top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon
Explore
arrow down

Do new residents have to register at the mairie?

When we move to France do we need to visit the mairie and be registered? D.H.

EU rules allow states to require Europeans to register with the local authorities, such as the mairie, if they wish to be considered permanent residents (non-Europeans must have residence permits). Consequently, article L121-2 of the law on immigration, Code de l’entrée et du séjour des étrangers et du droit d’asile, provides for Europeans to register within the first three months. However article L121-5 requires this to be put into action by a decree by the Conseil d’Etat, which was never done. It is therefore not required.

You may, however, wish to register as an elector for the local (mairie) and European elections, which is one of the rights of European residents in France. In many towns you can do this online; otherwise you apply to the mairie. Some allow postal applications. Find out more by putting in your postcode in the box at:
service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F1937

You will need an identity document eg. a passport, plus proof of residence, which is usually a utility bill dated in the last three months (if online, then scans, or if by post then photocopies). You also need to fill in form Cerfa n°12670*01 which can be obtained at: service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/R16025

If you want to take part in the elections in a given year, you need to be on the lists by the end of the previous year; it is therefore advisable to apply by December 15 at the latest. However this will change by the end of 2019, when it will become possible until the sixth Friday before the election, or, if allowed by the mayor, 10 days before.

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Income Tax in France 2023 (for 2022 income)*
Featured Help Guide
- Primarily aimed at Britons, covers pensions, rent, ISAs, shares, savings and interest - but also contains significant general information pertinent to readers of other nationalities - Overview of online declarations + step-by-step guide to the French printed forms - Includes updates given automatically after this year's site opened
Get news, views and information from France