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Across the English Channel is a country known for good weather, food and culture, which means there’s no surprise that many Brits want to move here. France is a beautiful country that offers busy city living and quiet seaside towns, and regardless of whether you’re moving for work or retirement, there are dozens of reasons to live in this country. But before you make any commitments, here’s a look at some of the essential areas to consider if you are a UK citizen looking to move to France.
French Visa Requirements
Currently, British citizens don’t actually need a residence permit or visa to work, study or live in France. But in June 2016, the UK voted to leave the European Union during the countries referendum. Just under three years ago and it is still not yet known how this will affect British citizens that currently reside in France as the negotiations are still currently underway. This won’t change until the official date of exit as the decision to leave is still under scrutiny, but for expats, there is the possibility that they lose their right to work in France.

For people who currently own or want to buy a property in France, they should be aware that the exit may trigger an alteration in tax laws and inheritance. It’s best to speak to a European tax expert if you a concerned about your current property.

Brexit isn’t making moving to France easy, but if it is something you want to do in the near future, there is little you actually need to do in regards to moving, just make sure you are registered as a resident of France. As a UK national you can sign up for a carte de sejour (registration card), but it isn’t actually a requirement to have one
Driving in France
UK driving license holders are legally allowed to drive in France and reading about the slight differences about the road will help a lot. If you want, you can have your UK license changed into a French one, but after six months of driving, it is essential that you register your car with the French authorities.

Healthcare
The NHS offers an extensive guide into the healthcare system worth reading, to outline it, you will need a free European Health Insurance Card to receive emergency treatment. During the early stages of your move, it’s also a good idea to have comprehensive travel insurance to cover any medical problems that aren’t included with your EHIC.

After you have registered as a resident of France, you can get a social security card for healthcare called a Carte Vitale. After this, you then need to register with the local Caisse Primaire d’Assurance Maladie and they will show you the documents you need to complete your registration.
Why Live in France
Other than Paris, most France offers residents the simple life. A much slower pace when compared to the UK, France offers a warm climate that cherishes food and drinks by using sustainable farms and vineyards to create a modest lifestyle. This and the south of France have been ideal retirement locations for Brits for many years as it’s a beautiful country to live while being an easy journey back to the UK when required.

The Cost of Living in France
While rural France is very affordable, Paris is a costly city to live in and prices of accommodation are similar to London. Naturally, you can find compromises such as location, neighbourhood and living space to help reduce the costs. Other than the price of accommodation, the cost of utilities is similar to the UK, however broadband is more expensive as there is little competition in France to tempt any reduction in price. France also offers lower property taxes for those wanting to buy a home, which is another reason people move here to retire.

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