France’s electric car social leasing scheme is set to return, fines for incorrect rubbish disposal have increased, and landlords can note updates to a scheme designed to help them rent out properties to salaried tenants. There are also changes for Île-de-France transport tickets and summer sales dates have been confirmed. Meanwhile, travellers should remember that strike action is planned at Paris airports on the 18th of June, while hot weather, wildfire alerts and tougher phone-use penalties for drivers are also in the headlines. Here are the France headlines you need to know this week.

Electric car social leasing scheme to return in July

France’s electric car social leasing scheme will return for a new round from mid July. The scheme allows eligible households to lease an electric vehicle for at least three years, without being obliged to buy it at the end of the contract. To qualify, applicants must meet income conditions and use a personal vehicle for work-related journeys. In 2026, the monthly rent must be below €200 for at least 15,000km per year, although insurance, options and additional services are not included. Only new electric vehicles are eligible, and anyone who benefited from the scheme in 2024 or 2025 will not be able to apply again in 2026.

New support scheme for landlords renting to salaried tenants

Landlords in France can now benefit from updated support through the Louer pour l’emploi scheme, run by Action Logement. The scheme is designed to help property owners rent out their property to a salaried tenant, with Action Logement able to propose a suitable tenant and offer support such as the Visale guarantee, which can cover unpaid rent and rental damage. The scheme is open to eligible landlords with properties in mainland France or a French overseas department or region, although HLM bodies and certain social housing companies are excluded. The scheme has recently evolved to include grants of up to €1,000, which can be used either towards works, including energy diagnostics, or to help cover rental management fees where the owner delegates management to a professional. Landlords using the scheme must also respect controlled rent levels.

Rubbish sorting and illegal dumping fines increase

Residents in France are being reminded to check local waste collection and sorting rules after fines increased from the 5th of June. The standard fine for certain waste offences, including incorrect sorting, using an unsuitable bin, putting rubbish out at the wrong time or leaving waste at the foot of containers, is now €68. This can be reduced to €45 if paid quickly, or rise to €180 for late payment. If the case goes to court, fines can reach €450. Higher penalties can apply for abandoned waste in protected natural areas, and leaving a bin permanently in the street can lead to a fine of up to €750.

What to do with cardboard transport tickets in Île-de-France

Anyone with leftover cardboard transport tickets in Île-de-France should note that they are no longer sold, and have not been accepted on buses and trams since the 1st of May. They can still be used on the rail network, including the metro, trains and RER, until autumn 2026, depending on the ticket type. Unused cardboard tickets are not refundable, but they can be exchanged at RATP or SNCF counters and converted into their digital equivalent on a Navigo Easy pass. Exchanges are limited to five tickets per day, and the Navigo Easy pass itself costs €2.

Contactless bank card payments planned for the Paris transport network

Île-de-France Mobilités has confirmed that contactless bank card payments will be gradually introduced across the Paris public transport network. The system will allow occasional passengers to tap a bank card or smartphone directly on a validator instead of buying a ticket in advance.

The rollout will begin on the Orly airport link on metro line 14 from the 30th of June, followed by the Montmartre funicular in July. Wider deployment across metro, tram, RER and suburban rail lines will follow in phases, with the full network expected to be covered by 2030. Journeys paid for directly by card will carry a surcharge compared with standard fares.

100,000 discounted SNCF tickets for August go on sale

SNCF has launched a three-day flash sale offering 100,000 discounted train tickets for journeys in August. The sale runs from the 16th to the 18th of June, with tickets available for travel between the 3rd and the 31st of August.

Second-class fares are priced at €19, while first-class fares are priced at €29, across selected TGV INOUI and OUIGO services. The promotional tickets are non-exchangeable and non-refundable, and further summer offers are expected from the 22nd of June.

Summer sales dates confirmed across France

France’s 2026 summer sales will begin on the 24th of June and run until the 21st of July in most metropolitan departments. The official sales period begins at 8am, and online retailers must follow the same national dates, regardless of where the company is based.

Different dates apply in some areas, including Corsica, where the sales run from the 8th of July to the 4th of August, and several overseas territories. Service Public also reminds shoppers that sale items must have been offered for sale for at least one month before the sales begin, and retailers must clearly distinguish discounted items from non-discounted stock.

Paris airport strike reminder

Travellers flying through Paris should remember that a one-day ground staff strike is planned for the 18th of June. The action could affect Paris Charles de Gaulle, Orly and Le Bourget, with disruption most likely around check-in, baggage handling, aircraft turnaround times and airport queues.

Air traffic controllers are not expected to be involved, so widespread airspace disruption is less likely. Passengers flying to or from Paris that day should check directly with their airline before travelling and allow extra time at the airport.

More drivers face immediate licence suspension for phone use

Deux-Sèvres has become the eighth French department to introduce immediate licence suspensions for drivers caught using a mobile phone at the wheel. The department joins Landes, Oise, Lot-et-Garonne, Pas-de-Calais, Charente-Maritime, Ardèche and Vaucluse. Using a handheld phone while driving already carries a €135 fine and the loss of three licence points. In departments applying the tougher measure, drivers can also have their licence suspended immediately. More than 500 licences have reportedly already been suspended under the crackdown.

Hot weather and wildfire alerts return

Hot weather is returning across France, with temperatures rising sharply and parts of the country seeing highs of 30C or more. Some areas of the south-west, central France and the Rhône valley could see higher peaks, while forecasters have warned that heatwave thresholds may be reached if the hot spell persists.

The hot, dry weather is also increasing wildfire risk in parts of southern France. Météo-France placed several Mediterranean departments on elevated fire-risk alerts last week, with residents and visitors reminded to take care, avoid behaviour that could spark fires, and call 112 or 18 if they see a fire starting.

Lung cancer screening programme launched in five regions

A lung cancer screening trial has been launched in five regions: Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Hauts-de-France, Île-de-France, Pays de la Loire and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. The Impulsion programme offers 100% coverage by Assurance Maladie for low-dose CT scans for eligible participants, alongside support to stop smoking. The trial is aimed at people aged 50 to 74 who currently smoke, or who stopped less than 15 years ago, and who meet certain smoking-history criteria. The aim is to detect lung cancer earlier and assess whether a wider national screening programme could be introduced.

Cadmium screening reimbursed for people at risk

From today, people who may be overexposed to cadmium because of where they live, or who are being monitored for chronic cadmium poisoning, can have screening tests reimbursed by Assurance Maladie. The test must be prescribed by a doctor and is carried out in a local laboratory. It is reimbursed at 60%, with the remaining cost generally covered by complementary health insurance, although the usual €2 flat-rate contribution applies.

Cadmium exposure may be linked to soil pollution from current or former industrial activity, but some areas also have naturally higher levels in the soil. Ameli lists Champagne, Charente, the Jura and the Causses as areas where naturally high cadmium levels can be found. People concerned about their commune can check GéoRisques for official information on polluted or potentially polluted sites, consult the état des risques provided during a property sale or rental, or contact their mairie, prefecture or ARS for local advice.

Death, divorce and diagnostics, by Caroline Fell

As you may already know, if you’ve bought your home with a tontine clause, when either you or your civil partner passes away, the survivor will automatically become the sole owner of your French home.

It is still, however, a good idea to make a will. By making a will it ensures that your home passes as you wish (in so far as that is possible) in the event that you and your civil partner die together. It will also ensure that following the death of the survivor of you both, the property passes as you wish.

It will depend upon your nationality, and family structure, as to how you and your civil partner structure your wills, but we suggest reviewing your estate planning following a property purchase.

When looking at where to issue divorce proceedings, there are three factors to consider:

1. In which country can I issue divorce proceedings, i.e. is there jurisdiction for me to issue divorce proceedings in that country?

2. In which country is it most appropriate for divorce proceedings to be considered? This is known as forum conveniens.

3. Will one country provide a more beneficial outcome to me on divorce? The country in which divorce proceedings take place will then determine how the finances are to be separated in accordance with that country’s laws. This can provide a very different outcome if proceedings take in France, or if they take place in England.

“The country in which divorce proceedings are issued depends on factors such as where the fmaily, children and assets are based”

Jurisdiction: As you are living in and habitually resident in France, it is possible for either you or your husband to issue proceedings for divorce in France. However, as it seems that you remain domiciled in England, you are also able to issue divorce proceedings in England. There is therefore jurisdiction to issue proceedings in both countries.

Forum: If proceedings are issued in both countries, a decision will have to be taken by the courts as to which is the most appropriate forum for proceedings to take place. Consideration will be given as to factors such as where the family have their main home, where the assets are held, where the children are based.

In this example, it seems as though there is rather a fine balance between the two countries: while the fact that the family home is in France may be determinative, the presence of other assets in England (in particular pensions), may give weight to England being the preferred forum.

Financial outcome: England is known to be supportive of the financially weaker party when it comes to divorce law. There are greater powers with regard to the division of pensions and ongoing financial support than exist in France. French courts will not, for example, have the power to divide UK pensions on divorce and this may be a significant factor for a retired couple. However, it is essential that you seek advice from both French and English lawyers to ascertain the likely outcome in each jurisdiction.

It is also very important to work with your husband to try to reach an agreement with regard to the division of your finances. Forum disputes are notoriously expensive and, as outcome is not guaranteed, you are best placed trying to find a resolution through discussion, potentially with the support of an accredited mediator.

In France it is not necessary to provide a buildings survey to any prospective buyer of your property. However, in France it is necessary to provide buyers with a dossier de diagnostic technique (DTT).

