France has confirmed the opening date for the 2026 income-tax declaration campaign, preparations are continuing for the rollout of the EU’s Entry/Exit System at French borders, and municipal elections are heading to a second round in major cities including Paris and Marseille. Here are the headlines from France this week.

Income tax declaration calendar

France’s 2026 income-tax declaration campaign for 2025 income will open on the 9th of April. The 2026 tax simulator went online on the 10th of March, allowing people resident in France to estimate both their income tax and their revenu fiscal de référence ahead of the filing period. The simulator is available in both simplified and full versions, while the full declaration campaign and the detailed filing deadlines are still to follow.

Planning a move to France in 2026?

Join our expert panel on Thursday, the 26th of March at 4pm GMT for a practical webinar designed especially for UK residents. We’ll cover the key steps involved in relocating to France, from currency and financial planning to property buying, visas, legal matters and healthcare.

Entry/Exit System rollout

The EU’s Entry/Exit System remains on track for its next rollout stage, with all eligible travellers crossing French external Schengen borders due to be checked from the 30th of March and the system due to be fully operational from the 10th of April. The system records passport data, fingerprints, facial images, and the date and place of entry and exit for non-EU nationals travelling for short stays. French frontier checks carried out on UK soil, including Dover, St Pancras and Folkestone, are part of the same rollout.

Municipal elections

France held the first round of its municipal elections on the 15th of March, with the second round scheduled for the 22nd of March in communes where no list won outright. Voting took place in about 35,000 villages, towns and cities. In smaller communes, most contests were settled immediately, but many large cities remained open after the first round, including Paris and Marseille. Turnout was reported at about 57%, higher than in 2020 but lower than in 2014.

The elections determine the composition of the municipal council, which then elects the mayor. Communes in France oversee a wide range of local responsibilities, including nursery and primary schools, parts of social housing management, individual building permits, aspects of urban planning, municipal police, local cultural and sports funding, and elements of the local environment and heritage. They also draw revenue from local taxation, including taxe foncière, taxe d’habitation on second homes, and waste-related charges such as TEOM. In areas classed as zones tendues, any surcharge on second-home taxe d’habitation applies after a decision of the municipal council.

Fuel prices

TotalEnergies announced a temporary cap on pump prices at its mainland France service stations. The measure set petrol at €1.99 per litre and diesel at €2.09 per litre, taking effect from the 13th of March until the end of the month, with the company saying it would reassess the situation in early April. The announcement came amid sharp volatility in global oil markets.

Michelin Guide France & Monaco 2026

The Michelin Guide France & Monaco 2026 has been unveiled. This year’s selection brought one new three-star restaurant, seven new two-star restaurants, and 54 new one-star restaurants. Michelin said the France & Monaco guide now includes 31 three-star restaurants and 668 starred restaurants in total.

The only new French restaurant to receive a third star this year was Les Morainières in Jongieux, Savoie. Michelin also confirmed earlier in the cycle that the 2026 Bib Gourmand selection added 75 new restaurants, taking that list to 430.

France attempts to control the surge pricing of petrol and diesel at 500 petrol stations across France, the government are tightening rules around modified scooters and Macron visits Cyprus amid political and war tensions in the region. Here are the headlines from French newspapers this week.

French Authorities Launch Petrol Price Checks

In response to the global surge in oil costs linked to recent attacks in the Middle East, French authorities will carry out spot checks at 500 petrol stations between March 9-11, to ensure fuel prices haven’t surged excessively. 

These visits, conducted by the direction générale de la concurrence, de la consommation et de la répression des fraudes(DGCCRF), France’s consumer fraud unit, hope to prevent stations from unfairly raising their prices of petrol and diesel.

Government Cracks Down on Modified Scooters

France has begun new inspection tests for small scooters and mopeds to detect illegal modifications that let them exceed the legal 45km/h speed limit. These vehicles, known as 50cc scooters, are designed to be low-power bikes commonly used by teenagers and urban riders. 

Many scooters remove the factory speed limiter (known as débridage) to make them faster and go over the legal limit. Beginning 1 March, technical inspection centres must check that these scooters cannot exceed the legal limit and must be returned to their original specifications in order to pass the inspection.

These vehicles must undergo testing every three years once they are five years old, and drivers could with modified scooters risk a €135 fine.

Macron Visits Cyprus Amid Maritime Tensions

President Emmanuel Macron visited Cyprus this week to discuss regional security in response to rising tensions in the eastern Mediterranean. During his trip, he met Cypriot leaders and emphasised cooperation to protect the island and nearby maritime routes after recent drone and missile threats.

Macron announced that France would strengthen its military presence in the region, including a planned visit by the French aircraft carrier ‘Charles de Gaulle’ as a show of support for Cyprus and stability in the region. 

Planning a move to France in 2026?

Join our expert panel for a comprehensive guide tailored for UK residents. From currency planning and finance to property, visas, and healthcare, our speakers will share practical advice to help make your move smooth and stress-free. Thursday, Mar 26, 2026 4:00 PM GMT – Register now for free

Photo: Shutterstock

Photo: Shutterstock

Photo: Shutterstock

16-17 MAY 2026 – NATIONAL CONFERENCE CENTRE, BIRMINGHAM

If you missed the recent London dates of the French Property Exhibition, you may feel like you’ve missed an opportunity. For anyone dreaming of owning a home in France – whether as a holiday retreat, retirement haven, permanent relocation or investment – the exhibition is the most valuable event in the calendar. But here’s the good news: if you couldn’t make London, you haven’t missed out. The Birmingham exhibition is coming up, and it promises the same expertise, inspiration and practical guidance that made the London event so worthwhile.

So what exactly did London visitors experience – and why should Birmingham now be firmly in your diary?

• The top French property experts under one roof
  • Direct, face-to-face access to professionals who specialise in helping UK buyers purchase and settle in France.
  • No need to spend months browsing portals, chasing emails or coordinating calls across multiple regions.
  • Estate agents from across France showcasing rural farmhouses, character cottages, seaside villas, city apartments and ski chalets.
  • The ability to compare the different areas – discussing pricing, lifestyle benefits and investment potential.
  • A level of interaction and insight that online research simply cannot replicate.
• Professional support beyond the property search
  • Access to bilingual legal advisers explaining the French buying process step by step.
  • Guidance on notaire fees, contracts and inheritance laws – areas that sometimes surprise British buyers.
  • Early conversations that can help prevent costly misunderstandings later.
• Expert financial and tax advice
  • Specialists outlining cross-border tax implications and capital gains considerations.
  • Guidance on ownership structures and long-term planning strategies.
  • Currency experts advising on managing exchange rate fluctuations to protect your budget.
  • Practical strategies to reduce the financial risk of transferring large sums internationally.
• Relocation and residency support
  • Up-to-date advice on evolving visa and residency regulations.
  • Professionals experienced in handling applications and documentation.
  • Removals companies explaining the logistics of moving to France.
• Free, informative seminar programme
  • Step-by-step breakdown of the French property purchasing process.
  • Advice on choosing the right region based on lifestyle and investment goals.
  • Guidance on visas, residency requirements, healthcare and taxation.
  • Structured, educational sessions – not sales pitches – with opportunities to ask questions directly.

Perhaps the greatest benefit London visitors experienced was the power of personal, face-to-face conversations, discussing their individual concerns, from timeline to budget, family circumstances and long-term ambitions, receiving tailored feedback. 

There was also an undeniable sense of momentum. Visitors left not just inspired, but equipped – with brochures, contact details, notes from seminars and a clearer understanding of next steps. 

The great news is that everything described above will be available at the Birmingham exhibition. If London wasn’t convenient, Birmingham offers a second chance to gain the same insights, at a convenient site at the heart of the UK.

And even if you attended the London exhibition, coming along to the Birmingham event could place you in an even stronger position, armed with clearer questions and renewed determination. Whether you are casually exploring the idea of a French holiday home or seriously planning a permanent move, the exhibition provides a rare opportunity to gather reliable information efficiently and confidently.

Birmingham isn’t just a repeat – it’s an opportunity to take the next step toward owning property in France, with expert guidance to support you at every stage.

Register now for your free tickets to the French Property Exhibition at: The French Property Exhibition, Birmingham May 2026 Tickets, Multiple dates | Eventbrite 

Here’s the latest currency news from our partner Moneycorp, to help you find out what your money is worth.

UK CPI inflation expectations remain sticky, but a Bank of England cut in March is still possible

Yesterday’s Decision Maker Panel inflation expectations data will have disappointed the Bank of England. The figures suggest inflation could remain sticky and were collected before the conflict in the Gulf broke out. This raises questions about whether the Monetary Policy Committee could delay a rate cut in March.

However, Chief Economist Huw Pill noted in Treasury Select Committee testimony that the Bank intended to look beyond the inflation trough, just as it looked through the peak in 2022, so shouldn’t it ignore short term price movements driven by external shocks. These would not be influenced by interest rate changes in any case, which reduces the likelihood that recent events meaningfully alter the Bank’s view.

Sterling has struggled against the US dollar this week while holding firmer against the euro. Experience tells us that periods of GBP resilience against the EUR often fade. Markets may have misread the risks around the March MPC meeting, which could leave GBP vulnerable to renewed pressure versus the EUR.

Euro pressure persists as shipping slows and energy costs continue to rise

The euro’s recent weakness has not stemmed from domestic economic fundamentals alone. Two conflicts on or near the Euro Area’s borders — Russia–Ukraine and the US/Israel–Iran escalation, have increased both energy‑supply risks and geopolitical uncertainty.

At the same time, risk‑averse sentiment has limited any further shifts from USD FX reserves into other currencies or gold.

The outlook for the euro remains uncertain, and the balance of risks still appears tilted to the downside. EURUSD could extend its slide, possibly searching for support near $1.15.

GBPEUR may be closer to its near-term peak. Each GBP rally has struggled for momentum, and the pair’s trajectory could hinge on whether markets have over-priced the likelihood that the Bank of England delays policy easing.

Why Moneycorp?

With a Platinum Trusted Service Award 2020 from independent review site Feefo and 40 years of experience in the industry, FrenchEntrée has been recommending Moneycorp for more than 15 years. During this time they have helped thousands of client planning the best way to pay for their property as well as supporting them afterwards with any further payment from paying bills, mortgages to repatriating UK pension payments for those who have retired to France.

Furthermore, we have worked with the same person at Moneycorp for more than a decade! You might be familiar with her as she often writes for our French Property News magazine. She has 13 years’ experience in foreign exchange, and is a qualified European lawyer with experience in European transactions. Mar will be happy to answer any questions or enquiries to support you through these difficult times

Opening an account is really easy and free of cost. You can register online or over the phone in a couple of minutes and for FrenchEntrée readers there are no transfer fees in any payment.

Beware of currency risk. None of the information contained in this article constitutes, nor should be construed as financial advice. TTT Moneycorp Limited (company number 738837) is registered in England. Its registered office is at Floor 5, Zig Zag Building, 70 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6SQ. Moneycorp is a trading name of TTT Moneycorp Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for the provision of payment services (firm reference number 308919).

British MPs are pushing for more flexibility in the 90/180-day short-stay rule, a massive cyberattack in France has exposed personal data from up to 15  million patients. France will expand ticket-free motorways from this spring, and the municipal elections are approaching. Here are the headlines from French newspapers this week.

UK MPs Call for Flexibility in 90/180 Day Rule

Several British MPs want the UK‑EU 90/180-day short‑stay rule, which limits visa-free visits for UK citizens to 90 days within any 180 days, to be revisited at the next UK-EU summit in May. Campaigners argue the rule complicates family visits, work and cross-border stays and should be relaxed or replaced with more flexible arrangements. The EU has signalled it may explore extended short‑stay rules, but any change requires member‑state agreement.

Massive Healthcare Data Cyberattack

A cyberattack on software used by about 1,500 doctors in France has exposed the personal data of up to 15 million patients. While core medical records remain intact, administrative details, including names, contact info and some sensitive notes on orientation, infidelity and assaults, were accessed. 

Around 164,000 records contained sensitive information, officials have said. The Health Ministry and prosecutors are investigating, and authorities warn of potential phishing scams using the stolen data. Doctors have criticised shared cloud systems for raising security risks.

Ticket-Free Toll Motorways to Expands in France

Plans to open additional ticket-free motorway sections across France will begin in spring 2026 to ease traffic, but the changes are already causing headaches for drivers. On the autoroutes Paris-Rhin-Rhône and Autoroutes Rhône-Alpes motorways, traditional entry toll booths will be replaced by automatic gantries that record vehicles.

However, motorists are unsure how to pay correctly, when charges apply, or if they might be fined by mistake. While drivers still owe tolls based on their exit points, the new system’s rules can be confusing and unclear for many.

Who’s Running for Mayor in your Commune?

With France’s 2026 municipal elections approaching (two rounds on March 15 & 22), candidates in all 34,875 communes have now been declared. Residents can access an interactive list showing all local candidates, their party affiliations and lists. Mayors in France hold significant local authority, including budget setting, infrastructure oversight and civil registry responsibilities.

Find out who is running in your commune here.

It is often stated that complaining is part of French culture. After living in France for over eight years running La Grue Gîtes in the gorgeous Charente, I am beginning to really understand that to ‘push back’ and to dare to complain gains respect, despite clearly going against the grain. In the UK, complaints in public are rarely made. Now we are established locally, and people either know us or our reputation, the confidence to complain is growing– in my own polite franglais way! So, why is complaining in French almost seen as a national sport? 

It could be linked to the French Revolution, where challenging authority for the good of the masses first became embedded in the national psyche. Being united over a shared grievance does trigger bonding; moaning about the weather or the price of a baguette can create a sense of solidarity. Or could a well thought-through argument demonstrate a level of critical thinking and therefore intelligence that is valued in French culture?

Whatever the reason, how might you go about complaining in French? A good starting place could be the everyday noises of disapproval. These do differ. ‘Hop, hop-hop’ or ‘Oh là lore’, ‘Bof’ and ‘Bah alors?’ are heard regularly in the Charente to signal disapproval or shock. A shrug works wonders, as does a sort of breaking-wind sound from your lips coupled with the shrug. 

Useful Phrases 

A good start when you want to râler (to complain or grumble) is:

 C’est pas possible! – it’s not possible

C’est pas vrai ! – you have got to be kidding me!

C’est n’importe quoi! – this is ridiculous!

J’en ai marre! or J’en ai ral-le-bol !  – I have had enough of this!

C’est une blague?– Is this a joke?

C’est inadmissible! – This is not acceptable!

Complaining in Different Settings

Wherever you find yourself, it is advisable to begin with ‘excusez-moi’ – there are always rules of etiquette and levels of politeness required in any culture.

On attend depuis un petit moment…. – a polite way of saying, we have been waiting ages.

Ce n’est pas ce que nous avons commandé – This is not what we ordered.

On croit qu’il y a une petite erreur sur l’addition – There is a mistake on the bill. 

C’est dommage que… – It is a shame that – This is a great way of complaining without causing upset – It may keep the staff on your side.

On va jamais arriver! – We are never going to get there – A great saying to bring out when public transport is delayed.

C’est pas possible, ils sont toujours en grève ! – This is not possible – they are always on strike!

