Money & Legal
French bureaucracy isn't as intimidating as it seems. This part clarifies taxes, residency and property regulations. We simplify aspects like currency, insurance, and legal requirements, so you can focus on enjoying la belle vie without paperwork worries.
What is a Lettre Recommandée LRAR in France?
If you own property, buy a home, or are an expat living in France , you’ll find French bureaucracy relies heavily on official paperwork, including the Lettre Recommandée avec Accusé de Réception…
French Property Gifts and Inheritance Tax Allowance
The donation of a French property is subject to gift tax in France. The applicable tax rate depends on the relationship between the donor and the recipient. Lifetime gifts between spouses and civil partners…
Guide to Making an Offer on a Property in France
You’ve found the perfect property in France , that’s fantastic news, and only the start of the buying process. Whether it’s a cosy ski apartment in the Alps, a sun-drenched villa in Provence or a…
Can You Buy French Real Estate with Cryptocurrency?
We aim to stay current and keep you informed about the latest trends in the fast-moving French property market . It's about having "a finger on the pulse" and staying ahead of the competition. That's what we do; we get copied…
Buying A Rural Property? Know Your Access Rights
Considering buying a property in the French countryside? Whether you’re eyeing a secluded farmhouse in the Dordogne , a country mas in Provence or a holiday home in rural Occitanie , one key legal issue to understand…
Tax Reporting Obligations for Americans Living in France
The US imposes taxes on all its US citizens, irrespective of their country of residence. Therefore, US citizens living in France are subject to US taxes. In contrast to the US, France bases its taxation on tax…
Gold Mine Discovered in Farmer’s Field in France
This case would have suited secret property agent 004 to the ground... Imagine stumbling upon a fortune so vast it could change your life forever! That is precisely what happened to Michel Dupont, a 52-year-old…
Changes in French Real Estate Tax Legislation
In this tax-related article for owners of property in France , we outline the main changes in French tax legislation regarding real estate since the passing of the new Finance Law in February 2025. Crackdown on Short-Term…
Guide to the Carte Vitale Health Insurance Card in France
Moving to France is an exciting adventure, but understanding the healthcare system can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to the important Carte Vitale . This little green card is your key to accessing healthcare…
What Does it Mean to Buy French Property in Indivision?
In French property and real estate, " indivision " refers to a form of co-ownership in which multiple individuals share ownership of a property without dividing it into distinct portions. This means each co-owner has an…
What is the Acte Authentique or Acte de Vente in France?
Selling or buying a property in France is an exciting but complex process. One of the most important steps is signing the acte de vente, a legally binding document drafted by a notary to complete the sale and acquisition.…
What is Usufruct (Usufruit) in French Real Estate?
Usufruct ( usufruit in French property law) is a civil law term that refers to the right to use and enjoy the benefits and fruits of someone else's property without damaging or altering it, as long as it is used for its…
Invest in Ski Property Ahead of the Winter Games in France
The French Alps are set to host the 2030 Winter Olympic Games, scheduled for February 1 to 17, 2030. This Alpine region of France will once again be the epicentre of world-class winter sports, drawing in athletes, spectators,…
What is the Loi Carrez in French Property Law?
In our latest article about buying property in France , we look into the Carrez Law, a crucial regulation that ensures the accuracy of measurements for an apartment's main rooms and living areas. This law plays a vital role…
What Are Clauses Suspensives in a French Sales Contract?
In a recent article posted on our French property blog , we explain the importance of understanding what a " compromis de vente " is, or a pre-contract. This is the first step in mapping out the buying process , after the…
Estimate the Value of your French Property Online
Here at My-French-House.com, we often receive requests from property owners in France asking if we provide a valuation service, advertise on our website , or can recommend an estate agent in the area to come around and "have…
Optimise your Tax Situation with a Mortgage
Acquiring a French property with a mortgage offers several tax benefits, including income tax and succession tax. This article outlines the main advantages of financing the purchase of your dream house in France . Whether…
Guide to Buying a Property Using Power of Attorney
In France, you can grant power of attorney ( procuration ) to a Notaire , allowing someone to act on your behalf in property transactions or legal matters if you are not physically present. You can also sign a power of attorney…
What is a Compromis de Vente in French Real Estate?
