Visiting a second home in France from the UK

If you’re buying a second home in France, chances are that you’ll want to use it for large chunks of the year. The good news is that the 90/180-day rule that came into effect after Brexit allows you to spend 90 days in France (and the rest of the EU) out of any 180 day period. 

For many second home owners this will be plenty of time to enjoy their French holiday home. If you’re looking to stay for a longer period, you can obtain a Temporary Long-Stay Visa which is typically used for stays of between 4 and 6 months but can be issued for up to 1 year.  You can come and go into France as you please during this period. More info on this visa can be found here on the French Goverment website.

However, be aware that extended stays in France will make you liable to pay tax in the country. This is similar to before Brexit when spending more than 183 days in France would make you a tax resident. If in any doubt, please contact a tax advisor to discuss your personal situation.

Can second home owners use a Carte de Séjour or a Long Stay Visitor visa for unlimited visits?

The key issue here is that both the Long Stay Visitor Visa and the Carte de Séjour are intended for people who plan to live in France. 

The Long Stay Visitor Visa could be right for someone looking to be in France long term, but it’s not appropriate for tourists or those making visits to a second home. Also, if you plan to stay in France for the long term you will be liable to pay tax there.

What about my Carte de Séjour granted during the Brexit withdrawal agreement?

Some second home owners applied for a Carte de Séjour as part of the Brexit agreement even though they didn’t intend to live in France.

Although this was possible, technically it isn’t allowed because the Carte de Séjour is for people who plan to live in France and pay tax in the country. The French tax authorities are aware of the loophole and are chasing Withdrawal Agreement Carte de Séjour holders who have not filed their tax returns.

If you are in this position, contact your local Préfecture so you can arrange to return your Carte de Séjour and let them know of the error.

If you’re looking to buy a second home in France and still have questions on this topic, please speak to your dedicated BVI agent. Even if they can’t answer the question directly, they can put you in touch with someone who can.

If you're not already registered with BVI, our team would love to help. You can contact us on +33 (0)5 56 71 36 59 or visit one of our local agencies to talk to us in person.