Il y a un monde fou – There is a crazy amount of people!

Bonne courage with your complaints and remember to be direct, factual and unapologetic. This approach, coupled with tenacious persistence, should be a winning combination.

When Helen Tait-Wright went to France alone to oversee a renovation project, she never dreamt she’d end up driving the Dakar rally, she tells Gillian Harvey..

When Helen Tait-Wright and her husband Chris bought their first French house in 2002, it was to fulfil Chris’s long-held dream of living in the country. “We’re both on our second marriage, and when we got together in 1998, we laid all our cards on the table,” Helen explains. “Chris told me he’d like to go and live in France. At the time, my only experience of the country was coming to Le Mans each year for the 24-hour race. But, I thought, why not?”

Little did she know that the move would be life-changing in unexpected ways. The pair initially bought a run-down stone farmhouse with land in Bouillé-Loretz, Deux-Sèvres, and began to make plans to renovate. “We decided to drive out for one week in each month to work on it,” says Helen. However, with progress relatively slow, the couple eventually decided that one of them had to move to France permanently to oversee the builders and artisans and be an on-site presence.

ALL CHANGE

That decision proved to be transformative for Helen, who relocated to France in January 2005 and met soon-to-be best friend Marcella almost immediately. “Shortly after I arrived, I almost had a head-on collision with a woman at a junction. We both apologised and went on our way. But then, a few days later, I went to a dinner party at a friend’s house and she was there!

“Marcella was over in France with her son Sam while her husband worked in the UK, so we were both in a similar position,” explains Helen. “We found that when you’re a relatively young woman living by yourself people seem to look at you as if you’ve got three heads, so we teamed up.”

With both husbands working away, the pair were able to navigate establishing their lives in France together. “It helped to have Sam, too, as he went to school, which meant we were able to make inroads in the local community,” says Helen.

The house Helen and Chris had purchased was an old farmhouse, with three hectares of land. As Helen had grown up on a farm, she felt quite at home. “It was a typical old French farmhouse, completely rundown. From upstairs, if you dared stand on the old floorboards, you could see through the roof! There was electricity, but no running water in the house. By the end, we’d fully renovated it, added a big extension and a garage big enough for seven cars.”

The latter may sound like overkill, but when the pair first moved to France they had a large collection of vehicles. “We owned around 14 sports cars in the UK, and when I first turned up I brought a Jaguar XK and a Land Rover with me. Chris’s pride and joy at the time was a Ferrari Testarossa.”

PETROL HEADS

Helen’s obsession with all things automotive – one she shares with Chris – began in childhood. “My mum would tell you that as a small child going out in the pushchair round our little village in the UK, I could name every car. I still have my 1968 Ladybird book of cars, which was my favourite thing,” she says. Living in France, however, had its share of challenges.

“Sadly, French roads and sports cars don’t go together. We evolved. One by one the sports cars had to go.” Instead, the pair turned their attention elsewhere.

“To me Land Rovers were more of a work vehicle and something I associated with the farm, rather than racing. But that would soon change.”
In 2012, despite working hard to create a beautiful rustic home, they decided to sell up, in part so they could take on a new challenge, but also because the amount of land in Bouillé-Loretz and the care it needed felt overwhelming. “Although I grew up on a farm, I never really realised the amount of work that went into looking after land. My father had always done that,” Helen says.

So, in September 2012, they bought their current property in Val-en-Vignes, which started out as an almost derelict barn. “We needed a new project. And this was the biggest we’ve tackled. It has 409 square metres of living space, and we’ve renovated the majority of it ourselves. It took us 10 years to complete.”

While many retire to France to live a quiet life, it seems Helen is doing just the opposite. “The house we’ve renovated is now for sale. I think when I’ve finished a project, I’m always looking for the next thing,” she admits. “My background is in design, I originally trained in fashion design and later interion design. I really enjoy planning a beautiful renovation and bringing it to life.”

RALLYING ROUND

Over the past 10 years, Helen has also been busy taking on another, unexpected challenge. “Visiting a friend in Morocco in 2015, I was talking about my love of cars and he asked me why I’d never done the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles du Maroc. It’s a French-organised women-only rally that happens each year.

“The conversation sowed a seed, and four years later I was in Morocco competing!” Helen’s first taste of rally driving turned into a whole new series of adventures. “The desert sand gets under your skin and calls you back!”

The Rallye des Gazelles is an endurance event, eight days in duration and covering thousands of off-road miles. As it’s a pure navigation rally, drivers and their navigators are not allowed to use GPS, just a basic compass and a black and white map on which they plot the checkpoints that mark their route.

MORE PLANNING

Meanwhile, Marcella, whose relationship had sadly broken down, moved back to the UK in 2010. However, she and Helen kept in regular contact, and during a visit to her friend in early 2022, a plan was hatched.

“The visit came on the back of a couple of horrible years,” Marcella explains. “I had a health scare in 2020. This resulted in a hysterectomy, which left me feeling shaken. My business also suffered during Covid times.”

As Helen relayed stories of rallying life to her friend, an idea started to form. “I was talking about how I was struggling to find a good navigator, and Marcella said, ‘can’t I come?’. I was astounded, as I’d never considered she might want to do it, but she was really keen.”

Soon after, Helen took Marcella to the local quarry, near Doué-la-Fontaine in her Land Rover and showed her the realities of off-piste driving. “She did really well – there were some very steep drops, but she coped admirably.”

Then, in September 2022, the pair undertook their first rally in Morocco. “Eight consecutive days of driving was a test of our friendship, but luckily we came through. I’d had other navigators before, but driving with Marcella was completely different,” says Helen. “Doing the rally with someone I know, and with whom I get on so well, made the whole experience a thousand times better.”

Moreover, as the rally was French run, the pair found that living in France proved a real advantage. “The Road Book is written in French, and the majority of the communication is in French. We have a massive advantage as a British team as we can understand what is going on before it’s translated. Being familiar with French culture also helps: like knowing that you won’t get any dinner until 9pm, so making sure we take our own food, as we prefer to eat earlier.”

DREAMING OF DAKAR

After undertaking a second rally the following year, where they finished as the second all-female crew, Helen and Marcella signed up for their biggest challenge to date. This was the Dakar Classic, which took place in January 2026, and in which they were the first-ever British all-female team to compete.

“Chris, who moved over to France permanently in 2009 after retiring from his haulage business, worked with me to build a custom car to the exacting standards required for Dakar,” says Helen. “It’s something we’d never done before, but it’s amazing what information you can discover on YouTube!” she adds. The event was a 14-day endurance rally, covering 7,281km, 4,162km of which was off-road.

And Helen, whose initial move to France was to fulfil Chris’s dream, has now well and truly fallen in love with life across the Channel. “I love the space. I go back to Suffolk where I used to live, but so much of the farmland has been sold for new developments. Living in France feels like going back in time to Suffolk 50 years ago.

“In terms of motor sports, it’s a great place to live. Rallying, particularly endurance rallying, is part of the French DNA in a way it isn’t in the UK. People in the UK think I’m insane to want to drive the Dakar rally, but the French people I know seem to understand.

“Coming to France alone made me stronger; and maybe in some ways that resilience has helped with the endurance part of the rallies. But more than anything, if I’d not done it, I may never have heard of the Rallye des Gazelles, and might never have met Marcella.”

A château can be visually extraordinary and still struggle commercially. The difference lies not in the façade or the architecture, but in the structure behind the project.

Every year, investors from around the world fall in love with a château in France, with the ambition of turning it into a profitable wedding and event venue. The potential is real. The demand is strong. But success is never determined by beauty alone.

As a Venue Advisor, my role is to analyse properties and identify the factors that make the difference between a château venue that thrives and one that struggles. The ambition may begin with a dream, but long-term performance depends on clear thinking and strategic planning.

If you are considering a château purchase for weddings or events, you can learn more about our approach here.

Infrastructure: The Most Commonly Underestimated Factor

Many buyers focus on the main building and overlook the infrastructure, yet the infrastructure is the backbone of your business. Access, parking, utilities, and logistics flow must be carefully assessed, and if done incorrectly, could severely limit your potential.

A château may look impressive, but if guests, suppliers and teams cannot move through the property easily, operations become difficult and growth becomes restricted. Weddings and events take expert coordination: managing deliveries, timing, and all the moving parts behind the scenes, so everything feels seamless and effortless on the day. If the site cannot support that movement smoothly, the experience becomes compromised. Infrastructure is not always visible, but it does determine what the property can realistically deliver as a venue.

You can explore our venue feasibility reviews here.

Avoid Unnecessary Investments

A lot of owners end up pouring money into after the purchase—often into things that don’t actually boost profitability. It is easy to focus on decorative improvements or aesthetic upgrades without considering commercial impact. Every investment should improve the client experience and strengthen pricing power. Strategy must always guide investment decisions.

Renovation alone does not create success. Investment must serve the business model, not just the aesthetics. When capital is allocated with intention, it enhances both perception and positioning. When it is reactive or emotionally driven, it can quickly dilute financial clarity.

The Swimming Pool: A Strategic Asset

A well-designed swimming pool is more than an attractive feature. It becomes a social hub and enhances the guest experience. It directly increases the perceived value of the venue.

When integrated thoughtfully, it contributes not only to atmosphere but also to positioning. Guests gather around it, photographs are taken beside it, and it becomes part of the narrative couples share when choosing a venue. In this way, a pool is not simply a leisure element. It becomes part of the commercial identity of the property.

Activities and Guest Experience

Clients today seek experiences, not just venues. The more experiences you offer, the more desirable and valuable your property becomes.

A château must be evaluated not only as a building, but as a complete guest journey. From arrival to departure, every moment shapes perception. Buyers should consider how the property supports that journey and how the environment encourages connection, celebration and immersion.

Client Experience is Everything

Your château is not just a building. It is an experience. Every detail contributes to the client’s perception and ultimately to their decision. Flow, atmosphere, comfort and coherence all influence confidence. When clients feel aligned with the space, they commit with clarity.

Visits are Critical

The visit is the decisive moment. It is not about showing a property, but about creating emotional projection.

Clients must be able to imagine themselves there. The visit is where strategy and atmosphere come together. It is the point at which interest turns into conviction. A château is not simply a real estate acquisition. It is a business. Success depends on strategy, infrastructure and experience. Beauty may attract attention, but structure sustains performance.

This is the role of a Venue Advisor: to unlock that potential and ensure that the dream is supported

by a model that works.

To find out more, visit www.thevenueadvisors.com

France’s national bank account register has been hacked, MaPrimeRénov has relaunched with a new budget, Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has restricted the U.S. ambassador’s access following a diplomatic faux pas, and France’s busiest airports are predicting delays of up to four hours due to EES systems during the peak travel season. Here are the headlines from French newspapers this week.

Over one Million Affected by National Bank Register Data Breach

The national bank account register fichier national des comptes bancaires (FICOBA), which lists all bank accounts held in France with their details, was hacked in late January, the French Ministry of Finance has confirmed.

The hackers are believed to have had access to the FICOBA database for several days, during which they accessed over 1.2 million active bank accounts. Compromised data includes account details such as IBAN/RIB numbers, identities, addresses and the user’s tax identification number. 

Holders of compromised accounts will be contacted by the Ministry of Finance in the coming days.

France’s Home Renovation Grant Relaunches

MaPrimeRénov, the state eco-renovation grant scheme, reopened on Monday, which allows homeowners to claim financial aid to contribute to the costs of eco-friendly renovation projects. Made available through Agence Nationale de l’Habitat, the scheme is aimed at improving the energy efficiency of properties. 

The scheme is open to households at all income levels, with the amount of aid scaled according to your revenu fiscal de reference from the previous year. Very low incomes could receive up to €32,000, whereas high incomes are capped at around €4000, covering around 10% of the total costs. 

The property must be your main home, the work must improve energy efficiency, and only homes with a DPE energy rating of E, F or G qualify. There are also cost limits (€40,000 max. for improvements of three energy classes or more and €30,000 for two), and work must be done by an RGE-certified professional.

France Restricts US Ambassador’s Access After Diplomatic Snub

France’s foreign ministry has blocked United States Ambassador to France, Charles Kushner, from having direct access to government ministers after he failed to attend a scheduled meeting at the Quai d’Orsay. 

The meeting was called by Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot to discuss comments by the US administration, which were amplified by the US embassy, about the fatal beating of a far-right activist, Quentin Deranque, in Lyon. 

Barrot criticised the embassy’s role and said Kushner’s absence from the meeting violated basic diplomatic norms, which led to the decision to restrict his access to senior French officials. France has said the restriction could be lifted once Kushner explains himself and meets with the foreign ministry.

Popular French Airports Request EES System Delay

Paris Orly and Roissy-Charles-de-Gaulle airports, which are managed by Aéroports de Paris (ADP) group, has urged authorities to delay the introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES) at airports until after the peak tourist season.

The border security system is currently due to be fully operational by 10 April, but ADP has warned that this could cause delays of up to four hours at France’s two busiest airports, which together handled over 107 million passengers in 2025.

European airports where EES is fully implemented have already reported an 70% increase in wait times, before the start of peak season. 

Read more about the EES Systems here.

The French government has updated its language requirements for residence permits, cards and naturalisation applicants, but what does it mean?

Coming into effect on January 1, 2026, foreign nationals must prove a minimum A2 level of French understanding to be eligible for multi-year residency permits. This new requirement increases to B1 for applicants for 10-year residency cards, and the requirement rises again to B2 for citizenship applicants. 

What does it mean?

‘A2’ and ‘B1’ form part of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale. The CEFR scale runs from A1 to C2 and is used to assess language ability, ranging from a basic user at A1 to a proficient user at C2, which is widely considered fluent.

The CEFR is an international standard for recognising language skills, assessing reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities. It provides a clear way to measure proficiency across languages and countries, making it widely used for education, exams, and professional qualifications.

Previously, multi-year residence permit applicants were only required to prove they were learning French through a government training programme or through other means. However, under the new rules, which stem from the 2024 comprehensive immigration law, applicants must pass official tests at an approved examination centre. 

New Visa Requirements 

Official exams, such as the Test de Connaissance du Français (TCF) and the Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française (DELF), offer recognised language certification, unless applicants can present an official diploma or prior accredited qualification in the language.

A2, the minimum level required for residency visa applicants, is the second-lowest tier on the CEFR scale. This level demonstrates a basic, upper-beginner proficiency, enabling learners to understand everyday expressions, handle routine social interactions, and describe familiar aspects of their daily life in simple language.

For French citizenship, applicants must demonstrate B2-level French, meaning they can understand complex texts, follow detailed conversations, and express ideas clearly in both speaking and writing. At this level, they can handle professional and social situations, use a broad vocabulary, and apply correct grammar, showing they are capable of functioning independently in everyday life in French.

Read more about the TCF here.

Possible Exemptions

The French government has put these new rules in place to encourage greater integration of foreign nationals, making previously optional language skills compulsory and reflecting a shift toward tougher immigration policies.

These new exams apply only to first-time applicants and don’t affect renewals of existing multi-year permits. Some applicants may be exempt: those 65 or older applying for residency cards, people with medical conditions, disabilities, or cognitive issues that make learning a language difficult.

