures a swift transition with immediate housing availability. It also provides the flexibility to survey the surroundings and identify properties for potential purchases. To kickstart your search for houses or apartments for rent in France, peruse platforms such as LeBonCoin, SeLoger or Century21. They offer a wide array of rental options tailored to various preferences and budgets. This comprehensive approach ensures that both buyers and renters have abundant resources to facilitate their transition to the French lifestyle post-Brexit.

> You might be interested in this article: Is it better to rent or buy in France?

Registering for healthcare in France

To initiate your healthcare registration in France after Brexit, assemble a ‘dossier’ comprising essential documents:

Your valid passport
Proof of residency
Evidence of address (like a recent utility bill)
Verification of income
Marriage, divorce, and birth certificates
Passport-sized photographs

Upon successful registration, you’ll receive your Carte Vitale – a crucial card granting access to the healthcare system. Remember to carry it when collecting prescriptions or attending medical appointments.

Eligibility for registration arises after three months of residence in France. This process entails enrolling with your local Caisse Primaire Assurance Maladie (CPAM). Locate your nearby CPAM office via www.ameli.fr.

If you are employed in France, your employer will automatically enrol you in the French social security system. For self-employed individuals, registration occurs through the Regime Social des Indépendants (RSI). Retirees must complete a ‘demande d’ouverture des droits; available on the Ameli website. This request is forwarded to your local CPAM. Social security contributions are either deducted from your pension income pr covered by S1 form, affirming that the UK will bear the expenses. To apply for an S1 form, contact the NHS Overseas Healthcare Service for eligibility details. Navigate the post-Brexit healthcare landscape in France with confidence knowing you’re well-equipped for the journey ahead.

How to move your belongings from the UK to France

With the UK’s departure from the EU, the process of relocating your possessions to France has undergone some changes. While it may seem complex, this guide aims to streamline the process for you.

Firstly, it’s important to note that you won’t be required to pay taxes on items you’ve owned for at least six months and are bringing within one year of your relocation. Planning ahead is crucial, although you’re not obligated to transport everything in a single trip. However, certain items like alcohol or tobacco may be subject to taxes.

Ensure you possess a ‘certificat de non-cession’ – a signed declaration affirming ownership of your belongings for a minimum of six months. While customs officials might not insist on receipts for standard household items, having proof of ownership for more valuable items is advisable.

You’ll also need to provide evidence of your intended French residence. This can be established through a simple utility bill or a copy of property deeds or notary certificate of ownership. Additionally, documentation indicating that you’ve resided in the UK for at least 12 months prior to moving to France, like a tax bill, can be invaluable.

Lastly, prepare two copies of an inventory detailing the items you’re transporting. Include their respective values and categorise them by type, such as bedding, garden equipment, towels, electronics, etc. Keep in mind that you’re prohibited from selling any of these items within your initial 12 months in France.

It’s worth noting that some items, such as plants and flowers, might face transportation restrictions. While you can hire professionals to draft a report, this option is typically more cost-prohibitive for regular houseplants. Navigate the process confidently, knowing you’re equipped with the insights needed for a smooth transition of your belongings from the UK to France post-Brexit.

> You might be interested in this article: Navigating Removals to France After Brexit: Unveiling VAT & Customs Duties

Your moving to France checklist: Essential steps for moving to France after Brexit

If you are considering the move to France after Brexit, here’s a comprehensive checklist to guide you through the process:

Do your research on the cost of living in France
Decide whether you meet the immigration requirements
Obtain the appropriate French visa
Identify the location you want to live in
Register with the French authorities
Set up a French bank account, French address, utilities, services and other contracts

1 - Conduct thorough research

Familiarise yourself with the cost of living in France compared to the UK. Understand the cultural nuances and the prevalence of the French language, which about 23% of the UK population can comprehend.

> You might be interested in this article: Cost of living in France in 2023

2- Meet immigration requirements

Non-EU citizens must ensure they meet France’s immigration criteria for moving from the UK. This may involve demonstrating proficiency in the French language, having sufficient financial resources for self-sustainability, and securing a pre-approved job offer from an eligible employer.

3- Obtain your visa

Acquiring a long-stay French visa is a pivotal step. Post-Brexit, obtaining a visa is a prerequisite for legal employment in France (in most cases). Refer to the official government France-Visas website for detailed information. Those who resided in France before December 31st, 2021, are likely protected under the Withdrawal Agreement and may not require an employment visa.

4- Explore preferred residential regions

Consider popular regions for British expats in France:

Ile de France
Poitou-Charentes
Aquitaine
Midi-Pyrénées
Brittany

5- Register with French authorities

Promptly register with the relevant authorities upon obtaining your French visa. Apply for the requisite residence permit at the prefecture of your new residence.

6- Establish utilities and services

Prepare necessary documentation:

Proof of identity
Proof of address or property ownership
Details of your French bank account
Details of the previous tenant
Note that the French electrical system differs from the UK’s. Be prepared to adapt or replace electrical items accordingly.

By meticulously following these steps, you’ll pave the way for a smooth and successful relocation to France post-Brexit.

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