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Updates

When the rules change, we say so

Visa and insurance rules for our eight destination countries move. We log each change plainly: what changed, who it affects, what to do, and where it’s written.

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France ends free public cover on arrival for visitor-visa holders

Who it affects: US/UK families on a VLS-TS visitor visa

A December 2025 law means long-stay visitor-visa holders are no longer entitled to free public health cover (PUMa) on arrival and face a healthcare contribution (CSM). Private cover bridges the gap.

What to do: Hold a private policy valid in France for your full stay. See our French healthcare explainer.

Source: Relocate.World — 2026 French healthcare fee for visitor-visa holders — Last verified: July 2026

ETIAS is coming for short visits — but it is not a long-stay visa

Who it affects: Anyone confusing short-stay travel authorisation with residence

ETIAS is a travel authorisation for short visits to the Schengen area. It does not replace a long-stay visa and does not change the health-insurance rule for residence. Timelines have shifted; check official sources.

What to do: If you are moving, you still need a long-stay visa and residence-grade health cover. See Schengen vs long-stay insurance.

Source: Official EU ETIAS guidance — Last verified: July 2026

We add entries as rules change and re-verify dates on our money pages. Nothing here is legal advice — confirm your case against the official source.