Refugees and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection are also exempt, as are foreign students and researchers with a convention d’accueil, and holders of passeport talent permits. Applicants with certain French diplomas or degrees that already prove the required level of French may also be exempt.

If you’re unsure whether the new language and civics requirements apply to you, check with your prefecture, and prepare to study the material anyway – it’s better to be prepared than risk your residency.

Read more about the road to French residency here.

British Airways launches new £2 flight scheme for Avios members, French families have begun proceedings against contaminated baby formula, car insurance is set to rise again, and heavy flooding continues across France. Here are the headlines from French newspapers this week.

Welcome to our new Property in France portal, your trusted partner in finding the perfect home in France. Whether you’re dreaming of a charming village cottage, a stylish city apartment, or a spacious country estate, our portal makes exploring French properties simple and enjoyable. With powerful search tools, you can filter by region, price, property type, and key features, helping you discover exactly what you’re looking for. Backed by the expertise and guidance of French Entree, Property in France is your first step toward making your French property dreams a reality.

British Airways Launches £2 Flight Avios Scheme

The airline company, British Airways, have launched a £2 flight scheme for its Avios members this summer. Flight routes from London City Airport to Toulon and Madrid. All seats on the promotional flights will be reserved for Avios members, who need 21,500 points for a flight to Toulon, and 28,000 for the Madrid route, plus £2.

The Avios-only Toulon service will operate as a limited seasonal route, departing on June 13 – June 20, 2026. Seats are available to book on British Airways’ website now, and each ticket will include one checked bag of up to 23kg.

French Families Sue Over Contaminated Baby Formula

A group of 24 French families is suing the state and baby‑formula manufacturers over toxin‑contaminated milk powder, claiming authorities failed to ensure proper, independent testing. Many infants fell ill after consuming the formula, and the families demanded independent lab analyses. The complaint was filed at the Paris judicial court amid ongoing criminal investigations.

Car Insurance Fees to Rise

Car insurance premiums in France are forecast to rise by about 4–6 % in 2026, following an 8% increase in 2025, reflecting a long-term upward trend. The national average premium is €751 per year, which is about 36% higher than in 2010, and in some regions like Corsica and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, averages approach €950. Analysts say the rises are well above inflation and driven by rising repair costs — parts are expected to cost about 6% more in 2026 and labour around 3.5% — along with more frequent extreme weather events affecting claims.

Flooding Across France

France is facing historic flooding after days of heavy rain, with red flood alerts still in place in parts of the southwest. The worst-affected areas include the departments of Gironde, Dordogne and Lot-et-Garonne, particularly along the Garonne River, where water levels have exceeded previous major floods.

Emergency measures are underway in several regions, including around Angers on the Loire River, where authorities have closed riverbanks and flooded certain roads to ease pressure on waterways. More heavy rain is expected, keeping flood risks high.

Here’s the latest currency news from our partner Moneycorp, to help you find out what your money is worth.

UK data deluge to shape expectations for the BOE

The UK enters an important run of releases this week, with policymakers likely to scrutinise the data as they prepare for March’s Monetary Policy Committee meeting. Last week’s Q4 GDP figures disappointed, largely due to weak services and construction output. Markets now look for signs of improvement across a broad set of indicators.

The week begins with labour market data, which has shown early signs of stabilisation. Vacancies appear to have levelled off, although the more meaningful signals for the BoE will come from the split between public and private sector wage growth and from HMRC payrolled employee numbers for January.

On Wednesday, the January CPI, RPI and PPI reports follow. Inflation has eased steadily since late summer, and forecasters expect a further decline in both headline and core CPI. Toward the end of the week, January public finances, retail sales and preliminary February PMIs all feature. Markets will look for an improving budget position, a rebound in retail volumes and tentative strengthening across the services and manufacturing sectors.

For sterling, this concentration of data could generate volatility without providing material direction. If inflation continues to soften, it may reinforce expectations for monetary easing later this year.

Eurozone industrial production and PMI signals in focus

This week, eurozone data on industrial activity will focus on not if, but by how much, it contracts by. The scale of the weakness is important for future interest rate decisions.

Survey data introduces slightly more uncertainty. Germany’s ZEW index may show further gradual improvement from a low starting point. The PMI releases at the end of the week could point to modest recovery after several subdued quarters, although progress remains slow and uneven.

The euro has held up reasonably well against most major currencies, despite slipping against the yen and Canadian dollar in recent weeks. Domestic data this week may support a period of consolidation rather than prompt a more decisive shift.

US dollar waits for GDP to offer clearer direction

Recent US data delivered a complex picture. Headline payrolls strengthened, although significant downward revisions to previous readings tempered that signal. December retail sales came in weaker, while inflation printed slightly below expectations. Together, these releases increased the pressure on the Federal Reserve to consider rate cuts at its March meeting, although market pricing remains more cautious.

This week brings several notable events: January industrial production, the minutes from the Federal Open Market Committee’s January meeting and, at the end of the week, Q4 GDP. Recent comments last week from President Trump suggested the potential for exceptionally strong growth, although consensus expectations sit closer to a still‑robust 3 percent annualised pace. Upside risk exists, but not to the levels some have speculated.

A stronger GDP figure could offer the dollar some support, though a significant reversal of recent moves appears unlikely. With US markets closed for Presidents’ Day today, trading may start slowly.

Why Moneycorp?

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Furthermore, we have worked with the same person at Moneycorp for more than a decade! You might be familiar with her as she often writes for our French Property News magazine. She has 13 years’ experience in foreign exchange, and is a qualified European lawyer with experience in European transactions. Mar will be happy to answer any questions or enquiries to support you through these difficult times

Opening an account is really easy and free of cost. You can register online or over the phone in a couple of minutes and for FrenchEntrée readers there are no transfer fees in any payment.

Beware of currency risk. None of the information contained in this article constitutes, nor should be construed as financial advice. TTT Moneycorp Limited (company number 738837) is registered in England. Its registered office is at Floor 5, Zig Zag Building, 70 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6SQ. Moneycorp is a trading name of TTT Moneycorp Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for the provision of payment services (firm reference number 308919).

For some, having extra space to keep animals is one of the drivers for moving to France – Gillian Harvey meets three such people…

WE WANT EVERYONE TO ENJOY OUR ALPACAS

Ken and Jane Walker, Manche, Normandy

When Ken Walker, now 64, and his wife Jane, 63, moved to Normandy in 2001 with their four children Lucy, then 13, Katy, 11, Jack, 7, and Ben, 5, they were already animal lovers. “We had a small three-bedroom semi in the UK, but still managed to have chickens, rabbits and two dogs: a poodle and a golden retriever.”

While the move was made largely for lifestyle reasons they wanted a quieter way of life and a more traditional upbringing for their children – having a large house and five acres of land also meant they could fulfil Lucy’s dream of owning a horse. “My mum had always had ponies and we promised we’d get Lucy one when we arrived,” says Jane.

When they got there, qualified builder Ken soon started his own business, while Jane worked on the house when she could. They also acquired two milking goats and later investigated creating a cheese-making business. “I learned to make cheese, and began tackling the legislation involved in starting the business, but it proved harder and more expensive than we’d thought. In the end we had to abandon the idea.”

Then, in 2012, the family acquired a rather different type of animal. “We saw two llamas for sale. They’ve always fascinated me, and we decided we’d buy them – almost on a whim. Initially they were just for pleasure and for walks with family and friends.

“In 2021, we decided to purchase some alpacas – three at first, as they are herd animals. Shortly afterwards, a local man got in touch to say he was retiring and wanted to sell his own flock of alpacas. There aren’t many people keeping alpacas in this area, so he’d been pointed in our direction.

“We said yes, as they are such lovely, tranquil animals,” says Jane. “They give out such a peaceful energy.”

The couple came to love their animals so much, they felt it was only right to share them with more people: “We decided to open things up so people can come and visit, and enjoy a bit of tea and cake when they do!” Bisou d’Alpaga opened in 2023.

As well as their nine alpacas and four llamas, the pair also have four pygmy goats, a cat, a Great Dane and a Basset-and lots of time is spent each day caring for them. “To actually keep the alpacas in good condition, including feeding them and cleaning their field, takes two to three hours each morning and another two at night,” says Ken.

The business is continuing to evolve and the couple are looking into different ways to support the local community. “We get a lot of enquiries from nursing homes, and we’re looking at getting disabled access organised so that we can cater for everyone. We’ve had some children’s parties here and also get a lot of enquiries from schools.”

Jane also makes hats and scarves, which she knits from alpaca wool, to sell at Christmas markets as the business is closed for a period over the winter.

While it may not have been their initial plan to keep a herd of alpacas, the couple are more than content with their choice.

“We’ve realised our dream. Many people who visit say how much they’d love to do it. It’s such an escape, so tranquil, no passing traffic, no urban noise. It’s great being able to give people this experience.”

bisoudalpaga.com

OUR CHÂTEAU HOME HAS PLENTY OF ROOM

Andrew and Sunita McDonald, Haute-Garonne, Occitanie

When Andrew, 45, and Sunita McDonald, 42, moved to France with their three children – Josh, now 13, Austyn, 11, and Annalise, eight – things didn’t quite go as planned. “We’d been looking at properties close to the Spanish border for over a year and bought a run-down château close to Toulouse in 2019,” says Sunita. “We had builders in to make it more liveable, but were not yet ready to move. However, we came for a short holiday in March 2020 and got locked down!”

With only a week’s worth of clothing each and a house that wasn’t yet complete, Sunita and the children made do with camping equipment as Andrew, a key worker, travelled to and from the UK. The family cat was still at their house in the UK, but luckily a friend house-sat and looked after her, until Andrew was able to drive over with her in June.

Missing their cat, the family began to put food out for a wild tomcat they’d seen in the driveway. Until, there was a surprise. “Andrew called me and said, ‘You know the cat? It’s female, not male’,” says Sunita. “How do you know?” I asked. “”Come and see’, he replied.”

The builders had discovered two kittens under a floorboard, being cared for by their mother. Five more followed a few months later. “We wanted to get the cat spayed, but could never catch her,” said Sunita.

Since that time, the family has become used to seeing lots of furry felines. “I also acquired a kitten who fell pregnant before I could get her sterilised,” says Sunita. “She had six! It was a bit of a shock. But the château is so big, it doesn’t feel like too many.”

Over time, the family have further increased the headcount with a rescue puppy and now rehome ex-battery hens too. They also recently acquired a goat, quite by chance. “When you have space, people offer you animals,” says Sunita. “But he’s been quite good, eating the brambles on the land.”

In fact, all the animals on site have a role to play. “Cats keep the mice at bay and the dog protects the home. The goat eats the brambles and the chickens lay eggs. We also have some geese now and they guard the chickens from foxes and other predators.”

While their youngest, Annalise, would love to add a horse or pony to the family’s menagerie, for the time being mum is drawing the line. “It’s so much work. She’s been asking for the past three years but I’d prefer to take her horse riding somewhere else.”

Growing up with animals has had a beneficial effect on the children. “It’s lovely raising the kids with animals. They learn so much from it. They have their chores, they have to feed the animals, put out clean cat litter. If they do something wrong they clean the chicken house! I think it makes children more compassionate, and they learn responsibility from caring for animals.”

WE MOVED FOR THE HORSES!

Lauren Quiblier, Deux-Sèvres, Nouvelle-Aquitaine

In 2002, when Lauren Quiblier’s parents decided to move to France, one of the main draws was the fact they’d be able to own horses. Aged just 12 when her parents Kate, now 56, and Roly, now 63, opted to emigrate, Lauren has no doubt that the move was life changing.

“We lived in a house in High Wycombe, but my parents wanted more space. At the time, all I wanted was a little pony of my own – which wasn’t possible in the UK at all as it would have been far too expensive,” she explains.

The family eventually settled in a farmhouse in the Vienne near Poitiers that came with five hectares of land. They acquired their first horse almost immediately.

“We were always animal people. In the UK, we had geckos, a dog and a cat, although only the dog came to France with us,” says Lauren.

“But once we were here, we never looked back.” The family currently have five horses, a Shetland pony, 10 chickens, a cockerel, two dogs and several cats that live in the barn some of which are feral.

Still, the family’s main focus has been the horses. To be able to ride as much as she wanted has been life changing for Lauren, now 34. “I’ve competed at dressage to a decent level in France. I’ve had opportunities to travel to big competitions, grooming for a friend who’s an international dressage rider. In the UK, I never had the chance to compete as it wasn’t affordable. Here, because the horses are at home, there are many more opportunities. I also have three competition horses, which is unheard of for an amateur rider in England.”

While it’s afforded a lot of opportunities, having so many animals also comes with a great deal of time-consuming responsibility. While Lauren has now married and moved out of the family home, she still works with her parents to look after the horses every day. “Each day, I get up and feed my own dogs and cats, then spend an hour feeding the horses,” she says. “Doing groundwork and potentially riding takes another three to four hours. My parents do the evening at present, which is another good hour.”

Lauren also juggles caring for the horses with her business as a distributor for a high-end horse supplement, and caring for her young baby, Scarlett. She and her husband Florian, 34, have also bought a house and are currently renovating it with a view to taking over the horses in the coming years.

Roly, Lauren’s father, who commuted to the UK for work as a structural engineer for many years, has now retired due to ill health. Her mother, who formerly worked locally in hospitality, has started her own horse-related business, washing and repairing horse rugs for local owners.

“The downside of having horses is that you can’t go on holiday or travel easily. But my parents are getting to the point where they might want to slow down and go on holiday more. The place Florian and I have bought has three hectares of land and will be perfect for the horses. And I’m looking forward to many years of riding in the future!”

chevalchic.fr

France runs a census every year, but it does not contact every household annually. Instead, it uses a rolling system where different areas (and, in larger towns, different addresses) are included on a rota. That is why you may hear about the census one year but not be contacted until a later year.

How often does the census happen?

The census takes place annually, but the method depends on the size of the commune.

In smaller communes (under 10,000 residents), the entire commune is counted once every five years. Each year, roughly one fifth of these smaller communes take part.

In larger communes (10,000 residents and over), census work happens every year, but only a sample of addresses is contacted in any one year (roughly around 8% of homes). This keeps population figures updated without needing to contact everyone annually.

When does it take place?

In practice, the census is carried out during a set campaign period early in the year (often across January and February), with exact dates and local communications handled through your mairie.

What is the census for?

The census is used to produce official population figures and to understand how people live in different parts of France. The results help guide local planning and funding, including services such as schools, transport, healthcare provision and housing needs.

What information does it ask for?

The questions are usually split into two parts: details about the home, and details about the people who normally live there.

Home questions are typically straightforward. They may include whether the property is a main home, second home or unoccupied, plus basic information such as the type of accommodation (house or flat) and simple characteristics like the number of rooms.

People questions focus on who normally lives in the household and broad background details such as age, work, education, commuting and household set-up (for example whether people live alone, as a couple, or as a family). The wording can vary, but it stays within these practical categories. Some questions may be optional and clearly marked as such.

Who needs to respond?

If you live in France at your main home and your address is selected that year, you are expected to complete the census. It is treated as an official request.

