Visa in France : Which visa do you need to buy a property in France ?

Planning to live in France for over 90 days? Knowing the visa requirements is essential. Non-resident from EU or outside ? Do you plan to retire or to work in France? You'll surely need to apply for the appropriate type of visa.

This guide explains the visa options for non-EU nationals, focusing on buying property and obtaining residency.

Visa Requirements for Non-EU Citizens

Non-resident people need a visa to stay in France for more than 90 days, but it is enough to buy a property in France.

Below are some of the most common visas for non-EU nationals looking to stay more than 90 days in France.

Long Stay Visa (Visa de Long Séjour - VLS) : a french residence permit

The long-stay visa (VLS) is essential for stays in Eiffel tower’s country exceeding 90 days and up to 12 months. This visa is important if you wish to stay in France beyond the typical 90-day limit allowed by the Schengen visa. In fact, the long-stay visa serves as a residence permit and allows you to remain in France while applying for a more permanent status.

For example, if you're planning to buy a home, this visa will allow you to reside legally in your new property. Once granted, the VLS-TS (Visa Long Séjour valant Titre de Séjour) acts as both a visa and a residence permit. After arriving in the Hexagon: you'll need to register with local authorities. But note that you won’t need an additional residence permit for up to one year.

To apply for this visa, you'll need proof of financial stability, accommodation (either through property ownership or rental), and health insurance. You can find more details about this process on the official French long-stay visa website. For more detailed information on property taxation, please refer to this BOFIP guide available here.

In summary, to successfully apply for a long-stay visa, you'll need to meet specific conditions :

• Proof of Purpose: whether you're applying as a retiree, student, or professional investor, you'll need documents that clearly outline your reason for staying ;

• Financial Stability: you must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay ;

• Accommodation: proof of accommodation is required—this could be through owning property or having a rental agreement ;

• Health Insurance: comprehensive health insurance coverage is mandatory.

Applications must be submitted through the official France Visas website at least three months before your intended arrival.

Financially Independent Person Visa (FIP Visa)

The Financially Independent Person Visa, also known as the Passive Income Visa, is ideal for individuals who can support themselves without needing employment income. This option is popular among retirees or those living off investments or rental income.

To qualify for this visa, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources — typically around €36,000 per year. However, the official requirement for many long-stay visas, including the “visitor” visa, is to demonstrate financial resources not lower than the French minimum wage (SMIC).

Additionally, you'll need proof of passive income sources such as rental income or dividends. Owning property can strengthen your application since it shows that you have secured accommodation.

This Visa lets you settle in french territory without employment, offering the freedom to fully embrace your new home. Are you interested in investing in French real estate as part of your retirement plan? Or do you simply want a second home abroad? This could be an excellent option for you! Are you looking to purchase a home in this country? Contact a real estate agent who speaks English can help you go further on this wish!

Talent Passport Visa

For those planning to contribute significantly to the French economy through investment or business ventures, the Talent Passport Visa is an excellent choice. This visa is designed for entrepreneurs, investors, and highly skilled professionals who want to make a mark in France.

The Talent Passport Visa offers several benefits : it provides a four-year renewable residence permit and allows you to work and invest freely within the country. If you're planning on starting a business alongside purchasing real estate or investing heavily in French properties, this visa could be ideal.

It also provides fast-tracked residency for eligible investors and entrepreneurs. This makes it easier for high-net-worth individuals and entrepreneurs to settle down and integrate into French society while enjoying their new homes.

Visitor Visa (Visa Visiteur)

The Visitor Visa is another option for non-EU nationals who want to stay in France without working. This visa is typically granted to individuals who wish to spend an extended period in France but do not intend to work or study.

This type of visa is perfect if you're looking to buy a vacation home from a French real estate hunter or spend part of the year living in France without engaging in employment activities. While it doesn't allow you to work, it does allow you to enjoy all the benefits of residing in beautiful locations. It can be Provence or Normandy while owning property there.

Moving to France and buying Property without residency

A visa is required only under certain conditions

Non-EU nationals are free to purchase real estate without needing a specific visa ; however, if you plan on living in your home for more than 90 days at a time (which is often the case), you'll need one of the visas mentioned above.

Consult a real estate agency based in France

To begin your search for properties across France with expert guidance from professionals, consider using the services of an English-speaking real estate agent.

This profesional is specialized in helping foreigners navigate the complexities of purchasing real estate while ensuring smooth communication throughout the process.

Common questions about residency and buying home in France

Can I work with a Long Stay Visa?

Yes, but it depends on the type of long-stay title you apply for. Certain visas, such as the Talent Passport, explicitly allow employment or business activities in France.

On the other hand, documents like the Financially Independent Person do not allow employment but allow you to generate passive income through investments or rental properties.

If you're unsure which certificate suits your needs, consulting with a legal expert or real estate professional specializing in French property law can help you make an informed decision.

Can I apply for Citizenship after buying property?

Yes! After living continuously in France for five years (or less under certain conditions), you may be eligible to apply for French citizenship. You'll need proof of integration into French society and evidence of long-term accommodation, such as utility bills and tax declarations.

Does own property in France help with obtaining a visa?

You’ll need:

●     A valid passport ;

●     Proof of financial resources ;

●     Health insurance coverage ;

●     Proof of accommodation (property ownership or rental agreement).

Can retirees apply for a specific visa to live in France?

Retirees often apply for the Visitor Visa (Visa de Long Séjour Visiteur). This which allows them to reside in France without working, provided they meet financial and health insurance requirements.

Can I apply for French citizenship after buying property?

Owning a property in France does not grant citizenship directly. Despite that, after living continuously in France for five years (or less under certain conditions), you may be eligible to apply.

How can English-speaking real estate agents help with buying house or apartment in France?

English-speaking agents simplify the process by providing guidance on legal requirements, negotiating contracts. Their goal : ensure smooth communication throughout the purchase process.

How can owning property impact my retirement plans in France?

Owning an estate provides stability and can serve as proof of accommodation when applying for retirement or visitor visas.

Can I extend my long-stay visa once it expires?

Yes, you can apply for an extension or transition to a carte de séjour by visiting your local prefecture before your current visa expires.

Is it possible to switch from one type of visa to another while living in France?

Yes! In some cases, transitioning from a Visitor Visa to a Talent Passport Visa if your circumstances change (e.g: starting a business).

French visa : go further (while stay in France)

To go further, also read “What documents do I need to provide for a property purchase in France?”, the FAQ about real estate property in France as a non-resident. Discover Visa application guidelines on france-visas.gouv. Also join us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.