Q: "I read that you must have US health insurance and a large sum of money in a US bank account to move to France - is that true?" Submitted by @vibranttravelers
Photos (X100V with a custom recipe): Fetes des Plantes, Chateau de Chantilly. Please see previous post for additional info on this event.
A: There are four primary categories of long-stay visas for Americans who wish to stay in France beyond 90 days : tourism, professional, studies, & family. If you are from another country, this post will likely remain relatable to you.
@vibranttravelers is likely referring to the VLS-TS visa that many use to retire in France. The visas for working professionals are quite different. If you'd like insight into that, please click the link in my bio to read my two-part story.
The short answer is yes. You must provide proof of several different requirements, including private healthcare insurance, and that you have the funds necessary to support yourself during your stay.
Private healthcare - This insurance must include international repatriation if you were to fall severely ill and cover the period of your stay or, if you are choosing the VLS-TS renewable visa that most retirees use, for at least a year. You'll keep this coverage until you receive confirmation from CPAM that you're accepted into the French medical system, which took me 16 months. Many also choose to take out a mutuelle, top-up insurance. The cost will depend upon your age, pre-existing health conditions, and the level of coverage.
Funds - On May 1, 2023, the French minimum monthly gross wage increased to €1,747.20 (or $1,900.69 in today's exchange). This is the MINIMUM you need to prove in liquid savings or monthly revenues, per adult, for the duration of your stay.
PLEASE REMEMBER: As a general rule, you are a resident of France if you spend more than 183 days a year here, TOTAL. You must pay French taxes (on your GLOBAL wealth) and submit French tax returns!
