We are now in 2023 and the transition period for Brexit is well and truly over. The past 2 years have shown so many problems with the different processes for the British now to move to France. Yes, the rules may have been agreed but the actual paperwork at ground level has taken alot of time to get updated. Attaching to a person who was already living in France before the end of the transition period was supposed to be easy, it really is not.
The End of the Transition Period
Since the end of the transition period (31st December 2020) the rules have changed for people visiting Europe. What does that actually mean? It means that from 1st January 2021, freedom of movement in the EU area changed. The older generation (like myself) will remember this from before the EU days however our new younger generation will now live by a new set of rules. These rules, involve more complexity if you wish to work or create a business in France or in Europe. These rules means that freedom of movement and mobility have been vastly reduced.
The EU has agreed on principle that the UK will be visa exempt for up to 90 days in every 180 days. You could use this in one big stay in France or use it as a rolling window. So effectively the good news is that you can visit your secondary homes within these time restraints or go on holiday to Europe with no major difference except to keep an eye on your 90 day counter. If you want to calculate the days you have left, use this calculator
Here is another calculator that a reader said was user friendly : Schengen calculator
From 2023, a new system EES (Entry & Exit System) will come into effect which will monitor those coming in and out of the Schengen space. The date for the launch has been pushed out twice and currently it is aimed at November 2023. This new EES system to help control the flux in and out of the Schengen space and will enforce the 90/180 rule.
Spending more time in France or Europe
If you wish to have access to more than 90 days without actually becoming a permanent resident, then your easiest option is a 6 month visa. This will allow you a little bit more flexibility in that you can stay 6 months in France in one go, without worrying the 90 days. This visa is requested at your country of origin and is the same rule for every non European. Applications for visas should be made at least 2 months before going to the country, so get prepared to make your applications if you think you will need this.
LBS has been helping other third country nationals for many years with their visa applications, so helping the British is just an extension of what we do already. We have seen the increase in people moving to France or at least we havent seen it slow down, except during the pandemic.
Becoming a permanent resident of France
If you wish to work in France, then you will need to request a work visa and which one largely depends on your project. For those that wish to come to France permanently but not work, then the long stay visitors visa would the choice to go for. A one year non working visa that gets requested from country of origin but renewed in France. Certain financial criteria apply but do reach out to us should you need more support.
If you are looking for help with your smooth transition to France, then don’t hesitate to reach out to the LBS team here