The DTT includes reports on asbestos, electrical wiring, energy efficiency, gas installations, geotechnical risks, lead, natural and industrial risks, radon, septic tanks and termites. It is your responsibility to provide the buyer with this, and you will be expected to pay for the DTT. You should seek a surveyor who is appropriately accredited to ensure that the reports are comprehensive and can be relied upon.

If the buyer wishes to have a building survey, and you agree to this, the buyer would be expected to organise and pay for it. The buyer should do this before formally agreeing to buy your property.

Caroline Fell is a Partner and Head of the Family Law and Mediation team at Stone King — Tel: 0800 111 4336 | stoneking.co.uk

For families moving to France, the pet is rarely the most complicated part of the move on paper, but often the most stressful in practice. Veterinary timelines run on their own clock, the rules vary considerably from one country to the next, and the consequences of a missing document at the border range from a delay and additional fees through to the animal being refused entry and sent back to its point of origin.

For British owners, the picture has become noticeably more demanding in the past few years. From 22nd April 2026, EU pet passports issued to or held by GB residents stopped being valid for entry into the EU, including those issued before that date. Anyone whose main residence is in England, Scotland or Wales now needs an Animal Health Certificate (AHC), issued by an Official Veterinarian no more than ten days before travel, for every single trip with a dog, cat or ferret. Residents of Northern Ireland and pet owners whose main residence is in an EU member state are not affected and can continue to use EU pet passports, which remain valid for the lifetime of the animal.

The basic preparation

Whatever the route and whichever country is involved, three core requirements apply to any dog, cat or ferret moving in or out of the EU. The animal must be fitted with an ISO-standard microchip (11784/11785). It must hold a current rabies vaccination administered after the chip went in, with at least 21 days having elapsed between the date of the jab and the date of travel. And the owner must hold a valid travel document, either an EU pet passport for EU residents or an AHC for GB residents.

Less common pets

The picture changes again for what French regulations group together as nouveaux animaux de compagnie (NAC): reptiles, certain birds, rabbits, rodents and similar. Species listed under CITES, the international convention regulating trade in endangered wildlife, need additional permits in both the country of departure and the country of arrival. Some receiving countries simply have no import framework in place for particular species, in which case the move is not legally possible at all. Establishing what is and is not allowed is usually the first step rather than the last.

Flying the animal

For most international moves, air travel is the only practical option. The benchmark here is the IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR), the global standard for the carriage of live animals by air, used by EU member states, the World Organisation for Animal Health and CITES as the reference for compliant transport.

The LAR sets requirements for container construction, ventilation, water access, labelling and species-by-species handling. An animal presented at airline cargo check-in with a non-compliant crate will simply be refused, and turning up with a kennel bought online that does not match the dimensions or build specification the carrier requires is one of the more common avoidable problems.

Several other practical factors catch owners out. Most airlines apply heat embargoes during summer on certain routes. Brachycephalic breeds such as bulldogs, pugs and Persian cats are restricted or refused by a number of carriers because of the breathing risk at altitude. And the choice between cabin (small pets only, weight-limited, and only on certain airlines) and cargo hold has to be made when the booking is taken, since it has implications for crate size, vaccination paperwork and the animal’s experience of the journey.

Beyond the baseline LAR, the IATA Center of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) Live Animals programme, launched in 2018, certifies airlines, ground handlers and freight forwarders against an independently audited operational standard covering training, infrastructure and quality management. Only a small number of organisations worldwide hold the certification.

The role of a specialist

A pet relocation specialist takes on the parts of the move that are time-consuming, paperwork-heavy or operationally specialised: organising the AHC or pet passport timeline with the right vet, sourcing IATA-compliant crates, coordinating with the airline’s live animals desk, handling French veterinary inspection and customs clearance at the airport, and remaining contactable around the clock in case of delays or rerouting during transit.

Goldenway International Pets and Live Animals, based at Roissy Charles de Gaulle with agents in Toulouse, Nice, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux and Montpellier, was the first freight forwarder for live animals worldwide to obtain the IATA CEIV certification, and operates with the approval of the French Ministry of Veterinary Services. The team can be contacted for an initial conversation about a particular animal, destination and timeline.

For many second-home owners and regular travellers, shopping in France is part of everyday life. Whether buying fashion, home décor, pharmacy products or gifts, those purchases quickly add up over the course of a year.

Yet many non-EU travellers still miss out on VAT refunds because they assume the process is complicated. Today, digital tax-free solutions like Zapptax are making VAT refunds far simpler and more practical for frequent travellers between France, the UK and the US.

Here is the essential checklist to avoid common mistakes and simplify tax-free shopping in France.

1. Check your eligibility

If you live outside the European Union for more than 6 months per year, you may qualify for VAT refunds on purchases made during your stay in France, provided the goods leave the EU with you.

Since Brexit, this now also applies to UK residents who own second homes in France. 

To qualify:

• your main residence must be outside the EU
• purchases must be for personal use
• goods must leave the EU
• items should remain unused before departure

2. Choose the right tax-free solution

Tax-free shopping has been transformed by digitalisation. Today, digital tax refund operators such as Zapptax make VAT refunds simpler, more flexible and easier to manage across multiple purchases and trips.

Instead of wasting time on in-store paperwork with traditional methods, travellers can manage everything in one place. This removes much of the usual friction and makes VAT refunds far more practical throughout the year.

3. Understand the minimum spend rules

Initially, tax-free shopping in France requires a minimum spend of around €100 (including tax) per store and per day.

With Zapptax, the minimum amount required to benefit from a VAT refund does not change; however, the rules of the game do. You can now make smaller purchases across several shops, and the app combines all your expenses to help you reach the threshold.

For example, you spent €40 at Maison du Monde and €60 at Madura or IKEA, and this combined amount would qualify for a VAT refund with Zapptax.

This is particularly useful for travellers who shop across multiple stores during their stays in France.

4. Upload your invoices directly in the app

Simply upload each invoice into the app right after your purchase. Zapptax will automatically keep everything organised for you throughout your trip.

No need to sort papers or search through invoices before your flight.

5. Validate your tax-free forms before leaving the EU

Without customs validation, no VAT refund can be processed. In France, this is usually done through the PABLO Kiosks.

Before leaving the EU:

• keep purchases accessible in your luggage
• allow extra time at airports or Eurostar terminals
• keep goods unused in your luggage
• make sure your tax-free forms are at your fingertips.

Common mistakes travellers make

Travellers should be particularly careful with a few key steps:

• forgetting to validate tax-free documents at customs when leaving the EU,
• losing invoices or forgetting to upload them in the app,
• arriving late at the airport and not having enough time to use the PABLO kiosk or customs validation desk

Following the checklist step by step significantly reduces the risk of these errors and ensures a smooth VAT refund process from start to finish. 

Claim your next VAT refund with Zapptax 

The process is simple:

• request invoices in Zapptax’s name when shopping in France,
• upload it directly in the app,
• your tax-free forms are generated automatically,
• validate them at customs when leaving the EU,
• receive your refund afterwards.

This approach also allows you to manage purchases across multiple trips without dealing with traditional paperwork.

Before your next trip, take a moment to check this checklist and make sure you’re not missing out on your VAT refund. If you shop regularly in France, download the app Zapptax and make the most of your purchases.

Most expats arrive in France confident they know how to drive. Then a Crit’Air sticker, a rain-adjusted speed limit, or an unmarked rural junction reminds them they don’t.

Most of France’s driving rules are sensible, and most of them line up with what you’d expect. But a handful catch British and American newcomers off guard, and the fines aren’t gentle. They start at €68 and can climb past €1,000.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• How long your UK or US licence stays valid in France
• Why you need a Crit’Air sticker (and where the official one costs under €5)
• How speed limits drop automatically when it rains
• Where winter tires or chains are compulsory between November and March
• What priorité à droite means at unmarked junctions
• How France’s alcohol limit compares to the UK and the US
• Why holding your phone at a red light still earns you a fine
• What replaced the carte verte in 2024

Let’s get into it.

1. Your home license won’t be valid forever

If you’ve moved to France for good, your home license has a shelf life.

British residents

Under the Withdrawal Agreement, you can keep using a UK photocard license until it expires.

New arrivals don’t get that grace though: You’ve got twelve months from becoming resident to apply for an exchange.

Americans

You face a state-by-state lottery.

Around twenty states (Texas, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia, Massachusetts, and a handful of others) have reciprocity with France, so you can swap without a test.

Everyone else takes the French code and the practical exam.

Worth checking your state’s status well before the one-year clock runs out.

2. Crit’Air stickers are mandatory in (some) cities

The little round windscreen sticker (the “Crit’Air vignette”) isn’t optional anymore.

France’s Low Emission Zones (Zones à Faibles Émissions, or ZFE) now cover Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Strasbourg, Lille, Reims, Rouen, Grenoble, and a growing list of urban areas.

Drive in without the right sticker, or with one whose category doesn’t meet the zone’s threshold, and you’re looking at a €68 fine.

Even if “you’re only just passing through”.

The sticker costs under €5 from the official site, certificat-air.gouv.fr, and lasts the life of the vehicle. Buy it there.

The resellers at the top of Google charge five times the price for the exact same thing.

3. Speed limits drop when it rains

Most foreigners learn the headline limits “130 km/h on the autoroute, 110 on dual carriageways, 80 on most main roads”.

Not many learn this, though: rain lowers limits automatically.

Motorway limits drop to 110, dual carriageways to 100. And if visibility falls below 50 meters for any reason (e.g., fog, heavy rain, smoke) everything drops to 50 km/h.

Yes, motorways included.

Foreign plates cruising at 130 through a downpour are exactly what radars mobiles are watching for.

