France
Legal & Ownership — France
Who can buy, what restrictions apply, how title is held, and which documents to request before committing.
Updated February 2026
France
France imposes no nationality-based restrictions on property ownership. EU citizens, UK nationals post-Brexit, Americans, Australians, and buyers from all other countries may purchase freely, including agricultural land and rural property.
What this means in practice
- No prior government approval is required
- You can own in your personal name, via a French SCI (property company), or via a foreign holding company
- There is no minimum purchase price or size threshold for foreign buyers
- Non-residents can obtain a French mortgage, though LTV limits are lower (typically 60–70% vs 80% for French residents)
One nuance — agricultural pre-emption
The SAFER (Société d'Aménagement Foncier et d'Établissement Rural) has a right of first refusal on agricultural land. This applies to land classified as agricultural regardless of buyer nationality. The notary handles the SAFER notification automatically during the sale process.
Based on Notaires de France and Service-Public.fr
Last reviewed: Feb 2026