If you are only in France short term (for example on holiday or on a brief work trip), you are usually counted at your usual home rather than where you happen to be staying temporarily.

If you have a second home in France

A good rule of thumb is that people are counted where they normally live, at their main home.

If you own a second home in France, you are generally not “counted” there in the same way as you are at your main home. If contact is made about a second home, the focus is typically on recording the dwelling correctly as a second home and confirming basic property details, rather than completing full resident information as if it were your main address.

If you rent out your property, or it is empty

If you rent the property out on a long-term tenancy, the tenants normally complete the census household information, because the census counts where people actually live as their main home.

If the property is empty, it can be recorded as unoccupied. In that situation, the questions tend to focus on confirming the status of the dwelling rather than listing residents.

How the process works in practice

Most people are contacted locally and may receive information through their commune, followed by a visit from a census officer appointed by the town hall. A genuine census officer should be able to show an official ID card. If you are unsure, you can check by contacting the mairie.

Replying may be done online using access codes, or on paper depending on what is offered locally. The census is free. If anyone asks for payment or for bank details, treat that as a warning sign.

A quick “what should I do?” guide

• Main home in France selected: complete the home details and the details for everyone who normally lives there (adults and children).
• Second home: be ready to confirm it is a second home and provide basic property details if asked.
• Property let to tenants: the tenants normally complete the census, as they are the usual residents.
• Empty property: confirm it is unoccupied if contacted.
• Short stay in France: you are usually counted at your usual home, not your temporary address.

Useful French terms

• Recensement (de la population): census
• Mairie: town hall
• Agent recenseur: census officer
• Résidence principale: main home
• Résidence secondaire: second home
• Logement vacant: unoccupied/empty home

The unexpected costs of living in rural France came as a bit of a shock in our first year living in Charente. We had moved from a reasonably large detached 1960’s property in the North-East of England to a three-story Charentaise ancienne maison, three independent gîtes and several barns and out-buildings. 

Electricity 

This was definitely an eye-opener. Before the UK price hikes for electricity, we came to France and used electricity in the same way as we had back home. Looking back, it was thoughtless and naïve, and we certainly were not as conscious of our consumption as we are now. I remember receiving our first annual bill after the reality had sunk in, and I vomited on the spot. It was a huge amount – equivalent to some people’s yearly wage. Electricité De France (EDF) took it in one go from our bank account; it was certainly a learning curve. 

We immediately decided to reduce our consumption – changed to low-energy lightbulbs, removed unnecessary bulbs, installed timers on immersion heaters, removed electric kettles, insulated, installed double glazing, removed electric radiators with newer, more efficient alternatives, and so on and so forth. Working on lowering our electricity bill is always ongoing, this year and next, for example, we are expanding our use of solar panels. 

Schooling Costs  

Our children attended our local, wonderful state Primary school in Verdille. They began part way through the year in December, and in France, you are expected to provide all school supplies or your children. From all workbooks and stationery to a cup, toothbrush, toothpaste and a serviette for mealtimes, depending on the school’s policy. Every August, families receive money from the State to cover these costs via the CAF.  

If you choose to educate your children privately, this may well be a welcome surprise in that school fees are considerably lower than in the UK. 

Roofs 

Be prepared for leaks! Never in my life have I experienced a leaking roof before moving to France. Even though this had been queried prior to us buying the property, every single roof had problems, the worst being the roof of the main house, which poured water into our daughter’s bedroom that first winter. My advice is to take a local registered maçon with you to view the house you are considering buying, as roofs are an expensive business. By ‘local’ I mean one that the local Mairie recommends. Ask them to assess your roofs (and anything else – wooden floors, cracks in walls, loft timbers), and then you can negotiate any issues before signing on the dotted line.  

Depending on the construction of your roof, you may need to budget for an annual révision, where a roofer pushes any slipped tiles back into place, replaces any cracked tiles and does the necessary repairs before it rains in winter.  

Heating 

We moved to Charente in December. Our house, with its thick stone walls, had been empty for months before our arrival. As anyone who has lived in a stone house will tell you, it can feel like a fridge; it took two weeks for the house to warm up. 

Oil-fired central heating is expensive, and the cost of wood per cubic metre has more than doubled in price over the last eight years. Installing a granulated heating boiler is more cost-effective and should substantially reduce your bills. Or research alternative heating solutions that are more efficient and eco-friendlier. 

Renovation Costs 

Many of us come here to renovate these magnificent properties and to restore them to their former glory, so do your sums first to avoid any nasty surprises. Materials have skyrocketed due to the global economic crisis, and artisans are not cheap because they are usually incredibly skilled, pay comparatively high taxes, and are insured, as registered maçon’s work is guaranteed for ten years. 

Many are surprised by the day-to-day costs of living in France, so it is wise to have a ‘rainy day fund’ and then have another one in reserve, just in case these extra costs appear unexpectedly. 

Bon courage! 

America plans to increase requirements for tourists from visa-waiver countries to include social media account information. Nearly all departments across France have restored higher speeds on appropriate roads, while three departments toughen their penalties for drivers caught on their phones at the wheel. France’s interior minister will review the citizenship rules for foreign retirees. Here are the headlines from French newspapers this week.

The French Budget 2026 was pushed through last week. Read here about how it will affect you, from our French Tax Expert and Relocation Advisor, Debbie Nye.

US Tightens Travel Authorisation Rules for French Visitors

Travellers from France and other visa-waiver countries, such as the UK, hoping to travel to the United States will soon be required to provide more detailed personal information when applying for an ESTA travel authorisation. Under the updated rules, which are part of broader changes to the US Visa Waiver Programme aimed at strengthening border security, applicants must disclose social media account identifiers, telephone numbers from the past five years and email addresses used over the past decade. 

A previously optional section on social media history will become mandatory, increasing data collection and potentially increasing application times. The changes are expected to take effect imminently and follow a recent increase in the ESTA application fee. Critics warn that the new requirements could deter tourists and complicate travel planning to America.

Nearly All Départements Scrap 80km/h Speed Limit on Secondary Roads

France’s long-debated 80 km/h speed limit on two-way secondary roads is being widely reversed, with the department of Eure becoming the 52nd to restore higher speeds where conditions allow. Under a 2019 law, local authorities can raise limits back to 90km/h on eligible rural roads after safety studies are completed. 80 km/h remains the national default where no change has been applied.

Read about driving in France here.

South-West France Cracks Down on Drivers Using Phones at the Wheel

Authorities in parts of south-west France are increasing penalties for motorists caught using mobile phones while driving, allowing police to suspend licences on the spot in a bid to improve road safety. The tougher enforcement applies specifically in the Landes, Lot-et-Garonne and Charente-Maritime departments, which is a step beyond the national rule that previously required another simultaneous offence for such action. Under standard French traffic law, drivers found holding a phone face a €135 fine and a three-point licence penalty, and can already lose their licence if caught during another violation, such as speeding.

French Minister to Review Citizenship Rules for Retirees

France’s interior minister, Laurent Nuñez, has pledged to closely examine how current citizenship rules are applied to foreign retirees, amid claims that regulations introduced by his predecessor and how prefectures interpret them are making naturalisation unduly difficult. The review follows renewed calls from Charente senator Nicole Bonnefoy for more flexible rules for retirees whose income comes from abroad, with supporters saying many long-term residents are being rejected on ‘foreign income’ grounds despite being well integrated. The minister said he would scrutinise the issue in detail and ensure that guidelines are not applied too rigidly at the local level.

After months of delays, disorder, and political deadlock, France’s PM Sébastien Lecornu pushed the 2026 French Budget through the National Assembly. Here’s what we know so far from our Tax Expert and Relocation Advisor, Debbie Nye:

Principal Changes for Individuals

The personal income tax bands on the progressive scale have increased by 0.9% in line with inflation on 2025 income

Retirees will still get the 10% tax-free allowance on 2025 pension income (capped at 4439€ per household) 

The level of social taxes (prélèvements sociaux) has increased by 1.4% from 17.2% to 18.6%.
However, it is the general social contribution known as ‘CSG’ that has increased by 1.4% within the overall rate of social taxes, meaning that those only paying the solidarity tax of 7.5% will not be affected by this increase.

As a reminder, social taxes apply to asset income, namely investment income and rental income from property. The solidarity tax, however, is only applicable to taxpayers who hold an S1 bilateral social security certificate and are not subject to compulsory French health insurance through a professional activity in France, as well as to non-resident, non-professional landlords who are affiliated with the NHS or with a national health system in another EU country.

The modest income subsidy known as prime d’activité will increase by an average of 50€ a month, for working people earning the equivalent of the minimum wage, or slightly more than the minimum wage.

University canteens will still offer students meals for 1€ 

Personal housing allowance (aide personnalisée au logement or APL) will not be reduced; there will be restrictions for non-EU students.

The differential high-income contribution known as CDHR (contribution différentielle sur les hauts revenus), brought in last year to ensure a minimum 20% taxation on exceptionally high-income households, has been extended for an additional year.

A new rental landlord status has been created, called bailleur privé (private rental landlord) adding to the current council housing market. The aim is to create more affordable rental housing in the market in areas where there is a lack of accommodation available.
Details will follow in a separate update on rental activities.

From January 2026, all cryptocurrency platforms will be obliged to collect and automatically send details to the French tax authorities of any transactions made by their users.

Public Spending

The government has increased its defence budget in light of the current tensions with NATO. At the same time, they have promised to reduce public spending across various ministries as well as on the investment programme that had been previously agreed for 2030.

Although local authorities may see a reduction in their budgets, the reduction is not as harsh as was originally suggested.  Also, the government is cutting jobs across the public sector, including jobs in unemployment offices, schools and ministries.

Principal Changes for Businesses

There was no reduction in the VAT thresholds for micro-entrepreneurs in the 2026 Budget.
However, a reform is still likely in the near future, particularly with regards to certain categories of activity.

A 20% tax on certain professional assets will be applied to assets owned by patrimonial holding companies with their head office in France, liable for corporation tax, where a shareholder owns at least 50% of financial or voting rights, or where the head office is based outside of France and a shareholder that owns at least 50% of financial or voting rights is tax resident in France.

A surtax will be applied to the very largest businesses from 2027 with increases in various charges and taxes of around 0.3% (increasing to an average of 43.9%).

At the same time, the phasing out of the CVAE (cotisation sur la valeur ajoutée des entreprises), a type of value-added contribution from businesses, has been removed from the Budget, meaning it will still be due by certain businesses.

Running gîtes has always held a certain degree of romanticism for me – being my own boss, being free of Government-driven targets; ultimately, having the freedom to choose what my day-to-day life is like. The reality, of course, is that it is all those things and lots of hard work and we are pretty much tied to our home. 

Here’s how we roll with the seasons at La Grue Gites: 

Winter 

Every year, we welcome house hunters to La Grue Gîtes , and there are lots of preparations involved. All our properties are deep cleaned after the summer season – cupboards emptied and a full états des lieux or stock-take of what we have is done, any required replacements are ordered, and improvements are made. Soft furnishings are steam-cleaned and washed, and out comes all our winter soft furnishings; nothing is missed on our thorough checklist. 

We also complete our annual safety checks – the boiler is serviced, chimneys are swept, and electrical wires and pipework are checked too. We use professional, registered local businesses. This is to ensure safety and to try and avoid any breakdowns over the winter period as much as possible. 

Wood and fuel deliveries are made prior to guests arriving, ready for the colder weather. You might want to consider cosy extras to ensure your guests are warm and feel at home. The gardens are pruned, and the summer geraniums give way to winter pansies for a splash of colour around the gardens. Christmas trees and decorations go up and come down!  

It is also the season of accounting – all our paperwork is filed for the accountant. Courage! 

Spring 

Spring is a popular time for longer-term rentals, so the thorough deep cleaning in between the longer stays continues. 

Spring is a time for spending! As the weather is usually nice, it is a great time for any renovations and painting. All the exterior walls, poolside and around the gîtes are painted. It is pricey, and there is a reason why: there is a French paint designed specifically for this climate, and we have seen it saves work in the long run. Metal gates are sanded and touched up, as are the pergolas. 

Anything in need of replacement or ‘project’ work takes place. This year, we are hoping to install more solar panels to reduce our impact on our planet in line with our écogeste status. Spring bulbs pop up and work starts in the gardens – the grass cutting season starts again – and days are spent on the ride-on mower with an occasional beer in hand! 

Summer 

Summer is characterised by peaks of frenetic activity and lazy moments soaking up the beauty of the gorgeous Charente while our guests are out exploring! We keep a store of ‘spares’ such as loo seats and bath plugs, tablecloths, coffee machines, toasters, microwaves, etc., just in case there is a last-minute issue between the busy summer changeovers.  

Days begin with watering the bedding plants from our water butts and making sure everything is looking its best before our guests wake. We must maintain the pool up to three times a day in the peak season – it is cleaned early every morning and checked three times a day to ensure the levels are correct.  

Autumn 

After being in beautiful Charente for eight years now, I feel summer stretches on forever, and then one day, snap, it is over like the flick of a switch. In Autumn, there are still many beautiful, sunny days, and it is a glorious time for guests to explore food markets, the brocantes and to sample the regional produce. But for La Grue Gìtes, Autumn means prepare for winter – all our summer wooden furniture is stored in the barn, we bring out plastic furniture for our winter rentals for those sunny days. 

Roofs are checked for leaks, and repairs are done; walls are pointed if necessary to protect them from the winter wet weather. If you need a professional, we recommend contacting them in the Spring to book them in.  

Woodwork is touched up again to protect it from the rain, and the pool is over-wintered. This is a movable feast – it depends on outdoor temperature, and then we are back to the winter months! 

In short, there is always something to keep you busy in a customer-focused business that you love. The ideas for development are endless! We have some truly amazing guests who return year on year, and many supporters too, without whom none of this would be possible.  

Best of luck with all your gîte-related work this coming year! 

Stripping a property back to the facts, and having a clear vision of what those facts could become, are the key to a successful purchase, says planning expert Tom Easdown…

For many overseas buyers, purchasing a home in France begins with a vision – drinks on a sunny terrace, stone walls steeped in history, or the romance of transforming a rural farmhouse into a family retreat. Yet between dream and reality lies a vital, often overlooked process: due diligence.

In nearly every property purchase in the world the principle of ‘caveat emptor’ (buyer beware) exists – that it is the buyer’s responsibility to determine if the property is fit for their purpose.

In the UK, US and many other countries, whole industries exist to protect the purchaser through legal assistance (real estate solicitors or attorneys) and professional assessments (building inspectors and surveyors). In France, however, the emphasis remains on the individual buyer to determine whether a property is truly the right one for them.

BUYING WELL

The key to buying well in France lies in combining rigorous investigation with creative foresight, combining due diligence with visioning to see the reality of a property today and the possibilities it holds for the future. Buying property in France is highly regulated and one of the safest transaction processes in the world but that doesn’t mean it isn’t without its quirks.

For many international buyers, getting a building survey is the norm but in France that isn’t the case and, in fact, is a relatively underused service.
What is provided within the sales process is a set of diagnostic reports, which highlight issues associated with thermal performance, electrical system compliance, drainage system compliance, flood risk, subsidence risk, the presence of lead, asbestos and insects, and also gas installations if applicable.

