TL:DR
- Clear roadmap for how to move to Monaco with step‑by‑step checklists.
- Residence basics, required documents, and official resources.
- Real‑world costs and how much money you need to live in Monaco.
- Choices that cut cost without risk: part‑load vs dedicated van.
- VANonsite services: packing, furniture removals, White Glove, storage.
- Door‑to‑door in days, not weeks, with live GPS tracking.
- Instant quote with a virtual survey and line‑by‑line pricing.
Introduction
How to move to Monaco without stress or guesswork. That is the promise of this guide. We break the journey into clear steps you can follow, from visas and residence cards to the customs inventory that gets your belongings across the border cleanly. You will see honest cost ranges, including how much money you need to live in Monaco, and smart choices like dedicated vans for fixed ETAs or part‑loads to trim the budget. With VANonsite you get a real move coordinator, white glove packing, and live GPS tracking so you can watch your shipment glide down the Riviera. We protect lifts and corridors, crate art and pianos, and place every piece exactly where you want it. The result is simple: you arrive calm, your home arrives immaculate, and Monaco feels like yours from day one.
The Monaco move at a glance
Sunshine on polished stone, a harbour full of masts, streets so walkable you will forget you own a car. Monaco is compact, safe, and dazzling. It also runs on precision. Tight access, timed delivery windows, and immaculate lobbies reward planning. Get the details right and the move feels effortless.
Quick facts table
| Topic | Snapshot |
|---|---|
| Residence | Apply for a residence card with Monaco Sûreté Publique after arrival; most non EU nationals first secure a French long stay visa for Monaco via France Visas |
| Customs | Monaco is in a customs union with France; household effects usually clear under French Customs rules when entering France |
| Timing | UK to Monaco delivery often 1 to 3 days on a dedicated route; part loads use broader shared windows |
| Tracking | Every VANonsite vehicle has live GPS with a shareable link |
| Access | Many buildings require booked lift slots, floor protection, and quiet hour compliance; shuttle vans help in narrow streets |
| Services | Full packing, fragile only, White Glove, storage, office and student moves |
Internal links: Removals to Monaco • From UK • International
Visas, residence, and legal basics
If you plan to stay more than 90 days in any 180 day period you will need residence. The path is straightforward when you split it into two steps: permission to enter, then your Monaco residence card after arrival.
Who needs a visa
- Non EU and non EEA nationals, including most UK citizens, usually obtain a French long stay visa issued for Monaco through France Visas before travel.
- EU and EEA citizens do not need a visa for entry but still apply for a Monaco residence card within three months of arrival.
Pathways at a glance
| Step | Non EU including UK | EU or EEA citizens |
|---|---|---|
| Before travel | Apply via France Visas for a long stay visa for Monaco; prepare documents | Prepare documents; no visa needed for entry |
| After arrival | Book with Sûreté Publique, provide biometrics and documents, collect residence card | Book with Sûreté Publique, provide documents, collect residence card |
Before you go
- Secure accommodation in Monaco or a nearby French commune and gather proof.
- Request a bank letter or statements that show sufficient means to support yourself.
- Obtain a recent extract of your criminal record as requested by authorities.
- Review health insurance arrangements if applicable.
After you arrive
- Book an appointment with the Sûreté Publique.
- Bring originals and copies of your documents for verification.
- Provide biometrics where required and follow the instructions to collect your card.
Official resources
- Monaco Government – residence permits: https://monservicepublic.gouv.mc/en/themes/nationality-and-residency/residency/new-entrants/how-to-apply-for-a-residence-permit
- France Visas – documents for Monaco: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/monaco-justificatifs
- Service Public France – long stay visa overview: https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F16162?lang=en
Documents checklist
- Passport and passport style photos
- Proof of accommodation in Monaco or a nearby French commune
- Proof of sufficient financial means, such as a bank letter or statements
- Extract of criminal record as requested
- Health insurance details if applicable
Note: Requirements differ by nationality and personal situation. Always verify on the official portals above.
Customs and paperwork for your belongings
Monaco sits in a customs union with France, so your household goods normally clear French Customs at the point of entry to France. With the right inventory and proofs, household effects are often eligible for relief. We prepare the paperwork, you keep travel documents handy, and border checks stay predictable.
How the border actually works
- We create a clear, signed inventory with simple descriptions and realistic values.
- Your shipment enters France, where French Customs may review documents.
- Once cleared, we continue to Monaco and coordinate building access and delivery windows with your concierge.
What usually qualifies for relief
Used, personal household goods moved as part of a genuine change of residence are commonly eligible for duty relief under French rules. Requirements can vary by situation. Always confirm current rules on the official portals below.