The standard fine starts at €135.

4. Winter tires or chains: compulsory in 48 départements

Under the Loi Montagne, 48 mountainous départements require either winter tires, 3PMSF-marked all-season tires, or chains in the boot between 1 November and 31 March.

It applies whether there’s snow on the road or not, and whether you’re a resident or just visiting.

The affected zones stretch across:

• The Alps
• The Pyrenees
• The Massif Central
• The Jura
• The Vosges.

If your second home is in a postcard-pretty village anywhere in those regions, this is one piece of seasonal admin you can’t skip.

5. Priorité à droite

The rule that traffic emerging from your right has priority (priorité à droite) is alive on countless rural and suburban roads, and at unmarked junctions in older town centers.

There’s no stop sign. There’s no give way. You’re simply expected to know.

If you don’t know better, this might happen to you:

1. A car you didn’t even see pulls out
2. You hit it
3. The insurance claim goes against you.

So, to be safe, remember this rule of thumb: treat any unmarked junction as if traffic from the right has right of way, and ease off the accelerator.

6. The alcohol limit is lower

France’s blood-alcohol limit is 0.5 g/L — well below the 0.8 g/L still in force in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and roughly the same as the US 0.08%.

For drivers in their first three years on the road, the limit drops to 0.2 g/L (effectively zero).

One generous glass of wine with lunch can put a smaller adult over.

Penalties scale quickly: from €135 to €4,500, points on your license, and possible suspension.

Random breath tests are routine, including on Sunday mornings.

7. Hands-off ≠ engine-on

Holding a phone while driving is illegal. That part is familiar.

What catches most newcomers out: the same rule applies when you’re stopped at lights or parked with the engine still running.

Pull over fully, switch the engine off, then check the message.

The fine is €135, and three points are taken off your license.

8. Forget the green card (rules changed in 2024)

As of April 2024, France has abolished the carte verte, the green insurance certificate that drivers used to display on the windscreen.

Insurance is now verified through a digital database, the Fichier des Véhicules Assurés (FVA).

You don’t need to display anything, but you do still need to carry your carte grise (vehicle registration) and a form of ID.

One catch: if your insurer hasn’t filed your details into the FVA, you can be treated as uninsured.

Always ask for written confirmation when you take out or switch a policy.

About Feather

Settling into French life means working through a stack of admin most expats don’t see coming — driving rules, mutuelle top-ups, household cover, responsabilité civile.

Feather was built specifically to simplify the insurance side, with English-speaking support and policies designed for international residents in France.

The final income tax deadline has now passed, cardboard transport tickets have been phased out on the Île-de-France rail network, and property owners are being reminded to update their biens immobiliers declaration by the 30th of June. There are also updates on water restrictions, drought-related cracks, damaged banknotes, and France’s residency card renewal process. Meanwhile, travellers can expect SNCF disruption on the 10th of June, possible EES delays this summer and a planned Paris airport strike later this month. Here are the France headlines you need to know this week.

Final income tax deadline has passed, but corrections are possible

The final online deadline for 2026 income tax declarations, covering income received in 2025, was the 4th of June. Earlier deadlines applied in May for paper declarations, non-residents and other departments.

Anyone who has spotted an error after filing should be able to use the online correction service once tax notices are available, with the correction window expected to run from the beginning of August to the end of November 2026. You can read about what you should do if you’ve made a mistake here.

Cardboard transport tickets phased out on the Île-de-France rail network

Paper cardboard tickets are no longer accepted on the Île-de-France rail network from the 1st of June, except for certain tickets to stations outside the region. Cardboard tickets had already been phased out on buses and trams from the 1st of May.

Travellers are now encouraged to use alternatives such as Navigo Easy, smartphone ticketing or Navigo Liberté+.

Water restrictions now affect more than 20 departments

As summer approaches, water restrictions and vigilance warnings are spreading across France. As of the 8th of June, seven departments had water restrictions in place, while a further 14 were under vigilance warnings.

The affected departments include Creuse and Hérault at alerte level, Ain, Ardennes and Indre at alerte renforcée, and Loiret and Pyrénées-Orientales at crise level. Residents and second-home owners should check local rules through VigiEau, as restrictions can vary by commune.

Major French rail strike expected on the 10th of June

Travellers are being warned of significant SNCF disruption on the 10th of June, with the national rail strike expected to affect TGV, TER, Intercités, Transilien and RER services. Around one-third of high-speed TGV services are expected to be cancelled, including both InOui and Ouigo trains. Passengers are advised to check their train before travelling and to look out for updates from SNCF.

EES delays warning for summer travellers

An airline body has warned that the EU’s Entry/Exit System could lead to queues of up to six hours at some EU borders this summer, as biometric checks increase processing times. The warning is relevant for non-EU travellers heading to France and the wider Schengen area, including Brits and Americans. Travellers should allow extra time at borders, especially during peak summer travel periods.

Paris airport strike still planned for the 18th of June

A one-day strike by ground staff at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport is still planned for the 18th of June. The level of disruption will depend on participation among security, baggage handling, cleaning and retail staff. Passengers flying through Paris should check their flight status closer to departure and allow extra time if travelling to or from the airport.

Residency card renewal process under pressure to improve

France’s top administrative court has ordered the government to act within six months to address problems with the ANEF website and residency card renewal process. The ruling has been welcomed by rights group La Cimade, which hopes it will help speed up improvements for foreign residents struggling with online applications and prefecture delays.

Property owners reminded of June declaration deadline

Property owners in France are being reminded to update their biens immobiliers declaration by the 30th of June if there has been a change in the use or occupancy of their property. This can include a main home becoming a second home, a change of tenant, a property becoming vacant, or certain additions and improvements. A fine of €150 per property can apply in theory, although enforcement in 2026 is expected to focus mainly on large property owners.

Drought-related cracks: new help for homeowners

Homeowners in certain parts of France may be able to benefit from extra help to protect properties affected by clay soil shrinkage and swelling, known as retrait-gonflement des argiles.

The fonds de prévention argile is being trialled in 11 departments, including Dordogne, Gers, Lot-et-Garonne, Tarn and Tarn-et-Garonne. It can help eligible owner-occupiers fund vulnerability diagnostics and preventive works, and eligibility rules were eased from the 1st of May.

Additional birth leave to come into force in July

Parents in France will soon be able to benefit from a new supplementary birth leave, which comes into effect on the 1st of July 2026. The measure gives each parent one to two months of compensated leave, in addition to existing maternity, paternity, childcare and adoption leave. It is an individual right, meaning it cannot be transferred from one parent to the other, and parents can take it at the same time, alternate it, or split it into two one-month periods.

Damaged banknotes can now be exchanged through selected tabacs

From the 8th of June, the Banque de France is rolling out a new service allowing people to exchange or be reimbursed for damaged banknotes through selected tabacs. The service applies to amounts up to €500 and is initially available through one participating tabac per region, before being expanded to one per department from July. The procedure is free, but customers should check the Banque de France requirements before visiting, as some paperwork must be prepared in advance.

Dans les ruelles de Montcuq © Marion Carcel

Découverte de Montcuq-en-Quercy © Marion Carcel

Victoria Garnham speaks to brothers Colum and Aidan Lovett about finding and making their home in the Gers…

What first drew you to the idea of living in France -and specifically the Gers?

Having explored both sides of the Pyrénées, we felt France offered better choice and value to find a home we really wanted. We visited various times over a couple of years and initially began house searching around Oloron-Ste-Marie. Ultimately, we discovered the beautiful rolling hills in the heart of Gascony around Vic-Fezensac and immediately the area felt right!

brothers Colum and Aidan Lovette

Had you visited the region before deciding to buy? What aspects of your lifestyle were you hoping to change?

Our ambition was to find somewhere we could enjoy a slower pace, where the people are warm and welcoming. Living in a rural setting where we could be more in tune with the land and nature and, indeed, the local communities.

What type of home were you looking for when you started?

A four- to five-bedroom old stone house or a farmhouse with some land and trees and a great view.

work demolition that started in november in the house

How did the Gers property market compare to what you had seen elsewhere in France?

The house prices around Pau and Oloron-Ste-Marie seemed a little higher than around Vic-Fezensac, but generally still relatively very good value.

view from the house

How long did it take to find ‘the one’?

It took us about six months, with many visits.

Was there anything about the viewing or buying experience that surprised you?

The value for money in Gers.

Were there any challenges during the transaction process, and how did you overcome them?

The buying process in France is different from the UK, so trying to understand all the differences and implications was a challenge.

Lavardens village

What advice would you give other British buyers about the compromise de vente (sales contract), acte authentique (completion), diagnostics (property surveys) and so on?

The information provided to the buyer is great – and far more than we had appreciated. Working with a good agency meant we had help at each step.

What was it like unlocking the door for the first time as the new owners?

We had a sense of calm knowing we had secured a lovely property completely surrounded by nature.

What have been your favourite moments in the home so far?

Every day! There is a fair bit of work to do to the property, but you just have to walk outside and you smile at the magical views and sounds of nature. Otherwise, over winter the fireplace in the kitchen has been a godsend!

View from the chateau of Lagardère

How have you found settling into the community?

Everyone we have met has been warm and welcoming and we’re continuing to enjoy building our network of friends and acquaintances.

Have you met neighbours or joined local associations, markets or events yet?

The farmer who tended the property we bought has become our mentor for anything to do with the land and the machinery needed to care for it. We have also volunteered for a few night markets, which has been a great way to get to know the local community.

Is the pace of life different from what you knew in the UK?

