Securing the Long-Stay Visitor Visa (VLS-TS)
Retiring in France, for non-EU/EEA citizens, does not involve a specific 'retirement visa.' Instead, individuals must apply for a Long-Stay Visa acting as a Residence Permit (VLS-TS) in the 'visitor' category. This visa allows you to live in France for more than three months without seeking employment. The key is to prove you can support yourself financially, as working for a wage is strictly prohibited under this visa category. After your first year, you must apply for a residence permit (carte de séjour) to remain in France legally.
The Financial Threshold: Understanding the SMIC Benchmark
The income requirement is a crucial part of the visa application and is tied to the Salaire Minimum Interprofessionnel de Croissance (SMIC), the French minimum wage. This benchmark ensures that retirees will not be a financial burden on the state. For 2025, the approximate minimum monthly income for a single applicant is €1,400 net, or around €17,000 annually. However, it is always recommended to exceed this minimum to strengthen your application, as some consulates or local prefectures may have higher expectations.
Documenting Your Financial Resources
To meet the financial requirements, applicants must provide documented proof of sufficient and reliable income. This is where a thorough approach to your finances is essential. The visa authorities are looking for stability and consistency over time, not just a one-off deposit of funds.
- Proof of Income: Pension statements, including those from government or private retirement accounts, are a primary form of evidence. Regular dividends from investments or rental income from properties outside of France are also acceptable.
- Proof of Savings: If you don't have a regular passive income stream, or to supplement it, you can demonstrate significant savings. It is often recommended to show liquid savings equivalent to at least two to three times the annual SMIC, roughly €60,000 or more per person, as reserves.
- Bank Statements: Most consulates will require recent, consecutive bank statements, typically for the last three to six months, to prove the flow of funds and overall financial health.
- Other Documentation: Other relevant documents might include investment account summaries or statements showing expected income, such as from the future sale of property.
Financial Considerations for Couples and Families
If you are applying as a couple, the income requirements increase. While the exact figure can vary, a joint annual income in the range of €20,000 to €25,000 is often cited as sufficient. If you have dependents, the required amount will increase further. It is best to consult the specific requirements of the French consulate serving your area, as these can differ.
Comparing Income Requirements
To provide a clearer picture, the following table summarizes the typical financial expectations based on applicant status. It's important to remember these are benchmarks, and having a higher income or savings amount can only be beneficial for your application.
| Applicant Status | Minimum Monthly Income Benchmark | Minimum Annual Income Benchmark |
|---|---|---|
| Single Applicant | ~$1,400+ | ~$17,000+ |
| Couple | ~$1,667–$2,083+ | ~$20,000–$25,000+ |
| Family (with dependents) | Consult consulate | Consult consulate |
Beyond Income: Other Financial Requirements
Sufficient income is not the only financial box to check. Other critical components include:
- Health Insurance: You must secure private health insurance that covers you for your first 12 months in France, including emergency care, hospitalization, and repatriation, with coverage of at least €30,000.
- Accommodation: Proof of a place to live is mandatory. This can be a rental agreement, property ownership deeds, or an attestation d'hébergement (certificate of accommodation) if staying with a host.
- Visa Fees: Expect to pay visa application fees. In 2025, the fee is typically around €99 for the VLS-TS visa, plus a fee of €200 and a tax of €50 when validating it with the OFII after arrival.
The Financial Application Process in Detail
Understanding the step-by-step process helps in organizing your finances and documents for the visa application.
- Gather Financial Documents: Start collecting recent bank statements, pension award letters, and investment summaries. Aim for at least six months of consecutive statements to show consistency.
- Ensure Healthcare Coverage: Research and purchase a private international health insurance policy that meets French visa requirements. Make sure it explicitly covers repatriation and high-level medical expenses.
- Compile Proof of Accommodation: Secure your living arrangements in France and obtain the necessary documentation. This could involve signing a lease or getting a formal letter from a host.
- Complete the Online Application: Use the official France-Visas website to start your application. The online wizard will help you determine the correct visa type and compile the required documents.
- Schedule and Attend Your Consular Appointment: Book and attend an appointment at the designated visa center or French consulate. Bring all your original and photocopied documents. Be prepared to discuss your financial situation in detail with the visa officer.
Conclusion: Planning for Your French Retirement
The financial requirements for retiring in France are clear but demand meticulous preparation. By demonstrating a passive income stream, showing adequate savings, and securing the necessary health insurance and accommodation, you can significantly increase your chances of a successful visa application. Starting early, gathering all documents, and perhaps consulting with an immigration expert can make the process smoother. With diligent planning, your dream of a French retirement can become a reality, allowing you to enjoy the country's rich culture and beautiful landscapes worry-free.
A Note on UK Nationals Post-Brexit
As of Brexit, UK nationals are treated as non-EU citizens and must also apply for the VLS-TS Visiteur visa. The financial requirements, based on the SMIC, apply to them as they do to applicants from the US and other non-EU countries.
