October 13, 2025
Retiring to France… The very idea conjures up images of colourful village markets, glasses of wine on a sunny terrace, and a quality of life that is envied the world over. For thousands of Britons, this dream has become a reality. But with Brexit, the rules of the game have changed. The question on everyone’s mind is: is it still possible?
The answer is a resounding yes! Although freedom of movement has ended, the path to retiring to France from the UK is still well-trodden. It just requires a little more preparation. This complete guide is here to walk you through every step of making your project a success.
Yes, absolutely. However, British citizens are now considered ‘third-country nationals’. This means you can no longer simply move to France. You must first obtain a long-stay visa to have the right to reside in the country for more than 90 consecutive days. The process is more administrative, but it is perfectly achievable.
The administrative process is the biggest change post-Brexit. Here are the key steps to follow to gain the right to live in France as a retiree.
The most suitable visa for retirees is the “Visa de Long Séjour valant Titre de Séjour” with the mention “Visiteur” (VLS-TS Visiteur), which translates to a Long-Stay Visa equivalent to a Residence Permit. As its name suggests, it allows you to “visit” France for an extended period (up to one year) without working.
To get it, you will need to build a solid application file with the French consular services in the UK. Essential documents include:
A valid passport.
Proof of sufficient financial resources (detailed below).
Private health insurance covering your entire first year.
Proof of accommodation in France (a rental agreement, property deed, or even a letter from a host).
A sworn statement promising not to engage in any professional activity in France.
Once you have your visa and have arrived in France, you have three months to validate it online on the OFII website (French Office for Immigration and Integration). This step is mandatory and crucial. It formalises your resident status and turns your visa into a residence permit for the first year.
Two to three months before your VLS-TS expires, you will need to apply for a multi-year “carte de séjour visiteur” at the préfecture (local administrative authority) in your area. This card is generally valid for several years and is renewable.
This is the most critical question for many aspiring expats. France wants to ensure that you can support yourself without relying on social assistance.
You must prove that you have resources at least equal to the French net annual minimum wage (known as the SMIC). For 2025, this is approximately €1,400 net per month for a single person (this figure is reviewed each year). Accepted sources of income are varied: pensions (state or private), rental income, dividends, savings, etc.
The cost of living in France is broadly comparable to the UK, but with huge regional disparities. Life in Paris or on the Côte d’Azur is much more expensive than in the rural Dordogne or Brittany. Food expenses are often lower in France, while services and electronics can be more costly.
The French healthcare system is one of the best in the world, and the good news is that you can get access to it.
If you receive a UK state pension, you are eligible for an S1 form. This document, issued by the NHS Business Services Authority, certifies your healthcare rights in the UK. By presenting it to the French health insurance office (CPAM) in France, you will be registered with the state healthcare system (PUMa) and will benefit from the same reimbursement rights as a French citizen.
Yes, it is highly recommended. The French social security system reimburses an average of 70% of standard medical costs. To cover the remaining 30% (the “ticket modérateur“), as well as treatments with little to no coverage like dental and optical care, nearly all residents in France subscribe to a complementary health insurance, known as a “mutuelle“.
Managing your finances is a cornerstone of your retirement project. Fortunately, things are well-organised between the two countries.
You can continue to receive your UK state pension, which will continue to be uprated each year (the “triple lock”). You can have it paid into a UK bank account or directly into your French account.
Thanks to a double taxation agreement, you will not pay tax twice on the same income. As a general rule, pensions (including the state pension) are taxable in your country of residence, which will be France.
As a French tax resident, you will be subject to French income tax (impôt sur le revenu). You will also need to familiarise yourself with social charges (prélèvements sociaux) on investment income and local taxes like the property tax (taxe foncière) if you own a home.
The choice is vast! Every region has its own unique charm. Here are some of the most popular destinations for British expats.
The Dordogne: Often nicknamed “Dordogneshire,” it charms with its green landscapes, medieval villages, and a large British community, making it ideal for a smooth transition.
Provence & the Côte d’Azur: For those seeking sunshine, lavender fields, and a glamorous lifestyle. The budget required is, however, higher.
Brittany & Normandy: Prized for their spectacular coastlines, Celtic culture, and proximity to the UK, making trips back to see family easy.
Occitanie (formerly Languedoc): Often described as “the other South of France,” the region offers a Mediterranean climate, beautiful vineyards, and a more affordable cost of living than its neighbour, Provence.
o make sure you don’t forget anything, here is a list of essential steps:
[ ] Open a French bank account as soon as possible.
[ ] Exchange your UK driving licence for a French one (mandatory after one year of residence).
[ ] Research the formalities for importing your vehicle and personal belongings.
[ ] Learn some basic French; it will transform your daily experience.
[ ] Understand the French inheritance laws, which are very different from the UK system.
Despite the extra administrative steps introduced by Brexit, the answer is a resounding yes. France remains a dream destination to spend your retirement years. With good planning, patience for the bureaucracy, and a genuine desire to integrate, you will discover an incomparable quality of life.
So, are you ready to order your first café-croissant as a French resident?