I guess it’s what we had hoped for. People are honest and hard-working but there is a healthy amount of catching up through the many local fêtes throughout the year.

What do you love most about the Gers, now that you are living there full time?

Peace and tranquillity, as well as being able to enjoy nature every day. I’ve stopped wearing a watch and sometimes have to remind myself what day of the week it is!

What are your favourite local discoveries so far?

There are too many to mention, but we are constantly discovering new places and

artisans. It takes a while to find out where the best brocantes, butchers, restaurants and shops are located. Recently, an oak tree came down in a storm and last week we had a local artisan/mobile sawmill arrive to cut the trunk into planks, which we are now drying in order to make a dining table.

Have you renovated or personalised the property since moving in?

We are just starting a four-phase renovation project. Things have taken a little longer than expected to get going but all the artisans we have met have been lovely, so we are looking forward to completing the work over the next two years.

woodland they own fallen tree

Do you have long-term plans?

We have room for a nice gîte so hopefully that can be completed, and next year we’ll begin to create a potager garden to generate as much homegrown produce as we can.

What should buyers know about buying property in the Gers? Do you have any tips on choosing a village or property?

Trying to understand which villages have the best views is hard from just online research. The only way to find out the actual perspective of a place is to drive around it. We began visiting properties in winter, and in hindsight this was a good thing as it made it easier to understand which would be affected by road noise.

What would you say to someone hesitating to make the move to the Gers?

Le Gers is a hidden gem with beautiful bastide villages set among rolling hills, no main motorway and the Pyrénées only an hour away. There is a wide variety of properties to suit all budgets. Make sure that you engage a good agency and start exploring!

If you had to describe your life in the Gers in three words, what would they be?

Peaceful, beautiful and rewarding.

What does the word ‘home’ mean to you now?

Being located at the top of a hill, ‘home’ feels safe and secluded, but close enough to shops and other facilities when you need something.

Victoria Garnham runs Gelas Immobilier in Gascony

Tel: 0033 (0)5 62 06 52 91

gelas-immobilier.com

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For many people, moving to France represents the beginning of a new lifestyle. Whether it’s a permanent relocation, the purchase of a holiday home, retirement abroad, or launching a business venture, France continues to attract British buyers and expats looking for a better pace of life, beautiful surroundings, and a strong sense of culture.

But while the dream itself may feel exciting and straightforward, the reality of organising an international move can quickly become overwhelming without the right support. From customs paperwork and transport logistics to packing and storage, there are many moving parts involved in relocating across borders.

That’s why choosing an experienced international removals specialist is one of the most important decisions you can make.

With decades of experience handling UK-to-France relocations, Franklins Removals has helped individuals, families, and businesses move smoothly and efficiently across the Channel. Their dedicated European removals service is designed to simplify the process and remove much of the stress associated with international moving.

Here are ten important things to consider before making your move to France.

1. Experience Matters

Not all removals companies are equipped to handle international relocations. Moving to France requires specialist knowledge of European transport routes, customs procedures, and cross-border regulations. Working with a company experienced in French relocations helps ensure your belongings arrive safely, securely, and on schedule.

2. A Full-Service Move Can Make Life Easier

Packing up an entire home is one of the most time-consuming parts of any move. Professional removals services can include expert packing, transportation, delivery, and even unpacking at your new property. Having a complete door-to-door service allows you to focus on settling into your new life rather than worrying about logistics.

3. Specialist Packing Protects Your Belongings

International moves involve longer distances and more handling than a standard domestic move. Furniture, fragile items, artwork, and valuables all require careful preparation using export-grade materials and professional packing techniques to minimise the risk of damage in transit.

4, Brexit Has Changed the Process

Since the UK left the European Union, moving household goods to France involves additional customs documentation and inventories. Errors or missing paperwork can lead to delays at the border. Using an experienced removals company ensures the correct documentation is prepared and handled properly from the outset.

5. Every Relocation Is Different

No two moves are ever the same. Costs and timelines can vary depending on factors such as the size of the move, accessibility at each property, destination, and any additional services required. A professional survey and tailored quotation will help provide clarity before the move begins.

6. Regular UK–France Services Offer Greater Flexibility

A removals company operating frequent routes between the UK and France can often provide more reliable scheduling and faster turnaround times. This flexibility can be especially important if you are working to completion dates or coordinating travel plans alongside your move.

7. You Don’t Need to Move Everything at Once

Some people relocate an entire household, while others move only selected belongings initially. Flexible transport options such as part-load and full-load services allow customers to choose the most practical and cost-effective solution for their circumstances.

8. Insurance Provides Valuable Peace of Mind

Although professional movers take every precaution, comprehensive removals protection offers reassurance that your possessions are covered throughout the journey. Knowing your belongings are protected can make the entire experience feel significantly less stressful.

9. Storage Can Help Bridge the Gap

Property completion dates do not always align perfectly. Secure short-term or long-term storage solutions can provide valuable flexibility if there is a delay before moving into your new French home.

10. Preparation Is the Key to a Smooth Move

Planning ahead is one of the best ways to reduce stress during an international relocation. Decluttering early, organising paperwork, and securing your removals company in advance can make the entire process far more manageable.Starting Your New Chapter the Right Way

Relocating to France should feel exciting—not exhausting. With the right planning and an experienced removals partner, the process can be far smoother than many people expect.

Whether you’re moving to a rural farmhouse in France, a coastal retreat, or a bustling French city, working with a trusted specialist such as Franklins Removals can help turn a potentially stressful experience into a seamless transition.

For more than a decade now, the term “YOLO” – you only live once – has been an everyday social media hashtag for the millennial and younger generations when sharing their adventurous travels and wildest dreams. What may sound like a juvenile slogan, for the youth who haven’t even reached their mid-life point, actually rings even more true for those who begin to reach flexibility in their professional and personal lives through retirement and other future life stages. This could feel like your time to seize the moment – the moment to travel, the moment to own homes in faraway places, the moment to experience your dreams without the hassle and frustration. That’s where “YOLO” meets “PIED-A-PARIS” for those who want to make that living-in-Paris-dream come to life in the most attainable, manageable way. 

PIED-A-PARIS offers the opportunity of a lifetime with its Fractional Ownership model, creating a seamless way to own a second home in Paris. You may have never heard of Fractional Ownership or fully understand the concept. Fractional Ownership is a model of co-ownership that allows you to maximise the enjoyment of owning a vacation home in Paris without the cost and hassle of maintaining a vacation home overseas. Each owner legally owns a fraction of the apartment and is able to sell, transfer or bequeath their share (renting is prohibited). An Owners Association, Inc. is established as a non-profit corporation, and its bylaws govern the usage of the home and group. Each share has one vote and you may purchase as many shares as you wish. In each of PIED-A-PARIS’ fractional properties there are 13 shares, designated A-M, each of which entitles the owner to a total of four weeks usage per year. The four weeks are divided into two two-week blocks, about six months apart. Each year the usage calendar advances by ten weeks allowing owners to experience different seasons. 

You most likely have heard of timeshares and vacation properties, but there’s actually differentiators and advantages to Fractional Ownership. With timeshares, you’re buying the right to use the property for a specific time period each year. It usually means less flexibility and no investment opportunity with added costs and little value. Owning a vacation property is costly with ongoing expenses. Potentially to offset the costs, you put it in an exchange pool or choose to rent it out with a management company and vacation rental site. This comes with risks for the owner. Fractional Ownership mitigates the risks with each shareholder playing a role in the ownership and optimising the cost savings. 

Determined to deliver the ultimate luxurious, carefree experience when it comes to Fractional Ownership, PIED-A-PARIS was created by experienced fractional owners who know the value firsthand. That’s exactly what you can expect in Maison Rivoli, PIED-A-PARIS’ latest Fractional Ownership apartment in Paris. 

Maison Rivoli is located in one of the few mid-19th century Haussmannian buildings constructed in the Marais. Two stone cherubs flank the large wooden entry doors, welcoming you to Paris. Showcasing original architectural details, this warm and inviting apartment balances historic beauty with refined, modern touches. Every element has been carefully chosen with the intention of creating an elegant and comfortable second home.

The exquisite 2-bedroom apartment has been fully renovated, professionally decorated with the owner in mind. The spacious, airy 810 sq ft residence gives you the charm, comfort, and security you desire for your extended stays in Paris. It can be yours for the share price of 185,000 € ($210,000 US). So seize the moment and check out the opportunity to experience the Parisian magic for yourself. For more info, check out www.pied-a-paris.com and send a direct inquiry to [email protected].     

Fuel aid applications are set to open for high-mileage workers, income tax deadlines are continuing by department, and property buyers should be aware that notaire fees have risen in most of France. There are also updates on vacant home taxation, France Identité for French citizens abroad and free Carrefour delivery for over-65s. Meanwhile, EES checks are eased at Dover, a planned Paris airport strike, heat alerts across parts of France, and the return of the Fête des Voisins. Here are the France headlines you need to know this week.

€100 fuel aid applications open on the 27th of May

Applications for France’s new €100 fuel allowance are due to open on the 27th of May via impots.gouv.fr. The aid is aimed at workers living in France who use a personal petrol, diesel or non-rechargeable hybrid vehicle for work or commuting, and who meet income and mileage conditions. To qualify as a grand rouleur, applicants must either travel at least 15km each way between home and work, or drive at least 8,000km per year for professional journeys. The payment was initially expected to be €50, but has since been doubled to €100.

