Make an appointment at the prefecture for a change of address

You must inform your new address to the prefecture within 3 months after moving. This applies to everyone, even if you are coming from another country. If you forget, you risk paying a fine.

Changing where you live, updating your address, or simply moving requires a declaration. This announcement must be made at the public service. There is a place in the city where you can complete all the necessary procedures.

Understanding the importance of changing your address

If you live in France with a residence permit, declaring your new address is crucial. It is a legal obligation. This is detailed in article R. 431-23 of the CESEDA for those with a permit longer than one year.

Legal obligations for foreigners holding a residence permit

You have three months to inform the prefecture if you change your address. Failing to do so can be costly. You risk fines and other penalties.

Avoiding fines and sanctions for non-declaration

To comply with the law, pay a tax stamp of 25 euros when declaring your new address. Otherwise, you could face fines. Sometimes, the consequences are more severe.

Appointment at the prefecture: the detailed procedure

When you change your residence, you must inform the prefecture of your new home. You have up to 3 months after moving to do this. This is valid even if you come from abroad.

Documents required for changing your address

Here’s what you need to bring to change your address at the prefecture:

• Your residence permit must still be valid
• Bring your passport with its information and entry stamp pages
• A recent proof of residence
• 3 valid identity photos
• If you are not from the EU, some processing fees will apply

Fees and taxes to consider

If you need a new residence card due to a change of address, it costs 25 euros. The amount of stamps to pay depends on your nationality, but it is often free for Europeans.

Call 0 806 001 620 if you need assistance. Alternatively, make an appointment at a foreign digital reception point.

Declaring a change of address online

The French government helps foreigners change their address easily. It has created a website: administration-etrangers-en-france.interieur.gouv.fr. On this site, those with a residence permit can declare their new address without any issues.

Using the portal administration-etrangers-en-france.interieur.gouv.fr

Foreigners with a residence permit longer than one year must change their address online. It is better to do this within 3 months after the move to avoid being late.

You need to provide your name, your residence permit number, and the new place where you live. After that, you will receive a message confirming that it has been recorded. You will also learn that it costs 25 euros to renew your residence card.

If it is difficult, you can call 0 806 001 620 for help. Or you can go to a nearby reception point to ask for assistance in person.

Make an appointment at the prefecture via dedicated platforms

It is now easier to change your address at the prefecture thanks to dedicated websites. You can make your appointment online. And you will receive alerts via email and SMS to know the status of your request.

Simplified prefecture appointment for address change

If you have already used the platform for medical appointments, residence permits, or passports, there is a new one. On November 30, 2023, everything will change for a better application.

Your previous appointments will automatically transfer to this new app. Thus, you won’t have to start over. This will make things simpler for you.

rendezvousprefecture.com: an innovative service

The new interface for prefecture appointments will make everything easier and safer. This application will better manage the time slots. Additionally, it will prevent bots from taking all the appointments.

Receive notifications via email and SMS

To avoid forgetting, you will receive an SMS 48 hours before your appointment. This way, there will be fewer missed appointments, which benefits everyone. If the service is temporarily halted for installation, we apologize for the inconvenience.

Change of address and residence permit renewal

When you move, inform the prefecture of your new home. This is important even during the renewal of your residence permit. It keeps your document valid and prevents issues with paperwork.

If your permit expires in more than three months, request a new one in case of issues. However, if the old lost or damaged permit is found, it will no longer be valid.

Within three months after your move, declare the change of address if your permit lasts more than one year. Failing to do so may lead to penalties.

In case of moving during a residence permit application, the rules change depending on the prefecture. Check with the prefecture of your new region to know the steps to follow.

Specific cases of address change

Changing your address when you have a residence permit can be simple. However, there are special cases that require more attention.

Moving during an ongoing permit application

Are you moving while your permit application is being processed? You need to inform the prefecture quickly. This way, your application will not be delayed or complicated.

Change of department

If you are moving to another department, you must change your address. You also need to transfer your file to the new prefecture. This transfer takes time but is important for the follow-up of your file.

Avoid common mistakes when changing your address

When changing your address, you must be careful to avoid mistakes. For example, do not make errors in names, first names, or dates of birth. It is also important to correctly indicate your country of origin on the residence permit. These mistakes can cause serious problems. You might even have to leave France if a check reveals false information.

Respect the deadlines

Declaring your change of address is mandatory within 3 months after moving. Failing to do so can cause you trouble. Therefore, it is crucial to act quickly to complete this procedure.

Provide valid supporting documents

When you request a change of address, gather all the required documents. Failing to provide the correct supporting documents can block your process. Before going to the prefecture, make sure you have everything you need.

Change of civil status to report

You must inform the prefecture if something changes in your life, such as your name, after a marriage or divorce. The same applies if you add or remove your spouse's name.

Name or first name change

Changing your name or first name is important. This can happen after a marriage, a divorce, or for other personal reasons. The prefecture must be informed to update your residence permit.

Add or remove spouse's name

Adding or removing your spouse's name on your residence permit must be reported to the prefecture. This simplifies your administrative paperwork and keeps all your documents up to date.

Useful resources and contacts

Are you looking for help to change your address at the prefecture? There are several places where you can seek assistance.

Assistance numbers and websites

Start by calling the Citizen Contact Center (CCC). You can also fill out an online form. Visit administration-etrangers-en-france.interieur.gouv.fr. There, you will find useful advice.

The French Office for Immigration and Integration (OFII) can also guide you. Go to www.ofii.fr for more information.

Digital reception points for foreigners

Need help with your online procedures? Reception points are there specifically for foreigners. Do not hesitate to ask them for assistance. They are ready to help you with your address change procedures.