Declaring residency with an Italian Residency Visa

Gio Raff

New member

Member since 18 September 2016

Ferrara, Emilia-Romagna

Gio Raff

02 March 2021 21:09:58

Gio Raff

02 March 2021 21:09:58

Ferrara, Emilia-Romagna

Hello,

I have a question about the possibility of declaring residency in France via a long term residency visa issued by the State of Italy. Specially a "Family Ties" visa to an Italian citizen. The Visa permits the declaration of residency in Italy, but I was wondering if this is possible to use to declare residency in France ? France, unlike Italy, offers US driving license conversion, which plays a major role in this decision. Any insight is greatly appreciated.

Guest1230789

03 March 2021 00:35:06

Guest1230789

03 March 2021 00:35:06

Hello,
If your Italian residence card is "long-term" - defined as valid for 5 years or longer, then you can convert it upon arrival in France at the local préfecture. If it's shorter, then you need to get a visa valable as a titre de séjour (residence permit) from the French consulate /vfs in Italy before moving to France.
Note, if your family tie is "married to an EU citizen," then you both simply register at the préfecture, regardless of your residence permit in Italy.
Once in France, you have a year (possibly 1 1/2 years now?) to exchange your license, but it has to be from a state that has an agreement with France (only about 19 states do). And it takes a long time. You would want to double-check the documents needed and requirements - it's not for the faint of heart!