Since Brexit, many UK residents have been exploring ways to reconnect with Europe for work opportunities, investment, or retirement. France, with its strong economy, rich culture, and easy access to the rest of the EU, has become an appealing destination.
Although there is no official France Golden Visa programme like in some neighbouring countries, the country offers a similar pathway through its French investment visa, part of the wider Talent Passport programme. This visa allows investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals to secure EU residency by contributing to France’s economy, opening doors to a stable, long-term life within the Schengen area.In this Remitly guide, you’ll learn what the French investment visa is, who can apply, the different investment options, and how to navigate the application process.
What is the France Golden Visa programme?
France’s version of the golden visa is officially called the Passeport Talent, or French Talent Passport – Business Investor visa, part of a broader initiative to attract international talent and investment while offering a pathway to long-term residency in the European Union.
With this visa, you can gain multi-year residency rights, which you can renew and eventually use as a route to permanent residency or French citizenship.
What sets it apart from other European golden visa programmes is its focus on active contribution rather than passive investment. You’ll be recognised for supporting local businesses, creating jobs, or funding innovation, rather than simply buying property.
Key features include:
- Renewable four-year residence permit that allows you to live, work, and invest in France
- Pathway to permanent residency after five years of continuous residence
- Eligibility for French citizenship once you meet residency and integration requirements
- Family reunification rights for your spouse and children
Since Brexit, many UK nationals have used this visa to regain freedom of movement within the Schengen area while establishing a base in one of Europe’s most dynamic economies.
Who can apply for the France Business Investor Visa?
If you’re a non-EU or non-EEA citizen, including UK nationals after Brexit, you can apply for the French investment visa. You’ll need to demonstrate significant financial resources and a genuine intent to contribute to France’s economy.
To be eligible, you’ll generally need:
- A clean criminal record.
- Proof that your investment funds are lawfully obtained.
- A qualifying investment that meets the minimum threshold.
- Evidence of sufficient financial means to support yourself and your family.
- Compliance with French business registration, tax, and employment regulations.
You can also bring your family under the same visa, typically including your spouse or civil partner and dependent children under 18 (sometimes older children, depending on their circumstances). Each family member receives a residence permit linked to yours, allowing them to live, study, or work in France.
French authorities will conduct standard security and background checks, helping to ensure you and your family meet all legal requirements.
Investment requirements and options
To qualify for a French investor visa, you’ll need to meet one of the recognised investment pathways. Depending on your goals, you can invest in real estate, a business, or government securities.
Real estate investment route
Buying property alone does not grant French residency. However, real estate can be part of your investment if it supports a business or economic purpose, such as funding a hospitality venture or co-owning a property development.
If your property purchase is linked to a business investment, you generally need to:
- Invest a minimum of €300,000 EUR (£260,423 GBP) in an eligible project (the exact threshold depends on the project type).
- Create or sustain jobs within four years through your investment.
- Ensure your property complies with local regulations and zoning laws.
For example, purchasing and renovating a boutique hotel that employs local staff would qualify, while buying a personal holiday home would not.
Business investment route
This is the most common pathway, ideal for entrepreneurs, business owners, or investors supporting French companies.
To qualify, you generally need to:
- Invest at least €300,000 EUR (£260,423 GBP) in fixed tangible or intangible assets, such as equipment, patents, or shares in a company.
- Create or retain employment or demonstrate equivalent economic impact, typically around 50 jobs over four years, depending on the size of the investment.
- Hold at least 10% ownership in the company you’re investing in.
You can either start your own company in France or invest in an existing business through a capital investment or partnership. This route is particularly appealing if you want to expand operations into the EU while securing long-term residency rights.
Government bond investment
Although less common, you can also qualify through investing in French government bonds (OATs: Obligations Assimilables du Trésor) or other state-backed securities as part of an approved investment plan.
Typical requirements include:
- Invest a minimum of €500,000 EUR (£434,038 GBP) in government bonds or other approved securities.
- Hold the investment for at least five years.
- Ensure that funds come from verifiable, legal sources.
While returns are generally modest, this low-risk option can support your residency goals.
Benefits of France Golden Visa residency
The France investment visa provides more than just legal residency; it opens the door to a range of social, economic, and lifestyle benefits.
EU residency and freedom of movement
Once approved, you’ll receive a residence permit granting full rights to live in France. You can also travel freely within the Schengen Area, which covers 29 European countries.
Pathway to citizenship
Your visa also offers a pathway to long-term French residency and citizenship after five years. Meeting language proficiency and integration requirements may allow you to pursue French citizenship, giving you full EU rights.
Access to healthcare and education
Living in France also provides access to its well-regarded national healthcare system (PUMA), ensuring comprehensive medical coverage for you and your family. Children can attend public schools and universities in France at reduced tuition rates.
Tax advantages
From a financial perspective, the visa may offer certain tax advantages. Under the expatriate tax regime, you could benefit from partial tax exemptions on income earned abroad during your first years of residence.
Family and lifestyle benefits
Beyond legal and financial benefits, the French investor visa allows you to embrace the lifestyle opportunities that France offers. You can own property, access local banking and financial services, and enjoy the country’s renowned culture, cuisine, and quality of life.
Step-by-step application process
Applying for the French investment visa requires careful preparation, but understanding each stage can make the process smoother.
Step 1: Gather your documents
Before you submit your application, you’ll need to collect all necessary documents, including:
- A valid passport (issued within the last 10 years) and three recent passport photos.
- A completed long-stay visa application (CERFA form) and France-Visas receipt.
- Proof of investment showing you’ve invested or committed at least €300,000 (£260,423) in fixed assets in France over four years.
- Evidence that you own or manage at least 30% of the business receiving the investment.
- An investment or business plan outlining how your project will create or protect jobs within four years.
- Proof of the lawful origin of funds and a clean criminal record certificate.
- Proof of health insurance and, if applicable, marriage or birth certificates for dependents.
- For in-country applications: proof of address and payment of residence permit tax.
Make sure all foreign documents are translated into French by a sworn translator officially recognised by France. Missing or untranslated items are a common cause of delays.
You may find it helpful to work with a qualified immigration lawyer who specialises in the French Talent Passport. Their guidance can help prevent delays or errors in your submission.
Step 2: Submitting your application
Applications are typically submitted through the French consulate in your country of residence. If you are already in France on another visa, you may be able to apply directly with the local Préfecture (local immigration office).
During submission, you will:
- Complete the long-stay visa application form.
- Pay the government fees (around €324 or £282 total).
- Attend an interview, where officials may ask you to explain your investment and provide supporting documentation.
Your processing time depends on your case complexity and how complete your application is, but most approvals take a few months.
Step 3: After approval
After approval, you receive a four-year renewable residence permit under the Passeport Talent: Investisseur Économique category. Upon arrival in France, you must:
- Register your residence within three months of arrival.
- Maintain your investment during the permit’s validity.
- Spend a significant portion of the year in France to keep your status active.
After five years, you may be eligible for permanent residency, and eventually French citizenship, provided you continue to meet requirements and integrate successfully.
Costs and fees breakdown
Beyond the minimum investment, here are the main fees to expect when applying for the French Talent Passport Business Investor visa:
| Cost Type | Estimated Amount | Notes |
| Government fees | £282 | Includes £86 long-stay visa, £174 OFII tax, and £22 stamp duty |
| Legal and advisory fees | £1,736 to £6,945 | Optional but recommended |
| Translation and notarisation | £174 to £434 | For official documents |
| Due diligence checks | £434 to £868 | May vary by provider |
| Renewal fee | £174 to £260 per year | For residence permit extensions |
(Note: numbers shown according to EUR to GBP exchange rate on 21 October 2025)
In addition to these standard fees, it’s worth budgeting for hidden costs such as travel for appointments or temporary accommodation during processing.
When it comes to other European investment programmes, those interested in France’s investment visa may also wish to explore Portugal’s Golden Visa, Greece’s Golden Visa, Spain’s Golden Visa, or Italy’s Golden Visa, each with its own unique requirements and advantages.
Common challenges and how to avoid them
Even well-prepared applicants may face obstacles:
- Incomplete paperwork: Missing translations or outdated certificates can delay processing. Check all documentation before submission.
- Unclear business plans: If investing in a company, ensure your plan clearly shows economic value or job creation.
- Language barriers: Official documents must be in French. Using a certified translator can help prevent rejections.
- Timing issues: The visa is valid only once issued. It helps to plan your move-in date and investment timeline carefully.
By preparing early and consulting qualified professionals, you can reduce stress and streamline your application process.
Start your France Golden Visa journey today
France’s investment visa programme offers a practical and flexible route to EU residency. Whether you want to reconnect with Europe, launch a business, or create a legacy for your family, this visa can be your gateway to long-term life in France.
By understanding eligibility, preparing your investment plan, and seeking professional guidance, you can approach the application process with confidence and clarity.
FAQs
Can UK citizens apply for the France Golden Visa?
Yes. UK citizens are eligible to apply for the Talent Passport Investor or Business Creator route, allowing you and your family to live, work, and study in France.
How long does it take to process an application?
Processing times vary depending on investment complexity, documentation, and consulate workload. Generally, approvals take a few months.
Are there restrictions on property investment for visa applicants?
Yes. Passive property purchases usually don’t qualify. Investments must actively contribute to the French economy, such as funding a business or creating jobs.
Can the investment be made through a company?
Yes. You can invest personally, through a company you control, or through a company in which you meet shareholding and job creation requirements.
What happens if I sell my investment property or business?
Exiting before meeting conditions tied to your visa may jeopardise renewal and your path to permanent residency or citizenship. Consider seeking professional advice to plan carefully.
Can I bring my family with me on the France Golden Visa?
Yes. Your spouse or civil partner and dependent children can join you. Each of these family members receives a residence permit linked to yours, allowing them to live, study, or work in France.