The call comes from British in Europe, a coalition representing UK citizens across the EU, five years after the end of the Brexit transition period.
For many Britons covered by the Withdrawal Agreement, 2026 marks the point at which they become eligible for permanent residence.
Co-founder Jane Golding has warned eligible residents not to delay, stressing that permanent residence brings significant advantages, including greater flexibility to spend time outside France without losing residency rights.
In France, this mainly affects Britons who had lived in the country for less than five years by the end of 2020 and currently hold a five-year Article 50 residency card.
These residents will need to apply to their local préfecture to upgrade to the 10-year permanent card as their permit nears expiry.
Permanent residence under the Withdrawal Agreement allows absences of up to five years, compared with six months per year under temporary status, and offers additional protections from future changes to residency rules.
While rights are not automatically lost if a card expires, authorities warn that failing to renew can lead to serious administrative difficulties.
Brits in France are therefore being advised to check their card type carefully and apply in good time to avoid complications.