CHAT
WITH US
WITH US
GET A
QUOTE
have questions? call us
0333 090 7053
Home
/
Guides
/
Moving Guides
/
Moving to France From the UK: How to do it in 2024
Moving to France Fro...
Moving Guides • Europe • 14 May 2024
Share this article
So, you're thinking about moving to France? You're not alone. Following Brexit changing the landscape of UK-EU migration, thousands of uk citizens continue to make the move across the Channel and arrive in France each year. Whether you're drawn to the bustling streets of Paris, the sun-drenched villages of Provence, or the rolling vineyards of Bordeaux, this guide will walk you through every step of making France your new home.
We'll start with the most pressing concerns - your right to live in France and the paperwork you'll need - before moving on to practical aspects like finding work, securing housing, and managing daily life. Want a simple checklist of everything you need? You’ll find one at the bottom of the page.
Before diving into paperwork and practicalities, deciding where in France you want to live is your crucial first step. France offers dramatically different lifestyle options depending on your chosen location, from bustling cities to tranquil rural communities. Consider your priorities carefully.
Each region of France offers distinct advantages. Paris and other major cities provide excellent employment opportunities and international communities but come with higher living costs. Coastal regions like Provence and Brittany offer different climates and lifestyles, while rural France presents opportunities for more affordable property and traditional living. For detailed information about specific regions and their characteristics, visit our complete guide to The Best Places to Live in France.
Post-Brexit, British citizens now need a visa to live in France. The type of visa you'll need depends on your circumstances, so you need to apply for the right one. The France-Visas portal serves as your primary resource for understanding and applying for French visas.
Each visa type has specific requirements and supports different activities in France. For example, if you're planning to work in France, you'll need a work visa, which typically requires a job offer from a French employer. If you're retiring to France, you'll need to prove sufficient financial resources and healthcare coverage.
Key visa categories include:
Once in France, you'll need to convert your visa into a residence permit (carte de séjour) within two months of arrival. The Service Public website provides detailed information about this process.
Healthcare in France consistently ranks among the world's best systems, but accessing it requires proper registration and coverage. Before moving, you'll need to understand how the French healthcare system works and arrange appropriate insurance coverage.
The French system combines universal public coverage (Protection Universelle Maladie or PUMA) with optional private top-up insurance (mutuelle). As a legal resident, you'll be eligible to join the French system, but you'll need to meet certain criteria and complete various registration procedures.
Essential healthcare preparations:
Visit the French Health Insurance portal to understand registration requirements and coverage details. Remember that you'll need temporary private insurance to cover the gap until your French coverage begins.
Unless you're retiring or financially independent, securing employment in France will likely be crucial to your relocation plans. The French job market has its own distinct characteristics and requirements, and understanding these can significantly improve your chances of finding suitable work.
Start by visiting Pôle Emploi, France's national employment agency, to understand the job market and search for opportunities. Your UK qualifications may need recognition in France - check the ENIC-NARIC website for information about qualification equivalence.
Key employment considerations:
The French workplace culture differs significantly from the UK, with more formal relationships and different communication styles. Familiarising yourself with these cultural nuances will help you integrate more successfully into French professional life.
Finding the right property in France involves understanding both the housing market and local procedures. Whether you're planning to rent (louer) or buy (acheter), you'll encounter different processes and requirements than in the UK. Start your search on reputable sites like SeLoger or LeBonCoin to understand prices and options in your chosen area.
For renters, be prepared for a more formal application process than you might expect. French landlords typically require extensive documentation, including proof of income, employment contracts, and previous rental history. You'll likely need a French bank account and, in many cases, a French guarantor (garant) - though there are now services that can act as your guarantor for a fee.
Essential rental requirements:
If you're buying property, working with a notaire (notary) is mandatory in France. Visit the Official Notaries of France website to understand the purchase process and find registered professionals in your area.
Once you've secured your property, setting up utilities and communications services becomes your next priority. French utility companies often require different documentation and procedures than their UK counterparts, and understanding these requirements helps avoid service interruptions.
Start by registering with EDF (Électricité de France) through their English-language portal for electricity. Water services are usually managed by local municipalities or private companies depending on your location. For internet and mobile services, major providers like Orange, SFR, and Free offer various packages, often including television services.
