Long-stay / residence for British citizens travelling to Schengen area
Stays beyond 90 days or settlement need a national long-stay visa or residence permit from the Schengen country you will live in.
For a full British citizen passport. Other British passport types can follow a different rule.
Key facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who it's for | Retirement, relocation, or any stay longer than the short-stay limit. · GOV.UK France entry requirements (opens in a new tab) |
| Maximum stay | Defined by the national residence permit. · GOV.UK France entry requirements (opens in a new tab) |
| Cost | Long-stay visa fees are set by the country of residence. See France-Visas (opens in a new tab) or the relevant national immigration site. · GOV.UK France entry requirements (opens in a new tab) |
| Processing time | National processing times apply. Check the embassy or immigration authority of the country where you will live. · GOV.UK France entry requirements (opens in a new tab) |
| How to apply | Apply to the immigration authority or embassy of the country where you will reside. · GOV.UK France entry requirements (opens in a new tab) |
Each fact above is linked to the authority that sets the rule. Entry Visa Guide does not take applications.
Apply only on the government website linked above. This site does not issue visas or travel authorisations and does not take applications. Other websites charge their own service fee on top of any government charge.
How to apply
- Choose the country of residence and read its long-stay visa requirements.
- Apply before travel unless the national rules allow in-country switching.
- Do not rely on visa-free entry to start a long stay.
FAQ
Can I extend a tourist stay beyond 90 days?
GOV.UK warns overstaying can lead to a ban. Long stays need the correct permit.
Does ETIAS allow residence?
ETIAS is for short visa-free travel, not residence.
Sources
- GOV.UK: France entry requirements, including Schengen passport rules, the 90-day stay, and EES (opens in a new tab)
- European Union: countries using the Entry/Exit System (opens in a new tab)
- European Union: who should apply for ETIAS, including the note that it is not in operation (opens in a new tab)
- European Union: ETIAS questions, including the EUR 20 fee and three-year validity (opens in a new tab)
- European Union: UK nationals and ETIAS, news item dated 15 April 2026 (opens in a new tab)
Independent guide, not legal advice. Entry Visa Guide is an independent information site. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or run by any government or public authority. Always check official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Report an error.