While these reports are useful, they rarely paint the whole picture. For example, a subsidence report may indicat a risk but not whether the property has been affected. A termite report may confirm pests but not whether the structure has been damaged. Commissioning a survey, especially if the building is old or you have significant plans for it, can provide peace of mind and allow you to limit the potential surprises that could affect budgets and timelines.

ZONE IN

Alongside understanding the physical condition of the property, it is also important to understand the planning and legal position. The notaire, during the period between signing of the compromis de vente and the signing of the acte de vente, will ensure that the property title is clear and if there are any issues of rights of way, servitude or charges on the property.

What often gets overlooked, however, is the property’s planning zoning and any future development plans nearby. Once again, it is the purchaser’s responsibility to ensure the planning zoning allows for their development plans and to identify and consider any proposed developments in the area.

A picturesque barn may seem ripe for conversion but if local planning rules prohibit the change of use, the dream can quickly collapse. It is also important to understand if the property is close to a historic monument or is itself protected as this can affect what future development is possible. Financial due diligence should also not be overlooked.

Renovation costs in France vary widely, and buyers often underestimate the scale of investment required to bring older properties up to modern standards. Only recently we did some work on a small château where the costs of improving the thermal performance was more than €200,000; fortunately, our clients had engaged us to undertake pre-purchase reviews and this figure was in the budget, but if it had come as a surprise it could have led to difficult decisions and compromise.

BARE TRUTHS

In essence, due diligence is about stripping away the layers of romance and marketing to reveal the bare truth of a property. Done well, it empowers buyers to make informed decisions, avoid any unpleasant surprises and, ultimately, approach their French property journey with confidence. If due diligence strips a property back to the facts, visioning is about imagining what those facts could become. It means looking past the peeling wallpaper, hay-filled barn or outdated layouts and recognising the potential hidden in a building’s bones.

French property offers so much opportunity and potential but the imagination to see what a property could become must remain grounded in reality: the reality of a purchaser’s budget, the reality of planning regulation and the structural reality of the building. In the end visioning is not about indulging a fantasy but about unlocking an opportunity; when it is combined and interlinked with rigorous due diligence, it allows buyers to see a neglected property not for its flaws but for the real home it could one day become.

Turning due diligence and visioning into action requires structure. The most successful buyers in France follow a clear process, supported by the right team.

Assemble your team early: Estate agents are helpful for finding properties but their role is to sell. Independent professionals, such as architects, surveyors or renovation consultants, give unbiased insight. Legal help in your own language can also be a helpful service to investigate.

Go beyond the legally required diagnostic report: A full structural survey and renovation cost estimate provide facts that enable confident decisions.

Investigate planning and permissions: Visit the local mairie (or appoint someone to do it for you) to confirm the property’s zoning and if there are due to be any changes. Ask about recent planning approvals near to the property. Ensure that your vision is feasible in regulatory terms.

Build a realistic budget: Work through your vision to build a realistic plan for the property, combine this with the information gathered in the survey to develop a budget that includes professional fees and a contingency. Trimming a budget before work commences is a lot easier than trying to do it halfway through because an unknown or unforeseen issue arises.

Take your time: French property purchases can feel slow compared to other countries, but this pace is an advantage. Use it to gather information, ask the right questions and refine your vision.

THE RIGHT BALANCE

Buying property in France is often described as a dream, but in truth it is a decision that demands both head and heart. It comes down to balance, focusing only on the technical risks overlooking the opportunities; relying solely on the romance can lead to disappointment.

The right due diligence equips the buyer with clarity; merging this with the right vision allows for the dream of a barn conversion or a stylish pied-a-terre to become a reality. One without the other leaves the buyer feeling exposed: facts without imagination can feel limiting, but imagination without facts can be ruinous.

For buyers willing to pair rigour with imagination, France offers something rare: the chance to not only acquire stones and mortar but to create a life within them that reflects both ambition and authenticity.

Tom Easdown is an Architect and Managing Director at French Plans
Tel: 0033 (0)6 75 05 36 86
frenchplans.com

Driving in France is just like driving in the UK, but on the other side, right? If you know how to drive and you have passed your test in the UK, you have most likely got this, but there are a few hints and tips that can help. 

Road signs  

Brush up on their meanings because you do need to know and understand them. For instance, a cross tilted like a kiss means give way at the crossroads. I had been blithely driving through our hamlet blissfully unaware for months until my neighbour politely explained this to me after I whizzed past her one day. 

All villages and urban areas are 50km or less, and it will be signed, similar to the 30mph law in the UK, so keep an eye out for them. There is also ‘cedez le passage’, which means ‘give way’. The RAC provide a useful, visual guide on all road signs, and you must brush up on your knowledge. Also, always remember to stop at a stop sign. In the UK, we often roll out if the road is clear; in France, it is advisable to always come to a complete stop. 

Equipment Requirements 

French law requires motorists to have a high-visibility reflective vest for each passenger and a warning triangle, both of which must be accessible from inside the vehicle. These items are intended to keep drivers safe in the event of a breakdown or accident, especially on busy roads. While other items often included in a European driving kit—such as headlamp beam deflectors, spare bulbs, or a first-aid kit—may not all be legally required in France, having a complete kit helps ensure you’re prepared, compliant, and able to drive with peace of mind. 

A rather surprising French road rule to us Brits is that speed camera detectors are illegal in France and can result in strict punishments. So, when your SAT NAV ‘bings’ to alert you of an upcoming camera in the UK, this is illegal in France. You simply must be extra vigilant and adhere to the speed limits in place religiously. 

Drink Driving Laws

In France, drink driving laws are stricter than in the UK. The legal blood-alcohol limit is 0.05%, but it drops to 0.02% for new drivers with under three years’ experience, and police routinely carry out random roadside breath tests. In the UK, the limit is 0.08%, with no lower national limit for new drivers; breath tests are common but are usually linked to a stop, incident, or suspicion. Penalties in both countries can include heavy fines, driving bans, and prison sentences. 

Driving Licences 

If your UK licence was issued before January 2021, it is valid in France until it expires. When it is due to expire, you can renew it via the Agence Nationale des Titres Sécurisés government website. It is a very straightforward process – although it does take time. Also, driving points are deducted in France, rather than added on; a clean French licence has 12 points, and you lose points depending on the severity of the offence. 

Read more about the driving points system in France here. 

Carte Grise 

When making France your permanent home, you have one month from your official arrival date to obtain your Carte Grise – a mandatory registration certificate – for your vehicle if it is not already registered in France. You need to have specific paperwork scanned and ready to go, as this application can be made online via the  ANTS website. If you have converted or adapted your vehicle in any way which deviates from the manufacturer’s specification, then prepare for a long, complicated process with an uncertain outcome.  

Read more about Carte Grises here. 

Overall, driving in France is perfectly manageable for UK drivers once you understand a few key differences and prepare properly. Taking the time to familiarise yourself with road signs, legal requirements, and local driving laws will not only keep you on the right side of the law but also make your journeys safer and more enjoyable. With a little planning and awareness, you’ll soon feel confident behind the wheel and free to enjoy everything France has to offer, bonne route! 

Using Article 49.3, the Prime Minister has pushed France’s official 2026 budget through and bypassed a formal vote. MPs have approved proposals for both free hospital parking and the removal of low-emission zones, but doctors are outraged at the possibility of facing fines of up to €10,000 if they fail to meet digital paperwork requirements. Here are the headlines from French newspapers this week. 

France passes its 2026 Budget

After months of political deadlock, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu used Article 49.3 to bypass a formal vote to pass the official Budget for 2026. Two no-confidence motions were rejected, allowing the budget to be adopted despite opposition.

For residents, the budget increases support for low- and middle-income households. The prime d’activité will rise by about €50 per month for three million people, and the €1 student meal scheme is being expanded nationwide. Social benefits are broadly revalued, and the ‘MaPrimeRénov’ scheme continues to help homeowners with energy-efficiency renovations. Farmers also benefit from preserved funding for key programmes.

At the same time, the budget raises taxes on businesses and high earners. Relief on the Cotisation sur la Value Ajoutée des Entreprises (CVAE) business tax was removed, and the Contribution Différentielle sur les Hauts Revenus (CDHR) ensures a minimum 20% tax for top earners. Online shoppers face a new €2 fee on imports under €150. Some controversial measures, like freezing income tax brackets or removing the pensioner allowance, were dropped.

Overall, the budget supports vulnerable groups and strategic sectors while maintaining fiscal discipline, but it increases costs for businesses and high-income residents.

Free hospital parking proposal approved by MPs

In response to growing criticism of the rising hospital parking costs. On January 29, MPs approved a bill that would guarantee free parking for patients for the full duration of their care, staff and limited free access for visitors. 

If the bill becomes law after being examined by the Senate, visitors could be entitled to two hours of free parking before charges are introduced, which will be capped at €15. If approved, this law would only apply to public hospitals and not private healthcare institutions.

Doctors angered by proposed fines over digital paperwork

French GPs are angry about government plans to fine doctors who do not properly complete patients’ digital medical records on the dossier médical partagé (DMP) system. The proposed fines could reach €10,000 a year from 2028. Although the constitutional court blocked the initial proposal, the government plans to reintroduce it.

Doctors argue the DMP is slow, poorly designed, and adds to already heavy administrative workloads, reducing time for patient care. GP unions say the measure was a key factor behind the recent 10-day doctors’ strike in January and warn that many patients, especially older people, struggle with digital systems, and existing medical software does not integrate well with the DMP.

MPs vote in favour of abolishing low-emission zones

French MPs and senators have agreed in a joint committee to include a measure in the 2025 simplification bill that would abolish ‘Zones à Faibles Émissions’ (ZFEs), which restrict older, more polluting vehicles in city centres. 

ZFEs currently exist in over 20 areas across France, and scrapping them would mean drivers no longer need to check restrictions or display ‘Crit’Air’ stickers when entering those zones. However, the bill still requires final approval by both the National Assembly and the Senate, and faces opposition from the government, local authorities, and environmental groups.

Read more about the current low-emission zone laws here.

If you want to enjoy outdoor activities year round in France, head for the hills – Carolyn Reynier looks at three middle-mountain villages ideal for all seasons

Looking for a home for all seasons? Look no further. The French have always appreciated the joys of mountain holidays for snow sports, summer hiking or just a breath of fresh air – un bol d’air frais. Here are three stations-villages, authentic middle-mountain villages with ski resorts attached one in the Grand Est region, the other two in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.

Firstly, in Alsace in eastern France, Sondernach and the Schnepfenried ski resort are in the Haut-Rhin department in the Munster valley. We’re in the heart of the 2,947km² Parc Naturel Régional des Ballons des Vosges, 61% of which is forest. Picturesque prefecture Colmar has its famous Unterlinden Museum; cross the Rhine and you’re in Germany and the Black Forest.

Secondly, Mijoux is in the northeast corner of Ain in the Pays de Gex. You’re surrounded by the Jurassic mountains, forests and crystalline rivers of the 178,000 hectare Parc Naturel Régional du Haut-Jura. The Mijoux-La Faucille ski area offers panoramic views over shimmering Lake Geneva, Mont Blanc and the Alpine chain.

Thirdly, Combloux in Haute-Savoie has 13th-century origins, pine forests and is situated below Mont Blanc. Close to Savoie, it offers skiing for all levels in two distinct ski areas – Les Portes du Mont-Blanc and Evasion Mont-Blanc. Discover Savoyard flora, fauna, wines and local dishes like diots au vin blanc (pork sausages) and crozets, which are small square-shaped pieces of pasta.

MUNSTER MAJESTY

In the Munster valley, you’ll find fermes-auberges where you can enjoy local dishes like gratin des marcaires – local Munster cheese, potatoes, lardons, butter and onions. Marcaire is the name given to Munster-making Vosges massif dairy farmers. It comes from the Alsatian word malker, the person who milks the cows. For centuries, the marcaires and their herds have shaped these mountain landscapes.

Le Schnepf (1,100m) is one of the largest ski areas in Alsace and Vosges- plus it has a toboggan run for the under-sixes. Glwadys Gebele of Safti says in Le Schnepf you’ll generally find small 60m²-100m² chalets and a few apartments. Prices for chalets set back from neighbours are circa €3,500/m². There are more apartments at the tiny resort of Gaschney at nearby Muhlbach-sur-Munster. Here, small old residential buildings are right by the ski runs (au pied des pistes). Prices are cheaper because these holiday home apartments usually require renovation. Expect to pay around €2,000-€3,000/m² for one with no work required.

Many valley buildings were destroyed during World War I, so much property in Sondernach – awarded La Croix de Guerre after the war – dates from the 1920s. You typically find large old farmhouses originally occupied by parents and offspring living in two apartments, one on the ground floor, one above, with an adjoining barn for livestock. These rural properties make up much of the market here. Check out other villages such as Breitenbach, Stosswihr and Soultzeren. Expect to pay €2,000-€2,300/m² for a ferme needing no (or minor) work. Some owners sell just one apartment – usually cheaper at circa €1,800-€2,000/m².

Nearby Mittlach also has many small chalets. If you prefer an apartment in the centre of Munster – old ones with cachet may have wooden parquet floors and exposed beams – prices are around €2,100/m² for two bedrooms, depending on whether it has a terrace, garage or parking space.

In winter you can enjoy snow sports, and Christmas markets in Colmar and Germany. And the rest of the year, just appreciate the magnificent Vosges mountains, visit the ruins of the 7th-century Benedictine abbey in Munster on the River Fecht, marvel at rooftop-nesting storks, and hike and mountain bike.

There’s a train service from Metzeral to Colmar. From here you can travel north to Strasbourg or south to Mulhouse and Basel. “Folk often settle in the valley to be close to, but not actually in, Colmar,” says Glwadys. You have everything to hand. It’s a dynamic, beautiful and tranquil valley.

MARVELOUS MIJOUX

Stroll around Mijoux (1,000m) and admire houses decorated with frescoes depicting bygone trades and traditions. Gentle slopes make Mijoux an ideal resort for beginners, plus there are slopes for the more adept. The La Vattay-Valserine Nordic ski area extends from the Vattay plateau deep into the forests of the Swiss canton of Vaud and along the riverbanks of the Valserine valley. A piste damée (compacted snow path) takes you back down to Mijoux. Next July, the village celebrates its 50th Fête des Bûcherons, the oldest one in France, with wood sculptures by local artisans. And do taste the local Bleu de Gex cheese with a glass of Jura vin de paille (straw wine.)

“You can buy small 1990s apartments at the foot of the ski slopes,” says Sylvie Werbrouck at Monts Jura Immobilier. Expect to pay circa €60,000 for a T2 (one-bedroom place). You’ll also find large old stone fermes jurassiennes (Jura farmsteads), which have a certain cachet, she says.

The price range for a fully renovated property is €350,000-€450,000. Often the adjoining barn hasn’t been renovated so scope for a gîte. “Lélex in the Valserine valley, another small family resort, has similar property, inhabitants and prices,” she adds.

From Mijoux, climb the col and in 10 minutes you’re 200m higher at Lajoux in Jura, “the Nordic skiing paradise,” explains Sylvie. There are some small apartments but you’ll mainly find spacious old buildings and chalets. Prices are higher because you’re up in the Haut-Jura on a sunny plateau whereas Mijoux is in an enclosed valley.

