Moving to France Checklist: Everything Americans Need to Know

Last Updated: January 8, 2026

Affordability

Healthcare

Taxes

Safety

Stability

Relative Ratings versus the United States

TL;DR

France appeals to Americans seeking work-life balance and 'right to disconnect' culture. VLS-TS Visitor Visa requires ~€1,800/month income and proof of health insurance. Talent Passport available for entrepreneurs investing €30,000+. Living costs 25% cheaper than comparable US cities. World-class PUMa healthcare system covers 70-100% of most medical costs.

What Makes France Ideal for Americans?

France has maintained its position in the top 15 for 2026, buoyed by a post-2024 Olympic "glow" and a much-needed simplification of its online visa application process. For Americans, France represents the pinnacle of "lifestyle" relocation. Beyond the romance of Paris, American interest is shifting toward provincial life in the Dordogne and Occitanie. The French commitment to "the right to disconnect" and a legal 35-hour work week makes it an ideal destination for those suffering from American burnout.

France is a high-tax, high-service country. Americans should expect to pay more to the government but receive a level of social security and public amenities that are often non-existent in the U.S.

What Visa Options Are Available for Americans?

France offers several long-stay options that do not require a French employer.

VLS-TS (Visitor Visa): The most popular for those who don't intend to work in France. You must show a monthly income (roughly equivalent to the French minimum wage) and promise not to seek local employment. This is perfect for remote workers with non-French clients.
Talent Passport: A multi-year residency permit for "internationally renowned" talent, researchers, or those starting a business with an investment of at least €30,000.

Available Visa Pathways:

Education
Work
Entrepreneurship
Retirement
Study
Other (Visitor Visa)

How Does Retirement Work for Americans in France?

France is welcoming to American retirees via the VLS-TS Visitor Visa; you simply need to demonstrate a stable pension or savings of approx. $1,800/month and proof of health insurance to enjoy a life of leisure in the French countryside.

What Is the Cost of Living Like Compared to USA Cities?

In 2026, living in a French city like Lyon or Bordeaux is roughly 25% cheaper than in an equivalent U.S. city like Denver; wine, cheese, and high-quality produce are significantly more affordable than in American supermarkets.

How Does Healthcare Work for Americans?

The French "PUMa" system allows Americans living in France for more than three months to access the national healthcare system; it is consistently ranked as one of the best in the world, with the government covering about 70-100% of most medical costs.

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At Bring Me Abroad, we synthesize official government data, local legal requirements, and real expat experiences to create our relocation guides. Our goal is to simplify the complex process of moving abroad for US citizens.

About Aaron

Aaron is a seasoned designer and entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience building digital products for the SaaS and hospitality industries. In 2023, he navigated the complex journey of relocating from the U.S. to the Netherlands—a process that revealed a fragmented landscape of outdated visa blogs and "browser tab overload." After successfully launching a design studio in the Netherlands, Aaron co-founded Bring Me Abroad to solve the "Day 1" information gap. His mission is to democratize relocation by replacing expensive consultants with high-utility, data-driven reports that help early-stage explorers get situated quickly. When he isn't decoding immigration logistics, Aaron can be found cycling through the Dutch rain in search of the perfect apple pie or navigating the nuances of the Dutch language.