🇫🇷

France

Western Europe, Europe

About France

Long-stay visa requires €1,400/month with 10-30% lower costs than major US cities.

France's long-stay visitor visa (VLS-TS) requires €1,400/month income ($1,540) for singles or €2,100 for couples. The visa costs €225 plus €30-45 service fees. Overall costs run 10-30% lower than major US cities, with healthcare and education significantly more affordable. A 2026 policy change will introduce mandatory healthcare contributions for non-EU visa holders, potentially adding several hundred to over €1,000 annually. Long-term residency health insurance is required (€800-2,000/year depending on age). The visa suits retirees, passive income earners, and remote workers for non-French companies.

Country Overview

Key indicators to help you understand what life in France might be like

Cost of LivingBelow Average

Healthcare QualityExcellent

SafetyGood

English PrevalenceModerate

Visa AccessibilityModerate

Data last updated: 1/7/2026

Highlights

✓Cost of living 10-30% lower than major US cities
✓World-renowned healthcare system
✓Long-stay visa for retirees and passive income earners
✓Path to permanent residency and citizenship
✓Excellent public transportation infrastructure
✓Central location for European travel

Considerations

!New 2026 healthcare fee for non-EU nationals pending
!Private health insurance required (€800-2,000/year)
!French language essential outside Paris/tourist areas
!High taxes on local income
!Bureaucracy complex and slow

Visa Options

Available visa types for Americans looking to move to France

Long-Stay Visitor Visa (VLS-TS)

PASSIVE_INCOME

For retirees and those with passive income who will not work in France.

12 months

$1,400/mo min

Path to ResidencyPath to Citizenship

Ready to Plan Your Move?

Get detailed guides, visa checklists, and connect with others who've made the move.

Explore All Guides

Compare with Other Countries

See how France stacks up against other popular destinations.

Compare Countries

Not Sure Yet?

Take our quiz to find countries that match your lifestyle and priorities.

Take the Quiz