Foreign Property Ownership in France

Who can buy a property in France? Understand the latest rules and regulations here.

Further Questions

Is France a good place to invest in property? What are the advantages of buying a French ski property? Should I rent out my French ski property? What's the impact of climate change on the French Alps property market?

What are the different types of property in France? What are the benefits of buying a new-build property in France? Should I buy a ski-in, ski-out or village centre property? Can I buy an off-plan property in France?

Can foreigners buy property in France? Can UK and other non-EU citizens buy property in France? How long can I stay in France if I buy a property? Can I Become a Resident in France?

How much can I borrow from a French bank? Can I get a French mortgage as a non-resident? What are French mortgage rates for non-residents? Can non-EU citizens get French mortgages?

What is the purchase process for property in France? What are the costs of buying property in France? What is a Compromis de Vente? What is an Acte Authentique? How long does it take to buy a property in France? What's the best time of year to buy French ski property?

Can I buy French property in a company name? What are the benefits of buying French property through a company? What are the costs of buying in the name of a company in France? What is a French SCI?

What taxes do I pay when buying property in France? What are French property taxes? What is taxe foncière? What is taxe d'habitation? Can I reclaim the VAT on a new build property in France? What is French wealth tax? What is French capital gains tax on property?

How much can I expect to receive in rental income in the French Alps? How much personal use can I have of my French ski property? Is there a rental obligation for French ski property? How do I maximise rental income from my French property?

Which French ski resorts have the best year-round activities? Which French ski resorts have the most reliable snow? Which French ski resorts have the strongest rental demand? Which French ski resorts are closest to Geneva airport? Which French ski resorts are best for families? What is the largest ski area in France?

Can foreigners buy property in France?

Yes, foreigners are permitted to buy property in France, and the regulations are largely similar to those that apply to French citizens.

Can UK and other non-EU citizens buy property in France?

Yes, UK citizens and other non-EU nationals can purchase property in France. French law does not impose restrictions on property ownership based on nationality. Therefore, being British or a non-EU citizen does not prevent you from buying a house, apartment, land, or holiday home in France.

How long can I stay in France if I buy a property?

For UK and other non-EU citizens, once you have purchased a property, you can stay in the country for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. You will need to apply for a long-term visa if you wish to stay for longer. EU citizens have full freedom of movement in France and can stay as long as they wish.

Can I Become a Resident in France?

You can become a resident in France if you want to stay in your property for more than 90 days a year. This requires you to apply for a visa/residency. After 10 years you can apply to become a French citizen. Depending on the level of investment you have made, this could be shortened to 5 years.