The Ultimate Guide to Relocating from the UK to France: Step-by-Step Checklist

The dream of moving from the UK to France is alive and well for many people. While Brexit changes may have made the move slightly more complex, it is certainly still possible and plenty of Brits make the move to France every year.

The cost of living is comparable to the UK, with regional differences as you would expect anywhere. So while moving to the centre of Paris could increase your costs, there are countryside towns where you could enjoy incredible savings. And if you move further south, you can expect to save money on utilities as you won’t be spending as much on central heating.

Ready to make the move? Make sure you complete the following checklist to ensure a smooth transition.

Do your research

At the moment, UK residents can visit France for up to three months before they have to apply for a visa. It’s a good idea to stay in France for an extended time to do your research and discover if this is the right choice for you. This can help you to determine the difference between visiting a place on holiday and relocating permanently.

You can start the transition by making the most of a self storage unit for your belongings while you figure out where you would like to live. When moving possessions from the UK to France, you will need to secure a certificat de non-cession as this will help you to avoid paying import taxes on things you already own.

Arrange your visa

If you would like to stay for longer than three months, whether you plan to work or retire, you’re going to need a visa. You will need to apply for a long-term visa, also known as visa de long séjour. This will enable you to stay for between three months and one year.

In order to work in France, you will need a permit. Your employer will often be responsible for arranging this. The good news about working in France is that French workers enjoy excellent work/life balance. A 35-hour working week is standard, and in companies of more than 50 employees, you’ll have the “right to disconnect” which means that work emails cannot be sent outside of work hours.

Health insurance

Like the UK, France has an excellent healthcare system. You’ll need to register for a Carte Vitale from the local Caisse Primaire d’Assurance Maladie (CPAM) once you arrive in France. The Carte Vitale is the equivalent of a National Insurance number and will grant you access to the national healthcare system. You may also want to secure private health insurance to “top up” your coverage.

Opening a bank account

Opening a bank account in France will be essential for handling things like utility bills and getting paid by a French employer. If you are retiring in France, having a local bank account will be essential. You will need to visit the physical branch of the bank you would like to open an account with. Take essential documents such as your ID, proof of residence status, your visa, proof of address and proof of student status, if relevant.

Settling in

You’ve passed most of the administrative hurdles, and now it’s time to start enjoying your new life in France. It’s a good idea to sign up for language classes to continue to improve your French skills. You could also consider volunteering as this will give you a chance to meet new people and practice your conversational skills. Unlike some European countries, France is one location where you will need to make an effort with the language in order to feel accepted.