France Digital Nomad Visa — How to Be a Nomad in France?

Working from France as a digital nomad sounds like a dream. Imagine tapping away on your laptop in a cozy Paris café, walking by the Seine during breaks, or exploring Bordeaux's vineyards on the weekend. While France doesn't have a specific digital nomad visa, there are still ways to make living and working remotely in France happen. Here's how you can do it and enjoy the French way of life.

Why France is Great for Digital Nomads

France is famous for its history, culture, and beautiful scenery. Whether it's the lively streets of Paris or the peaceful fields of Provence, there's something for everyone. The country offers a high quality of life with good healthcare, transport, and amazing food everywhere you go. If you're a remote worker looking for a mix of professional vibes and cultural experiences, France is a fantastic choice.

Understanding Visas for Remote Workers in France

Even though there's no official digital nomad visa, don't let that stop you. There are several visa options that let you stay longer, so you can work remotely while enjoying all that France has to offer.

The Long-Stay Visa (Visa de Long Séjour)

The Long-Stay Visa lets you stay in France for more than 90 days, up to a year. It's a popular pick for digital nomads who want to dive into French life without moving there permanently.

• Who can get it? Non-EU citizens who can show they have enough money to live on during their stay. You'll need to provide proof like bank statements or job contracts.

• Working rules: You can keep working for your employer or clients outside France. The main thing is not to take up local French jobs.

• How to apply: Send your application to the French consulate or embassy in your home country. You'll typically need:

  • A filled-out visa application form.

  • A valid passport that lasts at least six months beyond your stay.

  • Proof of enough money (like bank statements or job contracts).

  • Health insurance covering your whole stay.

  • Details of where you'll stay (like a rental agreement or hotel booking).

  • A letter explaining why you want to stay longer.

• Things to remember: It can take a while to process, so start early. Make sure all your documents are in order to avoid delays.

The Profession Libérale Visa

If you're a freelancer or self-employed, the Profession Libérale visa could be the right fit.

• Who is it for? Those who want to run their own professional activity in France. This includes freelancers, consultants, artists, and other independent workers.

• Perks: With this visa, you can legally do business in France. You can offer your services to French clients, which you can't do with just the Long-Stay Visa.

• What you need: Applying for this visa is a bit more involved. You'll need:

  • A detailed business plan about what you'll be doing.

  • Proof of your qualifications or experience.

  • Evidence you have enough money to support yourself at the start.

  • Registration with the right French professional groups or business chambers.

• How to apply: Like the Long-Stay Visa, apply through the French consulate or embassy in your country. It might help to talk to an immigration expert who knows French rules.

Taxes: What You Should Know

Before you pack your bags, it's good to understand how taxes work. France is known for high taxes, and as a digital nomad, you need to know what this means for you.

Becoming a Tax Resident in France

• When are you a tax resident? According to French law, you're a tax resident if:

  • France is your main home.

  • You spend more than 183 days in France in a year.

  • Your main job is in France.

  • Your main financial interests are in France.

• What does this mean? If you're a tax resident, you have to pay French income tax on all your global income. This includes salaries, freelance earnings, investments, and more.

Avoiding Being Taxed Twice

• Double taxation agreements: France has agreements with many countries to prevent you from paying taxes twice on the same income.

• What to do:

  • Check if your home country has a tax deal with France.

  • Keep good records of your income, expenses, and the time you spend in France.

  • Think about getting advice from a tax expert who understands international taxes.

Social Security Payments

• Possible costs: Depending on your visa and how long you stay, you might need to pay into the French social security system.

• Benefits: While this might cost more, it gives you access to French healthcare and other services.

Living Costs in France

Knowing how much things cost helps you plan your budget. Prices can vary a lot based on where you are and how you live.

Where to Live

• Paris vs. other cities: Paris is more expensive than other places in France. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Paris can cost €1,200 to €2,000 per month. In cities like Lyon or Toulouse, it might be €700 to €1,000.

• Smaller towns: If you're okay with living in smaller towns or the countryside, rent is much cheaper. Plus, you get to see the real French lifestyle.

Getting Around

• Public transport: France has great public transport. A monthly pass in big cities is about €75.

• Traveling between cities: High-speed trains (TGV) connect major cities, making trips easy. Book early to save money.

• Biking and walking: Many cities are good for biking, and walking is a great way to see the sights and stay fit.

Eating and Drinking

• Groceries: Shopping at local markets can save money and gives you fresh food. Expect to spend around €250-€350 a month on groceries.

• Eating out: France is known for its food. A meal at a normal restaurant might cost €15-€25, and a coffee in a café is about €2-€3.

