Moving to France from the United States: Visa and Residence Options Explained

Moving to France from the United States: Visa and Residence Options Explained

Relocating to France from the United States is an exciting project — whether for retirement, remote work, family life, or a change of lifestyle.

However, US citizens planning to stay in France for more than 90 days must obtain the appropriate long-stay visa and residence status under French immigration law.

Understanding the correct visa category is essential to avoid delays, refusals, or future residency issues.

Do US Citizens Need a Visa to Move to France?

US passport holders may enter France without a visa for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period).

However, if you plan to live in France long term, you must apply for a long-stay visa (visa de long séjour) before entering France.

The application is submitted through the French consular authorities in the United States.

Main Visa Options for US Citizens Moving to France

Your visa category depends on your purpose of stay.

1️⃣ Long-Stay Visitor Visa (VLS-TS “Visiteur”)

This is one of the most common options for Americans.

It is suitable if you:

• are retired,

• have sufficient financial resources,

• live from investments or passive income,

• wish to reside in France without working.

Applicants must demonstrate:

• stable financial means,

• private health insurance coverage,

• accommodation in France.

This visa does not authorize employment in France.

2️⃣ Professional or Self-Employed Visa

If you plan to:

• work as an independent professional,

• start a business,

• carry out commercial or liberal activity,

you may apply under the “entrepreneur/profession libérale” residence category.

This option requires a credible business plan and sufficient projected income.

3️⃣ Employee Visa

If you have secured employment with a French employer, you may apply for a long-stay visa as a salaried worker, subject to labor authorization procedures.

4️⃣ Family-Based Residence

If you are:

• married to a French citizen,

• joining a spouse legally residing in France,

• or eligible for family reunification,

specific residence permits may apply under French immigration law.

What Happens After Arrival in France?

For most long-stay visas (VLS-TS), you must:

• validate your visa online upon arrival,

• complete required formalities with French authorities,

• possibly attend an appointment with the immigration office.

Depending on your situation, you may later apply for a multi-year residence permit or a resident card.

Common Mistakes US Citizens Make

Many Americans assume that:

• buying property in France automatically grants residency — it does not;

• entering France visa-free allows them to change status from within France — in most cases, it does not;

• remote work for a US employer requires no specific visa — this depends on the legal framework.

Careful legal planning before relocation is strongly recommended.

Residence and Tax Considerations

Becoming legally resident in France may have implications regarding:

• tax residency,

• healthcare affiliation,

• social security contributions.

Immigration status and tax residency are distinct legal concepts and must be assessed separately.

Why Seek Legal Assistance?

French immigration law is governed by the Code de l’entrée et du séjour des étrangers et du droit d’asile (CESEDA) and involves strict procedural requirements.

An immigration lawyer can help you:

• identify the most appropriate visa category,

• ensure compliance with documentation requirements,

• anticipate administrative challenges,

• and represent you in case of visa refusal.

Legal Assistance for US Citizens in Nice and the French Riviera

Maître Lou Bessis-Osty, immigration lawyer based in Nice, assists US citizens planning to settle in France, particularly in the South of France and the French Riviera.

The firm provides tailored legal guidance to secure your relocation project and ensure full compliance with French immigration law.