Brexit for British Expats in France: What to Know in 2025
Are you a British expat living in France or planning to move there? Nearly five years after the UK officially left the EU, many Britons are still unsure about their rights, residency, and healthcare access in France. In this updated guide, we explain everything you need to know in 2025 about Brexit and British expats in France, including residency rules, healthcare, travel, and more.
What’s the current status of Brexit in 2025?
Since the end of the Brexit transition period in December 2020, the UK has been officially treated as a third-country by the EU. This means that British citizens are no longer EU citizens and are subject to immigration rules similar to those applied to other non-EU nationals.
However, France has implemented special provisions to ease the process for British expats, especially those who were already living in the country before Brexit.
Residency in France for British Citizens
If you were living in France before Brexit
- If you were a legal resident before 31 December 2020, you should have already applied for the WARP residence permit (Withdrawal Agreement Residence Permit).
- This permit protects your right to remain in France long-term, work, access healthcare, and more.
If you moved to France after Brexit
- You now need a long-stay visa (visa de long séjour) to move to France.
- Once in France, you must apply for a residence permit within two months.
- There are several types of permits available (visitor, employee, family reunification, etc.), depending on your situation.
Holiday Homes and Second-Home Owners
If you own a second home in France but are not a resident, the 90/180 rule applies:
- You can stay in France for up to 90 days in any rolling 180-day period without a visa.
- If you want to stay longer, you must apply for a temporary long-stay visa.
Healthcare in France for British Expats
If you’re a legal resident:
- You can register for PUMa (Protection Universelle Maladie) and access the French public healthcare system.
- Make sure you have a social security number and a carte Vitale.
If you’re visiting:
- The EHIC card is no longer valid for UK citizens post-Brexit.
- Instead, apply for a GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card).
- Always take out comprehensive travel insurance if you’re staying short-term.
Can I Still Travel Between the UK and France?
Yes, but:
- You must respect Schengen travel limits (90 days in 180).
- You may be asked to show proof of accommodation, return ticket, and sufficient funds at the border.
- Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after your planned return date.
Summary: Key Info for British Expats in France in 2025
| Topic | Before Brexit | After Brexit |
|---|---|---|
| Residency | No formalities | Long-stay visa & residence permit |
| Travel | Unlimited stays | 90/180 rule without visa |
| Healthcare | EHIC valid | GHIC or local registration needed |
| Work rights | Automatic | Work visa or WARP required |
Looking for a Furnished Apartment in France?
Whether you’re relocating permanently or looking for a temporary stay, Lodgis offers a wide range of furnished rentals in France, from Paris to Lyon, Bordeaux, Marseille and more. We help British expats find homes that meet their needs – with or without lift access, in quiet neighborhoods, or close to public transport.