A new year brings space to rethink priorities and imagine a different rhythm for the years ahead. As 2026 approaches, many UK retirees are looking across the Channel and asking whether this is the moment to pursue a long-held dream: retiring to France. With its celebrated culture, outstanding healthcare system, varied landscapes and historically stable lifestyle, France offers a compelling combination of comfort, charm and security.
Recent tax reforms in the UK, attractive regions within France offering favourable succession rules, and a continued divergence in living costs are prompting a noticeable rise in enquiries from those preparing for retirement. For individuals seeking a meaningful lifestyle shift, better weather, a slower pace, strong public services or proximity to mainland Europe, 2026 could presents a natural window for change.
This article explores the key considerations for anyone thinking of starting a new chapter in France next year: residency rules, cost of living, taxes, healthcare and long-term financial planning.
1. Residency Routes for UK Retirees in 2026
Since Brexit, retiring in France requires a visa and residence permit. For retirees starting afresh in 2026, the most common route is the Long-Stay Visitor Visa (VLS-TS – Visiteur).
Long-Stay Visitor Visa (VLS-TS)
This visa allows retirees to live in France without working. Key requirements include:
- Proof of stable annual income at a level sufficient to support your household
- Evidence of accommodation in France
- Private health insurance valid for the first year
- Application fees typically around £100–£150
Once approved and validated in France, the visa functions as a residence permit for 12 months and can be renewed.
Moving Toward Longer-Term Residency
After five years of continuous residence, many retirees may become eligible for a long-term EU residence card, offering more stability and freedom of movement.
Many retirees starting their planning early in 2026 find that gathering documentation, understanding income thresholds and setting realistic timelines helps reduce administrative stress during the transition.
2. Property Affordability: France vs the UK in 2026
France is considered one of Europe’s most attractive property markets for retirees seeking good value.
- In many regions, property remains 20–40% cheaper than comparable areas in the UK
- Rural France—Normandy, Brittany, Occitanie and parts of Nouvelle Aquitaine—offers exceptional affordability
- Even popular southern regions like Provence or the Côte d’Azur can provide better space-to-price value than London or the Home Counties
For retirees selling a UK property, 2026 may offer an opportunity to release equity, purchase a comfortable home in France and still retain capital for retirement income planning.
As with any relocation, the timing of asset sales can affect your tax position in both countries, so early planning is important.
3. Everyday Cost of Living: How France Compares in 2026
While France is not considered the cheapest country in Europe, many retirees find the cost of living favourable compared with the UK—particularly outside Paris and major urban centres.
Notable differences include:
- Groceries and fresh produce often cost less due to France’s strong agricultural sector
- Public transport is competitively priced and widely available
- Dining out offers strong value, particularly in rural regions
- Energy prices fluctuate, but insulation standards in French homes help reduce heating costs in certain areas
For those entering retirement in 2026 with an eye on long-term affordability, France could provide a stable environment with predictable expenses and an overall high quality of life.
4. Healthcare in France: A Key Advantage for Retirees in 2026
France’s healthcare system is consistently ranked among the best in the world. For retirees seeking reassurance about long-term wellbeing, this is often a decisive factor.
Accessing French Healthcare
After obtaining residency and residing in France for three months, many retirees can apply to join PUMA (Protection Universelle Maladie)—France’s national healthcare system.
Contributions may apply depending on income, but costs are generally reasonable, and many residents choose complementary health insurance (“mutuelle”) to cover remaining charges.
For UK State Pension Recipients
Some retirees may be able to use an S1 form, depending on their circumstances, providing access to French healthcare with costs covered by the UK. Eligibility depends on current rules and should be reviewed before relocating.
For anyone prioritising peace of mind in 2026, the combination of high-quality care and broad access could make France a strong candidate for retirement.
5. Taxation in France: What 2026 Retirees Need to Know
France’s tax system is often perceived as complex, but with planning, many retirees can set up a comfortable and predictable financial structure.
Income Tax
France uses a progressive banded system, applied to household income (“foyer fiscal”). Key points:
- A family quotient system adjusts bands based on household size
- Pensions are generally taxed in France under the UK–France Double Taxation Treaty
- A 10% pension deduction applies up to certain limits
Investment Income
Interest, dividends and capital gains typically fall under the Prélèvement Forfaitaire Unique (PFU), commonly known as the flat tax:
- 30% total (12.8% income tax + 17.2% social charges)
Alternatively, some retirees may elect to use the standard progressive income tax scale if beneficial.
ISAs and UK Wrappers
UK ISAs are not tax-exempt in France. Income and gains are fully taxable. Reviewing investment structures before moving can help when planning a 2026 relocation.
Tax rules can change, and individuals should seek guidance from appropriately qualified external tax professionals.
6. Wealth Tax: Who Is Affected?
France maintains a real estate wealth tax (IFI), which applies only to worldwide real estate assets above €1.3 million. Financial assets are not included.
This means many retirees are not affected, especially if they choose a modest property or release equity from a UK home.
Household structuring, location choices and long-term ownership planning can all influence exposure.
7. Inheritance Tax: A Major Long-Term Consideration
France’s inheritance tax framework differs significantly from the UK’s and should be reviewed carefully.
How French Inheritance Tax Works
- Children are the primary heirs under French civil law unless steps are taken to adopt alternative arrangements
- Tax-free allowances apply between parents and children
- Spouses and civil partners are exempt from French IHT
- Rates vary but are generally favourable for immediate family members
UK Reforms (from April 2025)
The shift to a residence-based inheritance tax system could present additional opportunities for long-term planning:
- After 10 years of non-UK residency, worldwide assets fall outside UK IHT
- Only UK assets remain within scope
When combined with French rules, this may offer meaningful advantages for retirees thinking in generational terms.
8. Planning Your Move
For many retirees, 2026 could feel like the right time to reshape financial future and lifestyle.
Key steps you may wish to consider:
- Reviewing your pensions and the timing of withdrawals
- Assessing whether to sell UK property before or after the move
- Considering which investment structures support tax efficiency in France
- Understanding healthcare pathways and eligibility
- Preparing a long-term estate and wealth succession plan
A well-timed strategy early in the year can help avoid unexpected taxation or administrative obstacles later.
Conclusion: Is France the Right Choice for Your 2026 Retirement?
France offers a rich and rewarding retirement landscape: world-class healthcare, attractive regional lifestyles, abundant cultural heritage, and comparatively stable living costs. For many, 2026 may be the time they choose to make a long-anticipated move—whether for climate, cuisine, a slower pace of life, or the chance to live somewhere that simply feels right to them.
The UK may continue to appeal to those who value familiarity and its existing systems, while others may find aspects of life in France to be better suited to their long-term plans.
With careful preparation and informed decision-making, 2026 could mark the beginning of a new chapter filled with comfort, culture and financial clarity—right in the heart of France.
This communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute, and should not be construed as, investment advice, investment recommendations or investment research. You should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the information contained in this communication is correct, we are not responsible for any errors or omissions.
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