Best Places For English Speakers To Retire In France
The idea of moving to France is no longer just for the rich and famous. Ordinary people like you and me are making the move,
You’re in good company, because I did too! While there might be alot of information about the legalities of moving to France, I want to share more about the personal journey I’ve been through and help others make their dream of moving to France come true.
The idea of moving to France is no longer just for the rich and famous. Ordinary people like you and me are making the move,
The Mindset of Moving to France as an American Ready to embark on a new life in France? Moving to France from the USA requires
Moving to France. Just a Dream? I’ve met many people during my ten-year journey as an expat in France. These days, I am thinking of
When I mention that I call France my home, people always have questions. Surprisingly, it’s not about conquering the language barrier or dealing with homesickness;
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After getting to know so many American expats, I’ve come up with a list of the top 10 reasons I hear repeated most often. Here are the first three:
Quality of Life and Work-Life Balance
France is known for its slower pace of life, and an emphasis on leisure and well-being. This means generous vacation time, shorter working hours, and time to appreciate café visits and long meals.
Rich Culture, History, and Lifestyle
From historic cities like Paris and Lyon with world class museums and international appeal to scenic countryside villages steeped in tradition, France offers a diverse experience that caters to all types.
Access to Affordable Healthcare and Education
Compared to the often high healthcare and education costs in the U.S., France’s system offers some relief that you won’t get buried in the expenses of unexpected hospital visits and higher education.
When moving from the U.S. to France, you won’t have the same freedom to travel as EU citizens and will need a visa to enter and stay legally. The type of visa required depends on your purpose in France, with popular options including Long Stay, Entrepreneur, and Talent visas.
For stays longer than 90 days within a 180-day period, the Long Stay Visa is common. It has sub-categories for work or study, with visa duration matching that of your course or employment contract. Renewal may be required, and fees range from €50 to €100.
Entrepreneur Visa
If you’re planning to work as a freelancer or start a business, the Entrepreneur Visa may be ideal. It requires a minimum annual income of €20,147, equivalent to a full-time salary in France. This visa costs €269, is valid for 12 months, and can be renewed by applying at the local prefecture two months before expiration.
Talent Visa
The Talent Visa suits skilled professionals, researchers, artists, and investors. The specific category and requirements vary, but visas generally last at least 12 months with renewal options. Costs range from €99 to €324.
For guidance on the best visa for your needs, consider speaking with a specialist.