If I do not live in the EU how long can I stay in my French property?

Although foreign buyers have no restrictions on buying a property in France, if you are not an EU citizen, then you will have to apply for a visa/residency if you intend to stay in your property for more than 90 days. After 10 years you can ask for citizenship or in 5 years if you justify it by a certain level of investment.
 
Once you have purchased the property, you have to enter France on a 90 days’ tourist Schengen visa which is easy to gain when you become an owner. Next you must ask the local prefecture (where your property is situated) for a residency card next to the prefecture.
 
It is fairly straight forward but there is a fair amount of paperwork to fill in as with any administration in France but we can put you in contact with experts who can help. 


Information correct as of 2nd October 2024. This may change as rules and regulations change often, so please contact us directly if you have any specific enquiries.