Moving To France From The UK In 2025
The ultimate guide for British moving to France in a post-Brexit climate
For many of us Britons, the allure of France seems like a pipe dream, but not to worry, with this guide we can help make it a reality. The cheap dream properties as found by best homes abroad, picturesque countryside, the vibrant cities, the rich culture, or the promise of a more relaxed lifestyle, is why 166,000 Britons have already chosen to move to France. However, since Brexit, the process of relocating to France has changed significantly. It has unfortunately created new requirements and considerations for those making the move with the ending of the freedom of movement in the EU. In this guide however, we'll explore the ins and outs of moving to France from the UK with several pathways still available for UK citizens to go live and work in France. It is crucial before going ahead with the move to understand the visa options, residency requirements and legal implications for a successful relocation.
Visa Requirements for UK Citizens Moving to France after Brexit
This comprehensive guide covers the detailed requirements for various visa options available to UK citizens moving to France.
Non-Lucrative Visa moving to France from the UK
The Non-Lucrative Visa is designed for individuals who can financially support themselves without working in France. This visa is designed ideally for retirees or those with more substantial means who wish to live in France.
Eligibility Criteria for the Non-Lucrative Visa moving to France from the UK
Applicants need to prove sufficient financial resources to support themselves and if applicable, their family members, without working in France. The minimum required amount is at least €25,560 per year, with an additional €6,390 for each dependent.
Comprehensive Private Health Insurance that covers you in France.
Evidence of living situation, such as a rental agreement or proof of property ownership.
Application Process for the Non-Lucrative Visa moving to France from the UK
Applicants must gather necessary documents, including proof of financial resources, health insurance, accommodation, a valid passport, and recent photographs.
Submit the visa application at the French consulate in the UK. An appointment is typically required.
Attend an interview at the consulate if requested.
The processing time for the Non-Lucrative Visa is usually around three months.
Additional Information
Validity: The Non-Lucrative Visa is initially valid for one year and can be renewed annually.
Family Members: Spouses, unmarried partners, dependent children, and other dependent relatives can be included in the visa application, but this increases the financial requirements.
EU Blue Card for moving to France from the UK
The second option which is often the most common route for the working population is the EU Blue Card, a work permit for highly skilled non-EU professionals. It allows successful applicants to live and work in France for at least a year, with the possibility of an extension, often used by those with a Blue Card.
Eligibility Criteria for the EU Blue Card for moving to France from the UK
Applicants must have a job offer from a French employer for highly qualified employment.
The salary must at least meet the minimum set by France, which is 1.5 times the average gross annual salary for the profession.
Documents are required proving qualifications that meet the national legal requirements for regulated professions or higher professional qualifications for unregulated professions.
A valid travel document and residence permit are also required.
Application Process for obtaining a Blue Card from France
Secure a job offer from a French employer.
Submit the EU Blue Card application to the French authorities, either from the UK or after arriving in France.
Provide necessary documents as mentioned above.
France may apply a Labour Market check on the employer ensuring they have unsuccessfully searched for national workers, EU citizens, or legally residing third-country nationals firstly.
The maximum processing time for issuing the EU Blue Card is 45 days.
Additional Information
Holders can apply for long-term residence after two years and move freely within the EU for work purposes.
Digital Nomad Visa moving to France from the UK
The Digital Nomad Visa is the answer for the modern population with the societal switch to remote working. Ideal for those who want to live and work in France but remain working for companies or clients outside France.
Eligibility Criteria for Digital Nomad Visa moving to France from the UK
Applicants must be over 18 years old.
Must prove a qualifying income with at least 80% coming from non-French sources. The minimum income requirement varies based on the number of family members included in the application, i.e the more members included in the application the higher the minimum salary threshold will be.
An undergraduate or postgraduate degree or a minimum of three years of work experience in their field.
Private health insurance that provides coverage in France.
No criminal record for the past two years.
Application Process for Digital Nomad Visa Moving to France from the UK
Provide a valid job offer or evidence for your qualifying income.
Submit the Digital Nomad Visa application to French authorities, this can be done either from the UK or after arriving in France.
Include necessary documents as mentioned above.
Obtain a NIE number (Numéro d'Inscription au Répertoire (NIR)) before submitting the visa application.
The maximum processing time for issuing the Digital Nomad Visa is 45 days.
Additional Information
Initially valid for one year and can be extended for up to five years.
