As a citizen of a European country, you have the right to settle in France and be joined there by your immediate family, regardless of their nationality.
However, the procedures and conditions vary depending on the family relationship and the situation of each person. This article details the procedures for bringing your relatives to France, in accordance with official information.
Family members concerned
The family members eligible to join you in France include:
- Husband or wife: Your legal spouse.
- Children under 21 or dependents: Your own and those of your spouse.
- Direct dependant ascendants: Your parents and those of your spouse.
It is important to note that if you are a student, you cannot bring your ascendants to France.
General conditions
For your family to join you, you must:
- Be employed in France, be a student or have sufficient resources if you are not in work.
- Have health insurance covering your whole family.
Your family members must also have a valid identity document or passport and not pose a threat to public order.
Procedure to follow
The formalities vary according to the nationality of your family members:
- Members of European nationality: They can stay in France without a residence permit for the first five years. However, they can, if they wish, apply for a ‘Citizen of the EU/EEA/Switzerland – All professional activities’ residence permit.
- Members of non-European nationality: They must apply for a ‘Member of the family of a Union citizen’ residence permit within three months of their arrival in France. This permit is valid for the same period as your right of residence, up to a maximum of five years.
We can help you with the application online of your residence permit via the website of the ANEF (Administration Numérique des Étrangers en France):
Get in touch with us to get help with your residence permit
When the application is submitted, a dematerialised certificate of submission is issued immediately.
Right of permanent residence
After five years of legal and uninterrupted residence in France, your family members obtain the right of permanent residence. This right allows them to remain in France permanently without having to justify particular conditions, provided that they do not represent a threat to public order.
They can then apply for a ‘Citizen of the EU/EEA/Switzerland – Permanent residence – All professional activities’ residence permit, valid for ten years and renewable.
Special cases
- Civil partnership partner: The partner with whom you have entered into a civil partnership (PACS) may apply for a ‘Member of the family of a citizen of the European Union/EEA/Switzerland – All professional activities’ residence card, provided that they can prove that they have been living with you for at least one year.
- Live-in partner: The live-in partner with whom you have a relationship attested by a certificate and proof of cohabitation may also apply for a similar residence permit, provided that they can prove that they have been living with you for at least five years.
- Other family members: Relatives such as brothers, sisters, uncles or aunts may, under certain conditions, be authorised to join you in France. Their financial and social situation will be examined, as well as their dependence on you.
Navigating the process of family reunification in France as a European citizen can seem complex, but with a good understanding of the requirements and procedures, it is entirely possible to successfully settle with your loved ones. Whether you are bringing over a spouse, children, ascendants or other family members under certain conditions, it is essential to meet the deadlines and submit the required documents via the ANEF platform.
At Blue Bridge, we understand that each situation is unique and requires a personalized approach. Our immigration law experts are here to support you every step of the way, helping you prepare your file, understand your rights and ensure a smooth transition for you and your family in France.
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