Wherever you come from
Buying property in France as an American.
Americans are back among the main foreign buyers in France. Here is what is specific to US citizens.
Contents
In a 2025 barometer of sales to foreign buyers, Americans made 11% of the sales, with an average budget of about 400,000 euros (Capifrance barometer, July 2026). Burgundy appeals to them for the wine, the history and the food.
Your right to buy and to stay
There is no restriction on Americans buying in France. Staying longer than 90 days in any 180 requires a long-stay visa, such as the visitor visa, applied for before leaving the US: France-Visas. Owning a home does not give a right to stay.
Banks and US reporting
Because of US reporting rules, some French banks are reluctant to open accounts for US persons. You do not need a French account to buy, as the money goes through the notaire, but plan one for the running costs. For a mortgage, a broker used to American clients saves time.
Tax
US citizens remain taxed by the United States on their worldwide income, and France taxes French property income and gains. Tax treaties between France and the US limit double taxation, including for estates. A cross-border tax adviser is worth the fee.
When you sell
As a resident of the US, you pay 19% income tax on the gain plus 17.2% social charges, with allowances for the years of ownership, and a fiscal representative is needed when the price exceeds 150,000 euros per seller, unless the gain is fully exempt (impots.gouv.fr).
Getting here
Fly to Paris, then about an hour and a half by TGV; Lyon and Geneva are other options. Getting to Dijon. I work in English and French every day. I also speak Hindi, Urdu and Punjabi fluently, Persian (Farsi) very well, and good Greek and Arabic.
Frequently asked questions
Can Americans buy property in France?
Yes, with no restriction, on the same terms as French buyers.
Do I need a visa to live in my French home?
Yes, for stays over 90 days in any 180: a long-stay visa, such as the visitor visa.
Is it hard for Americans to open a French bank account?
Some banks are reluctant because of US reporting rules. You do not need one to buy, but it helps afterwards.
Will I be taxed twice?
Tax treaties between France and the US limit double taxation. Ask a cross-border tax adviser.