Fun and Activities

• Museums and sights: Many offer discounts or free entry on certain days.

• Outdoor fun: France has everything from beaches to mountains, so you can hike, bike, and more without spending much.

Living the French Way

Living in France isn't just about work; it's about enjoying a culture filled with traditions, art, and a lifestyle people admire worldwide.

Finding a Place to Stay

• Short-term stays: Websites like Airbnb and Booking.com are good for short stays while you look for something longer.

• Long-term rentals: Sites like Leboncoin or SeLoger list places to rent. You can also talk to local agents to find the right spot.

• What you'll need: Be ready to provide:

  • Proof of income or savings.

  • ID documents (passport, visa).

  • Sometimes a guarantor, especially for unfurnished places.

Healthcare in France

• How it works: France has one of the best healthcare systems. As a resident, you might be able to use the public system (PUMA).

• Health insurance: Until you're eligible, or if you prefer, make sure you have health insurance that covers you in France.

• Signing up for healthcare: After you've been in France for more than three months and have a residence permit, you can apply for public healthcare.

Day-to-Day Life

• Learning French: While many people speak English, especially where tourists go, knowing French makes life easier. Try language classes or apps.

• Local customs:

  • Saying hello: A handshake or cheek kisses (la bise) are common greetings.

  • Meal times: Eating is a leisurely activity. Take your time and enjoy.

  • Being on time: For social events, it's okay to be a bit late. For work meetings, be punctual.

Making Friends and Connections

• Join groups: Look for local expat groups, professional networks, or clubs based on your hobbies.

• Co-working spaces: There are many co-working spots perfect for remote workers. They offer a chance to meet others.

• Events and gatherings: Check out sites like Meetup.com for events ranging from tech talks to hiking trips.

Tips to Settle In

• Phone and Internet:

  • Companies like Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free offer different plans.

  • Bundling mobile and home internet can save money.

• Banking:

  • Opening a French bank account can make payments easier.

  • Banks like BNP Paribas, Société Générale, or online ones like N26 are popular.

  • You'll usually need ID, proof of address, and residency documents.

• Transport Passes:

  • Getting a monthly or yearly transport pass can save money if you use public transport often.

  • In places like Paris, the Navigo pass gives unlimited travel in certain zones.

Other European Options

If France's visas are tricky or you want to see more of Europe, nearby countries have digital nomad visas.

Spain's Digital Nomad Visa

Spain has a visa just for remote workers. It lets you stay up to 12 months, with a chance to extend. You'll need to show proof of income, health insurance, and a clean criminal record.

Portugal's D7 Visa

Portugal's D7 Visa is great for those with passive income or remote work earnings. It gives you residency and access to public services. You'll need to prove income, accommodation, and have health insurance.

Estonia's Digital Nomad Visa

Estonia offers a digital nomad visa that lets remote workers stay up to a year. The application is straightforward, and their e-residency program is good for entrepreneurs.

Enjoying Your Time in France

• Be organized: Keep copies of all important papers.

• Get involved: Join local festivals and events to understand the culture better.

• Travel around: France has a lot to offer, from beaches to mountains. Take time to explore.

• Stay updated: Laws can change. Check official websites or talk to professionals for the latest info.

FAQ

Can I work remotely in France without a visa?

If you're from a country in the Schengen Area or one that's visa-free for short stays, you can stay and work remotely in France for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. For longer stays, you'll need the right long-stay visa.

Do I have to pay taxes in France as a digital nomad?

If you become a tax resident by meeting certain rules (like staying more than 183 days), you'll need to pay taxes on all your income. It's important to know your tax duties and maybe talk to a tax expert.

How do I apply for the Long-Stay Visa?

Here's how: Contact the French consulate or embassy in your country. Gather needed documents like proof of funds, health insurance, accommodation info, and a valid passport. Fill out the visa form and write a letter explaining why you want to stay. Submit your application and go to any required interviews.

Is it necessary to speak French?

While you can manage in tourist areas without French, knowing the language really helps. It makes daily life easier and is useful for dealing with official matters.

What if I want to stay longer than one year?

To stay longer, you'll need to apply for a residence permit. This means showing you still have enough money, explaining why you want to stay, and meeting other requirements.

Are there limits on the kind of remote work I can do?

As long as you're not taking up local jobs in France or offering services to French companies (unless your visa allows it), you can keep working remotely for employers or clients outside France.

Can I change my tourist visa to a long-stay visa while in France?

Usually, you can't switch from a short-stay tourist visa to a long-stay visa while in France. You'll need to apply for the long-stay visa from your home country.