(Commonwealth) _ Since the implementation of the 90-day Brexit regulation, which limits the amount of time British citizens can spend in European Union countries, individuals seeking to spend an extended period in France may face challenges. However, with careful planning and understanding of the regulations, it is possible to structure your stay in a way that allows you to spend half the year living in France. This article will outline strategies to circumvent the 90-day rule and make the most of your time in France.
After Brexit, British citizens are subject to the 90-day rule, which limits their stay in EU countries, including France. This means that within a 180-day period, you can spend a maximum of 90 days in France. To circumvent this rule and extend your stay, you need to plan your time effectively and leverage other legal options available.
To spend an extended period in France, one option is to establish residency. This can be achieved through various avenues, such as obtaining a work visa, a student visa, or joining a French partner or family member. These options typically require meeting specific requirements and following the necessary procedures, but they allow you to legally reside in France for longer periods.
Another strategy is to make use of the Schengen Area rules. While the 90-day rule applies to France, it is important to note that it is a cumulative limit for all Schengen countries. By strategically planning your travel within the Schengen Area, you can maximize your time in France while spending the remaining days in other countries that are not part of the Schengen Zone, such as the United Kingdom or Ireland.
To extend your stay in France without violating the 90-day rule, consider taking short trips to non-Schengen countries. By leaving the Schengen Zone and spending time in countries like Morocco or Switzerland, you effectively reset the clock on your 90-day allowance, allowing you to return to France for another 90-day period. It is crucial to keep track of your days and ensure you comply with the regulations.
Exploring alternative residency programs is another avenue to consider. For example, some countries offer investor visas or entrepreneur visas that grant long-term residence and allow you to travel freely within the Schengen Area. By obtaining residency in one of these countries, you can spend a significant portion of your time in France without breaching the 90-day rule.
To make the most of your time living in France under the 90-day Brexit regulation, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of the rules. Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and limitations of the regulation to ensure you stay within the legal boundaries.
Exploring residency options is another effective strategy. Consider obtaining a work visa, or student visa, or joining a French partner or family member to establish residency. These avenues allow you to legally reside in France for extended periods, surpassing the 90-day limit.
Leveraging the Schengen Area rules provides an additional opportunity. Remember that the 90-day rule applies cumulatively across all Schengen countries. By strategically planning your travel and spending time in non-Schengen countries, you can reset the clock on your 90-day allowance and return to France for another 90-day period.
Taking short trips to non-Schengen countries is also a valuable tactic. By temporarily leaving the Schengen Zone and spending time in countries outside the area, you effectively pause the counting of your 90-day limit, allowing you to return to France for another stay.
By combining these strategies, you can structure your time in France in a way that adheres to the 90-day Brexit regulation while maximizing the duration of your stay. It is crucial to stay informed, plan your travel carefully, and ensure compliance with the regulations to make the most of your experience in France.