Government links
- French Customs – moving house: https://www.douane.gouv.fr/particuliers/vous-demenagez
- Service Public – duty relief for personal effects: https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F492
- GOV.UK – declaring personal goods when leaving the UK: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/check-how-to-declare-personal-goods-you-bring-into-or-take-out-of-the-uk
- GOV.UK – ATA Carnet for temporary professional equipment: https://www.gov.uk/ata-carnet
What we prepare
- Signed, itemised inventory with plain‑English descriptions and values
- Proofs of address and change of residence
- Certificates or invoices for high‑value pieces
- If moving professional kit temporarily, ATA Carnet coordination as applicable
Documents by scenario
| Scenario | Extra documents often requested |
|---|---|
| Change of primary residence | Proof of previous UK address and new Monaco address, dated utility or tenancy, signed inventory |
| Student or internship move | School or internship letter, proof of accommodation, travel dates |
| High‑value collections or art | Invoices, certificates of authenticity, insurance valuation |
| Corporate relocation | Employer letter, list of equipment, chain‑of‑custody for sensitive items |
| Vehicle with household goods | Registration document and proof of ownership period; check Service Public France for specifics |
Items needing special attention
- Vehicles, boats, trailers
- Alcohol, tobacco, and food stocks
- New or unused goods purchased shortly before departure
- Works of art, antiques, and collections
- Plants, animal products, and items restricted under CITES
Packing for smooth customs
- Use plain language on the inventory. Write “dining table” rather than codes.
- Group sets as sets, for example “6 dining chairs”.
- Photograph high‑value items before packing and keep invoices accessible.
Tip: Keep passports, keys, prescriptions, and your first‑night kit with you. These should never travel in the moving vehicle.
How much money do you need to live in Monaco
Set expectations honestly and tailor them to your lifestyle. Rents vary wildly by district, sea view, building services, and parking. Eating at home vs dining out, owning a car vs walking and taxis – these choices shape your monthly spend far more than any single line item.
Monthly cost ranges in Monaco (guide, not advice)
| Category | Solo professional | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent | High‑end studio to 1‑bed, often premium pricing | 1 to 2 bed, premium pricing | 2 to 3 bed, premium pricing |
| Utilities & internet | Typical apartment utilities plus broadband | Utilities scaled to size | Utilities scaled to size |
| Groceries & dining | From careful home cooking to frequent dining out | Moderate to comfortable | Family shop plus occasional dining |
| Transport | Walking and local travel, parking if you keep a car | As left | As left plus school runs |
| Schooling | N/A or private options | Private options if chosen | Private or international options |
One‑time setup costs to plan for
- Rental deposit and potential agency or building fees
- Furniture and appliances if the flat is unfurnished
- Internet and TV activation, mobile plans, and any deposits
- Parking permit or private space if you keep a car
- Administrative fees for residence card applications as applicable
Why budgets vary so much
- District: Carré d’Or and sea‑view buildings command higher rents.
- Amenities: Doorman, pool, gym, concierge, and new developments raise service charges.
- Parking: A private bay can be worth it if you commute by car.
- Lifestyle: Dining out, wellness, and events add sparkle and cost.
Smart ways to optimise
- Consider a smaller footprint and use storage for seasonal items.
- Book your move mid‑week and reserve lift slots to avoid waiting fees.
- Stage deliveries: essential items first, decor later as the budget settles.
- Walk when you can; Monaco is compact and beautifully connected.
Want a budget aligned to your district and timing? Tell us your target range and we will suggest move plans – from part‑load savings to staged deliveries – that keep costs under control.
Van sizes and what they fit
Pick capacity with confidence. Monaco’s narrow streets, polished lobbies, and booked lift slots reward smart sizing. We match van to volume, weight, and access so the day runs like clockwork.
| Vehicle | Volume | Max load | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moving Basic | 5 m³ | 300 kg | Student essentials, 10–20 boxes |
| Moving Medium | 10 m³ | 600 kg | Compact flats, 20–40 boxes, small sofa |
| Moving Premium | 15 m³ | 1000 kg | One‑bed full contents, wardrobe, mattress |
| Moving Premium Plus | 30 m³ | 3500 kg | Two–three‑bed homes, dining sets |
| Moving Full House XXL | 90 m³ | 20000 kg | Complete house moves, office relocations |
Quick chooser
- Count your boxes, then add 20 percent for last‑minute items.
- List bulky pieces: wardrobes, sofas, gym gear, outdoor furniture.
- Tell us about lifts, stairs, loading bays, and tight turns at both addresses.
- Flag fragile or oversized items so we can crate or dismantle safely.
