Since Brexit, the rules for UK passport holders wishing to stay in France or a French Overseas Territory have changed significantly. While short trips of up to 90 days within any 180-day period remain visa-free, a Long-stay Visa is now a requirement for anyone intending to reside for more than three months.
But who exactly needs this visa, and what diverse motivations drive UK citizens to seek an extended stay in France? We’ve made up some personas that neatly represent common scenarios.
1. The Retiree Relocators
Names
Margaret (72) & John (75) Davies
Background
Recently retired, financially comfortable, sold their family home in the UK, and are looking to spend their golden years enjoying the slower pace of life, warmer climate, and culture of rural France. They are considering a long-term rental or even purchasing a property.
Needs
They’re after a straightforward, reliable visa application process that minimises stress. They value clear instructions and support with paperwork. They might be less tech-savvy and prefer personalised assistance.
Pain Points
Complexity of international bureaucracy, fear of making errors in the application, language barriers.
Why Nexus Visas
They need a service that can handle the intricacies of a long-stay visa application, ensuring all documents are correct and submitted efficiently.
2. The Excited University Student
Name
Liam O’Connell (19)
Background
Recently accepted into a university program in Paris for a three-year degree. He’s excited about the academic opportunity and experiencing French culture but is new to navigating international administrative processes.
Needs
A student visa that allows him to reside and study in France for the duration of his course. He wants clear guidance on all required academic and financial documentation.
Pain Points
Understanding the specific financial proof required, navigating the online application portals, ensuring all university-related documents are correctly translated and submitted.
Why Nexus Visas
A service that can simplify the student visa application process, ensuring all necessary paperwork is in order so he can focus on his studies and move.
3. The Family Moving for a School Place
Names
The Henderson Family: Sarah (40), Mark (42), and Emily (10)
Background
Emily has secured a coveted place at an international school in Nice, prompting the family’s decision to relocate to France. Sarah and Mark will likely seek employment once settled but need to ensure Emily’s schooling is secured first.
Needs
A visa that allows the entire family to reside in France, specifically accommodating Emily’s school enrollment. Guidance on family reunification and long-stay visitor categories, potentially transitioning to other visa types later.
Pain Points
Coordinating applications for multiple family members, proving financial stability for the family, understanding the health insurance requirements for all, and ensuring Emily’s school admission documents are correctly submitted.
Why Nexus Visas
A service that can manage complex family applications, provide comprehensive support for all members, and guide them through the nuances of relocating with a child attending school.
4. The Family Moving for a Spouse’s Job
Name
Sarah (35) & Tom (37) Miller with children Leo (7) & Mia (4)
Background
One spouse has secured a job in France and they are planning a gradual, long-term move, starting with a visitor visa while they sort out more permanent residency options. This might be a less common scenario for a visitor visa, but a ‘long-stay visitor’ could bridge a gap.
Needs
A visa that allows the entire family to stay together for an extended period while more permanent arrangements are made (e.g., waiting for work permits, school admissions).
Pain Points
Coordinating applications for multiple family members, ensuring all child-related documentation is correct, potential for multiple visa applications.
Why Nexus Visas
A service that can manage complex family applications and provide comprehensive support for all members.
Review your Eligibility before Diving into an Application
These scenarios highlight the diverse motivations and needs of UK passport holders seeking a long-stay visitor visa for France. If any of this sounds familiar you may fit the bill for an application. That said, before you start your application, we recommend you fully understand your eligibility before proceeding with the work required.
Hope this helps! Help is at hand if you need it.
