Moving to UK from France – 2025 Returning Guide
Living in another country for a while is a fantastic life opportunity; however, as exciting as it can be, for many, the draw of home is huge.
Brexit introduced new residency, work, and tax regulations, making life abroad more complex. Some have chosen to return rather than navigate new restrictions.
But there are plenty of other reasons British expats might want to return home.
One of the biggest reasons expats return is missing family and wanting to be near loved ones, especially ageing parents or growing grandchildren.
Life events such as divorce, health issues, or changes in work contracts can also prompt an unexpected move back to the UK.
Whatever your purpose for returning, relocating is no small decision; it involves careful planning and navigating new rules, particularly for EU citizens.
The way people move between France and the UK has changed considerably, making it essential to stay informed.
At White & Company, we understand the challenges of moving across borders. This guide will provide all the key information you need to ensure a smooth transition back to the UK.
Whether you’re returning for work, family, or a fresh start, we’re here to help make your move seamless.
Let’s get started!
Lots has changed since Brexit.
Unfortunately, Brexit has made the process of returning to the UK from France more complex for some expats.
Changes in tax obligations, residency status, and customs rules mean more paperwork to handle than before.
If you are a UK citizen, your right to return remains unchanged, and with careful planning, the process can be smooth.
It is important to note that before making the move, you’ll need to notify and deregister from French authorities, including tax offices, healthcare providers, and local services.
This step ensures a clean break and helps you re-establish residency in the UK more efficiently.
However, the process is more complicated if you previously renounced your British passport and became a French citizen.
In this case, you’ll need to apply for the right to permanent residency, which is subject to the same immigration rules as any other non-UK national.
To avoid unexpected legal or administrative hurdles, it’s essential to check the UK Government website for the latest guidance on visas, residency applications, and tax regulations.
With the right preparation, your move back to the UK can be relatively stress-free and legally compliant.
Understanding the UK’s Points-Based Immigration System
You will need a good understanding of the points based system before moving.
Given the changes, it’s essential to research visa requirements well in advance of your return to ensure a smooth relocation
If you’re an EEA or EU national planning to move to the UK from France for more than six months, you must apply for a points-based immigration visa.
This system, which has long been in place for non-EU migrants, was extended to European citizens following Brexit.
Previously, EEA and EU nationals could live and work in the UK without a visa, but that freedom of movement no longer applies.
Today, only short-term visits, such as holidays or family visits, are visa-free. Anyone planning to live, work, or study in the UK long-term must meet specific criteria under the points-based system.
The application process assesses factors such as job offers, salary levels, English language skills, and qualifications.
Different visa types apply depending on whether you’re moving for employment, business, or study.
Here again, the UK Government website has produced a really useful guide to the application process to help you navigate the system better.
Family Visas – An Easier Route for Returning Expats
For UK expats looking to return with family ties in the UK, applying for a Family Visa can often be a more straightforward and more accessible route than navigating the points-based system.
It is important to remember that this category still has several different types of visas.
This visa is designed for individuals joining a spouse, partner, child, parent, or other close relatives who are settled in the UK.
You may be eligible if your UK-based family member is:
- A British or Irish citizen
- A settled resident (holding Indefinite Leave to Remain or Settled Status)
- An EU citizen with Pre-Settled Status (having lived in the UK before January 1, 2021)
- A refugee or someone under humanitarian protection
Key Requirements
- Relationship Proof: If applying as a spouse or partner, you must prove your relationship is genuine and subsisting. Unmarried partners need to show at least two years of cohabitation.
- Financial Requirement: If applying as a partner, you and your UK sponsor must meet a minimum income threshold. As of 2024, this has increased to £29,000 (previously £18,600).
- English Language Requirement: Applicants from non-English speaking countries may need to prove proficiency.
How to Apply
- Apply online through the UK Government website
- Attend a biometric appointment (fingerprints & photo)
- Provide supporting documents (relationship proof, financial evidence, accommodation details)
- Wait for a decision – processing times vary
Unlike the points-based system, where applicants need a job offer, salary requirements, and sponsorship, a Family Visa allows relocation based on personal connections rather than employment status.
Financial Considerations When Moving Back to the UK
It is important to keep finances in mind when undertaking such a big move.
There are plenty of practical things you need to address before your return. Not least are your finances.
Transferring Bank Accounts and Pensions
If you have a French bank account, consider keeping it open for ongoing expenses or transferring funds to a UK bank account.
Some UK banks allow you to open an account while still living abroad, making the transition easier.
For pensions, check if your French or private pension can be transferred to the UK without incurring penalties or tax issues.
Tax Implications (Double Taxation Agreements)
The UK and France have a double taxation treaty, meaning you shouldn’t be taxed twice on the same income.
However, you’ll need to notify the French tax office of your departure and inform HMRC when you become a UK tax resident again.
If you have income from property, investments, or a pension in France, check if you need to file French tax returns after leaving.
Understanding the UK Tax System if You’ve Been Living Abroad
Upon returning, you’ll need to determine your tax residency status.
The UK uses the Statutory Residence Test to decide if you owe tax on foreign earnings.
