France is among the oldest countries. Located in Western Europe, it is the largest country in that region. It is home to more than 67 million people and uses French as its official language. It has always been a center of attraction to tourists and the world at large. Ranging from its amazing food and exotic wines to beautiful and romantic cities. The country has made a big impact in the art and fashion industry worldwide. Popularly known as the home of art and fashion the richness of her deeply rooted culture cannot be underestimated.
Retiring to France at your golden age is a very wonderful idea. Especially if you are a lover of wines, food, art, fashion, etc. France also has available space for those interested in historical learning, architecture, and the business line as well. The lifestyle is simple and advanced, having lots of educational and wonderful places to visit. France maintains a high standard of living. To live there, you will be needing $696 per month outside of the accommodation. Through the aid of a financial expert retirement in France wouldn’t be much of a hectic thing to do.
Here is some necessary information you need to know before retirement to France.
Safety
No matter how lovely a location is, one must first consider their own safety. Europe is the world’s most tranquil continent, according to the Global Peace Index. France has ranked 29th most peaceful country in Europe and 55th in the world out of 163 countries. So far so good France has managed to secure peace and security in its region. Crimes like theft, pickpocketing, robbery and violent behaviors are majorly common in big cities and one needs to be aware of them. In France, there is no inter-regional warfare or religious strife.
Cost of living
France is a developed country with a good living standard. The cost of living in France isn’t quite affordable compared to other countries like Portugal especially if one wants to reside in big cities like Paris and Lyon. Eloquent and ostentatious lifestyle is well demonstrated in France housing one of the most expensive cities in the world (Paris). Although France also offers a lesser cost of living in rural areas. For instance, one can get a one-bedroom apartment for $728 in big cities and $568 in rural areas per month. Owning a house in France varies from €13852 to €3200 depending on the location.
Concerning retirement to France, one must properly check his budget before choosing a city of residence. Also, consult a financial expert to avoid mismanagement.
Visa requirements
Unlike some other countries, France doesn’t have a golden retirement visa. Although it allows for residence permits without a Visa to certain countries that are families of France or an EU member state. “D visa” or French national visas are to be applied for those who choose to enter and stay in France for up to a year. If you want to stay longer than a year you will need to apply for a French residence permit after 3 months of living there and meeting the criteria. This visa must be renewed annually. The following documents are necessary when applying for a visa in France:
- A valid passport
- Copies of older visas
- Proof of accommodation
- Medical insurance
- Birth Certificate from your country of origin
- Evidence of financial capabilities
Health care system
France has a national healthcare system that is largely funded by the government. In the World Index of Health Care, it was ranked 25th. Even after being one of the countries hit by the Covid 19 pandemic, France managed to bounce back to its feet due to its good health care system. One of the criteria for having a residence permit in France is Medical insurance. France delivers the high-quality health care that the elderly and elderly require. France is a great country to consider when planning a golden retirement. But one needs to be financially buoyant in planning one with the help of a financial expert.
