Are you a British expat living in France and wondering how to secure your place in the country post-Brexit? Applying for permanent residency might be your next step to extend your stay in France without pursuing citizenship. Discover the ins and outs, from eligibility criteria to the application process and associated expenses. Whether you’re planning to remain in France for a decade or more, this guide has you covered.Â
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Understanding permanent residency in France
Obtaining a resident card in France is a significant step for non-European nationals looking to establish themselves in the country. This card not only grants the right to stay in both mainland and overseas France, but also comes with various rights and privileges depending on where it is issues.Â
Scope of work permit depending on card issuance
The resident card offers a unique advantage – it allows you to engage in the profession of your choice. However, it’s important to note that the scope of the work permit associated with the resident card varies based on where it is issued.Â
Mainland France Issued Card: If your resident card is issued in mainland France, you have the freedom to pursue your desired profession within the same territory. This means that you can work and contribute to the economy in mainland France without any limitation related to your profession.Â
French Overseas Departments and Regions Issued Card: Conversely, a resident card issued in the French overseas departments and regions does not serve as a work permit for mainland France. The work privileges associated with this card are confined to the specific overseas territory where it is issued. Similarly, a resident card issued in mainland France does not grant work authorisation in the French overseas departments and regions.Â
Authorised length of stay and renewal
The resident card provides a substantial period of validity – 10 years, with the option of renewal. This extended validity offers stability and security to non-European nationals who wish to establish a long-term presence in France.Â
Managing validity
While the resident card provides a decade of residency, it’s important to understand the conditions that can affect its validity.
Resident Card Outside of France: If you spend at least three consecutive years residing outside of France, your resident card’s validity will expire. This provision encourages individuals to actively maintain their presence within the country to enjoy the benefits of their residence status.Â
Resident Card with ‘Long-Term Resident – EU’ Wording: For those holding a resident card with the wording ‘long-term resident – EU’, spending at least three consecutive years outside the territory of the European Union Member States will result in the loss of card validity. This emphasises the important of maintaining ties with EU countries to retain the privileges of this specific resident card.Â
Extending validity
If circumstances demand, you have the opportunity to extend the validity of your resident card. This can be accomplished either before departing from France or through the French consular authorities. This flexibility allows you to navigate life’s changes while retaining the advantages of your resident status.Â
> People who read this article also read: Retiring to France: Visa and Permanent Residency
Why apply for permanent residency?
Applying for permanent residency in France comes with a host of benefits. It secures your long-term stay in the country, offering stability and peace of mind. It also provides you with continued access to healthcare, education, and social services. Furthermore, permanent residency serves as a gateway to citizenship, allowing you to fully integrate into French society.Â
Requirements for permanent residency
Applying for permanent residency in France involves meeting certain criteria that demonstrate your commitment to the country and your ability to integrate into French society. While these requirements may vary based on individual circumstances, here are some common criteria to consider:
- Minimum period of legal residency: Generally, you’ll need to have lived in France for a specified period under legal residency status. This period can vary but often ranges from five to ten years. Keep in mind that your time spent in France prior to Brexit might also count towards this requirement.Â
- Stable income or financial means: The French authorities want to ensure that you can financially support yourself without becoming a burden on the social system. You might need to provide evidence of a stable income, regular employment, or sufficient financial resources to cover your living expenses.Â
- Healthcare coverage: Having comprehensive health insurance coverage is crucial. Whether through private insurance or the French healthcare system, having proper coverage ensures you can access medical services without any concerns.Â
- Integration into French society: Demonstrating your integration into French society is an important aspect. This can involve showing language proficiency, involvement in local communities, and participation in cultural activities. This requirement highlights your commitment to becoming a part of French life.
- Clean criminal record: Having a clean criminal record is often a requirement for permanent residency. This is to ensure that your presence in France doesn’t pose a risk to public safety.
- Proof of accommodation: Providing evidence of stable and suitable accommodation in France is necessary. This can be in the form of a lease agreement or property ownership documents.Â
- Family ties: If you have family members who are already permanent residents or citizens of France, it can positively impact your application.Â
How to apply for permanent residency in France after Brexit
The process of applying for permanent residency in France post-Brexit involves a series of steps to ensure a smooth transition.Â
1) Application process: You can initiate your application through your local prefecture. It’s crucial to apply within two months of your existing visa or residence permit expiration.Â
2) Required documents: Gathering the necessary documents is a pivotal part of the process. Here’s a list of typical documents you’ll need:
- Valid passport or photo ID
- Three passport-size photos
- Proof of address, such as a recent utility bill
- Your current visa or residence permit
- Evidence of meeting the required residence periodÂ
- Documents demonstrating your eligibility for the application, which could include a marriage certificate, birth certificate or proofs of refugee status
- Proofs of French nationality for anyone linked to your application
- A French language certificate indicating your proficiency (at least A2 level)
- Evidence of integration into French society, often fulfilled through a signed Republican Integration Contract
- A medical certificate from the French Office for Immigration and Integration
Remember, these documents should be submitted in French or English. If they are in any other language, translation into French is necessary.Â
> You might be interested in downloading our FREE Ebook: Guide to buying a property in France
Differentiating between permanent residency and citizenship in France
When settling in France, distinguishing between permanent residency and French citizenship is vital. Both require residing in France for 3-5 years and integrating into society, often with an A2-level French language proficiency.Â
Shared Advantage:
- Access to education, work, and business opportunities
- Benefits from French welfare and healthcare
- Property ownership and travel freedom within France
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Key Differences:
- Citizenship benefits: A French passport for global travel, voting rights, and political participation.Â
- Residency flexibility: Citizenship allows extended stays abroad without affecting status.
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Selecting between permanent residency and citizenship depends on individual needs. Permanent residency might be better if dual citizenship is disallowed in your home country. Citizenship brings broader privileges but can involve renouncing original nationality. Make an informed choice based on your unique situation and aspirations.
Useful resources
French Office for Immigration and Integration (OFII): Oversees migration matters.
Ministry of the Interior: Manages resident permits in France.
Service-Public: French government portal offering details on residence and resident cards.