Also, Lajoux is popular with border dwellers (frontaliers) who work in Switzerland. “That completely changes the property market,” says Sylvie.
They drive along to La Cure on the Franco-Swiss border then descend the col to the A1 motorway at Nyon on Lake Geneva (Lac Léman in French).
“From Mijoux this route is still quicker than taking the Col de la Faucille,” adds Sylvie.

A central 50m² one-bedroom apartment in subprefecture Gex will cost around €250,000. You’ll pay another €100,000 for something similar in the spa town of Divonne-les-Bains.

When the snow melts, walkers head for the Jura-Mediterranean GR9 hiking trail between Mijoux and Lélex and its vues époustouflantes – breathtaking views. Learn about local history and the link to precious stones at the Musée des Pierres et du Lapidaire.

Trout fishermen head for the Valserine, which marks the Jura-Ain border and is the first French river with the ‘Rivière Sauvage’ label. Rising above Mijoux at 1,200m, it joins the Rhône 48km later. It’s perfect for year-round living.

POPULAR COMBLOUX

“We’re at an altitude of 960m in the centre of the village, opposite Mont Blanc,” says Caroline Crozet of Agence AIC at Combloux. The ecological biotope lake is a preserved oasis attracting summertime swimmers. There are hiking paths and mountain biking (VTT) trails including the annual Combloux and Mégève MB Race (3-5 July 2026).

“Summer activities have been really well established now for several years,” says Caroline. Discover Haute-Savoie Baroque patrimony – churches, chapels, oratories – along the 20km Sentier du Baroque; check out the 210m pump track for BMX, VTT, scooter and rollerblade.
Enjoy Haute-Savoie Abondance and Reblochon cheeses, fondues and raclettes.

Property here is primarily timber-framed chalets, some of which are copropriétés of varying size containing apartments. The average price for an apartment in a new chalet is €8,000/m². For older unrenovated ones expect to pay €5,000-€6,000/m².

“Combloux housing stock is ageing,” Caroline says, but for the past few years there’s been a lot of enthusiasm for the mountains, especially since Covid. “Lots of apartments are being refurbished.” Individual chalets vary from around 150m² to 400m². It’s hard to find a small one that hasn’t yet been renovated for less than €1m, plus renovation costs, Caroline says. “You need a minimum of €1.5m to have something comfortable at Combloux.”

Look at nearby villages, such as the commune of Cordon between Sallanches and Combloux, Demi-Quartier on the Megève road, or Domancy on an Arve valley hillside. The architecture on the surrounding hillsides is the same chalet style – concrete foundations with timber framework above. There are a lot of second homes and good seasonal letting potential. Annual lets are more complicated. “Rents are relatively high for the amount of living space,” explains Caroline, “so buyers look further down the valley.”

Sallanches is the closest town and from the Mont Blanc roundabout you can access various ski resorts. “Geneva-Combloux is an hour on the A40 motorway and with Italy nearby, we also have an Italian clientele,” she adds. The main attraction is Mont Blanc, she laughs – plus fresh mountain air in summer. “Il y a toujours une multitude d’activités.” Looking for a home for all seasons? Take your pick.

3 REASONS TO BUY HERE

Three authentic middle-mountain ski villages with year-round appeal
Old stone farmsteads, timber-framed chalets, apartments in old farms and residential buildings ‘au pied des pistes’
Easy access, with airports at Basel for Munster valley and Geneva for Mijoux and Combloux

Remember these five points when preparing your French profession libérale visa business plan, writes Kate Kurdziej

If you’re applying for the profession libérale visa for France, one of the most important parts of your application will be your business plan. This document shows the French government that you’re ready to set up a viable, income-generating business that is likely to succeed, and that you understand fully what that process actually involves.

But many applicants overthink it, write the wrong kind of plan, or miss out key details. I’ve been through the process myself and, as a business consultant, have since helped hundreds of applicants successfully prepare their plans and I now offer a French visa business plan template. I’ve seen where people get stuck time and time again, and how to easily fix it.

Here are five practical tips to help you get it right and maximise your chances of visa success and a new life in France – without any hitches.

1. THIS ISN’T DRAGON’S DEN – YOU’RE WRITING FOR A VISA OFFICER

One of the biggest misconceptions about the French entrepreneur/profession libérale visa is that you need to pitch a groundbreaking business idea. You don’t. You’re not writing for investors, clients or industry peers. You’re writing for a government official who needs to be reassured that your business will be financially self-sufficient and low risk. Your plan should be clear, practical and rooted in reality. The reviewer is asking you:
What exactly will you do?
How will you find clients?
How much money will you make?
How will you build that income over time?

Avoid lofty language and focus on realistic, steady growth that reflects how most small businesses actually operate. It’s essential to include a multi-year financial forecast. I recommend projecting up to five years and making sure your figures align with the Salaire Minimum Interprofessionnel de Croissance (SMIC), which is the French minimum wage.

2. CLARITY OVER CREATIVITY – KEEP IT SKIMMABLE AND STRAIGHTFORWARD

Your business plan should be easy to follow, even for someone unfamiliar with your industry or even reading in a second language. Think of your reviewer as someone who has 30 applications to read that day. If your plan is long-winded, technical or filled with vague buzzwords, you risk frustrating them or losing their attention before they get to the important bits. Instead, ensure you use:
Clear headings
Bullet points where helpful
Plain English and short sentences

If you’re a web designer, explain your services in practical terms. If you’re a coach or consultant, be specific about what you offer and who pays for it. The more specific and grounded you are, the easier it is for someone to nod along and think, “Yes, this makes sense.”

TOP TIP: Before submitting, have your plan reviewed by someone who is unfamiliar with your business idea. A second set of eyes can spot the gaps you might have missed.

3. GROUND NUMBERS IN REAL LIFE

One of the biggest reasons applications get delayed or rejected is that the numbers don’t stack up – or worse, they’re missing altogether. Your plan doesn’t need complex spreadsheets, but it does need to show how you’ll earn a living in France. That means going beyond “I’ll work with clients online and make about €30,000”, and getting specific. Think in terms of:
Who will pay you?
What exactly are they going to be paying for?
How much are they paying?
How often will you get paid?
Where will these clients come from?

This is where realism matters. You don’t have to know everything yet, but you need to show that you’ve thought things through. For example, if you’re planning to offer services online, explain how you’ll market yourself and how many clients you’ll realistically need each month to meet your income goals. If your rates are listed in GBP or USD, convert them to EUR to show that you’ve done the maths correctly.

Market research and analysis is a crucial part of your business plan, especially for new businesses. And if you already have some clients or freelance work before applying then that’s great. Include letters of intent from your clients too, as it shows your business is viable. You can also highlight any pre-booked contracts or past income that’s relevant. You skip the market research section at your own risk.

4. SHOW YOU UNDERSTAND THE FRENCH SYSTEM

Keep in mind that your aim is to run a business in France. Your business plan should reflect the realities of running a business in France, not just a cut-and-paste version of something that would work in the UK, US or anywhere else. That means showing that you understand key French systems and making it clear that your business model actually fits here. This signals that you’re serious about integrating into the system and more likely to succeed long term. For example, mentioning next steps on arrival, for example, that you aim to register with URSSAF.

If you’re planning a physical, location-specific business in France you may need pre-approval from the Interior Ministry with the goal of obtaining an avis favorable to submit with your dossier.

TOP TIP: Be sure to check whether or not your services are regulated in France -such as therapy, finance or legal work – before you get started. In many of these cases, non-EU citizens may not be eligible to obtain a visa to carry out regulated activities.

If you’re moving with a partner or family, also consider the bigger financial picture. The reviewer wants to feel reassured that your business income, or your household income as a whole, can cover day-to-day living in France. That’s especially important if you’re moving to a high-cost area such as Paris or the Riviera. Give some context to your family dynamics where appropriate, so you don’t leave open questions in the visa officer’s mind.

5. YOU’RE SELLING THE BUSINESS – BUT ALSO YOURSELF

It’s easy to focus entirely on your services, packages, or income goals. But remember, the visa is granted to a person, not just a project. Your experience, credibility and motivation all matter.

Make it easy for the reviewer to feel confident in you.
Have you done this type of work before?
Do you have relevant qualifications?
Are you pivoting from a different field with transferable skills?
Why this business, and why now?

Explain your motivation for moving to France and why you’re confident your business can work there. If you speak French or already have a network or local knowledge, include that too. It all adds weight to your application.

NEED A HELPING HAND?

If you’re unsure where to start, or want more reassurance before submitting, I’ve created a suite of low-cost templates to make the process easier and smoother, including the business plan, cover letter, letter of client intent and other useful documents.

Of course, your business plan won’t guarantee your visa outcome, but getting it right will give your whole application a much stronger foundation and help you take one step closer to your new life in France. Bonne chance!

Find out more about Kate’s business plan templates at olivier-consultancy.co.uk/french-entrepreneur-visa

Heavy rainfall leads to flooding across Brittany, farmers continue to protest in Toulouse, and the taxe d’aménagement is set to fall for the first time in nine years. MPs in the Assemblée Nationale have voted in favour of banning social media for under-15s, open fireplaces are to be banned by the end of 2026, and President Emmanuel Macron leaves an impression at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Here are the headlines from French newspapers this week. 

Thank you to everyone who attended our French Property Exhibition in London this weekend! If you couldn’t make this one, we have another upcoming French Property Exhibition in Birmingham on 16 – 17 May 2026.

Widespread Flood Warnings Announced in Brittany

Yesterday, a large spell of heavy rain began, increasing the risk of further flooding in Breton. Finistère, Morbihan and Ille-et-Vilaine have been on high flood alert since January 22, due to the high water levels of the Laïta, Vilaine, Oust, Blavet and Aulne rivers. 

After evacuations in several riverside communes last week, today’s heavy rainfall increases the risk of renewed flooding and river overflows. Road conditions remain severely disrupted across Brittany, especially in Finistère and Morbihan, where many roads are closed or partially submerged. Follow all diversion routes to avoid flooded roads.

Farmers Continue to Protest in Toulouse

Today, farmers organised a major demonstration called by the union Coordination Rurale to revitalise momentum in nationwide agricultural protests. The protesters gathered at the Allées Jean-Jaurès before marching toward the prefecture. The action is part of broader anger over issues such as agricultural policy, disease control and trade agreements, and aims to show that frustration in the sector remains high despite recent talks with authorities.

Taxe d’Aménagement to Fall for the First Time in Nine Years

The French tax applied to extensions, sheds, garages, verandas, and other roofed structures over 5m² or 1.8m in height is expected to decrease for the first time in nearly a decade. The one-off tax is payable within 90 days of the structure’s completion, via the Biens immobiliers section of the Espaces Finances publiques tax website.

The fee must normally be paid in one lump sum, but payments can be split when the total is over €1,500. In 2026, rates will be €1,011/m² in Île-de-France and €892/m² in the rest of France, with possible local surcharges. Special constructions, including pools and chalets, are taxed at fixed rates.

Read more about the Taxe d’Aménagement here

MPs Vote in Favour of Bill to Ban Social Media for under-15s

The National Assembly has backed a bill that would prevent teenagers under the age of 15 from accessing social media apps such as Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok. The proposed law, which is supported by President Emmanuel Macron, will go to the Senate for approval. On social media, Macron urged the government to speed up the next steps so the ban can come into effect before the new school year begins on 1 September.

Open Fireplaces to Be Banned by the End of 2026

France is set to ban the use of open fireplaces in homes in approximately 690 communes by the end of 2026 as part of efforts to reduce air pollution and protect public health, with some older wood-burning stoves also affected in certain areas. These bans will vary by location, but many departments and urban areas, including parts of Haute-Savoie, Lyon, Grenoble, Saint-Étienne, Strasbourg and Lille have already imposed or plan to introduce restrictions on open wood fires, which are seen as major contributors to air pollution and climate change. 

Paris and Île-de-France still allow fireplaces for supplemental heating, but using them as a main heat source is restricted. Failing to follow the new rules may result in fines of €450 or more, with penalties reaching €1,500 in certain areas of France. Residents are advised to check with their local mairie (council) to see when the ban will be introduced in their commune. 

Read more about the Role of Mairies in France here.

Emmanuel Macron’s Shaded Speech in Davos

France’s president, Emmanuel Macron, has gone viral online for attending the recent World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, wearing vintage aviator sunglasses. Briefly citing an ongoing medical issue, Macron went on to deliver a forceful speech warning that the world is moving toward “a world without rules.”

He also emphasised that “we prefer respect to bullies” and “rule of law to brutality,” openly rejecting coercive tactics from Donald Trump, such as the heightened tariff threats tied to Europe’s refusal to cede Greenland. Macron has been praised for his speech calling for a more sovereign and cooperative Europe in the face of threats from America, without needing to directly name the president.

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Christmas oysters, Photo: Shutterstock

French farmers begin a two-day protest in Strasbourg, heavy rain causes flash floods in Southern France, US President Donald Trump threatens France with a 200% tariff on its wines and champagnes, and the Prime Minister plans to use the controversial Article 49.3 to push through France’s 2026 Budget without a vote. Here are the headlines from French Newspapers this week.

Get Tickets to our French Property Exhibition

Our French Property Exhibition in London on 24–25 January 2026 is a great opportunity for anyone thinking about buying a home in France to explore their options. You can browse hundreds of properties, chat directly with French estate agents, and get advice on everything from taxes and legal rules to visas and relocation. There are also free seminars packed with practical tips, making it easier to feel confident about taking the leap into French property ownership.

Get your free tickets here. The seminar and panel programme is now online.

French Farmers Begin a Two-Day Protest in Strasbourg

Today, thousands of French farmers have begun a major two-day protest in Strasbourg, bringing more than 700 tractors to the European Parliament to oppose the EU-Mercosur free trade deal that was passed on 9 January. Farmers argue that the deal, which passed despite France’s opposition to the deal, will expose them to unfair competition from South America’s agricultural imports. 

The planned action has been organised by France’s main agricultural union, Fédération Nationale des Syndicats d’Exploitants Agricoles, FNSEA, and its youth branch Jeune Agriculteurs (JA). The groups plan to continue their protests as European MEPs vote on the deal tomorrow, including a separate protest scheduled to take place outside the Duke of Brittany’s Castle in Nantes.

The number of tractors in Strasbourg has led to major disruption across the city, with hundreds of vehicles blocking and slowing traffic around the European District and near the European Parliament. Authorities have warned of road closures, heavy congestion, and access restrictions, particularly around EU institutions, while several bus and tram services are disrupted, making travel difficult for commuters and visitors until the protest ends on Thursday.

Flash Floods in Southern France

Heavy rain in southern France has triggered flash flooding that forced the evacuation of homes in parts of Narbonne and surrounding communes after rivers in the Aude and Hérault départements burst their banks. The waters have submerged cars, prompted military support, school closures and the creation of emergency shelters. Around 30 roads remain closed, and thousands of homes are without power. Officials report minimal serious injuries so far as weather alerts continue.

