Can I retire in France from USA?
James Williams
Published May 18, 2026
Can an American retire in France? Yes an American can retire in France. For visits longer than 90 days you will need to apply for a visa de séjour temporaire (a residence visa). You cannot apply while on vacation in France, you ust apply for this residency visa from your nearest French consulate in the U.S.
What is French retirement age?
62
Retirement age by country
| Country | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| France | 62 | 62 |
| Germany | 65 (and 7 months) | 65 (and 7 months) |
| Greece | 67 | 67 |
| Hungary | 63 | 63 |
Is US retirement income taxable in France?
US citizens coming to retire in France still have to file a tax return every year. This is the case even if all their assets are in France and despite the fact that the US and France have a double taxation agreement. You can only forego US income tax responsibilities if you renounce your US citizenship.
Where is the best place to retire in the South of France?
Occitanie lies west of the Côte d’Azur/Provence and is the most southern region of France. Not everywhere is the best place to live in Languedoc Roussillon for expats who struggle to speak French, especially if you choose a home in a small village. One of many fortresses in Occitanie.
Is it possible to retire in France as an US citizen?
In order to actually take the dive and retire in France as a U.S. or Canadian citizen (non-EU residents), you’ll have to undergo a few legal steps in order to reside in the country long-term. In order to stay in France beyond the 90-day tourist visa, you’ll need to apply for some form of temporary residency permit (carte de séjour temporaire, CST).
When do you become a resident of France?
If you became a resident in France after 6 August 2008, for the first five years you are liable for assets only in France; after this period, you are liable for assets worldwide. There’s a 30% allowance against the value of your main home. If you live in France permanently, under French law you cannot leave your assets to whomever you choose.
Is it possible for a foreigner to retire to the US?
If you do not have a close relative who is a United States Citizen and who can sponsor you, your best option for retiring to the U.S. might be an EB-5 investor’s visa.
Can a Swiss citizen apply for permanent residence in France?
Any EU/EEA/Swiss citizen who lives resident in France for five or more continuous years can apply for permanent residence without proving income or employment. EU/EEA/Swiss nationals are no longer need to hold this permit. However, without it, they cannot qualify for state services, such as housing financial aid.
