London attracts the French with its dynamism, rich culture and professional opportunities. The Brexit may have changed the administrative landscape, but the attractiveness of the British capital remains intact. Whether you’re looking for a new professional challenge or a change of lifestyle, London has something to offer you.
However, moving to London as a French citizen requires a certain amount of preparation and specific administrative procedures. For example, you’ll need to take care of obtaining the right visa. You’ll also need to find accommodation, register with the social security system and open a bank account.
Whether you’re a recent graduate looking for adventure or a family looking for a new way of life, it’s important to prepare your expatriation project in London.
Brexit and new rules: what the French need to know
As of January 1, 2021, the UK has officially left the European Union. This has brought significant changes for European citizens living in London, including the French.
Administrative formalities
- Visa: French nationals must now obtain a visa to live and work in the UK, depending on their situation (employment, studies, family, etc.).
- Social Security: French nationals are no longer affiliated to the French Social Security system, but to the British system (NHS). Registration with a general practitioner (GP) is required to access care.
- Residence rights : French nationals established in London before December 31, 2020 have been able to obtain permanent resident status and maintain their rights. Those arriving after this date must apply for an appropriate visa.
Daily Life
- Travel: For stays of less than six months, French nationals can travel to the UK with their identity card. However, a passport is required for longer stays or for travel to other countries.
- Employment: French nationals need a work permit to work in the UK. Conditions vary according to job type and qualifications.
- Cost of living: fluctuations in the pound sterling since the Brexit may impact the cost of living in London for the French.
How to find the perfect visa
Before embarking on the administrative formalities, it’s important to determine which type of visa best suits your situation. London offers a multitude of visas to meet the diverse needs of French expatriates.
- Work visa (Settlement Worker): For skilled workers with a firm job offer and a guaranteed minimum wage.
- Student Visa: Enables students to follow a course of study at an accredited higher education institution in the UK.
- Family Visa: Includes visas for the spouse, dependent children and dependent elderly parents of a British citizen or a European national with permanent resident status.
- Entrepreneur Visa: For innovative entrepreneurs wishing to set up or expand a business in the UK.
- Working Holiday Visa: Allows young people aged 18 to 30 to stay and work in the UK for up to 12 months.
Eligibility conditions and required documents
Each type of visa has its own eligibility criteria and list of supporting documents. It’s essential to check these carefully on the official UK government website to make sure you meet all the requirements.
Commonly requested documents include :
- A valid passport
- A passport photo meeting the required standards
- Proof of address
- A health certificate
- Financial documents (bank statements, pay slips, etc.)
- Proof of acceptance into an educational institution (for student visas)
- Job offer and employment contract (for work visas)
Visa Processing Procedures and Times
Visa applications can be made online or in person at an approved visa center. Processing times depend on the type of visa and the country of residence. It is therefore advisable to start the process early, especially if you plan to travel during a busy period.
The cost of a visa application varies according to the type of visa and the country of residence. You can check the exact fees on the UK government website. It is important to note that these fees are non-refundable, even if your visa is refused.
Accommodation in London: our tips for making the right choice
London offers a diversity of neighborhoods. Each with its own charm: from the bustling center to the chic west, from the trendy east to the multicultural south, and the leafy north. To find your haven, start by defining your budget and priorities (location, type of accommodation, etc.). Then explore specialized platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, Gumtree and Airbnb, as well as real estate agencies. Don’t forget to arrange visits and negotiate the terms of the contract! In fact, we’ve written a full article on the most popular areas in London for the French.
Health in London: combine NHS and private insurance for peace of mind
The National Health Service (NHS) is a major asset to your health in London, offering free access to a full range of care, from general practice to hospital treatment. To take full advantage of this service, it’s essential to register with a General Practitioner (GP). This simple procedure, which can be carried out online or in person, gives you a dedicated doctor for your day-to-day medical care. However, to complete this coverage and ensure extended health protection, we recommend that you take out international health insurance. This offers peace of mind by covering costs not covered by the NHS, such as dental treatment, optical care, or medical expenses when traveling abroad. By combining access to the NHS with international health insurance, you can be sure of comprehensive health cover tailored to your specific needs.
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Opening a bank account: your keys to managing your finances
To manage your day-to-day finances in the British capital, opening a local bank account is an essential step. Many banks and financial institutions offer packages specially designed for expatriates. These can include services such as online banking, debit and credit cards, and international transfers.
Opening a bank account in the UK usually requires the following documents: a valid passport, proof of address (such as a utility bill or tenancy agreement), a valid visa if applicable, and proof of income (such as bank statements or payslips).
Here are a few tips to help you choose the bank that’s right for you:
- Compare account management fees, interest rates and online banking options.
- Choose a bank with easily accessible branches in your neighborhood.
- Make sure you understand the account opening conditions for non-residents.
Getting around: everything you need to know about London’s transport system
London has a dense and efficient public transport network.
- Subway: Fast and convenient! With 11 lines and over 270 stations, it serves the whole city.
- Buses: Covering a wide range of areas, London buses are an economical way to get around.
- Trains: Ideal for longer journeys, especially to cities and airports around London.
- Black cabs: Emblematic of the city, black cabs offer top-of-the-range comfort but higher prices.
- Bikes: London actively encourages cycling with its many cycle paths and self-service bike hire scheme (Santander Cycles).
| Means of transport | Description | Benefits | Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subway | 11 lines, over 270 stations | Fast, serves the whole city | Favour off-peak hours |
| Bus | Wide coverage, numerous stops | Economical, good night network | Take with Oyster Card for reduced rate |
| Trains | Long distances to cities & airports | Comfortable, fast off-center | Buy tickets in advance to save money |
| Black cabs | Iconic London cabs | Comfort, flexibility | More expensive, ideal for short trips or overnight stays |
| Bikes (Santander Cycles) | Self-service rental, numerous trails | Ecological, flexible | Use safe bicycle paths |
Oyster card and tickets
The Oyster Card is an essential tool for getting around the British capital. This rechargeable ticket is valid on all London transport networks. It offers a convenient “pay-as-you-go” payment system, with a daily spending cap to ensure economical journeys.
In addition to the Oyster Card, other ticketing options are available to suit your specific needs and travel patterns. Travelcards, for example, offer greater flexibility for regular travel over a given period, while day passes are ideal for one-off trips. By mastering these different options, you’ll be able to optimize your journeys and explore London with ease.
Integrating in London: practical advice for a fulfilling life
- Find a job: Consult job boards such as Indeed, Reed.co.uk or Monster, and register with specialized recruitment agencies.
- Shopping: London is packed with supermarkets (Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose), food markets and specialist stores to suit all tastes and budgets.
- Get involved in local life: Take part in cultural events, join clubs or associations that match your interests, talk to your neighbors and get involved in neighborhood life.
Moving to London as a Frenchman: a life change
Moving to London as a Frenchman represents an enriching adventure, offering a multitude of professional, cultural and personal opportunities. Despite the changes brought about by Brexit, the British capital retains its undeniable appeal. To make a success of your expatriation, good preparation and the completion of specific administrative formalities are essential, including obtaining the right visa, finding accommodation and registering with local health and financial services. By mastering these key steps and familiarizing yourself with everyday London life, you’ll be able to take full advantage of everything this dynamic city has to offer, whether professional, social or cultural.
