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France
Western Europe • Europe
Overview
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.
Visa Options
Long-Stay Visitor Visa (VLS-TS)
For retirees and those with passive income who will not work in France.
Min. $1,400/mo
~8 weeks processing
Path to citizenship
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
Quick Stats
Affordability30/100
Healthcare Quality88/100
Safety72/100
English Spoken50/100
Data updated 1/26/2026