Key utility considerations:
Remember to notify relevant UK service providers of your move and arrange for mail forwarding through Royal Mail's international redirection service.
Opening a French bank account (compte bancaire) is essential for daily life and managing utility payments. Major banks like BNP Paribas, Société Générale, and Crédit Agricole offer English-speaking services in many locations. Online banks such as N26 or Revolut can provide interim solutions while you establish traditional banking relationships.
Visit the Banque de France website to understand banking regulations and your rights as a customer. You'll need your passport, visa/residence permit, proof of address, and potentially other documents depending on the bank's requirements.
Essential banking requirements:
Consider maintaining your UK bank account initially while establishing French banking relationships, but be aware of potential tax implications and reporting requirements.
The French system is highly centralised and follows a national curriculum, though international and bilingual options exist in many areas. Visit the Ministry of Education website to understand enrollment procedures and requirements.
State schools are free and available to all residents, while international schools offer alternative curricula but typically charge significant fees. The choice often depends on your children's age, language abilities, and your long-term plans in France.
Educational considerations include:
Many families find the transition smoother when combining French schooling with additional language support, either through the school or private tutoring.
Moving your belongings to France requires careful planning and understanding of post-Brexit customs requirements. The process involves more documentation than before, making professional support increasingly valuable. Customs forms must be completed accurately, and certain items may require special documentation or face restrictions.
All personal effects entering France now need a detailed inventory in French, and electrical items should comply with EU standards. The French Customs website provides information about restricted and prohibited items, though navigating these requirements can be complex.
Essential moving considerations:
Ready to start planning your move? Deliver1 specialises in UK to France relocations, offering comprehensive door-to-door services at competitive prices. Our experienced team handles all customs documentation and provides full support throughout your move. Contact us today at [phone number] or visit our website to receive a personalised quote that won't be beaten on price or service quality.
Successfully integrating into French life involves understanding and adapting to local customs and social expectations. The French value politeness and formal courtesy - learning basic greetings and pleasantries in French goes a long way toward positive interactions.
Local associations called "associations loi 1901" offer excellent opportunities for meeting people and pursuing interests. Visit the Service Public Associations portal to find groups in your area.
Social integration tips:
Many areas have established expatriate communities that can provide support and advice during your transition, though balancing these with local interactions ensures a richer experience.
Once registered in the French healthcare system, understanding how to access services becomes important. The system operates on a reimbursement basis - you pay upfront and receive reimbursement through your Carte Vitale.
Visit the Ameli Healthcare Directory to find doctors, specialists, and healthcare facilities in your area. Building relationships with local healthcare providers early helps ensure smooth access when needed.
Healthcare management essentials:
Keep digital copies of important medical documents and maintain records of any chronic conditions or regular medications.
Understanding local transportation options helps establish your daily routine. Many French cities offer excellent public transport, while rural areas may require private vehicle ownership. Visit the SNCF website for rail travel information and regional transport authorities for local services.
If bringing a UK vehicle, you'll need to register it in France within specific timeframes. Visit the ANTS vehicle registration portal for requirements and procedures.
Transport considerations:
Ready to turn your French dream into reality? Deliver1 makes relocating to France from the UK simple and stress-free. Our comprehensive service includes:
Contact us today for an unbeatable quote and let our expert team handle every aspect of your relocation to France. Email or call us today to begin your journey with the UK's most trusted international moving service.
Once settled, several administrative tasks require attention:
Remember that adapting to life in France takes time. Embrace the differences, remain patient with bureaucratic processes, and maintain a sense of humour during challenging moments. The rewards of living in France - from the exceptional quality of life to the rich cultural heritage - make the effort worthwhile.
For a smooth start to your French adventure, contact Deliver1 today. Our dedicated team ensures your belongings arrive safely at your new French home, letting you focus on beginning this exciting new chapter of your life.
