Retiring to France – Visitor Visa (VLS-TS Visiteur)
- A New Life
- 11 hours ago
- 2 min read
Who This Visa Is For
The Visitor Visa (Visa de Long Séjour – Visiteur) is the most common route for:
Retirees
Early retirees
Financially independent individuals
Second-home owners wanting to live in France long-term
Those living from pensions, investments or savings
It is strictly a non-working visa.
What This Visa Allows
Stay in France for 12 months
Travel freely within the Schengen Area
Renew annually
Apply later for multi-year residency
Pathway to 10-year residency and citizenship
You may not:
Work in France
Run a French business
Take up salaried employment
Financial Requirements
You must demonstrate sufficient resources.
Although there is no official fixed number published, income should generally meet or exceed:
Around the French minimum wage equivalent
Enough to live without claiming benefits
Evidence may include:
Pension statements
Investment income
Rental income
Savings
Bank statements (usually 3–6 months)
The more stable and predictable the income, the stronger the application.
Healthcare Requirements
Before moving, you must show:
Comprehensive private health insurance
Full coverage in France
No excess limits that fall below French standards
After arrival and residency validation, you may apply to join the French healthcare system (PUMA), depending on circumstances.
The Application Process
Apply online through the official France-Visas portal
Upload supporting documents (Be thorough)
Attend biometric appointment
Submit passport
Await decision (typically several weeks)
Once in France:
Validate your visa online
Possibly attend an integration appointment
Apply for renewal before expiry
Renewals & Permanent Residency
After 1 year:
Apply for a residency card
After 5 years:
Apply for a 10-year carte de résident (subject to conditions)
Please Note: French language requirements are increasing for some renewals.
Common Pitfalls
Underestimating required income
Inadequate health insurance
Not understanding tax residency implications
Assuming it allows business activity
If you are looking for help in completing your retirement visa, then why not talk to our expert:
