France is one of the most popular destinations for people leaving London, whether that’s for an apartment in Paris, a farmhouse in the Dordogne or a home on the Riviera. It’s close enough to drive to, but since Brexit there’s more paperwork than there used to be. Planning early is what makes the move go smoothly.
This guide takes you through the main steps, from visas and customs to packing and delivery day.
6 months or more before you move
Check your right to live in France
Since the UK left the EU, UK citizens can generally spend up to 90 days in any 180-day period in France and the rest of the Schengen area without a visa. If you want to live in France for longer, you’ll usually need a long-stay visa or residence permit before you go.
There are different routes for workers, retirees, students and family members. Start with GOV.UK’s Living in France guide, then use the official France-Visas website to see which visa fits you. Leave plenty of time, because some routes need appointments and supporting documents.
Decide what to take
Shipping costs depend on volume, so moving abroad is a good time to declutter. Think about:
- Furniture size – older French homes can have narrow staircases and small doorways, while apartments in Paris often have tiny lifts.
- Electrical items – France uses the same 230V supply but different plugs, so UK appliances need adaptors or new plugs.
- What’s cheaper to replace – bulky, low-value items are often not worth shipping.
Our packing tips can help you sort what goes and what stays.
Get removal quotes
Ask for quotes as soon as your plans are firm. A good international mover will ask about your inventory, access at both ends and your timings. You’ll usually choose between:
- A dedicated vehicle – your belongings only, collected and delivered on dates that suit you.
- A shared or part load – lower cost, because the van carries several customers’ goods, but delivery dates are less flexible.
3 months before you move
Customs paperwork
Moving household goods from the UK to France now involves customs. Personal belongings you have owned and used can often enter France without duty or VAT under transfer of residence relief, provided you meet the conditions. You’ll typically need:
- a detailed, signed inventory of what you’re moving, often with values;
- proof that you’re moving your main residence to France, such as a visa, residence permit, rental agreement or property purchase documents;
- a copy of your passport;
- the French customs declaration for personal belongings.
Rules and forms change, so your removals company or a French customs agent will confirm exactly what is needed. Keep copies of everything.
Healthcare, money and admin
- Read GOV.UK’s guidance on healthcare in France, especially if you’re a UK state pensioner.
- Open a French bank account if you can, as many utilities and landlords prefer one.
- Tell HMRC and your pension providers about your move.
- Check what happens to your UK mobile contract and subscriptions.
Pets
To take a dog, cat or ferret to France, your pet needs a microchip, a rabies vaccination and an animal health certificate from an official vet, issued within a set time before travel. Follow GOV.UK’s pet travel guidance closely, because the timings matter.
1 month before you move
- Book parking at your London address. Most London streets need a parking suspension for the removal vehicle. Our guide to parking suspensions for moving day explains how.
- Check access in France. Narrow village streets, steep drives and Paris apartment buildings may need a smaller vehicle or extra time. Tell your removals company early.
- Arrange utilities at your new home, including electricity, water and internet.
- Start packing non-essentials, or book a professional packing service.
Moving week
- Keep passports, visas, customs papers and the inventory in a folder you carry with you, not in the van.
- Pack an “open first” box with bedding, a kettle, chargers, toiletries and basic tools.
- Take meter readings and photos when you leave your London home.
- If you’re renting, arrange your check-out inspection and return the keys.
Driving and cars
If you’re driving to France, check your car insurance and breakdown cover for Europe. Once you’re living in France, you’ll need to exchange your UK driving licence for a French one within the time allowed. Importing a UK car to France involves registration and technical checks, so research the cost before deciding whether to take your car.
Arriving in France
On delivery day, the crew unloads and places furniture and boxes room by room. Check items off against your inventory as they come in. If you’re not ready to receive everything at once, for example because you’re renovating, storage can hold some of your belongings until you’re ready.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa to live in France after Brexit?
UK citizens can usually spend up to 90 days in any 180-day period in the Schengen area without a visa. To live in France for longer, most people need a long-stay visa or residence permit. Check the official France-Visas website and GOV.UK’s Living in France guide for the route that fits you.
Will I pay duty on my furniture when I move to France?
Personal belongings you have owned and used for some time can often enter France free of duty and VAT under transfer of residence relief, as long as you meet the conditions and provide the right paperwork, including a detailed inventory. Your removals company or a French customs agent can confirm what applies to you.
Can I take my dog or cat to France?
Yes, but pets need a microchip, a rabies vaccination and an animal health certificate issued by an official vet, with timings that must be followed. Check GOV.UK’s pet travel guidance well before your move.
How long does a removal from London to France take?
It depends on the service and where in France you’re going. A dedicated vehicle can deliver within days of collection, while a shared load is cheaper but works to a schedule. We’ll give you realistic timings with your quote.
Can K1 Removals pack and move everything for me?
Yes. We can pack your home, prepare an inventory for customs, load and transport your belongings to France, and deliver to your new address.
Moving to France with K1 Removals
K1 Removals handles international removals from London and the rest of the UK to France and the rest of Europe. We can pack, inventory, load and deliver to your door, and help you understand the paperwork. Considering other destinations? Read our guides to moving to Spain and moving to Dubai.
Ready to plan your move? Get a free quote or call 0330 103 0041.