Income tax deadlines continue by department

The paper tax return deadline has now passed, as has the first online deadline for departments 01 to 19 and non-residents. However, many taxpayers still have time to submit their 2026 income declaration online. The deadline is the 28th of May at 11.59pm for departments 20 to 54, including Corsica, and the 4th of June at 11.59pm for departments 55 to 974/976. The 2026 declaration covers income received in 2025.

Notaire fees rise in most French departments

Property buyers in France should note that notaire fees have increased in many departments, after local authorities were given the option to raise their share of property transfer taxes. The departmental element can now rise to 5% until the 31st of March 2028, with the total cost depending on the department, the type of property and the buyer’s situation. Reports indicate that 97 departments have opted to apply higher fees, making it especially important for buyers to check acquisition costs before budgeting for a purchase.

A single tax for vacant homes is coming from 2027

The 2026 finance law will simplify taxation on vacant homes by merging the two existing taxes into a single charge from 2027. At present, empty properties can be subject to either the annual tax on vacant homes or the housing tax on vacant homes, depending on the commune where the property is located. From 2027, these will be replaced by one tax on vacant residential premises, payable by the owner or usufructuary of the property concerned.

May heatwave puts parts of France on alert

France has experienced an unusually intense late-May heatwave, with temperatures climbing well above seasonal norms and hundreds of towns recording their highest-ever May temperatures. Météo-France placed several departments on heat alerts, with residents and visitors advised to avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day, stay hydrated and check on vulnerable neighbours or relatives.

Dover EES checks eased after long queues

French authorities temporarily relaxed some new EU Entry/Exit System checks at Dover after long queues built up during the UK bank holiday getaway. The disruption marked one of the first major holiday tests of the EES system for non-EU travellers entering the Schengen area, including Britons travelling to France. Conventional border checks continued, but French border police eased procedures to reduce processing times.

Paris Charles de Gaulle strike planned for the 18th of June

Travellers are being warned of possible disruption at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport on the 18th of June, after ground staff called a one-day strike. The level of disruption will depend on participation among airport staff, including security, baggage handling, cleaning and retail workers. Passengers flying to or from Paris that day are advised to check their flight status closer to departure.

Higher university fees planned for many non-EU students

From the 2026-2027 academic year, many non-EU international students in France are expected to pay higher university registration fees than French, EU, EEA and Swiss students. Universities will still be able to exempt some students from these higher fees, but a decree published on the 19th of May will restrict the proportion of non-EU students who can be exempted. For 2026-2027, universities will be able to exempt up to 30% of foreign students, falling to 25% in 2027-2028 and then 20% thereafter.

New France Identité procedure for French citizens abroad

French citizens living overseas or abroad can now create their France Identité digital identity by having their identity checked in person at a mairie, embassy or consulate. The change is designed to help people who could not previously use FranceConnect or receive the required registered letter. France Identité can be used to access certain public services, generate proof of identity and store digital versions of documents such as an ID card or driving licence.

Free Carrefour delivery expanded for over-65s

Carrefour has launched Carrefour des générations, a new scheme for over-65s in France at Carrefour Express, City, Contact and Montagne stores. It includes free home delivery from €50 of shopping, clearer labelling for products aimed at older customers, more small-portion products, extra staff assistance and help signing up for loyalty cards. The scheme does not apply to Carrefour hypermarkets or larger supermarkets.

Fête des Voisins returns this Friday

The Fête des Voisins takes place across France on Friday the 29th of May, offering neighbours the chance to get together over an apéritif, shared meal or local gathering. The event began in Paris and has become a nationwide tradition. For newcomers to France, it can be a useful and informal way to meet people locally.

Kirsten, Deo and Jacob

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Creuse_Aubusson, Photo: Shutterstock

Aveyron_Belcastel, Photo: Shutterstock

France’s minimum wage is set to rise from the 1st of June, gas benchmark prices are due to fall slightly, and tax return deadlines are now approaching, with paper declarations due today. Property owners can note new inheritance rules for jointly held assets, a renovation calculator to estimate added value, and hundreds more communes recognised as natural disaster zones. Meanwhile, summer sales dates have been confirmed, motorists face the prospect of tougher phone-use penalties, and the French Property Exhibition in Birmingham proved a great success. Here are the France headlines you need to know this week.

Tax return deadline today for paper declarations

Residents and non-residents with French income tax obligations are reminded that today, the 19th of May 2026, is the deadline for paper tax declarations, with returns due by midnight. Anyone who has not yet submitted should do so as soon as possible, or declare online if they are able to, as online deadlines run later by department: the 21st of May for departments 01 to 19 and non-residents, the 28th of May for departments 20 to 54, and the 4th of June for departments 55 to 974/976.

Those who miss the deadline can still file a late declaration, but should do so quickly. Late declarations can lead to penalties, including a 10% increase in the tax due if filed late before a formal notice, with higher penalties possible after a formal notice, as well as late-payment interest of 0.20% per month.

French Property Exhibition in Birmingham proves a great success

The French Property Exhibition in Birmingham proved a great success this weekend, bringing together buyers, property professionals and experts at the National Conference Centre Birmingham. Visitors had the chance to meet estate agents, legal advisers, tax specialists, relocation experts, currency specialists and other professionals involved in buying and owning property in France.

The seminar programme and expert forums were a particular highlight, with practical sessions covering where to buy, visas and residency, healthcare, legal and inheritance issues, taxation, renovation, property management and the real costs of buying in France. Thank you to everyone who came along and said hello. We were delighted to meet so many readers and hear more about their plans for France.

French minimum wage to rise from the 1st of June

France’s minimum wage, the Smic, will increase by 2.41% from the 1st of June 2026, following higher inflation. The gross hourly minimum wage will rise from €12.02 to €12.31, while the gross monthly minimum for a full-time worker will increase from €1,823.03 to €1,867.02. The net monthly figure for a full-time worker will rise by €34.82, to €1,477.93. This will be relevant for workers in France, as well as employers and households employing staff.

Gas benchmark price to fall slightly in June

France’s benchmark gas price is set to fall by 4.8% including tax from the 1st of June, after a sharp rise in May. The benchmark price will move from €160.54/MWh in May to €152.86/MWh in June, although the effect on household bills is expected to be modest, with the CRE estimating an average saving of €1.26 on June bills. The change only affects households whose gas contracts are indexed to the benchmark price.

Inflation rises to 2.2% over one year

New Insee figures show that consumer prices in France rose by 2.2% over one year in April 2026. Energy prices were the main driver, rising by 14.3% year on year, with petroleum products seeing particularly sharp increases. The consumer price index is closely watched as it can affect household budgets, contracts, maintenance payments, pensions and the Smic.

New tool helps estimate property value after energy renovation

Homeowners, sellers and buyers can now use the Ma plus-value Réno calculator to estimate how energy renovation work could affect the value of a property. The free tool asks for the property’s location, current estimated value and DPE rating before and after works, then gives an estimate of the potential uplift. It is aimed both at property owners and future buyers considering renovation work.

Inheritance rules changed for jointly held property

New rules have been introduced for property and assets held in indivision, the system that applies when several heirs jointly own assets before an estate is divided. The changes follow a law of the 7th of April and are intended to make it easier to resolve inheritance disputes and close long-blocked successions. This may be relevant for families inheriting houses, land, flats or other jointly held property in France. The changes include a new route for an heir to seek court authorisation to sell a property alone, where the sale is justified by urgency and is in the common interest. The law also broadens the scope of judicial division, meaning the courts may be able to intervene in more complex situations where an amicable agreement cannot be reached, including certain disputes involving former spouses, civil partners or cohabiting partners.

Hundreds more communes recognised as natural disaster zones

A new decree has recognised 221 additional communes as natural disaster zones, opening the way for insurance compensation for properties affected by droughts and flooding. The announcement was published in the Journal Officiel, and residents in affected areas may now be able to make claims under France’s natural disaster insurance system.

Gîtes de France hit by cyberattack

Gîtes de France was among three French holiday-booking platforms hit by cyberattacks over the weekend, with hackers reportedly accessing data linked to up to 389,000 clients. The data included names, booking dates, length of stay, email addresses, phone numbers and postal addresses, but Gîtes de France said no banking information was collected. Customers affected are expected to be informed by email and should be alert to phishing attempts.

Mobile phone driving suspensions could be rolled out nationwide

France may extend immediate licence suspensions for using a mobile phone at the wheel across the country. The measure is currently being trialled in four departments, but a junior interior minister said she supports making it national after a rise in road deaths. Drivers in France already face penalties for handheld phone use, and the possible expansion would mean tougher consequences for residents and visitors alike.

€2 parcel tax hitting private senders more than big platforms

France’s new €2 tax on small, low-value parcels from outside the EU is reportedly affecting private individuals more than major e-commerce platforms. The measure, introduced on the 1st of March, was expected to generate around €33 million per month, but has so far raised only €2.3 million per month, as some international platforms reroute parcels via neighbouring EU countries. The issue is relevant for residents receiving parcels from the UK, US or other non-EU countries.

Ragweed warning issued in the south of France

Residents and property owners in the south of France are being encouraged to report and remove ragweed, a highly allergenic invasive plant, before its peak pollen period later in the summer. The plant can cause significant allergy symptoms, and people removing it are advised to wear gloves and a mask to avoid exposure.

Summer sales dates confirmed

France’s 2026 summer sales will begin on the 24th of June and run until the 21st of July in most metropolitan departments, giving residents and visitors four weeks of regulated discounts in shops and online. The official sales period begins at 8am, and e-commerce retailers must follow the same national dates, regardless of where the company is based.

