Florence, a young professional from Manchester, decided to relocate to France, she imagined weekends in Paris cafés, cycling through the Loire Valley, and finally polishing her French. What she did not expect was the stack of paperwork, visa requirements, and cultural adjustments that came with making France her new home.
Since Brexit, UK citizens are no longer treated as EU nationals, meaning the path to living, working, or studying in France has completely changed. And while the idea of a fresh start in France is exciting, it can also feel daunting without the right guidance.
At PlanetTalk, with roots in both the UK and France, we have seen firsthand how this journey impacts people and families. Beyond the logistics, moving abroad is about staying connected to your loved ones, your culture, and your new life.
Let us break down what it really means to start over in France.
Why France Remains a Top Choice
France continues to draw people from the UK for more than just its postcard landmarks. For many expats, the attraction lies in the lifestyle.
Here is what makes France appealing:
- Healthcare: France’s healthcare is known to be very good. The French government pays for 70% of most medical care.
- Transportation: Monthly public transport is a lot cheaper in Paris than it is in London, which makes traveling in the city much better.
- Affordability in Key Areas: Many parts of France offer lower living costs compared to major UK cities.
This combination explains why, despite the new legal hurdles, many are still choosing France as their new chapter.
What is Different Now After Brexit
Before Brexit, moving to France from the UK was fairly straightforward. Now, the rules are stricter. It is important to stay up-to-date with the latest rules.
- Visas Are Essential: Stays longer than 90 days require the correct visa.. whether for work, study, or family.
- Residency Permits: Long-term residents need the Carte de Séjour, which proves legal status in France.
- Healthcare Enrollment: Expats must get a Global Health Insurance Card which will help you get covered by the healthcare system in France.
Understanding these requirements early can prevent delays, extra costs, and unnecessary stress.
Preparing for the Move:
Relocating to another country is less about packing boxes and more about preparing your life. From the people we have supported, here are the most crucial steps:
- Sort Your Paperwork Early: Valid passports, visa applications, proof of address, and translated documents are non-negotiables.
- Budget Smartly: Opening a French bank account and preparing savings can help cushion unexpected costs like visa fees, healthcare contributions, or deposits on housing.
- Plan for Housing: Many newcomers start with short-term rentals before finding long-term homes. Websites and local agents are great resources, but nothing beats local insight.
- Get Connected: Staying connected with loved ones back home is essential for emotional well-being. Apps like PlanetTalk make it easy to send airtime, gift vouchers, pay bills, or make affordable calls across borders. It’s one less worry when you are managing a big life change.
Settling Into Life in France
Moving is one thing. Feeling at home is another. Here is where expats often find the biggest learning curves:
- Healthcare: Register early to avoid gaps in coverage.
- Language and Culture: Talk to people who live there, learn the french language, and see what local traditions are like.
- Education: For families, learning the French school system upfront helps children adapt faster.
- Employment: There are many jobs open to UK expats in France. Sectors like tech, hospitality, and teaching English are strong entry points. Being active in expat groups and using websites made for job searching in France will can open doors.
Final Thoughts
Relocating to France is not just about ticking boxes on a checklist. It is about beginning a new story. Yes, there will be challenges like visas, paperwork, cultural adjustments, but there is also opportunity: new friendships, richer experiences, and a lifestyle that millions dream about.
At PlanetTalk, we believe connection is at the heart of every successful move. If you are one of the many UK citizens considering France as your next chapter, prepare well, stay connected, and embrace the adventure.
Have you moved from the UK to France? What was your biggest challenge and your biggest joy? Share your story in the comments
#Planettalk #ExpatLife #Stayconnected #MovingAbroad
