Advice for American Citizens Buying Real Estate in France
Originally posted on & updated on 20th October, 2025
Did you know that each year, many American citizens are amongst the 100,000 or so individuals, families and seniors from all corners of the world who choose to make France their new home? This influx of foreign nationals and non-residents accounts for approximately 10% of all French real estate sales and transactions.
Our Guide for American Citizens
We’re currently witnessing a significant increase in enquiries and viewing requests from American families and investors wanting to buy real estate in France.
American Expat Population in France
According to the US body FVAP, almost 153,000 American adults reside in France, ranking it the third country with the largest American expat population, following Canada and the UK. The most frequent questions we receive are relating to visas, children, taxes and legal advice. The Visa situation is a good place to start, especially if you’re planning to move over.
Factors Influencing US Buyers
Prestigious Education
A significant number of Americans flock to France to pursue their studies, particularly in vibrant cities like Paris. This capital city is renowned for its prestigious universities and educational institutions, offering diverse programs that attract students from around the world eager to immerse themselves in an enriching academic environment and live the European dream.
Working in France
The beautiful country of France stands as a beacon for American professionals seeking new career opportunities, especially in dynamic sectors such as technology, finance and international organisations. Major metropolitan areas, particularly Paris, serve as bustling hubs that attract talent with their innovative work environments and networking opportunities.
To Retire in Style
For many Americans, the allure of retiring in Provence or near the coast on the French Riviera is irresistible, thanks to its exceptional quality of life, cultural experiences and robust healthcare system. The picturesque landscapes, charming villages and vibrant cities provide a fulfilling backdrop for enjoying the golden years.
Cultural Exchange
The deep cultural heritage of France, characterised by its impressive art, museums and galleries, renowned exquisite cuisine and deep-rooted history, captivates many Americans. Those who venture to France often seek to immerse themselves in the local lifestyle, forging meaningful connections with the culture and its people while indulging in traditional French dishes and exploring iconic landmarks.
Business Opportunities
France presents an array of enticing business prospects, particularly within its major cities like Paris, Toulouse and Marseille, but there are many more, including on the French Riviera. These urban centres buzz with entrepreneurship and innovation, drawing American entrepreneurs and investors eager to tap into new markets and establish their ventures in a thriving economic landscape in the heart of Europe, just like Trish did with her chateau retreat in the mountains.
Do Americans Need a Visa to Come to France?
Whether you need a visa to visit France depends on the length and purpose of your stay. For stays under 90 days, U.S. citizens and American passport holders do not require a visa if they visit for tourism, family visits or short-term business purposes and will not earn income.
However, you must ensure your passport is valid for at least three months after your planned departure. You’ll also need to provide proof of onward travel and sufficient funds for your stay. Contact the nearest French consulate or embassy for specific requirements and continue reading to learn about the EU’s EES border control system.
Residency Laws for American Citizens
The Schengen Area’s 90/180-day rule applies:
- Without a visa, you can stay in France or the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any rolling 180-day period.
- This means you could spend six months a year in France, provided no single stay exceeds 90 consecutive days.
- Learn about the new EU Border Rules with an entry/exit system (EES) starting in October 2025.
For stays longer than 90 days, a long-stay visa (visa de long séjour) is mandatory. Plan ahead as:
- You must apply for the visa before arriving in France.
- Changing your visa type once in France is highly restricted, and you may need to return to the U.S. to reapply if your circumstances change.
Long-Term Stay and Moving to France
For stays exceeding 90 days or plans to work, study or live in France, you’ll need one of the following long-stay visas tailored to your purpose:
Long-Stay Visitor Visa (Visa de Long Séjour Visiteur)
- For those who wish to live in France without working.
- Requires proof of sufficient financial means and private health insurance.
Student Visa (VLS-TS Étudiant)
- Visas for young students enrolled in a French educational institution.
- Allows part-time work in France (up to 20 hours per week).
