What French taxes apply if I live abroad but have French assets such as property?
You only have to declare income that originated in France to the French tax authority. Examples of taxable French income include: • Rental income from French property • Income from stocks or bonds invested in France • Capital gains on sale of French property • Inheritance tax on transfer of ownership of French property (even if you die outside of France) Besides French income tax, you should be aware of ISF or “impot sur la fortune.” This French wealth tax is applicable to the value of all of your assets in France less any debt against them. The wealth tax begins on any net assets amount over 790,000 euros. If you own French real estate, you will also be responsible for “taxe foncière,” or the land tax. It is payable the last quarter of the year. This expense is often split between the buyer and seller in the case of a mid-year purchase. If you live in the property, you will also be responsible to pay a “taxe d’habitation” which covers services and maintenance provided by the local gov
