Moving to France from the UK in 2025

A Guide to Moving to France in 2025

Why Move to France?

France offers a rich cultural experience, outstanding healthcare, and a variety of lifestyles from coastal towns to mountain villages. Many UK citizens are drawn by the slower pace of life, great food, and access to nature — all within a few hours’ reach of the UK.

Improved work-life balance
Property affordability in many regions
Access to high-quality healthcare and education
Favourable climate (especially in the south)
Vibrant expat communities in popular regions

Visa and Residency Requirements

Since Brexit, UK citizens no longer enjoy free movement in the EU. For stays beyond 90 days, a visa is now required.

Visa Options

VLS-TS: One-year renewable long-stay visa, which also acts as your residency permit.
VLS-T: Shorter-term visa (up to 6 months), not renewable or extendable.
Type D Visa: Specific-purpose visa (work, study, family reunification).

Requirements

Valid passport
Proof of accommodation
Proof of sufficient funds or income
Health insurance for your stay

Top Tip: Apply early (at least 3 months in advance) and keep copies of all documents.

Cost of Living in France

Living costs in France can vary significantly between Paris, other cities, and rural areas. Overall, many UK expats find everyday expenses (excluding large cities) to be equal to or less than those in the UK.

Expense	Estimated Monthly Cost (€)
1-bed apartment (outside Paris)	€600–€900
Utilities (gas, water, electricity)	€120–€200
Groceries	€250–€400
Transport pass	€30–€75
Health insurance (private)	€50–€150

Banking and Financial Setup

Opening a bank account in France is essential for rent, bills, and even registering for healthcare.

How to Open a French Bank Account

Choose a provider (BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole, Société Générale, or online banks like N26)
Provide passport, proof of French address, visa/residency permit, and sometimes income statements

Some banks allow accounts to be opened remotely, particularly online-only providers.

Housing: Renting or Buying

Renting in France

Expect to pay one month’s rent as a deposit
Landlords often require income proof of 3x rent, or a guarantor
Lease contracts typically run for 1–3 years

Buying Property

No restrictions on foreigners buying homes
Use a bilingual notaire to assist with legal paperwork
Budget for ~7–10% on top of purchase price for taxes and fees

Finding Work in France

Working in France as a UK citizen is entirely possible with the right visa. Options include:

Employer-sponsored roles (you’ll need a job offer before applying)
Teaching English with a TEFL or CELTA certificate
Freelancing (register as auto-entrepreneur)
Remote work for UK companies while residing in France

Top Job Search Sites:

Pôle Emploi – National job agency
Apec – Executive roles
Indeed France
LinkedIn

Healthcare System

France’s healthcare system is ranked among the best in the world. You must register after becoming a resident to benefit from it.

How to Access Healthcare

Apply for a social security number via your CPAM (local health office)
Submit ID, proof of residence, and visa
Once registered, apply for your Carte Vitale

What Does It Cover?

General consultations (~70% reimbursed)
Hospitalisation and specialist care (partially covered)
Pharmacy costs (15–100% depending on prescription)

Many residents take out mutuelle top-up insurance to cover the remaining 30–40% of medical costs.

Moving with a Family or Pets

Relocating with family adds extra considerations — from education and childcare to healthcare and emotional support. France is generally very family-friendly, offering public support for families, high-quality schools, and generous parental benefits.

Schools and Education

France offers a strong public education system that is free and secular. Children can start at age 3 in école maternelle (nursery school), followed by primary school (ages 6–11), and secondary school (ages 11–18). Many expat families also consider private or international schools, particularly in major cities.

Public schools are free and follow a national curriculum.
Private schools may offer bilingual programmes or religious affiliations.
International schools offer English or mixed-language instruction, often at a cost.

Registering Your Children

Once you have a permanent address, you’ll need to register your child at the local mairie (town hall). Required documents usually include:

Child’s passport or ID
Proof of vaccinations
Proof of address

Having a Baby in France

France offers comprehensive prenatal and maternity care, much of which is covered under the state health system. Expectant mothers receive multiple ultrasound scans, and birth usually takes place in public hospitals unless private care is chosen. Maternity leave is generous and well-supported.

Childcare

Crèches (day nurseries) accept children from 3 months to 3 years.
Assistantes maternelles (certified home childminders) are common and subsidised.
Costs are based on income and heavily subsidised by the government.

