How to Permanently Move to France from UK

For many people, moving to France starts as a dream of a better lifestyle, warmer weather, or a slower pace of life. Whether you're planning to retire, work remotely, start a business, or simply enjoy a change of scenery, mak

ing the move permanent requires careful planning.

While the process is more involved than it was before Brexit, thousands of people continue to successfully relocate from the UK to France every year.

Understanding the key steps early can make the transition far smoother.

Decide Where You Want to Live

Before organising visas, removals, or property purchases, it's worth spending time deciding where in France you want to settle.

Different regions offer very different lifestyles. For example:

• Northern France provides easy access to the UK (and weather more like the UK!)

• The Dordogne remains popular with British expats

• The French Riviera offers a warmer climate and coastal living

• Rural regions often provide more affordable property options

If possible, spend time in your chosen area before committing to a permanent move. What works well for a holiday may feel very different as a full-time residence.

Understand Visa and Residency Requirements

Since Brexit, British citizens no longer have the automatic right to live permanently in France.

If you plan to stay for more than 90 days within 180 days, you will usually need an appropriate visa before moving.

The most suitable visa will depend on your circumstances, such as:

• Retirement

• Employment

• Self-employment

• Remote working

• Family circumstances

Requirements can change, so it's important to check the latest French government guidance before making plans.

Consider Your Finances Carefully

Moving permanently means looking beyond the initial relocation costs.

You should consider:

• Property purchase or rental costs

• Healthcare arrangements

• Utility bills

• Local taxes

• Currency exchange considerations

• Ongoing living expenses

If you'll be transferring larger sums of money between the UK and France, planning can help reduce stress and minimise the impact of exchange rate fluctuations. Many people also find it helpful to establish a French bank account before or shortly after arriving.

Decide What You're Taking With You

One of the biggest decisions during an international move is deciding what to take.

Before arranging removals, consider:

• Which furniture do you genuinely need?

• Do you have any items of sentimental value that should definitely come with you?

• What items do you have that would be more expensive to replace than transport?

• Do you have items that may be better left in long-term storage in England?

Many people find that moving everything isn't always the most practical option.

If your property in France isn't immediately available, or you plan to move in stages, secure storage can provide additional flexibility.

Organise Your Move Early

International relocations involve more moving parts than a domestic move.

In addition to packing and transport, you'll also need to think about:

• Property completion dates

• Travel arrangements

• Customs documentation

• Inventory preparation

• Storage requirements

Giving yourself plenty of time allows you to deal with unexpected changes and reduces the pressure as moving day approaches.

From our experience managing UK to France relocations, the smoothest moves are almost always the ones planned well in advance.

Understand Customs Requirements

Moving household belongings from the UK to France now involves customs procedures.

To qualify for relief from customs duties and taxes on personal effects, you'll typically need to meet certain residency and documentation requirements.

The paperwork required will vary depending on your circumstances, but preparing inventories and supporting documents early can help avoid delays.

Working with an experienced removal company can make this process significantly easier.

Settling Into Life in France

Once you've arrived, there are still practical matters to organise.

These may include:

• Registering with healthcare services

• Opening local accounts

• Setting up utilities

• Updating official documentation

• Learning local administrative processes

While settling in takes time, many people find the effort worthwhile once they begin enjoying their new lifestyle.

Making Your Move to France Simpler

Moving permanently to France is a major life decision, but with the right preparation, it can be an exciting and rewarding transition.

At Anglo French, we've been helping customers relocate between the UK and France for over 30 years. From full household removals and part-load deliveries to storage, packing, and customs support, we understand the practical challenges involved in making an international move.

By planning early, understanding the requirements, and working with experienced professionals, you can focus less on logistics and more on enjoying your new life in France.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can British citizens still move permanently to France?

Yes. British citizens can still move permanently to France, but they will usually need the appropriate visa and residency arrangements before relocating.

How long does it take to organise a permanent move to France?

Every move is different, but we generally recommend beginning planning several months in advance to allow time for visas, property arrangements, removals, and documentation.

Do I need a removal company for a move to France?

While it's possible to organise a move yourself, many people choose an experienced international removal company to help manage transport, customs requirements, packing, and logistics.