Trump Threatens 200% Tariff on French Wines

President Donald Trump has threatened to impose a 200% tariff on French wines and champagnes in an effort to pressure French President Emmanuel Macron into joining his new ‘Board of Peace’ initiative aimed at tackling global conflicts, starting with Gaza — a move Macron is reported to be declining. Trump said if Macron won’t join, he’ll introduce expensive tariffs for French wine exports. The threat has alarmed French wine producers and comes amid broader disputes between America and the EU over the president’s divisive hope to take control of Greenland from Denmark.

Prime Minister to Push 2026 Budget Without Vote

France’s Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has confirmed he will invoke the controversial Article 49.3 of the French Constitution to force the 2026 state budget into law without a vote in the National Assembly, after months of stalled negotiations failed to produce a parliamentary majority for the bill. 

The move comes despite an earlier pledge not to use the provision, and he says it will apply to a revised, slimmer budget text. Using Article 49.3 opens the government to motions of no confidence from opposition parties, but Socialist Party leaders have signalled they will instruct their MPs not to support such motions, making it unlikely the government will fall. The decision reflects deep political deadlock over the budget after attempts to find a compromise failed.

Here’s the latest currency news from our partner Moneycorp, to help you find out what your money is worth.

Will this week’s UK data avalanche clarify or confuse?

The UK data calendar intensifies this week, and the volume of releases may generate more noise than clarity. Overnight, the January Rightmove figures showed house prices rising 2.8% month on month and edging marginally higher year on year, ending four consecutive months of annual declines. Markets paid limited attention to the update, with focus already shifting to tomorrow’s labour market indicators for November.

The labour market remains weak. The November data may show a further slowdown in wage growth, another lift in unemployment and a decline in the December payrolled employee count. I will also watch job vacancy numbers closely. The October figures suggested vacancies may have stabilised, although the late‑November Budget could have disrupted this trend.

On Wednesday, December CPI is expected to show a slight increase in the headline rate as tobacco duty rises take effect. The lift should be modest, but any indication of underlying inflation drifting higher would strengthen the Bank of England’s caution over future rate cuts.

Thursday brings December public finance figures. Budget changes generally take effect from April, so meaningful shifts this month remain unlikely. Consensus points to a sizeable improvement in the deficit compared with December 2024, although the November numbers may have provided an overly optimistic signal. Friday delivers a dense cluster of releases: January GfK consumer confidence, December retail sales and the January provisional PMIs.

Key questions persist. Has confidence remained under pressure following the Budget and recent comments from President Trump? Did retail activity recover in December, or do consumers remain cautious? Will the early‑year PMIs indicate any revival in activity?

Should the data point to weaker growth while inflation firms, sterling could face renewed domestic pressure—although FX markets may also be guided by global developments following the weekend’s US announcement.

How will the US react to the latest tariff threat?

Over the weekend, President Trump issued an ultimatum to NATO allies, stating that the US should be allowed to purchase Greenland for national security reasons or face new tariffs from February. The proposal raises legal questions, particularly over whether the President can invoke the International Emergency Economic Powers Act for a territorial dispute. Historically, the Act has been used to sanction totalitarian regimes and designated groups rather than allies.

If implemented, the tariffs would apply to eight European economies, including the UK and Denmark, immediately increasing the cost of goods imported to the US — unless those goods are already in transit. The tariff rate is scheduled to rise to 25% on 1 June.

Because the announcement came after US markets closed, today’s trading session will provide the first clear reaction. The US dollar weakened initially, the Federal Reserve’s path toward further interest rate cuts could be complicated by the changes to the inflation outlook and could weigh further on investment activity. Previous tariff rounds have already raised food prices and risk pushing up the cost of European cars in US dealerships.

Euro Area focused on sentiment this week; ECB speeches in Davos also important

The Euro Area calendar includes data throughout the week, but two releases stand out: Tuesday’s January ZEW survey and Friday’s provisional January PMIs. These indicators will test whether sentiment is improving or whether geopolitical and trade uncertainty continues to constrain activity.

If the surveys show little sign of progress, the euro may soften against the US dollar. However, the single currency could still gain ground against sterling if the UK’s dataflow disappoints. Meanwhile, ECB officials in Davos will draw close attention, particularly President Lagarde’s panel sessions on Wednesday and Friday, which will address longer‑term global and European economic challenges.

Canada consumer prices and Mexican retail sales unlikely to alter the course of currencies

The Canadian dollar ended last week on the defensive, while the Mexican peso continued to strengthen. I do not expect Canadian CPI to materially shift sentiment toward the CAD, especially as markets have shown little reaction to recent announcements on economic and trade cooperation between Canada and China, and Canada and Qatar. Concerns from Ontario’s Premier Ford over the vehicle‑trade agreement underscore ongoing uncertainty.

With Canadian yields continuing to fall, the CAD may remain under pressure, particularly if US yields rise in response to the latest tariff threat. As for the Mexican peso, November retail sales may show some upside risk, which could extend the MXN’s appreciation against the US dollar. However, the peso is now trading near a significant technical level that may limit near‑term gains.

Why Moneycorp?

With a Platinum Trusted Service Award 2020 from independent review site Feefo and 40 years of experience in the industry, FrenchEntrée has been recommending Moneycorp for more than 15 years. During this time they have helped thousands of client planning the best way to pay for their property as well as supporting them afterwards with any further payment from paying bills, mortgages to repatriating UK pension payments for those who have retired to France.

Furthermore, we have worked with the same person at Moneycorp for more than a decade! You might be familiar with her as she often writes for our French Property News magazine. She has 13 years’ experience in foreign exchange, and is a qualified European lawyer with experience in European transactions. Mar will be happy to answer any questions or enquiries to support you through these difficult times

Opening an account is really easy and free of cost. You can register online or over the phone in a couple of minutes and for FrenchEntrée readers there are no transfer fees in any payment.

Beware of currency risk. None of the information contained in this article constitutes, nor should be construed as financial advice. TTT Moneycorp Limited (company number 738837) is registered in England. Its registered office is at Floor 5, Zig Zag Building, 70 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6SQ. Moneycorp is a trading name of TTT Moneycorp Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for the provision of payment services (firm reference number 308919).

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L-R. Hank Silver, Zakari LeBlanc and Martin Degalier hewing timber for the nave of Notre Dame at Ateliers Desmonts – credit Mike DennisCC

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Mike standing with the assembled frame in the yard of Ateliers Desmonts before it was dismantled and sent to Paris – credit Tim ClarkCC

Mathieu Larigot making a gouge to match the original carpenters assembly marks on the Nave of Notre Dame – credit Mike DennisCC

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A SUD Rail strike affects train travel today, higher taxi fares will be introduced across France, the British bank HSBC has agreed to a multimillion-euro settlement, and farmers have continued to protest over the Mercosur trade deal have caused major disruption. Here are the headlines from French newspapers this week. 

Get Tickets to our French Property Exhibition

Our French Property Exhibition in London on 24–25 January 2026 is a great opportunity for anyone thinking about buying a home in France to explore their options. You can browse hundreds of properties, chat directly with French estate agents, and get advice on everything from taxes and legal rules to visas and relocation. There are also free seminars packed with practical tips, making it easier to feel confident about taking the leap into French property ownership.

Get your free tickets here. The seminar and panel programme is now online.

SUD Rail Strikes as Wage Negotiations Open

SUD Rail, a major rail union, held a one-day strike today to coincide with the start of annual pay negotiations with SNCF management. The talks come after a tense year marked by several largely low-impact strikes. SNCF, now led by former prime minister Jean Castex, reported €2 billion in annual profits and announced a €400 staff bonus in December 2025. SUD Rail is demanding a €400 monthly pay rise for all workers and a 13th month’s salary, arguing the cost is affordable and justified by a 13% rise in ticket prices.

New Taxi Fares Introduced Across France

Baseline taxi fares in France have been increased for 2026, with regulated rates set by the government that apply to licensed taxis (not apps like Uber). From February 1, drivers can charge a maximum €4.48 initial fee, €1.30 per kilometre and up to €42.15 per hour, while the minimum fare stays at €8; surcharges may apply for night travel, long or out-of-zone journeys and bookings. 

Local extra charges will vary by city. For example, Lyon taxis can add up to €4 for bookings, Nice up to €4, and Paris up to €7 plus a fee per extra passenger. Fixed airport fares will be set at €56–€65 for trips between Charles de Gaulle and central Paris, with similar flat rates in place for journeys from Nice Côte d’Azur airport into the city and surrounding areas.

HSBC to Pay €267.5M Fine in French Tax Fraud Case

The British bank HSBC has agreed to pay a €267.5 million fine to settle a French tax fraud investigation linked to alleged dividend‑tax avoidance carried out by its Paris unit between 2014 and 2019. The settlement was approved by a Paris court and allows HSBC to avoid further prosecution, without the bank admitting any wrongdoing. 

The case is part of a broader inquiry into similar schemes used by several major banks across Europe. Authorities have been targeting complex tax arrangements that allegedly allowed banks to reduce or evade dividend taxes, and the HSBC settlement marks one of the largest fines imposed in France for this type of financial malpractice.

Farming Protests Continue over Mercosur Trade Deal

French farmers have continued to protest over the EU-Mercosur free-trade agreement, despite France’s formal opposition to the deal on 9 January, which still secured enough support from other EU states to move forward. Demonstrations and blockades by tractor convoys have continued across the country, reflecting the widespread anger among agricultural producers that cheaper South American imports could undermine their livelihoods.

The French Property Exhibition is back for 2026, returning to Novotel London West in Hammersmith in less than two weeks’ time. If you are planning to buy in France, relocate, or simply want clear answers before taking the next step, the London event brings together specialist advice and practical guidance in one place, with free entry available via the official ticket link.

A key part of the weekend is the seminar programme, which has now been announced. Talks are free to attend and can be booked on the day at the exhibition, so you can build your own timetable around the questions that matter most to you, whether that is the buying process, legal considerations, healthcare, visas, or planning your move.

The 2026 programme also features expert panels hosted by French Property News editor Karen Tait and FrenchEntrée editor Zoë Smith, offering a chance to hear a range of perspectives and get a clearer sense of what to prioritise as you move from research to action.

• New visa checklist for 2026 (Fab Expat)
• Understanding the legal side of buying in France (Ashtons Legal)
• Healthcare in France: from taking the first steps to living the dream (Lonemi, featuring Agence AXA International)
• Where to live in France (Leggett Immobilier)
• Planning for peace of mind: French wills, estates, and probate explained (Stone King)
• Explained: the buying process in France (Agence Newton)
• Panel: Living and working in France
• Panel: Moving and retiring to France
• Panel: How much does it cost to buy and renovate in France
• Panel: Beyond visas: your relocating to France checklist

On the exhibition floor, the 2026 London exhibitor line-up brings together organisations across the France property journey, including property professionals and advisers covering areas such as legal services, relocation support, finance and currency, surveying, architecture, and other practical aspects of buying and living in France. Exhibitors are listed with stand numbers on the website, making it easy to plan who you want to speak to when you arrive.

Register now for your free tickets to the French Property Exhibition at: French Property Exhibition

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Aveyron Gorges day trip, Photo: Shutterstock

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A 10-Day doctor’s strike gets underway, a new nationwide health network is announced, an Italian railway company plans to join the Chunnel routes in 2029, and a free property fraud alert for homeowners in France has been announced. The French government defends granting citizenship to George and Amal Clooney, and the next academic year’s school calendar dates are confirmed. Here are the headlines from French newspapers this week. 

Get Tickets to our French Property Exhibition

Our French Property Exhibition in London on 24–25 January 2026 is a great opportunity for anyone thinking about buying a home in France to explore their options. You can browse hundreds of properties, chat directly with French estate agents, and get advice on everything from taxes and legal rules to visas and relocation. There are also free seminars packed with practical tips, making it easier to feel confident about taking the leap into French property ownership.

Get your free tickets here.

France Faces a 10-Day Doctor’s Strike

Most GP surgeries have closed following the start of a major 10-day strike that began yesterday, with around 85% of GPs and private practitioners across France taking part. The unions, including seven leading unions of Médecins Libéraux, are protesting several changes to the Social Security budget.

Healthcare professionals at private emergency departments and maternity wards are also on strike, which means patients requiring these services may be transferred to public hospitals. The government has warned it may have to requisition doctors to ensure urgent care continues. Patients are being advised to use online booking services or seek assistance from pharmacies.

Read about how to use the Doctolib website here. 

New Nationwide Health Network ‘France Santé’ Announced

The French government has announced plans to roll out a new nationwide healthcare network aimed at addressing doctor shortages and long wait times for appointments, particularly in ‘medical deserts.’ Eligible sites must have a GP accepting new patients, be open at least five days a week, offer appointments without extra fees, provide consultations within 48 hours when needed, and take part in the national access-to-care service (SAS). With €130 million in funding, the government aims to label 2,000 services by mid-2026 and up to 5,000 by 2027, to reduce waiting times and improve consistency in primary care across France.

Free UK Property Fraud Alert for Homeowners in France

If you still have a property in the UK but live in France, you can sign up to a free Property Alert service from the UK’s HM Land Registry, which aims to help UK homeowners in France protect their English & Welsh properties from fraud. The service sends email alerts for suspicious activity, such as attempts to change ownership or take out a mortgage. Between April 2023 and March 2024, 97 attempted frauds on properties worth £58m were stopped. Users can monitor up to 10 properties by address or title number.

You can sign up for the Property Alert Service here.

French Government Defends Granting Citizenship to George and Amal Clooney

France’s government has defended its decision to grant French citizenship to actor George Clooney, his wife Amal Clooney, and their twins, saying the family “contributes through their distinguished actions to France’s international influence and cultural outreach,” The naturalisations came under scrutiny from a junior interior minister concerned about the message it sends, especially as France tightens citizenship and language requirements, but government officials stressed the process was lawful and highlighted the Clooneys’ ties to France and potential cultural and economic benefits.

School Calendar 2026/7 Dates Across France Confirmed

Children across France returned to school yesterday after the Winter holidays. The holiday dates for the next academic year (2026/7) have now been announced. For metropolitan France, with the autumn break from 17 October to 2 November 2026, Christmas holidays from 19  December to 4  January 2027, and summer holidays starting 3 July 2027 for all zones. The winter and spring breaks vary by zone.  Winter holidays run from 13  February to 1  March in Zone A, 20  February to 8  March in Zone B, and 6  –  22 February in Zone C; spring holidays run 10  - 26 April in Zone A, 17 April to 3  May in Zone B, and 3  - 19 April in Zone C. Schools across the zones will begin the year on 1  September 2026.

Read more about French school holidays here.

Italian Railway Firm Targets 2029 Launch for London Service

Italy’s state railway company Trenitalia is targeting a 2029 launch for high-speed trains running between London and Paris through the Channel Tunnel, hoping to break the Eurostar’s long-standing monopoly on the route. The company has secured access to a London train depot and plans to use 10 trains, with the project also intended to encourage rail travel over flying, which currently accounts for about 40% of journeys between the two cities.

Jacques Cutting is a bilingual Apprentice Solicitor in the Stone King’s International and Cross-Border team. In this article, Jacques answers 3 popular French conveyancing queries:

Question 1: Can everyone use a Tontine clause?

