Did you know that despite Brexit, it’s still entirely possible to move to France from the UK? Many people believe they’ve missed their chance to relocate to Europe because they didn’t make the move before the Brexit deadline of December 31, 2020. Fortunately, that’s not the case. While the process has changed, the opportunity to start a new chapter in France remains open. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about moving to France after Brexit.
Understanding the Post-Brexit Landscape for UK Citizens
Can You Still Move to France After Brexit?
Yes, you can still move to France after Brexit. The key difference is that UK citizens now need to apply for a visa before entering France, whereas before Brexit, you could enter freely and apply for a carte de séjour (residency permit) after arrival.
- No More Freedom of Movement: Brexit ended the automatic right for UK citizens to live and work in EU countries.
- Visa Requirements: UK nationals are now considered third-country nationals, similar to citizens from the USA or Australia.
The New Requirement: Applying for a French Visa
- Initial Visa Application: UK citizens must obtain an appropriate visa to enter France.
- Residency Permit: After arriving in France, you’ll need to apply for a titre de séjour to establish long-term residency.
The French Visa Application Process Explained
Step 1: Determine the Right Visa for Your Situation
Different visas are available depending on your purpose for moving to France:
- Long-Stay Visitor Visa (Visa de Long Séjour Visiteur)
- Who It’s For: Those who wish to live in France without engaging in any professional activity.
- Requirements: Proof of sufficient income (usually around €1,200 per month), health insurance, and accommodation.
- Work Visa
- Who It’s For: Individuals who have secured employment in France.
- Requirements: A work contract approved by the French authorities, known as a Contrat de Travail.
- Talent Passport Visa (Passeport Talent)
- Who It’s For: Highly skilled professionals, researchers, artists, or investors.
- Benefits: Longer validity (up to four years) and easier family reunification.
- Student Visa
- Who It’s For: Individuals enrolled in a recognized educational institution in France.
- Requirements: Proof of enrollment, financial means, and accommodation.
- Entrepreneur/Business Visa
- Who It’s For: Those planning to start or invest in a business in France.
- Requirements: A solid business plan, financial investment, and sometimes a minimum job creation requirement.
Step 2: Prepare Your Application
- Gather Required Documents:
- Passport: Valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay.
- Financial Proof: Bank statements, pension statements, or proof of income.
- Health Insurance: Coverage of at least €30,000 valid in France.
- Accommodation: Proof of where you will be staying (rental agreement, property deed, or invitation letter).
- Additional Documents: Depending on the visa type (e.g., employment contract, enrollment certificate).
- Complete the Application Form: Available on the official France-Visas website.
- Schedule an Appointment: Book a visa appointment at the nearest French consulate or visa application center.
Step 3: Attend the Visa Appointment
- Submit Your Application: Provide all required documents in the specified order.
- Biometrics: Fingerprints and a photograph will be taken.
- Visa Fee Payment: Fees vary depending on the visa type.
Step 4: Await Visa Approval
- Processing Time: Typically ranges from 15 to 60 days.
- Receive Your Visa: Once approved, you’ll receive a visa sticker in your passport.
Step 5: Upon Arrival in France
- Validate Your Visa: Some visas require validation within three months via the OFII (French Office for Immigration and Integration) online system.
- Apply for Residency Permit: If your visa is marked CESEDA R311-3 6°, you must apply for a residency permit at your local prefecture within two months.
Health Insurance: A Mandatory Requirement
Why Do You Need Health Insurance?
- Visa Requirement: Health insurance covering medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation is mandatory.
- Access to Healthcare: Initially, you won’t have access to the French public healthcare system (PUMA), so private health insurance is necessary.
How French Connections HCB Can Help
- Affordable Insurance Options: We’ve partnered with one of France’s largest English-speaking insurance companies to secure affordable bridging and top-up health insurance for our clients.
- Assistance with Application: Guidance on choosing the right insurance plan and help with paperwork.
French Connections HCB: Guiding You Every Step of the Way
Personalized Consultation Services
At French Connections HCB, we offer:
- One-Hour Video Consultations: For comprehensive guidance, from visa selection to application assistance.
- 20-Minute Q&A Sessions: Ideal for those with specific questions who feel confident handling most of the process themselves.
Our Areas of Expertise
- Visa Application Assistance: Helping you decide which visa best suits your situation and assisting with filling out your application.
- Health Insurance Advice: Advising on mandatory health insurance requirements and connecting you with trusted providers.
- Relocation Support: Providing guidance on settling in France, including opening bank accounts, registering for social security, and more.
Common Questions About Moving to France After Brexit
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive:
- What is the process to become a resident in France?
- Answer: Apply for a long-stay visa, move to France, and then apply for a titre de séjour at your local prefecture within two months.
- Is it possible to buy a house in France even if I don’t live there yet?
- Answer: Yes, non-residents can purchase property in France without restrictions.
- How do I open a bank account in France?
- Answer: You can open a non-resident bank account from abroad or a resident account once you have proof of address in France.
- Do I need private health insurance or will I be automatically entitled to a Carte Vitale?
- Answer: Initially, you need private health insurance. After three months of residency, you can apply for the Carte Vitale for public healthcare access.
- How can I get a French Social Security number?
- Answer: Apply through your local Caisse Primaire d’Assurance Maladie (CPAM) office once you’re eligible.
- How can I bring my pets over to France?
- Answer: Your pets need a valid pet passport, microchip, and up-to-date vaccinations, including rabies.
- How does micro-entrepreneurship work, and how can I set it up?
- Answer: The micro-entrepreneur status is a simplified business registration. We can guide you through the registration process.
- How can I change my driving licence to a French one?
- Answer: UK driving licences need to be exchanged for a French licence within one year of residency, done through the ANTS website.
- Will I need to pay tax in France if I am only there for 6 months?
- Answer: If you spend more than 183 days in France, you’re considered a tax resident and must declare your income.
- How soon before my planned move should I apply for my visa?
- Answer: You can apply up to three months before your intended travel date.
- How can I register my kids at school?
- Answer: Contact the local Mairie (town hall) or school directly. You’ll need proof of residence and your child’s birth certificate.
- I submitted an application or request with a French authority but haven’t heard back. What can I do?
- Answer: Delays are common. We can assist in following up with the relevant authorities.
Making the Most of Our Consultation Services
Preparing for Your Session
- List Your Questions: To maximize your time, prepare all your questions in advance.
- Gather Relevant Documents: Have any necessary paperwork on hand during the consultation.
Our Commitment to You
Whether you choose the one-hour consultation or the 20-minute Q&A session, we’re dedicated to:
- Providing Clear Answers: No jargon, just straightforward information.
- Clarifying Complex Processes: Breaking down administrative procedures into manageable steps.
- Supporting Your Integration: Helping you feel at home in France.
Additional Resources and Support
External Links
- France Visas Official Website: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/
- French Ministry of Interior – Immigration: https://www.interieur.gouv.fr/
- Caisse Primaire d’Assurance Maladie (CPAM): https://www.ameli.fr/
- Agence Nationale des Titres Sécurisés (ANTS): https://ants.gouv.fr/
- French Tax Authority (Impôts): https://www.impots.gouv.fr/
How to Get Started
Want to know more? Contact our relocation experts to discuss which option is best for you.
- Contact Us: Get in touch to schedule your consultation.
- Explore Our Services: Visit Our Services page learn more about how we can assist with your move to France, Italy, or Portugal.
Conclusion
Moving to France after Brexit is entirely possible. While the process has an extra step, with the right guidance and support from French Connections HCB, your dream of living in France can become a reality. We’re here to take away the stress of relocating and make your transition as smooth as possible.