Once your offer has been accepted and you’re ready to commit to the purchase of your dream property in France , several steps are involved, including the signing of a " compromis de vente " and the " acte authentique…
Navigating Currency Amidst the 2024 US and UK Elections
As the United States navigates the outcome of its national elections, property buyers and investors are closely watching the resulting impact on global currency rates. Election results can cause significant volatility in…
Is your Property a Maison Principale or a Second Home?
The French occupancy tax ( taxe d’habitation ) was abolished for all main residences on 1 January 2023, but it continues to be payable on other premises, such as second homes. A new reporting system has been introduced…
Our Comprehensive Guide to Auto Insurance in France
Welcome to our comprehensive guide to car insurance in France . If you're a car owner driving in France, it's essential to protect your vehicle and liability with the right insurance coverage, which is legally required.…
French Income Tax Return Deadline Dates Published
If you lived in France in 2024 and earned income or gains, including dividends from shares and investments, during that financial year, you are required to submit your annual tax return. The reporting system has been updated,…
Understanding SCI Taxes
A Société Civile Immobilière ( SCI ) is a French company created by at least two individuals acquiring one or more real estate assets together. Its purpose is to hold and administer real estate assets…
Making Sense of House and Liability Insurance in France
Welcome to our comprehensive guide to home insurance in France. If you're a homeowner or renting in France, protecting your property and liability with the right multirisque habitation insurance policy is essential. Owning…
Is French Pet Insurance a Must-Have for Animal Owners?
There seems to be a lack of information about insuring pets for owners living in France . As a rule, all cats and dogs require ID and vaccination. While it is possible to purchase pet insurance, it is less common in…
Guide to Buying a French Gîte
For many, the idea of running a gîte in France evokes visions of idyllic countryside, trips to local markets to cater for paying guests, and a peaceful new life with the possibility of pursuing other activities…
Do I Need to Have a DPE to Sell a Home or Property in France?
If you plan to sell your French house , there are certain legal obligations that you must fulfil before listing the property for potential buyers. One of these obligations is to organise and conduct various Diagnostic Tests…
Do I Need to Charge VAT on Rental Income in France?
If you wish to recover VAT on acquisition, construction, reconstruction and improvement costs, you must charge VAT on rents and the sale of the real estate. In principle, a rental business provides a ‘service’…
Introducing Xe’s International Money Transfer Service
25 Years of Currency Experience Xe offers a comprehensive range of services and products, including secure and fast currency transfers through their website or on the phone. They are currently offering up to $/£/€…
Complete Guide to the Taxation of Rental Income in France
As part of our guide on buying a rental property in France, this article focuses on the taxation of rental income for those owning a property in their own name or via French transparent real estate company ( a société…
Considerations when Importing a Car from America
The tax system for car and vehicle purchases in the US varies from state to state and differs from that in France and Europe. Importing a car from the USA or another non-European Union (EU) country for driving in France…
French Property Declaration : Tax Deadline Extended - Again
If you own a property in France, whether it is a main residence or a second home, you are required to complete an extra tax declaration detailing the state of occupancy of your property. This applies even when the property…
Three Click Cancellation of a French Insurance Policy
From 1st June 2023, online termination of French insurance contracts that can be concluded electronically will be possible in just 3 clicks. This new regulation aims to promote competition and facilitate the termination/cancellation…
France Admin Services
We recently wrote about French bureaucracy and the various government offices for different services in France . Beth in rural southwest in Occitanie admitted that tackling the administrative system can be baffling for expats.…
French Income Tax
French rental income is always taxable in France, even if the landlord lives outside of France. To calculate the taxable income, actual property expenses are deducted from the total rental income. Deductible expenses include…