No. French citizens have 'Freedom of Movement' within the EU/EEA and Switzerland. You can live and work remotely in any of these countries without a visa. You simply need to register your residence if staying longer than 3 months.

What are the best non-EU countries for French digital nomads?

Popular choices include Mauritius (Premium Visa, French-speaking), Costa Rica, Mexico (6-month tourist validity), and Thailand (DTV Visa). Canada is also popular due to the Working Holiday Visa (PVT) which allows open work permits.

How does tax residency work for French digital nomads?

If you spend <183 days in France and move your 'center of economic interest' abroad, you may cease to be a French tax resident. However, France has strict exit tax rules. If you move to a 'tax haven' (pays à fiscalité privilégiée), France may still try to tax you unless you prove genuine residency elsewhere.

Can I keep my Carte Vitale while traveling?

If you remain a French tax resident and pay social contributions, yes. However, Carte Vitale only covers you in France. In the EU, use your EHIC (CEAM). Outside the EU, you MUST have private travel/health insurance (Assurance Voyage/Expatrié) as French coverage (CFE) can be expensive and complex.

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Tax Guide 2026

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