Real examples
- Studio with desk and 15 boxes → Moving Basic.
- One‑bed with sofa, table, 35 boxes → Moving Premium.
- Family home with larger furniture → Moving Premium Plus, sometimes with a shuttle for Monaco access.
Access & shuttle logic in Monaco
- We stage a larger vehicle nearby and use a compact shuttle van for the final stretch when streets or car parks are tight.
- Lift pads, floor runners, and door shields keep common areas pristine.
- Timed slots are coordinated with your concierge for a smooth arrival.
Weight awareness
- Volume is only half the story. Heavy books, stone tables, and gym equipment can push weight limits. We balance volume and payload to stay safe and efficient.
Ready for a precise match? Book a short virtual survey and we will recommend the perfect van size for your address.
Part‑load vs dedicated service
Both options are safe and fully insured. The right choice depends on dates, volume, and how exact you want your delivery time to be.
| Option | Best for | Delivery window | Price profile | Pros | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dedicated vehicle | Fixed key dates, high‑value items, exact ETA | Fixed | Highest | Fastest, direct, no mixing | Higher price per m³ |
| Part‑load to Monaco | Flexible dates, smaller shipments | Shared | Lower | Cost‑effective, greener | Wider window, schedule batching |
Pick dedicated if
- You have a fixed key exchange or tight concierge slot.
- You are moving many fragile or designer pieces.
- You want a guaranteed morning or afternoon placement.
Pick part‑load if
- Your dates are flexible and you want sharper pricing.
- You are shipping 5 to 12 m³ or single‑room contents.
- You like the greener footprint of shared transport.
Scenario planner
| Scenario | Volume guide | Recommended service | Why | ETA style |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| London 10 m³, fixed Friday delivery | 8–12 m³ | Dedicated | Exact timed arrival, no mixing | Fixed slot |
| Manchester 6 m³, flexible week | 5–8 m³ | Part‑load | Best price with shared run | Shared window |
| Villa fit‑out in stages | 15–30 m³ per wave | Mix: Dedicated then Part‑load | Essentials first, decor later | Fixed then shared |
Eco and budget notes
- Part‑loads improve vehicle utilisation and reduce emissions per cubic metre.
- Dedicated routes cut handling and shorten transit, ideal for high‑value items.
Not sure which to choose? We can blend both. Ship the essentials on a dedicated van, then send non‑essentials as a part‑load to optimise cost and timing.
Step‑by‑step plan
Make your Monaco move feel choreographed, not chaotic. Here is the plan, stage by stage, with who does what and when it happens.
| Stage | What we do | What you do | Typical timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Virtual survey & quote | Walk through your home on video or in person. Map items and access. Build a clear, line by line quote with options. | Show each room, flag tight stairs, lifts, or restricted streets. Share target dates. | Same day to 24 hours |
| 2. Choose packing level | Recommend full pack, fragile only, or self pack. Deliver pro materials early. | Decide protection level. Keep essentials out for travel. | 3 to 10 days before collection |
| 3. Paperwork & inventory | Prepare a signed inventory and supporting documents for French administered customs. | Provide ID, proof of address, and any invoices for high value items. | 3 to 7 days before collection |
| 4. Collection day | Protect floors and doors, dismantle agreed items, wrap and label, load by room. Share your live GPS link. | Reserve parking and lifts. Keep passports, keys, meds with you. | 1 day |
| 5. Transit | Optimise routing UK to Monaco via France. Monitor progress and update ETAs. | Travel to Monaco. Share the GPS link with your concierge. | 1 to 3 days |
| 6. Delivery & placement | Shuttle van if streets are tight. Room by room placement, reassembly, debris removal. | Walk the placement plan and check off the inventory. | Same day to 1 day |
| 7. Aftercare | Arrange storage, extra drop offs, or a second wave delivery. | Tell us what to stage later or store. | As needed |
Pro tips for a smooth week
- Book concierge or lift slots at both ends. Timed access is gold in Monaco.
- Photograph art and fragile pieces before packing for quick condition checks.
- Label a first night box with bedding, toiletries, chargers, and kettle.
- Share the GPS link with anyone coordinating access.
Packing that protects and impresses
Your home deserves better than cardboard and hope. We use export grade wraps, purpose built crates, and white glove handling so every surface arrives pristine and every placement feels deliberate.
What’s included, by default
- Multi layer export wrapping for furniture and fragile items.
- Custom crating for artwork, chandeliers, and oversized TVs when needed.
- Property protection at both ends: lift pads, floor runners, corner and door shields.
- Clean handling rules and debris removal, so the space looks move in ready.
