For international investors
Investing in Paris real estate
A market shaped by three centuries of architecture, regulated by one of the world's most protective property laws — and accessible to foreign buyers without restriction.
A market shaped by three centuries of architecture, regulated by one of the world's most protective property laws — and accessible to foreign buyers without restriction.
Paris has posted average growth of 3.5% per year over 20 years. Even in downturns, corrections remain moderate and temporary. The market is among the most liquid in Europe.
Average gross yield in Paris sits between 3 and 5% depending on the arrondissement. Smaller units (studios, one-beds) deliver the strongest rental performance.
Bilateral tax treaties signed by France help avoid double taxation. Structures such as LMNP or SCI offer significant optimization levers for foreign investors.
French property law is among the most protective in the world. The notarized deed, the 10-day cooling-off period and comprehensive legal recourse guarantee security for every transaction.
Paris remains the world's premium destination for capital preservation. Investors from the Americas, Asia and the Middle East maintain a significant wealth presence here.
2.1 million residents, 300,000 students, a diversified economy (tourism, finance, luxury, tech): Parisian rental demand is structurally greater than available supply.
Rental income earned in France by a non-resident is taxable in France under the property income rules. Two regimes apply: the micro-foncier (a flat 30% deduction on gross rents up to €15,000) and the régime réel (deduction of actual expenses). The minimum rate is 20% for non-residents, adjustable under bilateral conventions.
Capital gains realised on resale are taxable in France at 19% (income tax) + 17.2% social levies, with progressive allowances based on the holding period. Full exemption from income tax after 22 years and from social levies after 30 years.
France has signed tax treaties with more than 120 countries. These define the taxing state and provide for tax credits to avoid double taxation. Your tax advisor will verify the applicable treaty with your country of residence.
The SCI is a structure commonly used for collective ownership, estate planning and tax optimization. It may be subject to personal income tax or corporate tax depending on options chosen. Particularly advantageous for foreign investors wishing to structure their French assets.
LMNP allows the property and equipment to be depreciated for accounting purposes, significantly reducing the taxable base. It is a highly popular regime for Parisian buy-to-let investments, especially studios and small furnished apartments.
| Situation | Rate / Regime |
|---|---|
| Rental income (non-resident) | 20% minimum + 17.2% social levies |
| LMNP — depreciation | Up to 0% tax on income |
| SCI subject to corporate tax | 15% up to €42,500, 25% above |
| Capital gain < 5 years | 19% + 17.2% = 36.2% |
| Capital gain after 22 years | Income tax exemption |
| Capital gain after 30 years | Full exemption |
| Purchase costs (older property) | 7–8% of price |
| Purchase costs (new build) | 2–3% of price |
| IFI (Wealth Tax on Real Estate) | From €1.3M net |
| Inheritance duties | 5% to 45% depending on relationship and amount |
Yes, with no nationality restrictions. Any foreign national can acquire full ownership of a property in France. The sale deed must be signed before a French notary. A notarized power of attorney allows remote signing if you cannot be present in France.
Expect 7–8% of the purchase price for an older property (transfer duties, notary fees, formalities) and 2–3% for a new build. METROREALTY agency fees — payable by the buyer — are on a sliding scale: from 5% above €800,000 to 10% up to €100,000. Bank guarantee fees apply on top if financing with a mortgage. View our full fee schedule.
Rental income earned in France by a non-resident is taxable in France. The minimum tax rate is 20%, but bilateral tax treaties may reduce this burden. Social levies of 17.2% also apply, except for EU/EEA residents under certain conditions. A specialist tax advisor is essential to optimize your situation.
A Société Civile Immobilière (SCI) is a French legal structure allowing multiple persons to jointly hold a property. It facilitates collective management, estate planning and can be tax-optimized. It is particularly relevant for foreign investors wishing to structure their French assets with a long-term wealth perspective.
Gross rental yield in Paris sits between 3 and 5% depending on the arrondissement, property type and rental mode (furnished or unfurnished). Outer arrondissements (13th, 19th, 20th) offer better price-to-rent ratios. Paris stands out primarily for its long-term capital appreciation and the depth of rental demand rather than very high immediate returns.
Yes. Thanks to 3D virtual tours, notarized powers of attorney and our full local coordination, the entire process can be managed remotely. We have guided investors from the United States, Asia, the Middle East and Australia without them traveling before the final deed signing.
Yes, several French and international banks finance non-resident buyers. The required deposit is generally higher (30–40% of the price) and lending criteria stricter than for residents. Our banking partner network allows us to direct you toward the most responsive institutions for this profile.
Yes. Our property management team handles the full letting and ongoing management of your asset: tenant search, condition reports, rent collection, maintenance oversight and regular reporting. A fully delegated solution, particularly suited to investors based outside France.
Our multilingual team (FR · EN · ES · NL) replies within 24 hours. First conversation is confidential and commitment-free.