Moving with Pets

Bringing pets to France is entirely possible, but you must follow the correct veterinary procedures.

Pets must be microchipped with an ISO-compliant chip.
Rabies vaccination is mandatory and must be administered at least 21 days before travel.
An Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued by a UK vet is required within 10 days of travel.

France is generally pet-friendly, with many open spaces, parks, and veterinary clinics. However, check local rules regarding pets in rental accommodation or public transport.

Retiring in France

France continues to attract retirees from the UK due to its relaxed lifestyle, pleasant climate, and excellent healthcare. If you’re planning to retire in France in 2025, you’ll need to be aware of the specific visa, healthcare, and tax considerations that apply to non-EU citizens.

Visa Requirements for Retirees

Most retirees will apply for a VLS-TS Visiteur visa, which allows for long-term residence without the right to work. This visa is renewable and suitable for those living on pensions, savings, or other passive income.

Proof of sufficient income (generally around €1,400/month per person)
Private health insurance valid for France and the entire visa duration
Proof of accommodation (rental contract, property deed, or host declaration)
Clean criminal record and valid passport

Accessing Healthcare

UK retirees may be eligible for the S1 form if they’re receiving a UK State Pension. This form allows access to French healthcare without paying into the system and enables registration with CPAM for a Carte Vitale.

If you’re not eligible for the S1 or under pension age, you must maintain private insurance for your visa and registration.

Receiving Your UK Pension

UK pensions can be paid into a French or UK account. Consider using a currency transfer provider to avoid bank fees and poor exchange rates. Also:

Notify HMRC and request the France-Individual double taxation form
Ensure your UK pension scheme allows payments abroad
Consult with a tax adviser about reporting obligations in France

Inheritance and Tax Considerations

Inheritance laws in France are strict, with fixed shares for children and limited freedom to distribute assets. Ensure your will is recognised in France and UK, and consult a notaire for estate planning.

Summary: With the right visa, pension planning, and healthcare arrangements, retiring in France can offer a peaceful and rewarding lifestyle in a beautiful European setting.

Full Relocation Checklist

Use this practical checklist to ensure you’re covering every essential stage of your move from the UK to France in 2025:

Three Months Before the Move

Apply for the appropriate long-stay visa
Start learning basic French or refresh your skills
Research areas to live and housing options
Request quotes and book a date with Central Moves Ltd
Contact schools and research education options if moving with children
Review health insurance providers and choose coverage

One Month Before

Begin packing and decluttering
Notify UK authorities of your departure (DVLA, HMRC, NHS)
Cancel or transfer UK utility services and subscriptions
Ensure passport, AHC (if travelling with pets), and visa paperwork are in order
Open a French bank account if possible

Final Week

Redirect mail through Royal Mail
Confirm all moving arrangements with Central Moves Ltd
Prepare an essentials bag for travel and first few days in France
Back up important documents digitally and keep hard copies accessible

After Arrival

Register at your local préfecture or mairie
Apply for your Carte Vitale and social security number
Set up utilities, internet, and local services
Exchange your UK driving licence (if needed)
Finalise school enrolment and doctor registration
Explore your new community and network with locals and expats

Tip: Central Moves Ltd can help coordinate each stage, from initial planning to post-arrival support, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

Why Choose Central Moves Ltd

Relocating internationally can be daunting, but with Central Moves Ltd by your side, you’ll benefit from over 25 years of professional experience handling moves between the UK and France.

Experts in European Removals

Central Moves specialises in removals to France — whether you’re relocating to Paris, the South of France, Brittany, or anywhere in between. Our multilingual team understands the latest post-Brexit customs procedures, French road regulations, and regional logistics.

Comprehensive Services Include:

Full and part-load removals tailored to your schedule and budget
Export packing, wrapping, and furniture protection
Detailed inventory preparation and customs documentation support
Short and long-term storage options in the UK
Advice on pet transport and transporting vehicles

Trusted and Accredited

Central Moves Ltd is a proud member of the Association of Independent Movers (AIM) and holds ISO 9001 quality assurance certification. Every move is covered by Goods in Transit Insurance for added peace of mind.

Get a Free Quote Today

Planning a move to France? Let Central Moves Ltd handle the logistics while you focus on your new life. Request a free removals quote now and take the stress out of international relocation.