☐ Research visa requirements and begin application process
☐ Start gathering required documentation for visa application
☐ Research potential areas to live
☐ Begin French language learning if needed
☐ Check passport validity (must be valid for at least 6 months)
☐ Start saving for moving costs and initial setup
☐ Apply for appropriate visa at French consulate
☐ Begin job search if required
☐ Research healthcare options and requirements
☐ Start researching property options
☐ Obtain professional qualification equivalence if needed
☐ Get essential documents apostilled:
☐ Secure employment or confirm business plans
☐ Begin property search
☐ Research schools if moving with children
☐ Get quotes from international removal companies
☐ Start process for pet passports if applicable
☐ Begin gathering quotes for:
☐ Secure accommodation
☐ Book removal service
☐ Arrange temporary storage if needed
☐ Create detailed inventory of items to move
☐ Begin decluttering and selling unwanted items
☐ Notify current landlord/begin property sale process
☐ Research and choose French bank
☐ Arrange utility disconnections in UK
☐ Set up mail forwarding
☐ Schedule final medical/dental checkups
☐ Obtain necessary prescriptions
☐ Begin packing non-essential items
☐ Notify important UK institutions:
☐ Confirm removal arrangements
☐ Pack remaining items
☐ Prepare essential documents folder:
First 48 Hours: ☐ Collect keys to property
☐ Check utilities are connected
☐ Register arrival with local authorities if required
First Week: ☐ Open French bank account
☐ Set up utilities in your name
☐ Arrange phone/internet service
☐ Register with local doctor
First Month: ☐ Apply for Carte de Séjour (residence permit)
☐ Register for healthcare system
☐ Exchange driving licence if required
☐ Register children in school if applicable
☐ Register for local taxes
☐ Complete any outstanding registrations
☐ Join local associations/groups
☐ Set up regular bill payments
☐ Consider language classes if needed
☐ Explore local area and establish routines
Yes, UK nationals can still move to France after Brexit, though the process is more complex than before. As a British citizen, you'll need to apply for the appropriate visa before moving to France. The type of visa depends on your circumstances - whether you plan to work in France, study in France, or retire there. Every UK national looking to stay in France for longer than 90 days must obtain a visa prior to their move.
British citizens can stay in France (and other Schengen areas) for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This is particularly relevant for those considering moving to France who want to explore different regions before making a permanent move. However, if you're planning your move to France and intend to stay longer than 90 days, you'll need to apply for the appropriate visa before leaving the UK.
The cost of living in France varies significantly by region, much like the UK. While Paris can be more expensive than London for housing, many regions in France offer a lower cost of living than comparable UK areas. When planning your move to France, consider that:
Yes, UK nationals can still start a business in France after Brexit, but you'll need to apply for the appropriate visa (typically the Passeport Talent or profession libérale visa). Everything you need to know about starting a business should be researched before arriving in France, as the process requires significant preparation and documentation.
After establishing residency in France, UK nationals living in France must exchange their UK driving licence for a French one within 12 months of becoming a French resident. The process requires applying through the ANTS website, and it's recommended to start this process early during your planning to move to France.
While not strictly required before you arrive in France, having a French bank account makes your move significantly easier. Many banks now offer options for UK nationals to open an account before arriving in France. This can be particularly helpful when planning your move to France as it facilitates setting up utilities and rental contracts.
When moving to France from the UK, you'll need comprehensive private health insurance for your visa application. Once you become a legal resident and contribute to the French social security system, you can apply to join the state healthcare system. However, many UK nationals living in France also maintain top-up insurance (mutuelle) for additional coverage.
Yes, British citizens can purchase property in France regardless of their residency status. However, if you're considering moving to France permanently, it's important to note that owning property doesn't automatically grant any right to residency. You'll still need to apply for appropriate visas and permits to live in your French home.
UK nationals living in France can continue to receive their UK State Pension, and it will be uprated annually. When planning your move, ensure you inform the UK government's Pension Service about your plans to move to France. You may also be eligible to receive French pension benefits if you work in France.
The key to a successful relocation is careful planning and professional support. Deliver1 specialises in moves from the UK to France, handling everything from packing to customs documentation. Contact us for a competitive quote and comprehensive moving solution that ensures your transition to French life starts smoothly.
We love hearing from you-so please get in touch with any questions or queries.
We love hearing from you-so please get in touch with any questions or queries.
