Moving to France isn’t just a dream—it’s entirely doable. But before you start choosing paint colours for your future Provençal cottage, you’ll need to navigate the French visa system. And yes, it can seem complicated. But this guide breaks it down so you can move from confusion to clarity—and start building your new life in France with confidence.
Whether you're buying a home for holidays or settling in for good, here’s everything you need to know about French visas.
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Do I need a visa to buy property in France?
You don’t need a visa to buy a property in France, but you do need one to live there. The type of visa you’ll need depends on how long you plan to stay and what you plan to do.
There are two main categories:
Short-stay visas (Type C) – for stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period
Long-stay visas (Type D or VLS-TS) – for stays of more than 90 days
The good news? France welcomes second-home buyers, retirees, remote workers, and entrepreneurs alike. There’s likely a visa that fits your situation.
A short-stay visa, often called a “Schengen visa," allows you to stay in France for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This visa suits you if you're:
Checking out properties
Finalising a purchase
Visiting your new home periodically
Citizens of countries like the UK, the US, Canada, Australia, and most of Latin America are visa-exempt for short stays, meaning you can travel to France without a visa for up to 90 days. However, you must still comply with the 90/180 rule across the entire Schengen area.
⚠️ Helpful tip: From late 2024, the Entry/Exit System (EES) will digitally log your travel dates, so make sure to track your time carefully.
To stay longer or live permanently, you’ll need a long-stay visa.
Long-stay visas: Your route to living in France
If you want to move to France full-time, live in your property year-round, retire, or work, you’ll need a long-stay visa (visa de long séjour).
This allows you to live in France for more than 90 days, and in most cases, apply for a residence permit (titre de séjour) after your first year.
There are several types, but the most relevant for property buyers include:
1. Long-stay visa for visitors (VLS-TS “Visiteur”) Ideal if you’re retiring or working remotely.
You must:
Not work for a French employer
Show sufficient income to support yourself (around €1,500/month per person)
Have French health insurance (private or EU reciprocal)
Provide proof of accommodation in France (rental agreement, property ownership)
Show a clean criminal record and proof of civil status
This visa is renewable annually and allows you to live—but not work—in France.
2. Long-stay visa equivalent to a residence permit (VLS-TS) This is a hybrid visa that doubles as a residence permit for up to 12 months.
Good news:
No need to apply for a titre de séjour during your first year
After arrival, you just validate the visa online and attend a medical check or welcome visit.
Once you know which visa you need, here’s how to get it:
1. Gather information Use the Visa Wizard to confirm the right visa type and review the list of required documents. You’ll need originals plus photocopies, and most documents must be translated into French.
2. Complete the online application Create an account at France-Visas and complete the application form. You’ll be asked about your intended stay, purpose, financial means, and accommodation.
3. Book your appointment You’ll need to book a biometric appointment (photo and fingerprints) at your local consulate or visa application centre (usually via TLScontact or VFS Global, depending on your location).
4. Submit your documents Typical supporting documents include:
Passport (valid for at least three months after your stay ends)
Two recent passport photos
Completed visa application form
Proof of accommodation in France
Proof of income (bank statements, pension, etc.)
Health insurance certificate
Proof of civil status (birth/marriage certificates)
5. Track your application You can follow your application status online through your France-Visas account.
What happens after you arrive in France?
If you’ve been issued a VLS-TS, you must validate it within 3 months of arriving in France. This is done online:
→ Validate your visa online Once validated, you’ll receive confirmation by email. You may be invited to a welcome session or medical visit with the OFII (French Immigration and Integration Office).
You must pay a tax of €200 at the time of validation. If you wish to stay beyond the validity of your visa (usually 12 months), you must apply for a residence permit (carte de séjour) at your local préfecture 2–4 months before your visa expires. This involves gathering updated documents and booking an appointment.
Validation of VLS-TS upon arrival in France: €200 (payable online)
Renewal of residence permit: €225
All fees are non-refundable—even if your application is unsuccessful.
Can you work or start a business?
Yes, but only with the right visa.
Remote workers: OK with a visitor visa, provided your clients/employer are outside France
Employees of French companies: Need a long-stay visa for employment
Business owners/investors: Apply for a 'Entrepreneur/Professional activity' long-stay visa
You may also be eligible for the Talent Passport if you’re investing or bringing in high-level skills.
Planning to work in France? Our working in France guide explains your options and obligations.
Final thoughts: You’ve got this
Yes, the French visa system can be complex. But thousands of people—Brits, Americans, and more—successfully move to France each year. With the right preparation, applying for your visa can be a smooth step on your journey to a better life.
Start with the Visa Wizard, arm yourself with the right documents, and take the process one step at a time.
In return? A future sipping rosé in the garden of your French home. Not a bad trade.
Can your family join you?
Yes. Spouses and children can usually apply as dependants (especially if you’re a worker or self-employed). In some cases, they’ll need to apply separately under family reunification rules—particularly if you’re retired or on a visitor visa.
→ Learn more on Service-Public.fr – Family Reunification
For British citizens
Post-Brexit, Brits are now treated like other non-EU nationals.
You don’t need a visa for short visits (under 90 days in 180).
For longer stays, you must apply for a long-stay visa.
Can I apply for a visa from within France? No. All long-stay visas must be applied for from your country of residence.
What if my visa is refused? You can request a review or submit a new application. Ensure your supporting documents are clear, complete, and translated where necessary.
What happens if I overstay my visa? Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, or future visa bans. Always plan ahead and track your time in the Schengen area.
France property market outlook report 2025 - July update
Updated July 2025, this report reveals the latest trends, price shifts, and regional hotspots in France’s property market. With expert insights and fresh data from Kyero, INSEE, Notaires de France, and Knight Frank, it’s essential reading for international buyers planning their French property journey.
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