What type of visa do I need to move to France permanently?

Americans planning to stay in France longer than 90 days need a long-stay visa (visa de long séjour). The specific type depends on your situation: visiteur (non-working retiree), salarié (employee), profession libérale (self-employed), or talent passport for professionals. You must apply at the French consulate in the U.S. before relocating. Processing typically takes 3 - 6 months, so early planning is essential.

Need help determining which visa fits your situation? Schedule a consultation with Haven in France.

How long does the French visa application process take?

The French visa application process typically takes 3 - 6 months from initial application to approval. This includes gathering required documents (apostilled birth/marriage certificates, background checks, proof of income), attending your consulate appointment, and waiting for processing. Some visa types require additional Prefecture approval in France, which can add 2 - 4 months. We recommend starting your application 12 - 18 months before your intended move date.

Can I work remotely for a U.S. company while living in France?

Yes, but you need the appropriate visa. Remote workers typically apply for either a visiteur visa (if living off savings/investments) or a talent passport - salarié en mission (if employed by a company). You'll need to demonstrate stable income, typically €1,500+ monthly. Tax implications also exist; you may owe French income tax after establishing residency. Consult both a French tax advisor and U.S. tax professional before relocating. For more information on French visa requirements visit the French government visa website.

Should I rent or buy property in France?

Most Americans benefit from renting for 6 - 12 months before buying. Renting allows you to experience different neighborhoods, understand local amenities, and ensure the region suits your lifestyle before committing financially. French property transactions involve strict legal processes (notaire contracts, diagnostics, cooling-off periods) that may be unfamiliar to most Americans. Once you're confident in your location choice, buying offers long-term stability and favorable property laws for owners.

Exploring Occitanie, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, or PACA? We help you find the right region and property type for your needs.

What's required to buy property in France as an American?

Americans can purchase French property without residency restrictions. You'll need a French bank account, proof of funds (bank statements, mortgage pre-approval), valid passport, and tax identification number. Transactions require a notaire (public notary) who handles legal verification, typically costing 7 - 8% of purchase price in fees and taxes. Mortgage options exist for foreign buyers, though requirements are stricter than U.S. loans (typically 20 - 30% down payment, proof of stable income).

How does the French rental process work?

French rentals require extensive documentation. Typically these include the last 3 months' pay stubs, tax returns, employment contract, bank statements, and guarantor (often French resident). Landlords are highly selective due to strong tenant protections. Rental agreements typically run 3 years (renewable), with strict notice periods. Expect to pay first month's rent, security deposit (1 - 2 months), and agency fees if applicable. Unfurnished rentals in France are truly bare. They generally have no light fixtures, kitchen appliances, or sometimes even flooring.

What are typical property prices in Southern France?

Prices vary significantly by region. Occitanie offers the best value: village houses from €150,000 - €300,000, countryside properties with land from €250,000 - €500,000. Nouvelle-Aquitaine is similar, with Dordogne villages starting around €200,000. PACA (Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur) commands premium pricing. Expect €400,000 - €800,000+ for comparable properties due to coastal proximity and international demand. Rural areas in all three regions offer better value than tourist hotspots.

Curious about specific towns or property types? Let's discuss your priorities and budget.

What health insurance do I need for my first year in France?

During your first year (before accessing French public healthcare), you need private international health insurance covering France with minimum €30,000 coverage. This is mandatory for visa approval. Once you establish residency and contribute to the French system (through work or voluntary contributions), you become eligible for France's public healthcare (Assurance Maladie) along with your Carte Vitale, typically after 3 months of legal residence. Many expats maintain supplemental private insurance (mutuelle) to cover gaps in public coverage. For more information visit Public Service France.

How does French home insurance (assurance habitation) work?

French home insurance is mandatory for renters and strongly recommended for owners. It covers civil liability (responsabilité civile), fire, water damage, and natural disasters. Standard policies may NOT cover lost keys, certain types of theft, or garden/pool damage. It is critical to always verify coverage details before signing. Annual costs range €150 - €500 depending on property size and location. Insurance companies require detailed home inventories and may require security measures (locks, alarms) for coverage approval.

Questions about adequate coverage for your French property? We can connect you with trusted local insurance advisors.

Do I need French car insurance if I'm bringing my U.S. vehicle?

If importing a U.S. vehicle (rarely cost-effective - see vehicle shipping costs), you must obtain French car insurance immediately upon arrival. U.S. insurance doesn't cover you in France. French insurance requirements are typically a valid French driver's license (exchange your U.S. license within one year), carte grise (French vehicle registration), and contrôle technique (safety inspection). Most Americans find purchasing or leasing a French vehicle simpler than importing due to steep import taxes (10% + 20% VAT) and conversion requirements.

Do I need to speak French to live in Southern France?

Basic French proficiency significantly improves daily life quality and is often required for visa applications (some visas require A2 - B1 level certification). While tourist areas have English speakers, administrative tasks (banking, healthcare, legal matters) overwhelmingly occur in French. Southern France, particularly rural areas, has fewer English speakers than Paris. We strongly recommend starting French lessons before relocating and continuing after arrival for smoother integration.

How do I open a French bank account?

Opening a French bank account requires a valid passport, proof of French address (utility bill or lease), and often proof of income or employment contract. Some banks require residency cards; others work with long-stay visas. Online banks offer easier processes but may lack English support. Traditional banks provide in-person service helpful for expats. Expect 2 - 4 weeks for full account activation. A French bank account is essential for rent payments, utility setup, and visa renewals.

Need guidance navigating French banking requirements? We help connect you with expat-friendly banks.

What are the key differences between Occitanie, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, and PACA?

Occitanie offers the best value, authentic village life, and proximity to Mediterranean beaches, Pyrenee Mountains, and Toulouse. It's ideal for those prioritizing affordability and community.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine features Bordeaux wine country, Atlantic beaches, Pyrenee Mountains, and the picturesque Dordogne Valley. It attracts those seeking space, mild climate, and strong expat networks.

PACA (Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur) delivers the iconic South of France experience highlighting lavender fields, hilltop villages, warm weather, Mediterranean lifestyle, and close proximity to the Swiss Alps. Premium pricing but unmatched beauty and infrastructure.

Not sure which region fits your lifestyle? Let's explore your priorities together.

What services does Haven in France provide?

Haven in France offers comprehensive relocation support that include

• Visa strategy 

• Application guidance

• Property search assistance in Occitanie, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, and PACA

• Relocation logistics coordination

• Post-arrival integration support (banking, insurance, healthcare setup)

• Events and retreats that building a lasting community

We connect you with trusted local partners (notaires, insurance brokers, language schools) and provide ongoing guidance as you establish your French life. Our goal is transforming overwhelming logistics into an enjoyable transition.

Ready to start your French relocation journey? Schedule your initial consultation today.

How far in advance should I contact Haven in France?

Ideally, contact us 12 - 18 months before your intended move date. French visa applications require 3 - 6 months minimum, plus time to gather required documents (apostilled certificates, financial records, background checks). Early planning allows strategic property searches, understanding regional differences, and building relationships with local service providers. Rushed timelines increase costs (expedited document fees, limited housing options) and stress levels significantly.