Relocating to France now requires British citizens to apply for the correct long-stay visa before they move. This article explains the main routes available, including the long-stay visitor visa, work-based options, the Talent Passport, student and family visas, and the current lack of a digital-nomad category.
Since the UK’s exit from the EU and the end of free movement between the UK and France, British citizens relocating to France must apply for the correct long-stay visa before they move.
Whether you intend to work, retire, study or join family, choosing the right visa route is essential for a smooth relocation.
This article gives a clear overview of the most common visa routes, eligibility criteria, key steps, and things to watch out for.
This article provides general information only and should not be relied upon as legal or immigration advice. Visa rules change, personal circumstances differ, and individual cases can be complex. Always consult official French immigration guidance and seek professional help before beginning any application.
British citizens can still enter France without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This works well for holidays, short business trips or planning visits while exploring relocation options.
However, it is not suitable for long-term living, working, or studying. Any stay beyond this limit, or any activity that requires residence in France, is only legally possible with the correct long-stay visa.
For people who want to live in France without taking on employment from a French source, the long-stay visitor visa is often the most appropriate option. It suits those who are moving for lifestyle reasons, retirees, or people with independent income streams originating outside France.
Applicants typically need to show evidence of stable financial resources, proof of accommodation and appropriate health insurance. While flexible, the key limitation is that it does not permit working for a French employer.
For those relocating to take up employment in France, the work-based visa routes provide a legally recognised path. These visas apply whether you have been hired under a French employment contract or transferred by your employer to a role based in France.
The application process usually involves both the individual and the employer, with some administrative steps required on the employer’s side. After arrival, many holders need to validate their visa or transition to a residence permit.
France’s Talent Passport visa covers a broad range of professional and creative activities. It is designed for individuals whose work has recognised value, whether scientific, artistic, entrepreneurial or economic.
The category includes sub-routes for business founders, investors, researchers, artists and other specialised roles.
Applicants must show evidence relevant to their chosen sub-category, which might include a business plan, proof of investment, or documentation of their professional achievements.
For anyone undertaking higher education or research in France, student and researcher visas offer structured routes. These visas are tied to educational or research institutions and allow residence for the duration of the course or project.
People joining a spouse, partner or family member who is legally resident in France may be eligible for a family-based visa. Requirements vary depending on the type of relationship and the legal status of the person already living in France.
Unlike some EU countries, France does not offer a visa specifically for digital nomads or remote workers employed by companies outside France. People who work remotely for a foreign company often assume there might be a dedicated category, but it currently does not exist.
Because of this gap, the closest practical alternative for many remote workers is the long-stay visitor visa, provided they can demonstrate independent financial resources and that their work does not involve providing services to clients in France or holding a French employment contract.
This is an important distinction, as the visitor visa is not a work visa, it simply allows residence, not economic activity in France.
For individuals running their own business or pursuing entrepreneurial activity, certain categories of the Talent Passport may offer a more appropriate structured route, depending on the nature of their work and plans.
Although each visa category has its own requirements, the process follows a familiar pattern:
Beyond the visa category itself, there are a number of practical factors that anyone relocating to France should be aware of. These can influence which visa is most appropriate and how smoothly the transition works once you arrive. Moving country isn’t only about meeting eligibility criteria, it’s also about preparing for everyday life and the administrative responsibilities that come with it.
Yes. British citizens need a long-stay visa to live in France for more than 90 days.
No. Long-stay visas must be approved before entering France with the intention to relocate.
No. France does not currently offer a digital nomad visa. Remote workers usually rely on the long-stay visitor visa if they meet its conditions.
Yes. Each family member usually requires their own application, depending on age and relationship.
In most cases, yes. A rental contract, proof of property ownership or a formal accommodation letter is typically required.
While many people manage the long-stay visa process independently, there are situations where professional guidance can make a meaningful difference.
French immigration rules are detailed, some requirements vary by prefecture and personal circumstances are rarely identical. They’re also in French.
If any of the following apply to you, speaking to a specialist can help you avoid delays, misunderstandings or incomplete documentation:
This is common if your income comes from multiple sources, you run a business from abroad, or you plan to live in France without a conventional employment arrangement.
Choosing the wrong category can mean wasted time, repeat appointments or even a refused application.
Each family member may require a separate application and different documentation. Professional guidance can help keep everything aligned.
Moving to France can change your tax residence, affect pensions, alter reporting obligations and impact investments. Cross-border tax advisors can ensure you understand what will change.
From business plans to income justification or proof of accommodation, having documents in the correct format is essential.
Certain Talent Passport categories require structured documentation that may benefit from professional review.
Seeking help does not mean you will be guarantees a path into staying in France long time.
But it will ensure you are making informed decisions, submitting the right documentation and keeping your plans on track without unnecessary delays.
Through Experts for Expats, you can request an introduction to a trusted French immigration specialist who can review your situation, answer specific questions and help you approach the application with clarity.
Once confirmed, our trusted partner will contact you directly to arrange a free discovery call to discuss your situation and establish potential next steps.