A tontine clause is a clause that can be added to French property deeds. Similar to a joint tenancy, it ensures that the survivor of the joint purchase receives full ownership of the property. 

This clause can be particularly helpful if either of the joint owners has children who could make a claim against the French estate under forced heirship rules, particularly under the provisions of Article 913 of the French Civil Code. IN the UK, you have testamentary freedom and can leave your assets on death to whoever you wish. However, in France, the default position is that children of the deceased are entitled to a share of the French assets.

Please note that children can still make a claim if the Tontine clause is considered invalid. For the clause to be valid, each purchaser must contribute financially to the purchase, and there must be uncertainty as to which of the two joint owners will die first (i.e. there should be no significant age or health disparity). 

Depending on the value of the property (if it is your main home) and family situation (married or in a civil partnership), French inheritance tax may still be payable by the surviving co-owner.

Question 2: Why does the property I am buying not have a DPE diagnostic?

A DPE diagnostic report provides an indication of the property’s energy efficiency and the associated heating costs and upgrade costs.

If you are looking to buy a restoration project, you may find that the property has no heating system, or only a fireplace. In that case, the seller may not have provided you with a DPE diagnostic report. 

Unlike in the UK, it is the seller’s responsibility to provide the buyer with the diagnostics. If the seller is selling an old building with poor insulation, it may be more cost-effective for them to remove the old radiators. If the property has no heating system, then the seller will not incur the expense of carrying out an energy diagnostic and audit. 

Since March 2024, a DPE diagnostic has not been required to obtain a French government grant, ‘MaPrimeRénov‘, which helps with minor work to improve your home’s energy efficiency. However, the DPE is required for the major renovation grant. 

Please note that, from 1 January 2027, the DPE will be mandatory for every grant.

If you are thinking of applying for a grant, please note that the current limit is 13,000 applications per year.

Question 3: What are Notaire’s fees and why are some Notaires reluctant to take on inexpensive conveyancing matters?

Many people are surprised by how expensive the notaire’s fees, frais de notaire, are compared to UK conveyancing solicitors’ fees. For example, the notaire’s fees for the purchase of a €200,000 property in Dordogne would be around €16,600. However, it is a misconception that the notary will pocket the entire €16,600. In reality, the notaire collects the majority of the funds on behalf of the French tax office. In our example, €12,640 would be collected for the French tax office, €200 for registration office fees and €2,394 in VAT, leaving only €1,360 as the notary’s personal fee. 

In principle, a notary cannot refuse a client, even if the sale price is low. This is because they are required by law to assist anyone who requests their services. However, they may refuse in exceptional circumstances, such as: 

– if the deed is contrary to the law or public order.

– if they have not received sufficient provision to cover their costs. 

– if the client is disrespectful.

If the sale price is low, the estate agent may also strongly recommend using the same notary as the seller. If both parties use their own notaries, the notaries’ fees will be divided between the two notaries.

Please note that you have the right to instruct your own notary in France. Stone King can recommend competent, bilingual notaries with whom we regularly work.

If you are interested in finding out more about buying or selling a property in France and would like help analysing the options available to you, please contact the international and cross-border team at Stone King LLP either by calling +44(0)1225 337599 or by emailing [email protected]

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Wine expert Wendy has made her home among the Languedoc vineyards shutterstock

Wendy with husband Fisher

The French Bed – 3D Paperback Version

A one-day EasyJet strike is planned for New Year’s Day, a new charge to exchange non-French driving licenses is announced, tougher penalties for excessive speeding have been introduced, the deadline to challenge possible taxe foncière bills is approaching, and new long-term residency permit requirements will take effect from 1 January 2026. Here are the headlines from French newspapers this week. 

Easyjet Strike on New Year’s Day Aims for ‘Zero Take-Offs’

A one-day strike by easyJet cabin crew based in France has been called for January 1, 2026, after a minority union urged colleagues to aim for ‘zero take-offs’ on New Year’s Day after annual negotiations with management broke down over ongoing scheduling problems and unstable rotas. The action could lead to flight cancellations and delays at major French airports, including Paris Orly, Charles‑de‑Gaulle, Nice, Bordeaux, Lyon and Nantes, especially on early departures, although a complete stoppage is considered unlikely at the moment without wider union support. 

Passengers travelling with Easyjet on that day are advised to check flight status closely via email or the airline app, as updates and possible revised schedules may be issued.

New Charge To Exchange Non-French Driving Licenses Announced

From January 1, 2026, drivers in France who need to exchange a non-French driving licence for a French one will have to pay a €40 administrative fee, something that was previously free. This charge applies to all licence exchanges, including mandatory swaps for new residents, renewals when an old non-French licence expires, and replacements after loss, theft or a driving offence. The French government said the fee is intended to help cover the costs of producing and delivering licences, and is expected to raise around €160 million in revenue. All residents using a non-French licence must eventually make the switch, with specific timelines and requirements depending on where the original licence was issued.

Tougher Penalties for Excessive Speeding Introduced

New road-safety rules that took effect on December 29 now classify excessive speeding, defined as driving more than 50 km/h over the posted limit, as a criminal offence rather than a simple traffic violation. Under the updated law, offenders can face a fine of up to €3,750, a possible three-month prison sentence, and a criminal record, replacing the previous lesser fine of €1,500. Existing penalties such as licence suspension, vehicle confiscation, six penalty points and long-term driving bans still apply, and there’s now also a ban on re-applying for a licence for three years if it has been cancelled. The government says the tougher approach is intended to curb dangerous driving and reduce fatalities on French roads.

Deadline to Challenge Taxe Foncière Tax Bill Errors Approaches

The deadline to contest any errors or incorrect calculations on your taxe foncière property tax bill is December 31 of the year following the year the tax was issued. People with potential errors in their bill must submit a réclamation (formal complaint) by this dateto challenge mistakes with the tax authorities. If you miss this deadline, your ability to have the assessment corrected or refunded is generally lost, even if there is a clear error on your bill.

Read more about French Property Taxes here.

New Long-Term Residence Permit Requirements Take Effect

As of January 1, 2026, France will introduce stricter requirements for individuals applying for long-term residence permits. Anyone seeking a first multi-year residence card (carte de séjour) must now not only meet French-language requirements (at least A2 level for the multi-year card and B1 for a 10-year card), but also pass a new civic knowledge exam covering French society, institutions and values. This test typically consists of a 40-question multiple-choice test with an 80% pass mark. These changes apply to permit and naturalisation applications submitted on or after that date and are intended to strengthen integration standards for non-EU nationals.

Read about navigating residency post-Brexit here.

Key Dates for 2026

Thursday 1 January 2026 – New Year’s Day (Jour de l’An)

Monday 6 April 2026 – Easter Monday (Lundi de Pâques)

Friday 1 May 2026 – Labour Day (Fête du Travail)

Friday 8 May 2026 – VE Day / Victory in Europe Day (Victoire 1945)

Thursday 14 May 2026 – Ascension Day (Ascension)

Monday 25 May 2026 – Whit Monday (Lundi de Pentecôte)

Tuesday 14 July 2026 – Bastille Day / National Day (Fête nationale)

Saturday 15 August 2026 – Assumption Day (Assomption)

Sunday 1 November 2026 – All Saints’ Day (Toussaint)

Wednesday 11 November 2026 – Armistice Day (Armistice 1918)

Friday 25 December 2026 – Christmas Day (Noël)

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The Brits are famous for being preoccupied with the weather. Every time I ring my Mum in the UK, a weather update is obligatory! But can the same be said for the French? And if so, do we talk about the weather in French?

Parlez de la Météo

As we live in the beautiful Charente countryside, most of our friends are involved in farming. The weather is therefore an important subject, but the conversations centers more around next week’s coming weather, to prioritise the workload for the current week. 

Being in the heart of Cognac country, frost (le gel) is a concern as well as hail (la grêle) and rain (la pluie) – all of which can tamper with the famous Cognac vines, depending on the time of year.

Quel temps il fait?

Here are some basic phrases to help you in your conversations. 

Il fait beau / mauvais / chaud / froid.

When talking about the temperature, these phrases might be useful:

Il fait bon, il fait doux, il fait frais, il fait froid.

Une cannicule is a heatwave which, in Charente, seems to be becoming more frequent each year.

Il y a des nuages, du soleil, de la pluie, de la neige, un orage, une tempête, du brouillard, de la grêle.

Il pleut, il neige.

More colloquial phrases to use with people you know well are: It’s hot = ça tape ! It’s cold = ça caille ! It’s bad weather = Il fait môche.

Funny idioms

It doesn’t rain like ‘Cats and dogs’ in French, it rains ropes : Il pleut des cordes!  And, it’s not ‘Brass Monkey Weather’, it’s  « Il fait un froid de canard ! » 

A rather vulgar phrase which doesn’t require translation is, « Il pleut comme vâche qui pisse ! »

A strong wind, which in English we might use the term ‘Blowing a Hoolie/Gale,’ in French it’s a wind to blow the horns off the bulls! « Un vent à décornér les bœufs ! »

Talking about the weather is a great way to engage with your neighbours or to practice small talk.

Bonne continuation!

The French government has failed to agree on a budget for 2026 for the second year running, a cyber-attack has rendered La Poste’s online services unusable during their busiest period, and tax authorities reminded the public that they must declare gifts from 1 January 2026. Residency cardholders have also been reminded about new EES systems rules during the festive period, the final direct debit payment for taxe d’habitation is upcoming, and the government urges protesting farmers not to disrupt travel over the Christmas period. Here are the headlines from French newspapers this week.

French Government Fails to Agree on a Complete 2026 Budget 

Yesterday, a joint committee of lawmakers from both chambers failed to reach an agreement on a comprehensive 2026 budget bill. Now, the government is pushing for emergency legislation to be approved, so that the state can continue operating and avoid a shutdown similar to the one that recently occurred during the Trump administration. France used this emergency rollover legislation last year until a finalised budget for 2025 was passed in February, which cost the government €12bn.

The Social Security element of the budget, including new healthcare, benefit and pension laws, will come into force on 1 January, as it was approved by MPs last week. Proposed budget changes, such as additional taxes on small parcels and fast-food outlets, increased fees for residency card applications, driving license updates and changes to VAT for self-employed workers, will not be in force on 1 January 2026. Currently, the tax bands for 2025 income to be declared in 2026 are also unlikely to be increased in line with inflation.  

Cyberattack on French Postal Service Disrupts Christmas Rush

On Monday, France’s national postal service, La Poste, was hit by a cyberattack that flooded its servers with targeted traffic, rendering its online services inaccessible. Sending letters is still possible, but any parcel requiring tracking or access to computer systems is not. 

Customers of La Banque Postale cannot access their online banking, although card payments on in-store payment terminals are transfers via WERO are still available. The group has assured that this attack has had no impact on customer data. 

Tax Authorities Publish Reminder to Declare Gifts

From 1 January 2026, declarable gifts, such as money or assets, must be declared through a dedicated online portal, says the French tax authorities. In the reminder, they highlighted the difference between cadeaux (Christmas gifts, pocket money, or gifts for special occasions) and dons, which, if they exceed 2% of the donor’s assets, 2.5% of their net annual income, or are valuable assets, must be declared.

There is no legal threshold for amounts set for these dons, and those who are unsure if a gift must be declared are encouraged to contact a tax lawyer for more information. The limited exceptions to this rule apply to individuals without internet access, or in exceptional circumstances involving gifting to minors or gifts from deceased parents. 

To access these online declarations, you will need to log in to their personal space, Espace Finances Publiques (formerly Espace Particulier) on the tax site, click Déclarer, then select Déclarer un don ou une cession de droits sociaux.

Festive Travel Reminders for EES Digital Borders System

French residency cardholders planning to travel outside the EU over the festive season should be especially careful, as the EU’s new EES digital border system is being introduced gradually and having the correct paperwork is essential.

Children under the age of 18 do not typically have their own residency cards, but parents will likely be asked to provide their Document de circulation pour étranger mineur. If they cannot show this, their children could be treated as short-stay visitors, who must abide by the 90/180-day rule.

Britons travelling to the UK must take their British passport, even if they hold dual nationality, as proof of exemption from the UK’s ETA entry permission scheme. All other nationals living in France who do not have British or Irish nationality must apply for an ETA before travelling to the UK. 

A certain degree of tolerance is expected to continue until 25 February 2026, but it is strongly advised to bring all necessary documents when travelling outside the EU from now on. 

Read more about the EU’s EES Systems here.

Direct-debit Payment Withdrawal for Taxe d’Habitation

For those who opted for a one-off direct debit payment known as prélèvement á l’échéance for the taxe d’habitation, the payment will be taken on Monday, 29 December 2025.

Read our guide on paying Taxe d’Habitation and Taxe Foncière here. 

Government warns Farmers against Christmas Blockades over Cattle Cull

The French government held talks with farmers’ unions on Friday and urged them not to stage more blockades over the Christmas break, after days of protests over an order to cull cattle following an outbreak of lumpy skin disease. For more than a week, farmers in the southwest have been demonstrating, setting up roadblocks and spraying manure outside government buildings. The unions are now divided on what to do next in the standoff.

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A practical guide for UK deputies on closing a French bank account, required documents, and how Stone King can assist with cross-border banking issues.

Q: I am deputy for property affairs for my elderly father and have for some time been trying to close his French bank account and get the balance transferred to his UK bank. I need help however, as I’m not quite sure what the bank requires me to do.

A: First, you should check that the bank account is active, assuming it is you should try to access the funds. It is worth noting that emptying funds out of a bank account and no longer using it is not sufficient to close it – you must officially make a request for your bank to close it for you. Often, this must be done through a letter, signed with a wet signature and sent by registered post.

If acting on behalf of a person for whom you are authorised to act as a deputy to manage their financial affairs, further documentation is often requested. This could include:

– A copy of a photo identity card of the person holding the account and its certified French translation
– A copy of the UK court order appointing a deputy for property and affairs and its certified French translation
– A copy of a proof of address of the account holder (if the person is in a care home in the UK, then the copy of a recent invoice on letter headed paper showing the address of the establishment) is often sufficient.
– A copy of a UK bank statement of the account holder to where the balance of the French account should be transferred, with the wet signature of their deputy on it.
– A completed and signed copy of the French bank’s “self-certification for tax purposes” (each bank has got their own template, available from its website).

The procedure can be slow, and some banks are particularly difficult when recognising overseas power of attorneys or deputyship orders, and you may need to appoint a bilingual agent to act as intermediary between you and the bank if you do not speak French.

At Stone King, we can help you with such administrative issues in liaising with the relevant French authorities to help you transfer funds from a French bank account to a UK one and close it. Often, the barrier of the language makes it extra complicated for a non-native to understand the official documents issued by banking institutions, complete and submit the relevant forms. Entrusting a native French speaker with a real knowledge of the culture and etiquette as a ‘go-between’ to liaise between you and the French agents can save you a lot of time and energy and can prove quicker and more efficient than trying to deal with the French administration yourself.

If you are interested in finding out more about closing bank accounts in France or making Wills to cover assets in the UK and in France and would like help analyzing the options available to you, please contact the international and cross-border team at Stone King LLP either by calling +44(0)1225 337599 or by emailing [email protected]