We have purchased a house in Languedoc and are currently applying for our first long stay visa. I have been reading several blogs and it seems what we need next is the long term retired persons Carte de sèjour. How difficult is this for an Aussie to obtain and does it allow us access to the French health care system? I read in an online article that it does, but would like verification.
Advice appreciated
I think you need to reside in France five (5) years before applying for a long-term visa. Retirement has nothing to do with the situation, that is, you can be retired or working. Just get your carte de sejour every year and on the fifth year ask the Prefecture-people for their checklist for a long term stay visa. Checklist! Yes, my Prefecture had one AND they were helpful. You will need to speak/understand a little French or you can take someone with you for the first application; not mandatory, just helpful. After buying a home in France you probably know how to maneuver.