Buying Property in France: Does It Give You Residency?

Buying Property in France: Does It Give You Residency?

Many US citizens considering a move to France assume that purchasing real estate will automatically grant them the right to live in the country.

However, under French immigration law, buying property in France does not provide residency rights.

Owning a home and obtaining a residence permit are two completely separate legal matters.

Does Property Ownership Grant a Visa in France?

No.

France does not operate a “golden visa” or automatic residency program based solely on property acquisition.

Unlike some countries, purchasing real estate — regardless of value — does not create a right to a long-stay visa or residence permit.

US citizens who wish to stay in France for more than 90 days must apply for an appropriate long-stay visa before entering the country.

Why Do Many People Believe It Does?

The confusion often arises because:

• Property ownership may help demonstrate financial stability.

• Owning accommodation can support a visa application.

• Some European countries offer investor residency schemes (France does not offer one based solely on property).

However, French immigration law — governed by the Code de l’entrée et du séjour des étrangers et du droit d’asile (CESEDA) — does not provide residency solely on the basis of real estate ownership.

What Visa Options Are Available If You Buy Property?

If you purchase property in France and wish to live there, you must qualify under an existing immigration category.

The most common options for US citizens include:

1️⃣ Long-Stay Visitor Visa (VLS-TS “Visiteur”)

This is often suitable for:

• retirees,

• financially independent individuals,

• those living on investments or savings.

You must demonstrate:

• sufficient financial resources,

• comprehensive private health insurance,

• accommodation in France (property ownership may help here).

This visa does not permit employment in France.

2️⃣ Professional or Entrepreneur Visa

If you plan to:

• create a business,

• operate as self-employed,

• develop a commercial or liberal activity,

you must apply under the relevant professional immigration category.

Property ownership alone is not sufficient; the viability of your activity must be demonstrated.

3️⃣ Family-Based Residence

If you are married to a French citizen or legally joining a family member residing in France, specific residence categories may apply under the CESEDA.

Can Buying Property Strengthen a Visa Application?

Yes — but indirectly.

Owning property may:

• demonstrate stable accommodation,

• show financial capacity,

• support evidence of a serious relocation project.

However, it is only one element of the overall legal assessment.

What Happens If You Stay Beyond 90 Days Without a Visa?

Remaining in France beyond the 90-day visa-free period without the appropriate long-stay visa may result in:

• administrative penalties,

• refusal of future visa applications,

• possible entry bans within the Schengen Area.

Proper planning before relocation is essential.

Residency vs Tax Residency

It is also important to distinguish between:

• Immigration residency (legal right to stay), and

• Tax residency (determined under French tax law).

Buying property may create tax obligations even if you are not a legal resident. These are separate legal frameworks.

Legal Assistance for US Buyers in Nice and the French Riviera

Many US citizens purchasing property in the South of France — particularly in Nice and the French Riviera — later decide they wish to relocate permanently.

Me Lou Bessis-Osty, immigration lawyer based in Nice, assists international clients in:

• identifying the correct visa category,

• preparing compliant long-stay visa applications,

• securing residence permits,

• and addressing immigration challenges linked to relocation.

Careful legal planning ensures that your investment project and your immigration status are aligned.