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Moving to France from the UK in 2025: A Practical Guide for British Citizens
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Since the UK’s departure from the European Union, moving to France as a British citizen requires more planning and paperwork than before. However, relocation remains entirely possible — and increasingly popular — for those seeking a better quality of life,
Since the UK’s departure from the European Union, moving to France as a British citizen requires more planning and paperwork than before. However, relocation remains entirely possible — and increasingly popular — for those seeking a better quality of life, business opportunities, or retirement abroad.
In this article, we outline the key requirements, visa options, associated costs, and legal considerations for UK nationals planning to move to France in 2025.
Yes — but not under the same conditions as prior to Brexit. UK nationals are no longer classified as EU citizens and therefore do not have automatic residency rights in France. Today, British citizens must apply for a long-stay visa if they intend to remain in the country for more than 90 days within any 180-day period.
While short-term tourism (under 90 days) does not require a visa, any plans to live, work, study, or retire in France require proper legal status via a visa and, in most cases, a residence permit.
France continues to welcome UK nationals — especially entrepreneurs, investors, and financially independent individuals — provided they meet the formal requirements.
British citizens seeking to remain in France for more than three months must apply for a relevant long-stay visa and, depending on their situation, a residence permit. The most common options include:
1. Visitor Visa (Non-Working)
2. French Tech Visa (Talent Passport)
If you're launching a business, working remotely or planning to stay long-term, the French Tech Visa or financially independent path may be your best options. To check if your case qualifies, many expats book a short consultation to avoid costly mistakes and delays.
3. Business Owner Visa
4. Work Visa
5. Student Visa
6. Family Reunification
The visa application process requires thorough documentation. Core requirements include:
Additional documents may be required based on the type of visa:
A successful move requires budgeting for both administrative and living costs. Key categories include:
Visa and Administrative Fees:
Housing:
Relocation and Setup Costs:
Applicants should also factor in time delays; missing or incorrect documents can extend the process significantly. Many expats seek assistance from relocation specialists to ensure compliance.
Before you move, be sure to choose the best city in France to live in from iWorld's list.
Healthcare. France offers high-quality healthcare services. While public healthcare (PUMa) is accessible after a few months of legal residency, newcomers must secure private health coverage for their initial period.
Bureaucracy. Expect administrative procedures to be slow and documentation-heavy. Successful applicants are those who are prepared, patient, and detail-oriented.
Education. France provides free public education with strong academic standards. International schools are available in major cities but tend to charge significant tuition.
Lifestyle and Culture. France is known for a slower pace of life, regional diversity, and a strong emphasis on food and community. Many new residents report a high quality of life, particularly outside urban centers.
Expat Communities. UK nationals have established sizeable communities in regions such as Normandy, Brittany, Dordogne, and Paris. Online forums and social groups offer support with integration and daily life.
Moving to France from the UK in 2025 is no longer a simple process, but with the right visa, documentation, and financial planning, it remains an attractive and attainable goal for many British citizens. Whether your motivation is retirement, remote work, or business expansion, success lies in preparation and a clear understanding of the legal requirements.
Professional consultation may be advisable, especially for those with complex cases or investment plans. With due diligence, relocating to France can offer long-term lifestyle and economic advantages in a stable and welcoming environment.
A long-stay visa is a type of visa that allows individuals to stay in a country for more than 90 days. It is required for those planning to live, work, or study in France.
A residence permit is an official document that allows a foreign national to reside in a country for a specified period. It is often required for long-term stays.
The French Tech Visa is a residence permit for startup founders and qualified tech professionals, allowing them to live and work in France while pursuing innovative projects.
Proof of self-sufficiency is documentation that demonstrates an individual's financial ability to support themselves without relying on public funds, often required for visa applications.
Family reunification refers to the process that allows family members of individuals legally residing in a country to join them, often requiring specific visa applications.
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