How much income or savings do retirees need?

We are a retired US couple and would like to move to France. Is there a means test and, if so, what documents will be needed?

Retirees typically come to France on a visiteur visa and for this officials are usually looking to see that they have enough income – or savings – to provide the level of the ‘net’ minimum wage, currently €1,426 per month, at least in the first 12 months.

Couples should have more, although not necessarily double this amount.

Their income/savings must be enough for a “decent and autonomous life”, but no exact figure is available. Home ownership in France can reduce the amount required.

If relying on savings, note that the same level will be looked for on an ongoing basis if you plan to stay on in future years.

However, your means will no longer be checked if you later obtain a resident’s card (this requires at least five ‘continuous’ years in France – see chapter 8).

They will ask to see your bank statements from the last three months. You could also show eg. a savings account balance, documents from a pension provider etc – essentially anything that shows regular incomes and/or savings.

If you own a house in France you will need to show proof – an attestation de propriété from a notaire, for example.