A major benefit often not talked about is that it allows remote workers for non-French companies to travel within the Schengen Zone, and favourable tax rates. You also may be eligible for permanent residence after 5 years.
Entrepreneur Visa (Startup Visa) for moving to France from the UK
The Entrepreneur Visa is designed for non-EU citizens who want to develop an innovative business in France.
Eligibility Criteria for the Entrepreneur Visa (Startup Visa) for Moving to France from the UK
The business must be innovative and different from existing market offerings.
Relevant professional and academic background supporting the business idea.
A comprehensive business plan outlining the business idea, market analysis, financial projections, and operational strategy.
You are required to have sufficient financial resources to support yourself and the business during the initial period. The minimum required amount is equivalent to 100% of France's Public Multiple Effects Income Indicator (IPREM), plus 50% for each family member.
No criminal record in France or the countries where you have resided in the last five years.
Comprehensive private health insurance that covers you in France.
Application Process for the Entrepreneur Visa (Startup Visa) for Moving to France from the UK
Present the comprehensive business plan to French authorities.
Following that, submit the Entrepreneur Visa application, either from the UK or after arriving in France.
Include all required documents as mentioned above.
The maximum processing time for issuing the Entrepreneur Visa is 45 days.
Additional Information
Allows you to live and work in France while developing your business, a huge bonus is eligibility for long-term residence after two years, travel within the Schengen Zone, and favourable tax rates for entrepreneurs.
Golden Visa for moving from France to the UK
The Golden Visa is for individuals who invest €500,000 or more in French real estate. This visa allows holders to live and work in France. A visa used more for the elder population and/or more financially wealthy applicants.
Eligibility Criteria for the Golden Visa for moving to France from the UK
Applicants must make a minimum investment of €500,000 in French real estate, government bonds, or a French company.
Provide proof of the investment and its compliance with French regulations.
A huge advantage of this visa is there is no specific educational or professional qualifications that are required.
Comprehensive private health insurance that covers you in France.
No criminal record in France or the countries where you have resided in the last five years.
Application Process for the Golden Visa for moving to France from the UK
Complete the investment in French real estate, government bonds, or a French company.
Apply for the Golden Visa at the French consulate in the UK.
Include necessary documents as mentioned above.
There are then two stage to the application process: obtaining a residence visa in your home country and applying for a residence permit in France.
Additional Information
Again, like the other visa it obtaining the Golden Visa allows you and your family to live and work in France, travel within the Schengen Zone. You can potentially apply for citizenship after ten years. Permits can be obtained for your spouse, dependents, and dependent parents.
Buying Property in France: A Comprehensive Guide
Arguably your most important purchase of your life is to buy your home. So, to move and buy abroad is the next level up. The good news there is unbelievable property for sale abroad, highlighted by best homes abroad who specialise in finding all the best dream homes. France is a great option for many citizens looking to escape the UK, it is a short and cheap flight away, the value of property, rich cultures as well as diverse landscapes. These reasons are why over 146,000 Britons are estimated to be living in France now. This guide provides comprehensive information about the different types of properties available in France, the visa options for relocating, and the process of purchasing property post-Brexit.
Types of Property in France
1. Apartments – for those city dwellers or for those that desire low-maintenance:
Urban Apartments: most found at cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille, these properties range from compact studios to luxurious penthouses, offering a convenient lifestyle with easy access to amenities, public transport, and cultural attractions. Downside to the convenience is of course usually the cost.
Period Apartments: Often located in historic buildings, these properties feature classic architectural details such as high ceilings, wooden beams, and intricate moldings, blending old-world charm with modern comforts. More commonly found in historic towns and therefore can be found for great value.
2. Houses – France has some of the best value houses in Western Europe if you do your research.
Detached Houses: These standalone properties offer more privacy and space, prevalent in both rural and suburban areas.
Townhouses: Found in cities and large towns, townhouses offer a balance between urban living and private space, often featuring small gardens or courtyards. When you think of French property its hard to think of anything else than townhouses.
Farmhouses: Traditional French farmhouses are typically located in rural areas and come with extensive land, retaining original features like stone walls and fireplaces. Great value, either for a project or those ready to move, there is fantastic choice particularly in central and Northern France.
Villas: Luxurious properties usually found in the French Riviera and other high-end areas, featuring swimming pools, landscaped gardens, and stunning views. A superb selection of great valued Villas in France.
