Isabella Bird - Author & Visa Consultant
Moving to France was my big dream — and in 2016, my husband, our two dogs, and I finally did it.
(Yes, the dogs adjusted faster than we did.)
Before France, I was a BBC journalist, and I once studied for a law degree “just for fun.”
That probably tells you everything you need to know about how my brain works: curious, detail-obsessed, and slightly allergic to misinformation.
Then Brexit happened.
Like many Brits in France, I suddenly found myself deep in the world of visas, residency, and rules that Brits had never needed to think about before - although of course, other non-EU nationals had been having to do this for years.
My inner law geek lit up.
I learned the system inside out, and for five years I helped people with their visa applications - completely free. I did it because I genuinely love seeing people make their dream of living in France a reality.
Fast forward to 2025
I published two books - Visas for France and Setting Up a Business / Becoming Self-Employed in France. Both are on Amazon if you fancy a browse.
So why start charging for something I used to do for free?
Simple! My lovely husband is a self-employed gardener and handyman, and after years of hard physical work, his body has had enough.
I realised that if I turned my knowledge into a business, maybe he could stop punishing himself with heavy tools and endless hedge trimming.
And so - here I am
Today, I have over five years’ experience with the French visa system and have helped around 25 people make their French move a success.
I have never had an application refused, and I specialise in:
- Entrepreneur visas, and
- Helping people who previously had their application rejected get approved.
If you’re dreaming of France - whether for a new business, a new life chapter, or simply a better view at breakfast - I’m here to help you get there with clarity, confidence, and far less stress.