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Fuel aid has been announced for high-mileage workers, driving licence exchanges now come with a €40 fee, and a new online service aims to make address changes easier for residents in France. Property owners are also being reminded about declaration rules and rising taxe foncière bills, while travellers can note a new ferry route between Ireland and northern France, a planned rail strike in June and a final chance to get tickets for this weekend’s French Property Exhibition in Birmingham. Here are the France headlines you need to know this week.

Last chance to get tickets for the French Property Exhibition this weekend in Birmingham

We’ll be at the French Property Exhibition at the National Conference Centre Birmingham this weekend, on the 16th and 17th of May, and there is still time to get your free tickets. The event brings together French property agents, legal advisers, tax specialists, relocation experts, currency specialists and other professionals to help buyers at every stage of the journey.

We’re especially looking forward to the seminar programme and expert forums, with sessions covering where to live in France, visas and residency, healthcare, legal and inheritance issues, tax, the buying process, renovation, property management and the real costs of buying in France. Seminars are free to attend, with places bookable on the day, so it’s worth arriving early for any sessions you don’t want to miss.

Come and say hello if you’re attending. We’d love to meet readers, hear about your plans and answer any questions you may have about buying, owning or moving to France.

Income tax declaration deadlines approach

Anyone resident in France (and non-residents with French-source income such as rental income) must file. The paper deadline is 23:59 on Tuesday, the 19th of May, including for those filing from abroad. Online deadlines are staggered: 21st May for departments 01–19 and non-residents, 28th May for departments 20–54, and 4th June for departments 55–976. Two procedural changes worth flagging this year: if you file online, paper avis d’imposition notices will no longer be automatically posted out unless you actively opt in via your personal account on impots.gouv.fr, and the micro-BIC ceiling for unclassified holiday rentals has been cut to €15,000 with a 30% allowance, while classified rentals and chambres d’hôtes keep the €77,000 ceiling and 50% allowance. The CSG social charge has also risen from 9.2% to 10.6% on non-professional furnished rental income and on capital gains on shares from 2025, with bank interest and share dividends caught from 2026 income onwards.

€50 fuel aid announced for high-mileage workers

France has announced a €50 fuel allowance to help workers affected by rising fuel prices. The support is aimed at people living and working in France who use a personal vehicle for professional purposes, including commuting, and who meet income and mileage conditions. Eligible drivers must either travel at least 15km each way between home and work, or drive at least 8,000km per year for work-related journeys. Applications are set to open on the 27th of May via impots.gouv.fr, with payments expected around 10 days after approval.

Driving licence exchanges now cost €40

Drivers exchanging a foreign or European driving licence for a French one must now pay a €40 tax stamp, following a change that came into effect today. The charge applies to licence exchange applications and is intended to cover the cost of producing and sending the new French licence. Non-EU licence holders who become resident in France generally need to exchange their licence within one year, provided their issuing country has a reciprocal agreement with France.

New online service makes address changes easier

Residents moving home in France can now use the “Je change de coordonnées” online service to notify multiple organisations at once. The free, secure service allows users to update their address, phone number or email with more than 30 national bodies, including the tax authorities, Assurance Maladie, France Travail, France Titres, pension funds and some energy suppliers. It can also be used for certain administrative changes, such as renamed streets or communes following mergers.

Gas prices set to fall slightly in June

After a sharp rise in May, France’s benchmark gas price is set to fall by 4.8% including tax from the 1st of June. The energy regulator CRE says the decrease reflects lower wholesale gas prices in April, although it will only affect households whose contracts are indexed to the benchmark price. CRE estimates the average saving on June bills at €1.26, so the reduction is modest rather than a major fall in household costs.

Property tax bills rose in 2025

New figures show that homeowners in France paid an average of 2.4% more in taxe foncière in 2025 than the previous year. The average bill was €1,117, although costs vary significantly by department and commune. The increase was partly linked to the annual inflation-based adjustment to rental values, with local authority rates adding further variation. For buyers and second-home owners, it is a useful reminder to factor local property tax into annual running costs.

EES queues cause delays

Since the EU’s Entry/Exit System became fully mandatory on 10 April, non-EU passport queues at French airports have lengthened noticeably, with delays at Bordeaux, Beauvais, Marseille and Nantes reported well over an hour, and several flights departing without dozens of stranded passengers. Holders of French residency cards remain technically exempt from EES enrolment, but the rules on which lane they should use are being applied inconsistently. The safest practice is still to follow signage, have your titre de séjour ready, and allow extra time. Aéroports de Paris says it is installing 90 extra biometric kiosks and will pilot pre-enrolment pods at CDG terminal 2E from June.

New Cork to northern France ferry route to launch in June

A new direct ferry route between Cork and Boulogne-sur-Mer is due to launch in mid-June, with six crossings a week in each direction. Bookings opened on the 7th of May, with the route expected to serve cars, campervans, cyclists, foot passengers and freight. The crossing is expected to take around 21 hours, offering another option for travellers between Ireland and northern France.

French rail strike announced for the 10th of June

Four major French rail unions have called a one-day national strike for the 10th of June, which could affect SNCF services. The strike notice covers all types of rail workers and is linked to working conditions, restructuring and wage demands. Travellers planning train journeys in France around that date should check services closer to departure.

Uber Boat to launch in seven French cities this summer

Uber is launching Uber Boat in France from mid-June, allowing users to book leisure boat rentals through the app in Nice, Cannes, Saint-Tropez, Marseille, Toulon, Paris and Annecy. The service, run in partnership with Click&Boat, will be for leisure excursions rather than water-taxi journeys, with trips operated by certified professional skippers.

Fabienne-QUELARD

Deborah Vaysse

Fishing huts and nets in St Nazaire – shutterstock

Photo: Shutterstock

Photo: Shutterstock

Photo: Shutterstock

The longest bridge in France, the bridge of Saint-Nazaire shutterstock

New rules for furnished tourist rentals are coming into force, residence permit and nationality fees have increased, and dog owners must keep pets on leads in French forests during the nesting season. Property owners are also being urged to check wildfire clearance obligations and local water restrictions, while a collective wood pellet purchase scheme has reopened and €1 meals have been extended to all university students. Here are the France headlines you need to know this week.

New rules for tourist rentals

Owners who rent out furnished tourist accommodation in France should be aware of new rules introduced under the law of the 19th of November 2024. By the 20th of May 2026, all furnished tourist rentals must be declared through a dedicated national online service, and owners renting out their main residence will need to prove that it is their principal home, for example by providing a tax notice showing the property address.

The changes also affect tax allowances, with reduced abatement rates applying to rental income received from the 1st of January 2025. Local authorities have been given wider powers too, including the ability to reduce the maximum number of days a main residence can be rented to tourists from 120 to 90 days per year. Mayors will also be able to issue fines for failing to register a furnished tourist rental, making a false declaration, or exceeding local limits.

Less than 2 weeks to go: French Property Exhibition in Birmingham

The French Property Exhibition comes to the National Conference Centre Birmingham on the 16th and 17th of May, bringing together expert advice, seminars and exhibitors for anyone looking to buy a home in France. Visitors will be able to meet estate agents, legal experts, currency specialists, removals firms, mortgage advisers and other professionals involved in the French property-buying process.

Whether you are just starting your search or preparing to make a move, the event offers a useful opportunity to ask questions face to face, compare services and learn more about the practical steps involved in buying, owning and relocating to France.

Dogs must be kept on leads in French forests until the 30th of June

Dog owners in France are reminded that stricter forest-walking rules apply from the 15th of April to the 30th of June each year. During this period, dogs must be kept on a lead when walking outside designated forest tracks, roads, paths and marked trails, including GR routes and walking paths.

The rule is designed to protect wildlife during the sensitive breeding season, when birds are nesting and mammals are giving birth. Dog owners who fail to comply risk a fixed fine of €135. Service Public also advises walkers not to approach, feed or touch wild animals, as this can disturb their natural behaviour or cause young animals to be abandoned.

Residence permit and nationality fees increased from the 1st of May

Foreign nationals applying for or renewing residence permits in France should note that several tax-stamp fees increased from the 1st of May 2026. The standard fee for the first issue of a temporary, multi-year or resident card has risen from €225 to €350, while the reduced rate, which applies to categories such as students, seasonal workers, au pairs and family reunification, has increased from €75 to €150.

Renewal costs have also gone up, with the standard tax stamp rising to €250 and the reduced renewal rate to €100. Other changes include a new €100 fee for some provisional residence permits, a rise in the cost of validating a long-stay visa used as a residence permit, and a sharp increase in naturalisation-related fees, from €55 to €255. Applicants are usually told by SMS when their permit is ready and how much they need to pay.

Collective purchase scheme launched for wood pellets

French consumer group Que Choisir Ensemble has relaunched its collective purchase scheme for wood pellets, aiming to help households secure lower prices through bulk ordering. The campaign opened on the 4th of May, with homeowners in France, including second-home owners, able to sign up until the 24th of May.

Participants register their details and the amount of pellets they would like to buy, before receiving a quote on the 25th of May. They then have until the 7th of June to decide whether to place an order. There is no obligation to go ahead, and those who accept will be put in touch with local suppliers to arrange delivery between the 8th of June and the 19th of July. The scheme is open across mainland France, but not in Corsica.

Property owners encouraged to check wildfire and water rules

As France heads into the warmer months, property owners are being reminded to check whether their home is subject to wildfire-prevention clearance rules, as well as any local water restrictions. In areas at risk of forest fire, owners may be legally required to clear vegetation around their property, usually to a minimum depth of 50 metres around buildings and up to 10 metres on either side of private access routes. Since January 2025, sellers and landlords must also inform buyers or tenants if a property is in an area subject to this legal clearance obligation.