Working Visa
- Requires sponsorship by a French employer and authorisation from labour authorities.
- Visa Options include standard employment visas, seasonal work visas, or specialised visas for certain professions.
France Talent Passport
- Designed for highly skilled professionals, entrepreneurs and tech start-up founders.
- Offers a streamlined application process and family benefits.
Language Requirements
France has strengthened its language requirements for non-EU nationals applying for residency or citizenship. While newcomers can initially obtain a short-term carte de séjour without demonstrating any proficiency in the French language, further integration depends on their progress in learning French.
To qualify for a multi-year residency permit, applicants must demonstrate a minimum A2 level of proficiency in the French language, as defined by the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). For citizenship, higher language standards apply, typically requiring a B1 level and the ability to communicate effectively in daily life.
If you’re preparing to meet these requirements, tools like Rosetta Stone can help. Their subscription options offer structured, immersive learning designed to build real-world French skills at your own pace, which is ideal for future residents and property buyers alike.
Is French Real Estate a Good Investment?
In the first semester of 2025, average prices were up 0.4% year-on-year nationally, a welcome increase after a long period of slowdown. Property prices continued to increase at a steady pace in greater Paris (+3 % from September 2024 to September 2025) and were predicted to grow by 7% in the luxury property market.
The French property market has cooled down in recent years, with property prices declining by 4.9% from spring 2023 to spring 2024. Additionally, the US dollar is currently at its strongest against the euro since 2022. This combination suggests that 2025 should be a great year for American buyers looking to buy real estate in France. Learn how we can help you save even more money with our euro currency transfer service.
Real estate prices in Paris have increased in the last few years, growing from an average of €8,368/sqm in 2015 to €10,454/sqm in September 2025. Prices have held up well at around 7 to 8% for old apartments in the capital.
The average house price for American buyers is around 300,000 euros, at MFH-HQ we’re finding that the average budget for our US clients to be slightly higher at around 500,000 euros, this figure is due to continued interest in historic estates and chateaux, as well as properties in the south of France, where property is more expensive due to the better weather and proximity of the coast.
Is French Healthcare Good?
France has a longer life expectancy, a lower infant mortality rate and a higher doctor/resident ratio than the United States. The focus on preventative care means that patients are less likely to return for follow-up appointments.
The system in France allows more choice because there are no insurance company restrictions, unlike in the US. “Sécurité Sociale” is government-funded, which means everyone has access to affordable health care, whether you are a citizen, resident or a visiting tourist.
Is Healthcare Free?
Healthcare costs are covered by both state and patient contributions, making them completely free. The French national insurance fund, Caisse Primaire d’Assurance Maladie (CPAM), will repay you for part of the costs later. Most families in France have a top-up healthcare insurance that completes most needs, including dental and optical care.
Is it Difficult to Get a Mortgage?
The short answer to this is YES, it is difficult. The ‘Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act’ (FATCA) is part of the US tax code and was introduced in 2014 to help counter tax evasion. The cost of complying with this administrative procedure is high for French banks. With already very strict lending criteria, few lenders will consider loans from US clients.
If you require finance for your project, it’s essential that you research this early on. We can connect you with our specialist finance partners who can advise on the best borrowing options for overseas buyers. Note that a minimum of a 30% deposit is normally requested for non-EU residents, and a deposit closer to 50% shows a better understanding of how French mortgages work and financial security.
What are the Tax Implications?
Regardless of citizenship or nationality, anyone living permanently in France will be taxed on their overall income, including US citizens residing in France full-time. Homeowners, families and investors not residing in France must pay tax on any income earned from properties that they own in the country.
All income must be recorded and reported, so make sure that you include your running and other fixed costs (local taxes, repairs, utilities, insurance, management fees, etc) to reduce the tax bill. We advise using a local accountant or bookkeeper, ideally one who speaks English. Feel free to contact our tax experts can assist you with every legal aspect of living and working in France.