Item by item care
| Item | Protection we use | Practical note |
|---|---|---|
| Sofas and armchairs | Breathable export wraps, corner guards | Avoids compression marks and dye transfer |
| Marble or glass tables | Foam sandwich, rigid boards, crate if large | Mark centre of gravity and keep upright |
| Artworks and mirrors | Bespoke crates, acid free tissue, corner caps | Shock and tilt indicators available |
| Upright or grand piano | Padded covers, skid board, straps, stair climber | Tune after settling in Monaco |
| Designer wardrobes | Disassembly, labelled fittings, rigid edge protectors | Reassembly and alignment on site |
| TVs and electronics | Original boxes or custom crates, antistatic covers | Keep remotes and cables in a labelled kit |
Chain of custody
- Itemised inventory with barcoded labels.
- Supervisor sign off at origin and destination.
- Live GPS tracking link you can share with your building manager.
Crosslinks for details and booking:
- Packing Services → https://vanonsite.com/packing-services/
- White Glove Delivery → https://vanonsite.com/white-glove-delivery-service/
- Furniture Removals → https://vanonsite.com/furniture-removals/
Timelines and travel
Plan your own arrival to feel effortless and time the van to the minute. Here is how long routes usually take and how to travel comfortably.
At a glance timelines
| Origin | Dedicated service (typical) | Part‑load window | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| London | 1 to 3 days door to door | 3 to 7 days | Fastest lane with flexible pickup and delivery windows |
| Manchester or Birmingham | 2 to 4 days | 4 to 8 days | Add half to one day for the UK leg and loading complexity |
| Edinburgh or Glasgow | 3 to 5 days | 5 to 9 days | Longer UK transit and staging before Channel crossing |
What speeds things up
- Pre booked concierge or lift slots at both addresses.
- Express crew with full packing. Loading is cleaner and faster.
- Eurotunnel rather than ferry during weather risk periods.
- Shuttle van for Monaco’s tighter streets and car parks.
What can slow things down
- Restricted delivery windows in premium residences.
- Late inventory changes that alter van size or crew.
- Roadworks on the A8 or seasonal traffic around Nice.
- Unreserved lifts or parking at origin or destination.
Travel tips for you
- Fly to Nice Côte d’Azur. From the airport take the coastal TER train to Monaco in about 20 to 30 minutes, the airport coach, a taxi, or a 7 minute helicopter transfer to the heliport.
- Driving is simple: choose Eurotunnel or a ferry, then route via A26 – A7 – A8 to the Riviera. Expect French autoroute tolls and plan rest stops.
- Keep passports, keys, prescriptions, chargers, and a first night box in your carry on.
- Share your GPS tracking link with your concierge so they can plan lift access.
Pricing levers and how to save
Prices are shaped by a few clear levers. Control what you can, and the quote will reward you.
Cost levers at a glance
- Volume and weight: fewer boxes and lighter loads reduce van size and crew needs.
- Access and timing: reserved lifts and parking avoid waiting time.
- Packing level: self pack simple items; let us protect fragile pieces.
- Crew size and skills: pianos and crating require specialists.
- Delivery window: broader windows cost less than exact timed slots.
- Storage: staged deliveries smooth budgets and renovations.
- Route and seasonality: peak dates and storms can affect schedules.
Savings matrix
| Lever | What to do | Why it saves | Typical impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Declutter early | Donate or sell low value items before survey | Reduces volume and materials | Noticeable on 10 m³+ moves |
| Accurate inventory | Share a video walk through | Prevents under booking and reworks | Fewer surprises, cleaner quote |
| Mid week collection | Avoid Fridays and peak cutovers | Easier routing and lift bookings | Faster slots, sometimes lower cost |
| Reserve access | Book lifts, loading bays, and concierge windows | Crew works without idle time | Cuts waiting charges |
| Part‑load option | Pick a shared window for 5 to 12 m³ | Shares transport and lowers cost | Best savings on smaller moves |
| Stage deliveries | Send essentials now, decor later | Spreads cost and fits renovations | Budget friendly and calm |
Avoidable charges
- Unbooked lifts or parking that cause delays.
- Last minute adds that change van size or crew.
- Unboxed loose items that slow loading.
Smart bundles
| Bundle | Best for | What is included | Why it converts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starter move | Students and interns | Moving Basic 5 m³, fragile only pack, shared window | Small footprint and sharp pricing |
| City apartment | One bed moves | Moving Premium 15 m³, full packing, dedicated slot | Exact ETA for concierge windows |
| Family to Monaco | Two to three beds | Moving Premium Plus 30 m³, white glove, shuttle van | Access ready and property safe |
| Designer install | High value pieces | Custom crating, white glove, timed placement | Precision handling and finish |
Start your tailored quote → https://vanonsite.com/removals-to-monaco
FAQs
How much money do you need to move to Monaco?
