Moving to France is an exciting adventure, but before you pack your bags and book that one-way ticket, you need the right visa. At SOS Anglo, we make the visa process as stress-free as possible so you can focus on your new life in France.

Which Visa Do You Need?

France offers many types of visas depending on your reason for moving—whether it’s for work, retirement, or starting a business. However, once you choose your visa category, you must stick with it for a year. The good news? You can change your status at your visa anniversary if needed.

Let’s break down the most common long-stay visa options:

1. Visitor Visa: The Simple Route for a Relaxed Life

If you're not planning to work in France, the Visitor Visa is a great choice. This is ideal for early retirees, those taking a sabbatical, or simply enjoying life in France without professional commitments.

There are three subcategories of the Visitor Visa:

• Temporary Visa up to 6 months (VLS-T): Allows a stay of up to 6 months but is non-renewable. You must return to your home country to apply for a new visa.
• Temporary Visa up to 12 months (VLS-T): Similar to the 6-month visa but allows for a stay of up to 12 months. It is also non-renewable.
• Long-Stay Visa Equivalent to a Residence Permit (VLS-TS): Allows a stay of up to 1 year and can be renewed in France. Must be validated online within 3 months of arrival, with a €200 validation fee.

To qualify, you’ll need:

• Proof of sufficient financial means (around €1,500 per month per person in a bank account upfront) 
• Private health insurance 
• A French address (a rental agreement or property ownership document)
• No formal French language requirement

This visa doesn’t allow you to work, but it’s a great way to experience French life before deciding on a more permanent setup.

2. Business or Work Visa: Making France Your Professional Home

If you want to work, start a business, or freelance, you’ll need a Business or Work Visa. This includes different subcategories like entrepreneur visas, salaried employment visas, and self-employed professional visas.

Requirements include:

• A solid business plan or job contract
• Proof of financial stability (minimum €1,500 per month per person)
• Private health insurance
• A French address
• In some cases, a basic level of French proficiency may be required, particularly for business or work-related visas, depending on the role or industry

This visa is a gateway to building your career or business in France, and after a year, you can renew or switch to another visa type if your circumstances change.

Visa Requirements for Children

If you're bringing children with you to France, here’s what you need to consider:

• Each child will need their own visa application, submitted along with yours. 
• They will generally be included under your visa category (visitor or family accompanying a worker/business owner)
• Financial Proof:
  - The 1,500€ per month per person requirement applies to each family member, including children.
  - When applying as a family, you must prove sufficient financial resources to support all members. The required amount may not be a simple multiplication of the individual requirement but should reflect the family's overall needs. It is often approximately 400€ per child. 

The 200€ visa validation fee does not apply to children.

Health Insurance

Private health insurance is required for all family members, including children, until you become eligible for the French healthcare system. Make sure your policy covers pediatric care, vaccinations, and emergency services.

Housing Considerations

You’ll need a French address before applying for your visas, and it should be suitable for your family size. 

Some landlords require proof of income or a guarantor in France.

How SOS Anglo Makes It Easy for You

The French visa application process can feel overwhelming, but that’s where we come in! At SOS Anglo, we:

• Guide you in choosing the right visa 
• Help you complete the application on the official visa website 
• Book your appointment at the visa centre in your country 
• Handle the paperwork and follow up on your application until your visa is issued

Our goal is to remove the stress so you can focus on your exciting new chapter in France.

Ready to Start Your French Journey?

Which visa sounds like the best fit for your French dream? Whether you’re looking to enjoy a relaxed life or build a thriving business, SOS Anglo is here to help. Get in touch today and let’s get your visa sorted!