Can I buy a house in France as a non-resident?

Yes, you can absolutely buy a house in France as a non-resident, regardless of your nationality, as there are no legal restrictions on foreign property ownership. You do not need to be a French citizen or resident, but non-residents may face stricter mortgage terms, requiring larger deposits (20–40%).

Can you buy a house in France without residency?

Yes, you can absolutely buy a house in France as a non-resident, with no significant legal restrictions based on your nationality (EU or non-EU) for property ownership itself, though managing long stays or financing might involve extra steps like getting a visa or a French bank account. The French system is very open to foreign buyers, making it accessible for holiday homes or investments, but be prepared for paperwork, especially with the essential {Link: French notaire (lawyer) and understanding French inheritance laws.

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

Owning property in France doesn't grant automatic residency; non-EU owners must get a long-stay visa (like the VLS-TS) to stay over 90 days in 180, with options for temporary (VLS-T, up to 6 months) or renewable long-term stays (VLS-TS, up to 1 year initially), requiring proof of funds, health insurance, and accommodation, leading potentially to permanent residency after 5-10 years. EU citizens can stay longer without visas due to freedom of movement but may need to register for long-term stays.

Can I get citizenship if I buy a house in France?

There is no direct citizenship by investment program in France, however, it is possible to apply for French naturalisation, i.e. French citizenship and a French passport, once you have resided in the country full-time for a minimum of five years.

Can a foreigner buy a home in France?

Purchase costs & fees. For any American wondering if a USA citizen can buy property in France – the answer is yes. French law welcomes foreign buyers, and real estate there remains stable and attractive.

Tax Rules When Buying French Property as a Non-Resident

Is it wise to buy a house in France now?

Yes, now (early 2026) is generally considered a good time to buy in France, as the market shows signs of recovery with stabilizing prices, stabilizing interest rates (around 3% for 25-year loans in late 2025), and increased buyer confidence, though significant regional differences persist, making local research crucial. You're stepping in as the market moves from a downturn, ahead of summer competition, with better negotiation room in some cities, but be prepared for potential economic uncertainties and local market variations, say experts from Groupe BPCE, Your Overseas Home and Capifrance.

How much money do I need to invest to get permanent residency in France?

The France Talent Passport allows investors to gain residency in France by investing a minimum of €300,000 in the economy, with potential approval within three months. This program offers a renewable four-year residence permit for the investor and their family, including spouses and children under 18.

What are the pitfalls of buying a property in France?

It is very important to understand the terms of the contract and check these before signing.

• Proper Legal Identification of the Property. ...
• Description of the House. ...
• Fixtures and fittings. ...
• Ten per cent deposit. ...
• Estate agent's Commission. ...
• Notaire's fees. ...
• Additional fees. ...
• Specific conditions.

What is the fastest way to become a French citizen?

By birth: If you were born in France to foreign parents, you might be eligible for French citizenship upon reaching adulthood. The formalities for this process can take between 12 and 18 months, depending on how quickly documents are gathered and processed.

How much is a Golden Visa in France?

The France Golden Visa investment is designed for high-net-worth individuals seeking residency in France through an active economic contribution. Key program requirements include: A minimum €300,000 productive investment. 5-year holding period.

Why did George Clooney get French citizenship?

George Clooney gets French citizenship, spars with Trump : NPR. George Clooney gets French citizenship, spars with Trump The French government says it granted George and Amal Clooney citizenship because of their contributions to its international influence. Their family has primarily lived in France since 2021.

How much money do I need in the bank to move to France?

Proof that you have sufficient financial resources

Normally, individuals who do not hold a passport of an EU-member country, will need to show that they have an annual/monthly income of more than the French minimum wage, which 01 1 January 2024 was €1,766.92 per month (Gross), around €1,400 per month (net).

How much tax do you pay when buying a house in France?

Taxes and ownership

Property purchase fees are roughly 7.5% of the purchase price, although some fees and costs can vary slightly. The French wealth tax starts at 0.5% for properties between €800,000 and €1.3 million, rising progressively to 1.5% for property over €10 million.

Is 1000 euros enough to live in France?

Your monthly expenses in France will depend considerably on your lifestyle and location. In smaller cities, you can live comfortably on a budget of EUR 1,000 per month.

How long can I stay in France if I buy a house there?

Buying property in France does not grant automatic residency. You must still apply for a visa or residence permit if you plan to stay for more than 90 days at a time. What visa do I need to stay in France long term? Most non-EU buyers will need a long-stay visa (VLS-TS), valid for up to one year.

Can I open a bank account in France if I am not a resident?

Non-residents are welcome to open a French bank account, known as a non-resident bank account (compte non-résident). These accounts allow individuals who live outside France to access essential banking services, including debit cards, online banking, and the ability to transfer funds.

Which is the toughest citizenship to get?

List of Top 15 Hardest Countries To Get Citizenship in 2026

• Qatar.
• Vatican City.
• Liechtenstein.
• Bhutan.
• Saudi Arabia.
• Kuwait.
• Switzerland.
• China.

What is the easiest way to get residency in France?

How a foreigner can become a French resident. In general, foreign citizens become eligible for a temporary residence permit 1 year after moving to France. After 5 years of living in France, they become eligible to apply for a long-term EU resident card or citizenship.

Does France allow dual citizenship?

French law permits dual nationality and does not require foreigners who obtain French nationality to give up their original one.

Is it wise to buy property in France now?

So, is now a good time? As of early 2026, buying property in France is a "rather yes" because the post-boom market offers more negotiation room and the worst of the interest rate shock is behind us, though prices remain elevated versus long-term trends.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in France?

To live comfortably in France, you'll likely need at least €1,800 – €2,000 per month to live in Paris and around €1,400 – €1,700 in other metropolitan cities.

How much money do I need in the bank to retire to France?

Although lifestyle varies widely across France, most British retirees find that 2,200 to 3,000 euros per month for a couple provides a comfortable standard of living outside Paris or the Côte d'Azur. However, the key is not only how much income you need, but how efficiently and predictably you receive it.

Can I get a permanent residence if I buy a house in France?

No, buying a house in France does not automatically grant you permanent residency; it's a separate process requiring a long-stay visa and residence permit, but owning property significantly strengthens your application by showing financial stability and strong ties to France. You must apply for the appropriate visa (like the Retirement Visa or a work visa) first, and after five years of legal, continuous residence, you can apply for a permanent residence card (Carte de Résident).