European Moves to France with Thompson & Son
Removals Company to France
When planning your France removals, you don’t need just any moving company, you want a firm with in-depth knowledge of both your home country and France to manage your international move effectively. That’s where Thompson & Son steps in. As a family-run removals company with six decades of experience, we specialise in making your dream move to France a reality. Our team of professionals comprehends the intricacies of moving to another country and will ensure your transition is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Thousands of British nationals already reside in France. If you wish to join them, book Thompson & Son today for your French removals.
In-Person or Video Survey
Specialised removals companies aren’t essential when planning your move to France. Instead, choose a company with local expertise in both your home country and France to handle your international move. That’s where Thompson & Son comes into play. As a family-run removals business with sixty years of experience, we help people like you realise their dream move to France. Our team of specialists understands the complexities of moving to another country and will ensure your transition is smooth and stress-free.
Presently, thousands of British nationals live in France. If you aim to join them, book with Thompson & Son today for your French removals.
We'll Arrange the Paperwork
There are no specific removals companies required when arranging your France removals. Opt for a firm with local expertise in both your home country and France removals to handle your move efficiently. That’s where Thompson & Son excels. As a family-run removals company with sixty years of experience, we assist people like you in achieving their dream move to France. Our team of specialists comprehends the intricacies of moving abroad and ensures your transition is smooth and stress-free.
Currently, thousands of British nationals reside in France. If you wish to join them, book with Thompson & Son today for your French removals.
Storage Solutions
Occasionally, storage solutions for your belongings become necessary during an international move. When awaiting the readiness of your new home or needing extra space during the transition, Thompson & Son is here to assist. We offer secure storage in transit services to accommodate your requirements.
Sometimes, storing your items is essential while preparing your new residence, or you might encounter a scheduling gap preventing immediate move-in. Our professionally managed storage facilities are equipped with the latest security and temperature control systems, ensuring your belongings stay safe and in pristine condition.
Our storage solutions are designed to provide peace of mind during your move to France. With Thompson & Son, you can rest assured that your possessions are well-protected, allowing you to focus on the more exciting aspects of your relocation.
Direct And Groupage (Shared) Options
There are two main ways to transport your goods abroad, these are Direct and Groupage (Shared vehicle).
Direct Move
Typically, this service involves our team packing your possessions and immediately transporting them to the vessel before heading straight to your new home on your specified dates. A direct move is perfect for those who require swift France Removals and want the certainty that their items will reach their destination on a particular date.
Groupage (Shared Vehicle) Move
This alternative is often selected for various reasons, such as when your shipment isn’t an entire household or when there’s no urgency for delivery. In this case, loads are combined with other clients’ belongings, resulting in reduced costs. A groupage (shared) move offers increased flexibility and may be a more budget-friendly option for those with smaller shipments or more lenient timelines.
Preparing The Necessary Paperwork
France removals can involve a complex array of paperwork and regulations, especially in the post-Brexit landscape. The specific paperwork required can vary based on the European country you’re moving to, but here’s a general overview of the documents and processes you might need to consider:
Passport and Visas: Ensure your passport is valid for a significant period. Depending on your planned length of stay, you may need a visa or residence permit to live there. See below for more information.
Work Permit: If you’re moving for employment, you will require a work permit. Your employer is responsible for submitting an application, and complying with the requirements thereof.
Residence Registration: You will be required to register your residence within a certain period after arrival.
Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage is required, as state healthcare in France is not Free.
Driving License: Your UK driving licence will be recognised in France for as long as it’s valid. If your UK licence has expired or has less than 6 months remaining on it, you’ll be required to exchange for a French licence.
Customs Forms: If you’re transporting personal belongings or a vehicle, you may need to complete customs declarations and potentially pay import taxes. We will prepare all the necessary custom’s paperwork for the goods we transport on your behalf, ensuring there are no hick-ups with your move to France.
Bank Statements and Proof of Income: To rent property or apply for certain services, you’ll often need to prove your financial stability.
Tax Documents: Inform the UK HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) about your move and understand the tax obligations in your new country. If you become a permanent resident of France, you will be required to pay income tax on all money you earn, worldwide.
Birth and Marriage Certificates: For registration, visas, and other administrative processes, you might need official translations of these documents.
Pet Documentation: If moving with pets, ensure you have their pet passport or animal health certificate, vaccination records, and any required microchip information.
Visas for France
If you’re planning to move to France from the UK, especially in the context of post-Brexit regulations, the visa requirements depend on the duration and purpose of your stay. Here’s a general breakdown:
For Stays Up to 90 Days
For short stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period, UK nationals do not need a visa for tourist, family, or business visits due to the visa exemption agreement between the EU and the UK.
For Longer Stays or Residency
If you intend to live, work, or study in France for longer than 90 days, you will likely need to apply for a long-stay visa, which serves as a residence permit (visa de long séjour valant titre de séjour – VLS-TS). This visa must be applied for before your departure from the UK.
Types of Visas for Long-term Stay
- Work Visa: If you have secured a job in France, you and your employer will need to navigate the work permit process before applying for a visa.
- Student Visa: For academic studies longer than 90 days, you’ll need to secure a place at a French institution and apply for a student visa.
- Family Visa: If you’re joining a family member who is a resident or citizen of France, you may apply for a family visa.
- Visitor Visa: If you wish to stay in France for longer than 90 days without working or studying, you’ll need to apply for a visitor visa and prove you have sufficient funds to support yourself.
Application Process
- First Step: Apply online via the official French visa application portal and then book an appointment at the French consulate or a visa application center in the UK.
- Documentation: Gather necessary documents, including proof of accommodation in France, sufficient financial means, health insurance coverage, and reasons for your stay.
- Consideration Period: Visa processing times can vary, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your planned move.
Post-Brexit Considerations
Due to Brexit, UK nationals are considered third-country nationals in the EU. Therefore, the process for moving to France has changed and now aligns more closely with that of other non-EU countries. It’s crucial to stay updated with the latest information from official sources like the French Consulate or Embassy in the UK, as immigration policies can evolve. If you have specific circumstances or need further clarification on how to move to France, consulting with an immigration lawyer or a relocation specialist can also be beneficial.
Why Choose Us?
As a French Moving Company Specialist, Thompson & Son is dedicated to providing exceptional removal services for your move to France. Here are just a few reasons why you should choose us for your relocation:
- Over 60 years of experience in the removals industry
- A family-run business with the personal touch
- Comprehensive in-person or video surveys
- Tailored packing services to suit your needs
- Expert handling of paperwork and documentation
- Secure storage solutions with flexible options
- Competitive pricing with no hidden fees
- Fully insured for your peace of mind
- Friendly and professional customer service
- Extensive knowledge of Spanish customs and regulations
Discuss Your Requirements
Conclusion
When planning your move to France, selecting the right France removals company is essential for ensuring a smooth and stress-free transition. With Thompson & Son’s extensive experience, expertise, and dedication to exceptional service, you can trust us to handle every aspect of your relocation with care and professionalism.
Starting with our detailed surveys and customised packing services, followed by our expert handling of paperwork and secure storage solutions, we strive to make your move as seamless as possible. So, when it’s time to embark on your new adventure in France, choose Thompson & Son, the France Moving Company Specialist, to be by your side every step of the way.