Is the Buying Process Complicated?
Although different from what you are accustomed to, the Process is quite straightforward, aimed at protecting the buyer and takes three to four months to complete on average from when your purchase offer was accepted. There’s no deposit to pay until the pre-contract (le compromis de vente) has been signed and the 10 cooling-off period has elapsed. See our beginners’ guide to buying a property and note that we work with English-speaking notaires who are well-equipped for online meetings and POAs at a distance. For professionals and investors looking in specific cities and areas, discover our bespoke ’a la carte service’.
Where to Find Travel Advice?
There’s plenty of travel advice online, and everyone has different views and ways of arranging their flights and trips. Start by checking the travel advice back home or at your nearest airport or airline, as they’re usually up to date with the latest information. This link is from the US Embassy in France website, and advice for Foreign Nationals from the French Government.
For those travelling from the USA via London, here’s the UK government travel advice. And look for advice at other hubs of the countries you are travelling to and from, starting with Paris Charles de Gaulle, New York JFK, Miami and London Heathrow.
What are the Main Airports?
Here is a list of some of the major international airports that offer international and transatlantic flights:
Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
This is the largest and busiest airport in France, with over 70 million flights in 2024, making it the 10th busiest airport in the world. Paris Charles de Gaulle is located about 25 kilometres northeast of the capital city. The airport offers a wide range of transatlantic flights to North America, South America, and the Caribbean destinations.
Paris-Orly Airport (ORY)
Orly is the second-largest airport, located about 13 kilometres south of Paris. The airport offers a range of transatlantic flights to destinations in North America and the Caribbean.
Nice Côte d’Azur International Airport (NCE)
This is the third-largest French airport, a gateway to the Côte d’Azur, and is located about 7 kilometres west of Nice. Landing or taking off here offers stunning views, giving the sensation of almost skimming the water; it’s a unique experience. Nice Côte d’Azur Airport offers a limited number of transatlantic flights to places in North America.
Lyon-Saint Exupéry International Airport (LYS)
Lyon-Saint Exupéry is the fourth-largest airport, located about 25 kilometres east of the city centre. It offers a limited range of transatlantic flights to North America from the Rhone-Alps region.
Toulouse-Blagnac International Airport (TLS)
Toulouse-Blagnac is the fifth-largest airport in France. It is home to Airbus and is located about 8 kilometres northwest of the Pink City in the Occitanie region. The airport offers limited transatlantic flights to destinations in North America.
These are all international hubs, offering a range of transatlantic flights to destinations in North America, South America, and the Caribbean. If you are planning to travel to or from France and are looking for a transatlantic flight, these airports are good places to start your search.
Alternative French Airports
In addition to the main international airports, France boasts several smaller regional airports that provide limited transatlantic flight options. Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) offers a modest selection of transatlantic flights to North American destinations. Similarly, Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD) in Nouvelle-Aquitaine and Nantes Atlantique Airport (NTE) provide some transatlantic routes to North America.
These regional airports serve as smaller hubs, offering transatlantic flights that might appeal to travellers seeking convenience or affordability. While they provide fewer transatlantic flights than larger international airports, they can be viable options for specific travel needs. If you are looking for a specific area, we suggest searching the various departments of France on our webpages and the nearest airport.
Can Americans use their Driver’s License in France?
American drivers can use a valid US license to drive in France for a short stay of less than a year, such as for tourism purposes. It is necessary to have your American license with an official French notarised translation or an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) for it to be recognised. Read our articles about importing a car from the USA and driving in France. For more information, visit the website of your local French embassy to learn about the International licence for long-term residents.
French Immobiliers vs US Realtors
At my-french-house.com, we believe that your house hunting experience in France should be focused, especially coming from the other side of the pond. However, most folks will find that the French realty listing system is very different, as the ‘French agents immobiliers’ work in a different way than realtors in the USA. Tell us about your plans, email us your questions, and let us help you find your dream property in France.
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