If you are an American planning to stay in France longer than 90 days, this guide is for you. It is detailed, practical, and written for real people who want a real life in France, without turning paperwork into a second full time job.

A clear, friendly guide for US retirees moving to France: visitor visa (VLS-TS), OFII validation, healthcare options, taxes, Social Security, driving license exchange, and renewal planning.

If you are a U.S. citizen planning to live in France for more than 90 days, you will need a long stay visa. The challenge is rarely the idea of “getting a visa.” The hard part is choosing the right visa category, building a dossier that matches French standards, and staying on top of timing, appointments, and follow ups. This guide explains how the process works, what documents are typically required, what to expect after arrival (including VLS-TS validation), and the most common mistakes that delay or derail applications.

Renting in France can feel surprisingly hard for Americans, even when your profile is strong. The challenge is rarely your “worthiness” as a tenant. The challenge is friction. The process is documentation-first, communication-heavy, and still very French in how decisions get made. If you approach it like a typical U.S. rental search, you can burn weeks with little to show for it. This guide is designed to help you move through the French rental process with clarity, pace, and fewer surprises. It is not legal advice. It is a practical playbook you can follow, whether you are already in France or preparing your move.