I have been offered a job in France and would like to know the visa situation for my wife. I am British, and she is Thai.

Thanks in advance

SD

It should be a straightforward matter. Your wife should apply for a free visa for France on the basis that she is married to a British citizen. In theory you only need demonstrate that you are married, that you are of an EEA nationality and that you will be able to maintain yourselves without claiming French benefits. Once in France, she may then apply (again free of charge) for a residence card. I don't know what the set up is France, whether such an application is made centrally or to the local département.

Once established in France, you would become defined as a European national and your wife could then seek free visas for the UK, too.

Scouse.

Thanks Scouse !

Just a couple of follow-up questions: what does "once you become established" mean ? And when you say "free UK visas" are you only referring to the cost, or is the application process easier also ? I don't mind the cost but applying for a UK Visa is a right pain in the neck, and we've only done it twice !

SD