Water restrictions can also be introduced by prefects during periods of drought, with measures affecting activities such as watering gardens, filling swimming pools and washing vehicles. Restrictions are set locally and can range from a simple vigilance warning to a crisis level, where water use is limited to priority needs such as drinking water, health and civil security. Residents and second-home owners can check the rules for their commune via the VigiEau platform. Fines for ignoring water restrictions can reach €1,500, rising to €3,000 for repeat offences.

€1 meals extended to all university students in France

University restaurants in France have begun offering €1 meals to all students, regardless of income, in a move aimed at easing student hardship. The discounted rate was previously limited to students receiving financial aid or those on low incomes, while the standard price for a Crous three-course meal is €3.30.

Student unions had been calling for the scheme to be widened, with food insecurity a growing concern. A January survey found that 48% of students in France had gone without food for financial reasons, while 23% had done so several times a month. Around 667,000 students benefited from the €1 meal scheme in 2024, and the government is preparing for increased demand, with €120 million pledged for 2027 to support the measure.

For many international buyers, owning a home in France is not simply a property decision. It’s a life decision. The real question is not just where to buy, but how to create an enjoyable life in France without unnecessary legal and administrative hurdles. 

Pacaso was founded to address exactly that challenge. The company offers a modern co-ownership model that enables buyers to purchase a share of a professionally managed luxury home. Owners hold real property interests, while Pacaso handles home management, scheduling, and ongoing maintenance. For those who want a home in France but do not intend to live there year-round, it offers a practical alternative to full ownership.

Pacaso’s CEO and co-founder Austin Allison recently spoke with Charlie Palmer—master chef, hospitality entrepreneur, and hotelier, as well as co-founder and CEO of Appellation Hotels—who shared how he and his wife Lisa built their Paris life around a co-owned home on Rue du Bac in the 7th arrondissement. His experience offers a blueprint for professionals, retirees, and global families who want more than an occasional stay in France. Below are excerpts from Allison and Palmer’s conversation. 

Begin with Immersion

Palmer’s connection to France started long before ownership. Early in his career, he trained and worked in France, Italy, and Belgium, experiences that shaped his culinary philosophy and led to the success of his first restaurant, Aureole, and later his hospitality ventures, including Appellation Hotels.

For him, Paris is not a holiday backdrop. It is part of his working and cultural life.

“When we land, we drop our bags and head straight to our favorite restaurant,” he explained. He keeps a running list of chefs, wine merchants, and artisans he wants to visit. His wife, a former ballet dancer, immerses herself in museums, music, and performance.

The lesson is straightforward: choose a neighborhood that supports daily life. In Palmer’s case, the Left Bank offers walkability, food markets, and cultural institutions. Building a life in France begins with routine, not just real estate.

Rethinking Whole Home Ownership

Palmer previously owned a full second home in Southampton, New York. Looking back, he admits it did not make practical sense.

“We loved the house,” he said, “but our friends and family probably used it more than we did.” With demanding careers and frequent travel, the property was often underutilised while still requiring constant oversight.

That experience made Pacaso’s co-ownership model immediately compelling. Rather than buying an entire Paris apartment that might sit empty much of the year, the Palmers purchased a share in a professionally managed home.

The contrast has been significant. “Exactly the opposite of my experience in Southampton,” he noted. Maintenance, vendor coordination, and property management are handled centrally. When he suggested practical improvements such as larger televisions, wine storage, and additional owner closets, they were implemented efficiently.

Before discovering Pacaso, the couple had considered buying independently in Paris but were discouraged by the perceived complexity. “With Pacaso it was very easy,” he said. “I had an attorney review it once and said, ‘Fine, let’s go.’ The transaction was really two weeks.”

Practical Considerations for Long-Term Living

A second home in France should elevate your life — not complicate it.

1. Be realistic about usage.
A beautiful property is appealing, but think of how often you plan to visit. Pacaso’s model is designed for shared ownership of high-quality homes that are used efficiently rather than sitting vacant. For many international owners, that balance makes financial and practical sense.

2. Reduce administrative burden.
Cross-border purchases can involve notaires, tax advisers, and repeated travel. By consolidating legal structuring and ongoing management, Pacaso simplifies both the initial purchase as well as day-to-day ownership, particularly for those dividing time between countries.

3. Design for real living.
Think beyond aesthetics. The ability to tailor a professionally managed home to evolving owner needs makes long-term stays more seamless.

4. Prioritise experience.
For many Pacaso owners like Palmer, the greatest return is generational. He talks about bringing his grandchildren to Paris and showing them what daily life in the neighbourhood looks like.

A Smarter Way to Own Abroad

Palmer does not see Paris as an escape. It is built into his regular life as a location he frequents, just as New York and California are. Increasingly, entrepreneurs, remote working professionals, and retirees are structuring their lives similarly, dividing time between destinations while remaining deeply engaged in their communities.

France offers cultural depth, strong infrastructure, and global connectivity. The challenge has always been making ownership workable for modern, international lives.

For those serious about building a life in France, Pacaso’s co-ownership model presents a smart, structured path forward. It combines real property ownership with professional management, reduces complexity, and makes long-term international living attainable.

“Life is big,” Palmer said. “Enjoy it.”

Paris is waiting. Discover co-ownership with personalised guidance from a Pacaso specialist.

Freddy Rueda

Photo: Shutterstock

Photo: Shutterstock

Photo: Shutterstock

Photo: Shutterstock

After a Brexit banking agreement, UK-issued bank cards will no longer be accepted at certain businesses in Europe, and stricter rules for sending parcels outside the European Union have been introduced. Around 28,000 hectares of vineyards will be destroyed, and Transavia, the French budget airline, has cancelled flights due to limited fuel supply. Here are the headlines from French newspapers this week.

Businesses and Tolls to Reject British Bank Cards

Some businesses in France are becoming more restrictive in their acceptance of UK-issued bank cards, an effect of post-Brexit banking arrangements. While major Visa and Mastercard payments generally still go through, there are increasing reports of refusals at smaller shops, rural businesses, and automated machines such as ticket kiosks and petrol pumps. 

This is often linked to higher processing fees or additional verification requirements for non-EU cards. UK visitors are advised to carry an alternative form of payment, such as cash or another card, to avoid disruption when making everyday purchases.

New International Postage Rules Introduced

France has introduced stricter rules for sending parcels outside the European Union, tightening customs procedures for international post. Anyone sending items abroad must now complete more detailed customs declarations, accurately listing contents, value, and purpose of the shipment. 

Parcels that are incorrectly declared or missing documentation risk being delayed, returned to the sender, or subject to additional fees on arrival. These changes are particularly relevant for shipments to destinations such as the United States and reflect broader efforts to enforce international shipping regulations.

France to Cut 28,000 Hectares of Vineyards Amid Wine Oversupply

France is set to remove around 28,000 hectares of vineyards as part of a major restructuring effort aimed at tackling oversupply and declining wine consumption. The plan will mainly affect red wine producers in areas such as Bordeaux and Languedoc, where demand has fallen most sharply. 

Around 5,800 growers have opted in, with some expected to uproot all their vines and leave wine production entirely. Others plan to scale back their vineyards to match current market conditions and stabilise prices.

Transavia Cancels Flights as Jet Fuel Prices Rise

The French budget airline, Transavia, has cancelled 2% of its scheduled flights in May and June, as jet fuel prices raise concerns over potential shortages during the summer travel period. 

The disruption is linked to reduced fuel flows through the Strait of Hormuz, which has pushed up costs and forced airlines to adjust timetables or consolidate routes. Affected passengers are being offered rebooking, vouchers, or refunds, as the carrier tries to limit financial losses while maintaining most of its network.

With warmer weather on the horizon, thousands of Brits are gearing up to fly out from airports this summer. But as peak travel season approaches, experts are warning that new regulations and overlooked passport rules could catch travellers off guard. 

Here’s how to avoid unexpected issues this summer, from a travel expert at Good Business Travel: 

1. Check your Passport for Damage

A damaged passport can stop your trip before it even begins. Airlines have the authority to refuse boarding to passengers with passports that show signs of wear, including minor ones. Issues such as water damage, peeling laminate, missing pages or heavy creasing can all raise red flags at check-in. 

“Some countries also refuse emergency or temporary passports, particularly for visa-free entry,” says Natasha Inglis, Implementation and Client Success Director at Good Business Travel. 

“This means travellers who’ve replaced a lost or damaged passport on short notice could still run into problems.”

2. Don’t Just Check the Expiry Date

Many travellers assume their passport is valid as long as it hasn’t reached its expiry date written on it, but that’s not always the case. To enter EU countries and the Schengen area, UK passports must be less than 10 years old on the day of arrival. 

This means a passport can technically still be ‘in date’ but fail to meet entry requirements. Make sure to check both the issue date and the expiry date are essential to avoid any last-minute problems at the airport. 

3. Make Sure you Have Enough Blank Pages

Since Brexit, UK travellers will get their passports stamped when entering and leaving EU countries. While this is being phased out with new digital systems, such as the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES), it’s still important to have enough blank pages while this is still being rolled out. 

“Many countries require at least one or two completely blank pages, and passengers can be refused entry if there isn’t enough space,” says Ms Inglis. “It’s worth noting that a page with space left doesn’t count as blank, even if it only has one stamp.”

4. Prepare for EU Border Delays

The introduction of the EU’s EES means additional checks at borders, and we’ve already seen the initial fallout of this from the Easter holiday rush, where hundreds of passengers missed their flights due to the long queue times. 

