France offers indefinitely renewable residence permits for Financially Independent Persons (FIP). To qualify, applicants must demonstrate possession of at least €21,600 and commit to not taking up employment in France. Applicants must also have their own or rented accommodation in France and sufficient funds for living.
Who Qualifies as Financially Independent Persons?
Many European countries offer legal residence options for wealthy foreigners, with varying financial requirements. In France, FIPs are individuals with sufficient financial security to live in the country. The required financial security must meet or exceed the minimum annual salary minus tax (SMIC) in France. Acceptable income sources include:
- Long-term or lifetime pension income
- Social security payments
- Stable rental income from movable or immovable assets
- Dividend income
- Royalties
- Certain types of stable income from active employment or business ventures
Key Details of the FIP Visa:
- Initial Duration: One-year permit, renewable annually online
- Path to Permanent Residency: After five years of legal residency (minimum 183 days per year), applicants can apply for permanent residency without needing to demonstrate sufficient means
- Path to Citizenship: Eligible for French citizenship by naturalization after five years as a permanent resident, requiring integration into French society and proficiency in French
- Family Inclusion: Right to apply for residence permits for closest relatives (spouse, children under 18, and dependent parents)
Requirements:
- Proof of financial security (e.g., €1,800 per month or €21,600 per year per person)
- No criminal record
- Ownership or rental of real estate in France (minimum area of 9 m² per family member)
- Health insurance with full coverage
- Proof of income origin
Application Process:
- Obtain a long-stay visa for a residence permit from the French Consulate.
- Deposit the required amount in a French bank.
- Submit the FIP visa application online or at the local prefecture.
- Receive a residence permit and card from the prefecture.
- Renew the permit online 2-4 months before expiration.
Costs:
- 12-month rental agreement (1 room per person)
- Consular fee: €100 per person
- Residence card issuance: €180 for the first year, €266 from the second year per person
- Health insurance: €300 for a family
Key Benefits:
- No investment required
- Increased visa-free travel
- Freedom of movement within the Schengen Area
- Path to EU citizenship
- Permits dual nationality
- Enhanced education opportunities
- Access to large economies for business
- Short processing time
For a quick and straightforward way to start your life in France as a financially independent person, consider the FIP residence permit. Enjoy the benefits of living in one of Europe’s most beautiful and vibrant countries !
Application Support:
The application process can be complex, and professional guidance can help avoid common mistakes such as incorrect documentation, wrong type of medical insurance, improper accommodation proof, and insufficient financial proof. We offer assistance with document translation, application preparation, coordination with the embassy, and finalizing the process in France.
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For more information or a free 15-minute consultation, contact us at: info@apply2migrate.com