Your moving budget depends on five levers: volume, access, packing level, service speed, and season. Smaller shipments fit in 5 to 10 m³ and can travel as a part load with a shared window. Full homes use 30 to 90 m³ and often call for a dedicated vehicle with a fixed ETA. Tight access in Monaco may require a shuttle van for the final stretch. The fastest way to get a precise figure is a short virtual survey so we can map volume and access, then build a line by line quote. Start here: Removals to Monaco or the UK page Removals to Monaco from UK.
Can a foreigner live in Monaco?
Yes. Foreign nationals can live in Monaco if they meet residence conditions. Most non EU citizens, including many UK passport holders, apply for a French long stay visa for Monaco before travel via France‑Visas, then request a Monaco residence card with the Sûreté Publique after arrival. You will typically show proof of accommodation, sufficient financial means, and a recent criminal record extract. Official guidance: Monaco residency portal: https://monservicepublic.gouv.mc/en/themes/nationality-and-residency/residency/new-entrants/how-to-apply-for-a-residence-permit and France‑Visas: https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/monaco-justificatifs.
Can a foreigner get a job in Monaco?
Yes, but employment is regulated. You usually need an offer from a Monaco employer and the correct authorisations. Many people work as cross border employees while living in nearby France or Italy, and residents work in Monaco with their valid residence card. Check current rules with Monaco authorities and your employer. See Monaco Government themes on employment and residency: https://monservicepublic.gouv.mc/en.
Does Monaco accept immigrants?
Monaco accepts new residents who meet entry and residence criteria. The Principality is not part of the EU and manages a structured residence permit process with categories that reflect your situation. Expect to provide proof of accommodation and sufficient means. Start with the official residency pages: https://monservicepublic.gouv.mc/en/themes/nationality-and-residency/residency.
Is it difficult to move to Monaco?
It is detailed rather than difficult. The keys are preparation and timing. Book lift slots, prepare a clear inventory for French administered customs, and plan for narrow streets at delivery. With a dedicated coordinator, white glove packing, and a shuttle plan where needed, the move feels smooth. We handle paperwork and logistics while you focus on travel and handovers.
What language is spoken in Monaco?
French is the official language and is used for government paperwork and most day to day services. You will also hear Italian and English widely, and the historic local language is Monegasque. When preparing documents for visas or residence, expect French forms and official wording on the Monaco Government and France‑Visas sites.
Do I need a visa to move to Monaco?
Most non EU citizens secure a French long stay visa for Monaco before travel, then apply for a Monaco residence card after arrival. EU and EEA citizens do not need a visa to enter for short stays but still apply for a residence card within three months. See the official portals linked above in this FAQ.
What documents do I need for customs?
Household effects usually clear under French Customs rules when entering France. You will prepare a signed inventory with simple descriptions and values, plus proofs of address and change of residence. Official guidance: French Customs moving house: https://www.douane.gouv.fr/particuliers/vous-demenagez and duty relief details: https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F492.
Can you move my piano or artwork?
Yes. Our White Glove team uses custom crates, climate aware handling, and condition reports, then protects lifts and corridors on delivery. Learn more: White Glove Delivery and Furniture Removals.
Do you offer storage and split deliveries?
Yes. Storage bridges gaps in keys or renovations. We can stage your move so essentials arrive first and decor follows later. Your coordinator will build the plan around your timeline.
Summary and next steps
This guide gives you a clear, practical roadmap for how to move to Monaco without stress. You know the visa routes, the residency steps, and how French‑administered customs treat household goods. You can choose the right van size from 5 m³ to 90 m³, decide between a dedicated vehicle or part‑load, and protect every piece with white glove packing. You also understand realistic budgets for living in the Principality and the simple levers that lower your moving cost while keeping quality high.
Key takeaways
- One coordinator, real time GPS tracking, and fast responses.
- Visa and residence basics for EU and non EU citizens with official links to follow.
- Customs made simple with tidy inventories and scenario checklists.
- The right capacity for any move: student kits to full family homes.
- Part‑load for sharper pricing or dedicated for exact ETAs.
- White glove handling for art, pianos, and designer pieces.
- Typical UK to Monaco timelines: 1 to 3 days on dedicated routes.
- Smart pricing levers that cut cost without cutting corners.
- Honest guidance on how much money you need to live in Monaco and what shapes that spend.
Ready to move?
- Start your quote: Removals to Monaco
- From the UK: Removals to Monaco from UK
- International routes: International removals to Monaco
