France brings to mind images of fine wine, good food and a laid back pace of life – who wouldn’t want to live there?
As with all EU nations, UK residents have the right to reside and work  in France, but like any overseas move, it is not a decision to make lightly. Moving abroad to live, work or retire is a major undertaking. You will be leaving family and friends behind, and there are many things to deal with such as tax, pensions, benefits, healthcare, etc.
All visitors to France must possess of valid medical travel insurance covering all likely medical and repatriation costs.
Those planning to move to France are advised to first seek information from the appropriate British Embassy website.
Before you even think about actually moving, you’ll need to tie up or finalise your UK affairs.  Here’s a quick run down:
• if you plan to rent out your UK property or just leave it empty, advise any body you have financial affairs with, such as banks, insurance companies, estate agents, etc.  also don’t forget to ensure the property is safe and secure in your absence
• information your local authority of your change of residence  for council tax purposes, and also for electoral registration matters. tell them when you plan to leave and where you can be contacted.
• advise utility companies and other service providers about your move, so they issue final bills and pay you any credit or refunds due to you.  again, leave a contact address.
• let your bank or building society know about your move and again some contact details.
• arrange to have your post redirected, but this can take several weeks to take effect.
• if you are a parent, contact your local education authority to advise them you are withdrawing your children from school to move abroad. the school will also need to be told.
Upon arrival arrive in France, don’t leave getting yourself set up there for too long.  You and your family will be adapting to change and new circumstance, so don’t delay getting things sorted out.
• register with the relevant local authorities, which will allow you to use local services and welfare.
• contact the British Consulate, which allow you and them to keep in touch, and also give you somewhere to go for advice should you experience any problems.
•open a bank account and get your finances set up.  You can arrange to have salaries and pensions paid straight in to your new accounts.
If your aim is to stay in France long term, or even apply for citizenship there, it would be wise to also keep your British passport updated in case you ever have to return to the UK for either a holiday or to stay.  Valid passports are vital for identification purposes and also helping you obtain appropriate official documentation which will help you build a new life in France.