Everything you need to know about renewing your Brexit Card/Carte de Séjour❓ What is an Article 50 Brexit card?
An Article 50 Brexit card is the residence card given to UK nationals (and their family members) who were living legally in an EU country before Brexit. It proves your right to stay, work, and access healthcare under the Withdrawal Agreement.
(What most of us know as a Carte de Séjour, the Article 50 version confirms your post-Brexit residency rights under the Withdrawal Agreement whereas the carte de séjour is a general term in France for any type of residence permit issued to non-French nationals who are staying longer than 3 months. So while all Article 50 cards are cartes de séjour, not all cartes de séjour are Article 50 cards.)
❓ Why do I need to renew it?
The first cards issued after Brexit were valid for 5 years. Once they expire, you must renew them to keep your legal residence rights. If you don’t renew it, you could face difficulties with healthcare, travel, or pensions.
❓ When should I start renewing my card?
Start the process about six months before your card expires. That gives plenty of time to gather documents, fill out forms, and handle any delays.
❓ How do I renew it?
You’ll need to:
– Check your card’s expiry date.
– Visit your local prefecture or immigration office’s website (for France)
– Fill in the renewal application online.
– Provide updated documents, such as:
Current Article 50 card
Passport
Proof you still live in the country (utility bill, tax notice, rent receipt, etc.)
Proof of income or pension
Recent photo
You may be asked to attend an appointment to give fingerprints and sign electronically.
❓ What if I’ve changed address, passport, or marital status?
- Always mention any changes during renewal.
- Bring proof of the change (for example, your new passport or marriage certificate).
- Not updating details can delay or block your renewal.
❓ How long does renewal take?
It varies by area — usually a few weeks to a few months. Once accepted, you’ll receive a new 10-year card in most cases.
❓ What are common mistakes to avoid?
- Waiting until the last minute — renew early!
- Forgetting to upload all pages of your passport (even blank ones).
- Using expired or unclear proof of address.
- Missing your prefecture appointment.
- Ignoring emails from the administration (check your spam folder!).
❓ What if I’m ill or not comfortable with online forms?
You can:
- Ask a family member or friend to help.
- Visit your local France Services centre or town hall, where staff can assist.
- In some areas, charities like British in Europe or France Rights can help you with paperwork.
❓ How will I know when my new card is ready?
You’ll receive an email or SMS from the prefecture.
Then you’ll make an appointment to collect your new card in person — bring your passport and old card.
✅ Tip:
Keep digital copies (photos or scans) of your documents and your application confirmation email. They’re useful if the prefecture asks for details or if your card is delayed.