If you’ve lived abroad for several years, you may qualify for split-year treatment, meaning you’re only taxed on UK income for part of the year.
The UK’s income tax rates and personal allowances have changed in recent years.
The latest information is available on the relevant Government webpage.
Currency Exchange Rates & Transferring Money Efficiently
Fluctuating exchange rates can impact the value of your savings when converting euros to pounds.
To avoid high fees, consider using currency transfer services like Halo Financial, which typically offer better rates than banks.
If you’re transferring large sums, setting up a forward contract can lock in a favourable exchange rate, which means you will get more money than you would using your high street bank for transfers.
With your financial situation in hand, you are free to organise other aspects of your re-patriation.
Bringing Your Pet to the UK from France – What You Need to Know
Make sure you follow all rules when moving to the UK with a pet.
If you’re moving to the UK from France with a pet, there are specific requirements you’ll need to meet to ensure a smooth transition.
Whether your pet originally travelled with you from the UK or you adopted them while living in France, following the correct procedures is essential to avoid delays or quarantine.
Essential Pet Travel Requirements
Your pet can accompany you to the UK if:
- It has a valid microchip for identification.
- It has an up-to-date pet passport or animal health certificate.
- It is vaccinated against rabies (at least 21 days before travel).
Additional rules apply depending on the type of pet you own.
Extra Rules for Dog Owners
If you’re bringing a dog, it must receive an approved tapeworm treatment between 24 and 120 hours before arrival in the UK. Failing to meet this requirement could result in additional checks or restrictions at the border.
Avoiding Quarantine
If your pet does not meet the UK’s entry requirements, it may be quarantined for up to four months at an approved facility.
This process can be costly and stressful for your pet, so it’s best to ensure all paperwork and vaccinations are in order before travelling.
For the most up-to-date information on pet travel rules, visit the official UK Government website.
By preparing in advance, you can ensure a stress-free journey for both you and your beloved pet!
Adjusting to Life Back in the UK – Overcoming Reverse Culture Shock
It may take some time to get used to life back in the UK.
Returning to the UK after living in France can feel like coming home, but many expats underestimate the challenges of readjustment.
The transition isn’t always seamless, from differences in social norms to adapting to the pace of life and acclimatising to the weather.
For those returning with children, it can be even harder.
Changing schools and friends is hard at any age; be patient and give your children your time.
Reverse culture shock is real; the feeling that once-familiar customs now seem unfamiliar.
You might find the cost of living higher, customer service different, or even struggle to reconnect with friends and family who stayed behind.
To ease the transition, join expat forums, local community groups, or social media networks where other returnees share experiences.
Websites like Expat Forum and Facebook groups for returning Brits can provide valuable support.
The key? Give yourself time to adjust slowly.
Returning is a fresh start, and with the right mindset, you’ll soon feel at home again.
Moving Your Belongings Back to the UK – A Step-by-Step Guide
Transporting household goods from France to the UK requires careful planning to avoid delays, unexpected costs, and logistical headaches.
Whether you’re bringing everything back or downsizing before the move, choosing the right removals company is key.
Here are some practical steps to guide you:
Hiring a Reputable European Removal Company
If you plan to ship all your belongings, hiring a trusted European removal company ensures a smooth process.
Look for firms registered with FIDI, BAR, or Omni such as White & Company. These organisations audit removal companies regularly to maintain high service standards.
White & Company has longstanding partnerships with reliable French moving firms and can provide contacts to assist with your relocation guiding you through the entire process, from packing and transport to customs documentation.
Customs & Documentation
If you’ve owned and used your belongings in France for at least six months, you can ship them back to the UK duty-free.
However, you’ll need to complete the appropriate customs forms to avoid unnecessary charges.
Getting a Quote & Planning Ahead
Before moving, schedule a pre-move survey so the removal company can assess the volume of your shipment and provide an accurate quote.
Booking early is essential, as demand for international removals can be high, especially during peak seasons.
For a hassle-free move, work with professionals who understand post-Brexit moving regulations—ensuring your belongings arrive safely, on time, and without unnecessary costs.
Moving to the UK from France? Let White & Company Handle Everything for You
Moving to UK from France can be a complex and stressful process, but with the right removals company, it doesn’t have to be.
At White & Company, we have made it our business to provide seamless European removals, ensuring that every step of your move is handled with precision and care.
With over 150 years of experience, White & Company has built a reputation as the removals firm of choice for people moving across Europe and beyond.
As proud members of BAR, FIDI, and OMNI, we adhere to the highest industry standards, giving you peace of mind that your belongings are in the safest hands.
Our expert teams across the UK provide full packing and export services, carefully handling your valuable, fragile, and bulky furniture to ensure everything arrives safely at your new home anywhere in the UK.
Whether you’re moving a small apartment or a large family home, we tailor our services to your specific needs.
Call White & Company for expert advice, request a quick online quote, or chat with our team to discuss your move in more detail.
We’re here to make your move to the UK smooth, efficient, and hassle-free. Start your stress-free relocation today!
Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.
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