France Visa Visiteur: Who Long-Term Residence without Work Is For
A route for private long-term residence with sufficient resources, accommodation and medical cover, without professional activity.
This article provides general information. The result for an individual depends on their family, professional and financial circumstances and on the rules in force.
Who should consider it
The route may suit financially independent applicants, pensioners and families with stable resources who do not need to work while living in France.
The restriction on work
Visa Visiteur is based on residence without professional activity. Remote work for a foreign company should not be assumed permissible merely because the employer is outside France.
Resources, accommodation and insurance
The application should show sufficient and sustainable resources, genuine accommodation and appropriate medical cover for the intended stay.
Owning a foreign company
Receiving dividends is different from actively managing a business. Signing contracts, directing staff or providing services may amount to professional activity.
Tax after moving
A prohibition on work does not mean there are no taxes. Living in France may lead to French tax residence and reporting of foreign income, accounts and real estate.