Visa options for moving to France.

Moving to France from the UK is an exciting adventure, but before you can start living the French life, there’s one important task you need to tackle — your visa. Whether you’re moving for work, retirement, or simply a new chapter, understanding the visa options available is crucial.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about obtaining a visa to France in 2025, making sure your move goes as smoothly as possible.

Bringing your pets with you? They’ll need a french pet passport!

Do UK Citizens Need a Visa to Move to France?

Since the UK left the European Union, UK citizens are no longer able to freely travel, live, and work in France without a visa. However, the visa requirements depend on your situation and how long you plan to stay.

• Short stays (under 90 days): UK citizens can travel to France for tourism, business, or family visits without a visa, under the Schengen Area rules. For more information on Schengen Area travel, check this page by the European Commission.
• Long stays (over 90 days): For anything longer than a three-month stay, you will need to apply for a long-stay visa, which allows you to live in France legally.

Types of French Visas for UK Citizens

There are various types of French visas, each designed to fit different situations. Here are the main types of visas you might need:

• Schengen Visa (Short Stay): For stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period, typically for tourism or business. For more details, visit Schengen visa info.
• Long Stay Visa (Visa de Long Séjour): If you plan to stay in France for more than three months, you’ll need a long-stay visa. More information can be found on the official France-Visas website.
• Work Visa: For UK citizens moving to France for employment. You can check specific requirements for your work visa on the France-Visas Work Visa page.
• Family Visa: If you are joining a spouse or family member in France. For more on family visas, visit this page on the France-Visas website.
• Retirement Visa: If you’re moving to France as a retiree, you’ll need a specific visa to prove you have sufficient income to support yourself. Check requirements for retirees here.
• Student Visa: If you’re planning to study in France, you’ll need a student visa. You can find the process for applying for a student visa on Campus France.

French Visa Requirements for UK Citizens

The required documents for applying for a French visa depend on the type of visa you need. Here are the general requirements:

• A valid passport (with at least 3 months validity beyond your planned stay)
• Proof of accommodation in France (hotel booking, rental agreement, etc.)
• Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, employment contract, etc.)
• Health insurance coverage for your stay in France (you can get details from French Health Insurance for Expats).
• Visa application form (available on the official France-Visas website).
• Passport-sized photographs that meet visa standards

Visa Fees and Processing Time

The cost of a French visa typically ranges from €60 to €99 depending on the type. Processing time can vary, but most visas take around 2 to 6 weeks to process. Be sure to apply well in advance to avoid any delays in your move.

How to Apply for a French Visa from the UK

1. Check the visa requirements on the France-Visas website to determine which visa you need.
2. Book an appointment with TLScontact for biometric data collection (fingerprints and photos). Find out more at the TLScontact website.
3. Submit your application at the TLScontact center or through the French consulate.
4. Wait for processing (2 to 6 weeks, depending on the visa type).
5. Collect your passport with the visa from TLScontact or the consulate.

For more details on the visa application process, take a look at the UK Government’s guidance on applying for a French visa.

Post-Brexit Changes: What UK Citizens Need to Know

Since Brexit, UK citizens now need a visa to live and work in France. However, there are still some allowances for second-home owners and digital nomads. Be sure to check the latest immigration rules, as they can change frequently. For more on Brexit-related changes, visit the UK Government’s Brexit page.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Do I need a visa to move to France if I own property there?
  Yes, owning property in France doesn’t automatically grant you residency rights. For detailed information on property ownership rules, check out this article on Expatica.
• Can I work in France on a tourist visa?
  No, a tourist visa does not allow you to work in France. A work visa is required for employment. For further details on work visa options, refer to France-Visas Work Visa page.
• When should I apply for my French visa?
  It’s recommended to apply for your visa at least 2 months before your planned departure.

For a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know about moving to France from the UK, including additional details about packing, logistics, and planning your move, be sure to check out our full Moving to France guide.

Perhaps you’re planning a property purchase? We have an updated blog on the latest French property news.