The Long-Stay Visa Explained — for US & UK Movers

One of the very first questions we hear at A New Life in France is simple and terrifying in equal measure: 'How do I actually get permission to stay?' The good news is that France is genuinely welcoming to people who want to make it their home — but the paperwork does matter, and the process differs depending on whether you hold a US or UK passport.

Why the Visa Question Matters

Since Brexit, British nationals are no longer EU citizens, which means they now face the same long-stay visa requirements as Americans and other non-EU nationals. This was a shock for many who had moved freely before 2021 and assumed the process would remain simple. It hasn't become complicated exactly — but it does require planning.

The Long-Stay Visitor Visa (VLS-TS)

For most people moving to France to retire or live without working, the Long-Stay Visitor Visa — known in French as the Visa de Long Séjour valant Titre de Séjour (VLS-TS) — is the right starting point. It's valid for 12 months, renewable from within France, and doesn't require you to be employed.

To qualify you'll generally need to demonstrate:

• Proof of sufficient income (in 2025, at least €17,116 net per year — roughly equivalent to France's minimum wage)

• Proof of accommodation in France (rental contract, property deed, or a signed letter from a host)

• Health insurance valid in France for at least €30,000 of cover

• A clean criminal record certificate

• Completed application forms submitted to the relevant French consulate in your country

For US Applicants

Americans apply through the French consulate covering their state of residence. The process is handled via France-Visas, the official online portal. Processing times vary but typically run four to eight weeks. Once in France, you'll receive a sticker in your passport and must validate it online within three months of arrival — a step many people miss.

US Note:  The US taxes its citizens on worldwide income regardless of where they live. Moving to France does not end your US tax obligations. See Blog 4 for a full breakdown.

For UK Applicants

Post-Brexit, British nationals apply through VFS Global, which handles French visa applications in the UK. The requirements are broadly the same as for Americans, including the income thresholds and health insurance. One key advantage: the UK has retained a strong bilateral relationship with France, and the French authorities are well used to processing British applications.

UK Note:  Your NHS coverage does not extend to France. You will need private health insurance for the first stage of your residency. The French system — once you're enrolled — is excellent, but enrolment takes time. See Blog 2 for detail.

After Year One: Renewing and Progressing

After your first year on a VLS-TS, you can apply to renew your carte de séjour (residency permit) from within France at your local préfecture. After five years of continuous legal residency, you become eligible for a long-term EU residency permit. Ten years opens the door to French nationality, if you choose to pursue it.

Other Visa Routes Worth Knowing

• Passeport Talent (Talent Passport): For skilled workers, researchers, company founders, and internationally recognised artists. Valid for up to four years.

• Salarié visa: For those with a job offer from a French employer.

• Student visa: For those enrolling in a French university or language school.

• Family reunification: For spouses and dependants of existing French residents.

The Practical Bottom Line

Start your application at least three months before your intended move date. Gather documents methodically and make certified translations of anything not already in French. If in doubt, working with a specialist like Fab Expat or a registered French immigration lawyer will save you far more time than it costs.

The visa is the key that unlocks everything else — from healthcare enrolment and opening a bank account, to enrolling children in school. Get it right and the rest of your move to France becomes considerably smoother.