3. Châteaux – It is hard not to think of Châteaux’s when mentioning French property, there are some steals to be had.
Historic Estates: Grand, historic estates offering a glimpse into France's aristocratic past, usually located in the countryside with large grounds, outbuildings, and forests. Requires a huge amount of maintenance cost and time to keep them in great condition usually, Châteaux living is a lifestyle choice.
Renovated Châteaux: Many châteaux have been modernized while preserving their historic charm, suitable as private residences, boutique hotels, or event venues.
Popular Locations for British Buyers
1. Paris:
Where else could we start? Paris, the city of light, is renowned for its culture, history, and vibrant lifestyle. It offers a range of properties from chic apartments in historic buildings to modern lofts. Beautiful, busy but brilliant. Seems to be more popular for the younger demographic.
Key Districts: Popular areas include Le Marais, Montmartre, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and the 7th arrondissement near the Eiffel Tower.
2. Provence:
Provence is famous for its picturesque villages, lavender fields, and Mediterranean climate, offering a relaxed, rural lifestyle with a strong cultural heritage. Ideal for those that desire a warmer climate with a slower pace of life.
Key Areas: Popular locations include Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, and the Luberon Valley, known for its charming villages like Gordes and Roussillon.
3. French Riviera:
The French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur, is synonymous with luxury and glamour, featuring stunning coastal scenery, vibrant nightlife, and upscale properties. A more upmarket modern lifestyle for those making the move to the French Riviera.
Key Cities: Prominent locations include Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez, as well as beautiful inland towns like Grasse and Mougins.
4. Dordogne:
Dordogne, located in the southwest, is known for its beautiful countryside, medieval towns, and gastronomic delights, offering a peaceful, rural lifestyle. Typically French living exists in Dordogne, it has a bit of everything.
Key Areas: Popular towns include Sarlat-la-Canéda, Bergerac, and Périgueux, famous for prehistoric sites and châteaux.
5. Loire Valley:
Renowned for its vineyards, historic châteaux, and picturesque landscapes, the Loire Valley provides a tranquil, rural lifestyle with a rich cultural heritage. What is not to like? Superb wine, stunning scenery and generally great value property.
Key Areas: Notable towns include Tours, Amboise, and Saumur, ideal for wine enthusiasts and history buffs.
6. Brittany:
Brittany offers a unique blend of rugged coastline, charming villages, and Celtic heritage, known for its distinct culture, seafood cuisine, and stunning beaches. An increasingly growing popular destination, real bargain properties, close proximity to the UK, a real great choice, does not quite capture the Mediterranean weather, however.
Key Areas: Popular locations include Saint-Malo, Dinan, and Quimper, perfect for those seeking a coastal lifestyle with a rich cultural backdrop.
The Process of Buying Property in France
1. Legal Requirements:
Residence Permit: Please see above for detailed explanation of the different visa’s available to you if you are looking to stay for longer term.
Notaire: Engage a notaire to handle the legal aspects of the transaction, ensuring its legality and managing paperwork. Never do a transaction in property without consulting legal advice first.
Diagnostic Tests: Conduct mandatory diagnostic tests for issues like asbestos, lead, termites, and energy efficiency, again we recommend never buying anywhere until this has being conducted.
Shop-Around: Ensure you do loads of research and use experts such as best homes abroad to find very good, valued property.
2. Financial Considerations:
Purchase Costs: It’s very important to consider notaire fees, registration fees, property transfer taxes as well as the cost of moving your possessions abroad.
Mortgages: French banks offer financing options; you may need a larger deposit compared to the UK. But generally, you get more for your money, so swings and roundabouts.
Taxes: Understand local taxes like Taxe d'Habitation and Taxe Foncière.
3. The Buying Process:
Making an Offer: Make an offer through an estate agent or directly with the seller.
Compromis de Vente: Sign a preliminary contract with a deposit (around 10% of purchase price).
Finalizing the Sale: After thorough research and checks as mentioned above, you need to sort the financing to then sign the Acte de Vente to complete the transaction.
Conclusion
We hope this article has given you the most important insights around making an exciting move to France. France has given a new life to thousands of British citizens who are enjoying the rich vibrant culture, superb cheap European property, slower lifestyle and gorgeous weather. France is something to offer everyone, and with the various Visa options outlined above there are plenty routes to make the dream a reality.