Does a foreigner have the same rights to purchase property in France as a French citizen?
Yes If I am a foreigner, do I need to open a bank account in France to purchase real estate? Yes How do I open a bank account in France? A non-French national may open an account at a French bank simply by presenting a valid passport and filling out an application form and a signature card. For a joint account, both passports are required. You may fund such account by, among other means, an international money transfer from your bank abroad. Can a non-resident obtain a loan to purchase property in France from a French Bank? Yes. In order to obtain a loan, you must: (i) open a bank account with the lending bank in France; (ii) present (a) proof of qualifying income; (b) proof of residence (e.g., phone/ electric bill); (c) bank statements from your current bank; (d) income tax returns for at least the prior year; and (e) a valid passport. What is the minimum down-payment that French banks generally will accept? 10% of the purchase price. How long does it take to obtain approval for a loa
