These days many Americans are asking themselves the same question, how can I move to France? While you may be tempted to just hop on a plane with a 3 month tourist visa, a permanent stay will be much easier if you do a little research and preparation in advance. There are several options, however, planning is key.

Visas for permanent residency

Once you receive a 1 year long-stay visa (VLS-TS), you can then apply for a carte de sejour (French residence permit). There are several different types of carte de sejour, each one adapted to a certain profile:

• “Carte de sejour temporaire visiteur” (visitor visa) :  This allows you to simply live or retire in France by proving you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself without working. (typically €120/day)
• “Salarié” (salaried worker) :  If you work for a French company, your employer can initiate a ¨salarié¨ visa and residency application process on your behalf. 
• ¨Passeport talent¨ (talent passport):  This is destined to individuals with specific skills and talents, especially in the tech field. 
• ¨Profession libérale¨ (Self-Employed): This permit is for individuals who want to establish a business or practice a profession that is considered viable and legal in France. 
• ¨Investisseur¨ (Investor): This permit is for individuals who invest a significant amount of money in a French business, normally at least €300,000.

Financial Considerations

• French Bank Account: A local French bank account is not only necessary for your everyday purchases, but will be essential for any property rental/purchase. 
• US Accounts: One of the biggest problems we encounter is US banks no longer willing to service their American clients with an overseas address. Reach out to a Harrison Brook cross-border advisors if you need assistance managing your US accounts.  
• Taxes: US expats in France have the double duty of filing both US and French taxes, which can be complicated and overwhelming. However, the US-France tax treaty offers some big advantages such as only taxing US investments and retirement income only in the US. That’s why it’s important to work with the right tax advisor to assure you are filing your taxes correctly and fully compliant.
• State taxes: One of the big benefits of living in France is US expats don’t have to file and pay state taxes. This can be a big benefit if your state imposed high income taxes and/or inheritance taxes.
• Retirement Accounts: If you have accumulated investments in an American retirement account (401k, IRA, etc.) or brokerage account, it’s important your finances comply with both French and American regulations. At Harrison Brook, we have done the legwork to partner with world-renown custodians that allow our US expats clients to invest their funds in a large range of securities – including US ETFs – all while using their overseas address. 

Peace of Mind with the Harrison Brook Team

Based out of our offices in Nice and Bordeaux, Harrison Brook is your local solution for a smooth transition to a new life in France. Our advisors also regularly meet clients in Paris where a majority of our clients live. Our cross-border financial advisors work hand in hand with immigration lawyers and tax specialists specialized in Americans living in France. Don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule a free consultation with a Harrison Brook advisor.

For more information, don’ t hesitate to take a look at our other articles about moving to France:

• Can Americans move to France
• Moving to France: The essential immigration guide for American expats
• Moving to France: Tax and financial responsibilities for Americans living in France