Guide to Residency in Martinique

Obtaining a residency visa in Martinique is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Martinique gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Understand the Legal Requirements
  • Martinique is an overseas department of France, thus French immigration laws apply.
  • EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can stay in Martinique without a visa for up to 3 months. For stays over 3 months, they need to apply for a residence permit.
  • Non-EU citizens may need a visa to enter and stay in Martinique.
• Prepare Necessary Documents
  • Valid passport
  • Birth certificate (with apostille and translation if not in French)
  • Proof of accommodation (lease agreement, property deed, or accommodation certificate)
  • Proof of sufficient financial resources
  • Health insurance coverage
  • OFII form (Office Français de l'Immigration et de l'Intégration) for non-EU citizens
• Apply for a Long-Stay Visa (Non-EU Citizens)
  • Visit the official French visa website: France-Visas
  • Fill out the application form online.
  • Schedule an appointment at the French consulate or embassy in your home country.
  • Submit the required documents and pay the visa fee.
• Apply for a Residence Permit (Carte de Séjour)
  • After arrival in Martinique, EU/EEA/Swiss citizens must apply within 3 months.
  • Non-EU citizens must apply within 2 months before the expiration of their long-stay visa.
  • Visit the Préfecture de la Martinique to submit the application.
  • Address: Rue Lazare Carnot, 97200 Fort-de-France
• Apply for a Tax Number (Numéro SPI)
  • Visit the official French tax website: Impôts
  • Click on "Je demande mon numéro fiscal" and follow the instructions.
  • You will need to provide personal information and proof of identity.
• Register with the French Social Security System
  • Visit the official French social security website: Ameli
  • Fill out the registration form (S121) and submit it to the local CPAM (Caisse Primaire d'Assurance Maladie) office.
  • Address: 7 Rue de la Liberté, 97200 Fort-de-France
• Open a French Bank Account
  • Choose a bank that suits your needs (e.g., BNP Paribas, Société Générale, Crédit Agricole).
  • Make an appointment and provide the required documents (passport, proof of address, residence permit, etc.).
• Learn French
  • Enroll in French language courses to integrate better into local society.
  • Check with local language schools or associations for available classes.

Useful Links

Official French visa website: France-Visas
French tax website: Impôts
French social security website: Ameli

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Martinique?

"In order to visit Martinique, foreign nationals must obtain a visa from the French Embassy or Consulate in their home country. The visa application process requires applicants to submit a valid passport, a completed application form, two passport-sized photographs, proof of financial means, and a return ticket. In order to obtain residency in Martinique, foreign nationals must apply for a long-term visa at the French Embassy or Consulate in their home country. The application process requires applicants to submit a valid passport, a completed application form, two passport-sized photographs, proof of financial means, proof of accommodation, and a medical certificate. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a long-term visa, which will allow them to stay in Martinique for up to one year. After one year, the applicant must apply for a residence permit in order to remain in the country," commented one member living in Martinique.

"Be sure you have your visa to stay before you come. Long stay visa are your ticket here. Do things legally and there should be no problems. Carte de séjour, take time, and that can be real hassle! You must either have a job, or family member here to to stay. Be sure your fully prepared," mentioned one expat living in Martinique.