Throughout the rather challenging past few months I have often been asked by my clients, mainly UK based, how things will change. Therefore, I am keen to reassure you with the latest news on buying a property in France, post-Brexit.

The French Riviera and French Alps are diverse locations with options to suit all budgets and requirements. Myself and the dedicated, multilingual Savills teams look forward to working with you to help you make your next move in 2021.

Contact us today to get your property search started via phone, email or video tour.

Make your next move with Savills.

The buying process is unchanged

Yes, you read that correctly. Brexit is not the end of your dream to buying in France.

You can buy, own and rent out property in France just as before the Brexit transition deadline.

Property buyers are not affected by Brexit, those looking to make a permanent move to France or stay longer just have a few new things to add to their to-do list.

Holding property

No changes whatsoever as regards local taxes or wealth tax. We are currently enquiring whether there are any modifications in the tax levied on rental income.

The selling process

The capital gains tax rate has changed, and a new formality applies. Please contact us for an estimation of your potential tax exposure.

A few rule changes

As of January 1st 2021 there are new rules for non EU nationals moving to France. In this post I am mainly referring to UK nationals, as many British clients have enquired lately. These rules relate to visas, length of visits, accessing health care and things like driving abroad or receiving pensions.

Staying less than 90 days

If you plan on using your new home for holiday purposes you will not need a visa if you are staying less than 90 days in any 180 day period.

Hence, you have six beautiful months to explore the Riviera coastline and enjoy the summer sunshine, the milder winters, the French ski slopes and even explore Carnival season or Christmas from the comfort of your holiday home.

If you plan on staying longer than 90 days

If you are hoping to use your new French home for more than 90 days then a visa will be required.

At the time of writing, visa application can be made at the French Consulate, who have a very helpful ‘Visa Wizard’ to help you start the process, apply and track the progress of your application.

The type of visa required and the application process will depend on whether you are working, retiring or investing.

We suggest applying in advance and also keeping up to date on any rule changes.

Some things to think about

Driving If you are looking to drive while in France enjoying your holiday home, those who hold a British licence may need an international driving permit to cover their stay – these are obtained at a British post office. Those looking to move to France permanently can change their licence for a French permit, subject to conditions.

Health Insurance It will be very important to ensure you have appropriate Travel Insurance as the European Heath Insurance Card (EHIC) covering Britons travelling to the EU will no longer apply.

Pensions If retired, you can still receive your pension in France, regardless of whether you moved before or after the transition period. A decision is awaiting potential up-rating on pensions.

More information

The above data is provided without liability and for guidance only, and essentially to reassure you that buying post-Brexit remains entirely possible.

We strongly advise you to take independent legal and financial advice as each purchaser, their professional, family and financial situation is unique and by taking external trusted advice you can prepare for all eventualities.

View a range of properties for sale and rent across the French Riviera.