French Residence Permit for a Couple with a Child - Free Education for Children in the EU

Many parents ask us how difficult it is to enroll their children in European educational institutions and help them adapt. Naturally, each country's education system has its own peculiarities. However, this does not mean that parents will face insurmountable obstacles. In EU countries, school education is free for locals, residents, and foreigners with a permanent residence permit.

Therefore, those who wish to provide their children with a bright future and a high-quality European education have little to worry about. Holding a residence permit (RP) makes it relatively easy to secure a school placement—even in today’s political climate. We have experienced this firsthand, having successfully obtained a French residence permit for multiple families.

In our latest case study, we share the story of Konstantin and Elena, who approached GARANT.in for assistance in finding a French school for their son Oleg and obtaining a residence permit in France.

Client Story: French Residence Permit for a Family with Children

Our first meeting with the couple took place in December last year. They were exploring residence permit options in Europe, choosing between Italy and France, and looking for a suitable school for their 12-year-old son, Oleg. The couple also has a 3-year-old daughter, Mila.

During our discussions, we learned that our client, Konstantin, is a successful entrepreneur who owns properties in the UAE, Montenegro, and Greece. The family also holds Grenadian citizenship. In Russia, Konstantin operates a logistics business, while his wife, Elena, is a trained florist and owns two flower shops in Moscow. Their combined monthly income from business and rental properties is around €35,000.

After assessing their financial status, we recommended applying for a French “visiteur” visa, which allows non-EU citizens with independent financial means to obtain a residence permit. Our clients met all the program’s eligibility criteria, which include:

• Having a stable income outside of France
• Possessing savings of over €50,000
• Not holding EU citizenship
• No history of visa violations or criminal records
• Being in good health

The initial steps involved finding suitable housing, selecting a school for Oleg, and opening a bank account for Konstantin in France—all of which were handled alongside the preparation of necessary documents.

Choosing a School and Preparing for Enrollment

Elena shared that Oleg attended a Moscow gymnasium with advanced English and French classes, while their younger daughter took part in a language group. These language skills significantly eased the adaptation process for both children.

After careful research, we selected a public school in Évian-les-Bains, a town near Geneva, Switzerland. In France, children aged 11 and above transition to collège (secondary school) without additional exams. However, since Oleg was transferring from a Russian school, he needed to pass an entrance test.

To secure his place, we helped the family submit an application through the school’s official website, along with supporting documents. At the same time, we arranged a three-bedroom apartment in a prime location, liaising with a real estate agent to finalize the lease agreement. Konstantin paid the deposit using his Greek bank account.

Visa Application and Approval

We compiled and translated the necessary documents, which included:

• Completed application forms for each family member
• Passports (including Grenadian passports)
• Marriage and birth certificates
• Bank statements confirming financial stability
• Business financial reports and tax declarations
• Police clearance certificates
• Property ownership documents
• Medical certificates
• School admission letter for Oleg
• Health insurance with full coverage
• Lease agreement
• Travel itinerary and flight reservations

The application was submitted through the French government portal. After receiving confirmation, we scheduled their visa appointment in Moscow, where the family provided biometrics and paid visa fees. The visa was approved within two weeks, and the entire process took 1.5 months.

Relocation and Adaptation in France

Upon arrival, Konstantin sent us copies of their passports with entry stamps, and we registered them with OFII (French Immigration Office).

The first months were busy:

• Konstantin opened a French bank account and transferred funds
• The family finalized their rental agreement
• They visited the school, where Oleg successfully passed his entrance exam and was placed in 6th grade
• The school recommended preparatory courses to help with adaptation

To enroll Oleg, they provided:

• Passports and visa copies
• Birth certificate
• Rental agreement
• Vaccination records

In March, we helped them apply for residence permit cards and schedule a medical examination at an accredited French facility. Konstantin also signed a formal declaration confirming he would not seek employment in France, as required for his residence status.

Now, Konstantin and his family enjoy life by Lake Geneva, and he is considering purchasing a home in the region. Oleg has made new friends and is actively integrating into his new school environment.

Benefits of the French Residence Permit for Financially Independent Individuals (FNI)

A French residence permit is an excellent choice for high-net-worth individuals with a stable legal income outside France. Initially issued for one year, it can be renewed and later lead to permanent residency and citizenship.

Holders of this status:

✔ Can freely travel within the Schengen Zone
✔ Enroll their children in French public schools for free
✔ Access high-quality healthcare
✔ Enter and stay in France without restrictions

After five years, they can apply for permanent residency, followed by EU citizenship.

At GARANT.in, we are committed to helping our clients achieve their goals. If you are considering a move to France, contact us for expert guidance!