Travellers entering the Schengen area for the first time since April will need to provide biometric data, including fingerprint scans and photographs. Travellers are advised to arrive earlier than usual to allow for potential delays. 

5. Dual Citizens Must Use the Correct Passport

Recent changes to the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) rules have created complications for dual nationals. 

“British passport holders who also hold another nationality are required to enter the UK on their British passport, or otherwise carry with them a certificate of entitlement,” says Ms Inglis. Travelling with the wrong passport can lead to questioning, delays at passport control, or even being denied boarding. 

To ensure a smooth journey, dual citizens should always travel with the correct documentation. 

Travel requirements for Brits heading to Europe are evolving, which can feel daunting at first. However, with some simple preparation and by checking key details ahead of time, travellers can avoid stressful situations and make the most of their trip.

Alice Burrows is assistant professor of applied linguistics at Sorbonne Nouvelle University in Paris

In rural France little English is spoken

Photo: Shutterstock

Estelle Liébert runs popular restaurant Le Darnetal in Montreuil-sur-Mer

Photo: Shutterstock

waiters in France are skilled professionals _shutterstock

From tomorrow, new rules surrounding travelling with pets in the EU will come into effect, individuals will be notified if they are affected by a large-scale data breach from a cyberattack, and the swimming pool tax drops for the first time in 10 years. Here are the headlines from French newspapers this week.

New Rules for Travelling to the EU with Pets 

From tomorrow (22 April 2026), new EU rules mean UK residents can no longer use EU-issued pet passports to travel with dogs, cats, or ferrets from Great Britain to France and other EU countries. Instead, pet owners must obtain an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) from a vet for each trip, which is valid only for a single journey and must be renewed every time they travel. 

The change reflects EU regulations that restrict pet passports to EU residents, making travel more administrative and potentially more expensive for UK pet owners, while rules for returning to Great Britain remain unchanged.

Mass Data Leak from Cyberattack on ANTS

A cyberattack on France’s official document agency, Agence Nationale des Titres Sécurisés (ANTS), has led to a breach of personal data from its online portal used for services like passports, ID cards, and driving licences. Hackers accessed information, including names, email addresses, and dates of birth from user accounts, though authorities said the data does not allow direct access to accounts or sensitive supporting documents. 

The number of people affected has not been announced, but individuals will be contacted if impacted and are advised to be alert to phishing scams. The department has strengthened its security since the attack and filed a criminal complaint.

Swimming Pool Tax Lowered for First Time in a Decade

France’s tax on new swimming pools, taxe d’aménagement, will be reduced in 2026 for the first time in almost ten years, dropping the rate by about 4.2% to €251 per square metre. The change reflects a fall in construction costs, but homeowners building pools larger than 10m² must still declare them within 90 days of completion or risk penalties. Local authorities can also apply their own additional charges and warn that undeclared pools are increasingly likely to be found using satellite imaging and AI.

Tarascon-sur-Ariegev, Photo: Shutterstock

Moving to France is an exciting life change, whether you are relocating permanently, buying a second home, or planning a long-term stay. But alongside property searches, visas and removals, one practical area that is often overlooked is insurance.

France has a regulated insurance system, and understanding the cover you may need before you arrive can help you avoid costly surprises. From healthcare to property protection, here are five key insurance areas to consider when relocating.

1. Health insurance: your first priority

Healthcare is one of the first things to check when moving to France, but the rules depend on your status. If you move to France to work, you are generally attached to the French social security system through that employment. If you are not working, access to French healthcare may depend on whether you are living in France legally and stably.

In some visa situations, you may also need to show proof of medical insurance for part or all of your initial stay in France. That means private medical cover can be important at the beginning, especially before your position in the French system is fully in place.

Once you are covered by the French public system, you may still want a mutuelle, or complementary health insurance. This can help cover all or part of the costs not reimbursed by the state system, depending on the policy.

2. Property insurance for your French home

If you are moving into a rented home in France, home insurance is usually compulsory. A tenant under a standard residential lease must take out insurance covering at least the main rental risks, including fire, water damage and explosion.

If you are buying a property, the position is slightly different. If the home is already insured, the insurance contract is automatically transferred on the sale. For owner-occupiers, insurance is not always legally compulsory, but it is strongly recommended. In a copropriété, owners must at least have civil liability cover.

French home insurance policies often cover core risks such as fire, water damage and civil liability. Other protections, such as theft, may vary depending on the contract, so it is important to check exactly what is included.

3. Car insurance: legally required

If you plan to drive in France, motor insurance is compulsory. At a minimum, your vehicle must be insured for third-party liability, which covers damage or injury caused to others.

Insurers may also offer wider protection, including fire, theft and comprehensive cover, but these are optional extras beyond the legal minimum. If you are importing a vehicle or arranging a new French policy, it is worth checking the exact level of cover, exclusions and conditions before driving.

4. Personal liability insurance

In France, civil liability insurance is an important form of protection. It covers damage or injury caused to other people by you or by things under your responsibility, and it is often included in a home insurance policy.

It is still worth checking the scope of cover and any exclusions carefully, particularly if you are renting, living in a copropriété, or arranging a new policy after a move.

5. Life, disability and income protection

If you are planning to live or work in France for the long term, you may also want to consider personal protection insurance such as life cover, incapacity cover or invalidity-related protection. These are not part of the core relocation formalities in the same way as health, housing or motor insurance, but they can still form part of your wider financial planning.

As with any insurance product, the level of protection depends on the contract and the circumstances in which it applies. It is worth checking carefully what is covered, under what conditions, and whether the policy is optional or linked to borrowing or employment arrangements.

Getting advice before you move

Every move to France is different, and your insurance needs will depend on your visa status, work situation, housing arrangements and whether you plan to drive. The key point is to separate what is legally required from what is simply recommended, and to make sure you have the right protection in place from the outset.

France is currently the world’s number one destination for destination weddings. This is not a temporary trend. It represents a structural shift driven by sustained international demand.

The American market is booming. The British market has remained strong for years. Canadian, Dutch and Belgian clients are increasingly active, alongside a highly engaged domestic French market. For investors who understand this sector, acquiring a château today represents a significant strategic opportunity. However, an opportunity at this level always comes with responsibility and disciplined decision-making.

One of the most compelling reasons to invest is France’s unique global positioning. It represents heritage, elegance and lifestyle. For international couples, getting married in a French château is not simply an event; it is an immersive experience rooted in history and romance.

This demand creates real economic potential for properties that are professionally positioned and properly operated. A château that is aligned with market expectations can generate consistent revenue while building long-term brand equity.

A château is not only a hospitality opportunity; it is also a rare real estate asset. Its intrinsic value tends to appreciate over time due to scarcity, heritage significance and land ownership.

Investors are therefore acquiring something tangible, unique and historically valuable. When that asset is combined with a well-structured wedding and events business, the financial model becomes particularly attractive. The combination of long-term real estate appreciation and recurring business income makes château ownership one of the most compelling investment categories available today.

However, this outcome is not automatic.

One of the most significant risks lies in renovation and construction decisions. Many owners exceed budgets on improvements that have little or no impact on profitability. It is remarkably easy to spend hundreds of thousands of euros on aesthetic upgrades that do not increase pricing power, occupancy rates or overall attractiveness to the right client demographic.

Every investment decision must be strategically secured and commercially justified. Strategy must guide renovation, not emotion.

Another frequent mistake is poor commercial positioning. Some owners lose two or three critical years focusing on platforms, directories or marketing channels that fail to deliver qualified clients. These channels can be time-consuming, expensive and ineffective.

Time is the most expensive resource an owner can lose. Avoiding these early missteps can dramatically accelerate return on investment.

Surrounding yourself with experienced professionals is essential. Experts who understand the château wedding market can help you position the property correctly, avoid costly strategic errors, accelerate profitability and unlock the full commercial potential of the asset.

The difference between success and failure is rarely the building itself. It is the strategy behind it. When structured correctly, return on investment can be rapid. Combined with long-term real estate appreciation, a château can become one of the most powerful and rewarding investments available.

But it must be approached as a business, not simply as a romantic real estate acquisition. France remains the world’s leading wedding destination. Demand is strong. The market is active. Opportunities are real. For investors who approach château acquisition with clarity, structure and strategic discipline, buying today is not just a dream. It is a smart investment decision.

To explore how strategic positioning can transform a château’s profitability, visit www.thevenueadvisors.com.
If you are considering acquiring or repositioning a château wedding venue, discover more insights at www.thevenueadvisors.com

The French government is set to hold a final vote tomorrow on localising low-emission zone regulations. From 2027, gas boilers will be prohibited in new buildings. A reminder has also been issued on keeping dogs on leads to protect wildlife during mating season. Meanwhile, SNCF plans to expand rail links into Italy but is facing legal challenges. Here are the headlines from French newspapers this week.

France To End Low-Emission Zones in Final Vote

France’s National Assembly voted on Wednesday, 8 April, to abolish low-emission zones (ZFE), with the proposal passing by 98 votes in favour to 51 against. The measure is part of a wider “simplification” bill and would remove restrictions that currently apply in around 25 urban areas across France, where vehicles are regulated based on emissions standards.

However, the decision is not yet finalised. A competing government amendment is currently being debated that would instead allow local authorities to decide whether to keep or scrap the zones, rather than removing them nationwide. A final key step is a Senate vote scheduled for Wednesday, 15 April, which will determine whether the abolition stands or is softened into a local-choice system.

Gas Boilers to be Banned in Newbuilds from 2027

France has announced that gas boilers will be banned in all newly constructed buildings from the end of 2026, including homes, apartments, offices and shops, as part of a broader plan to shift away from fossil fuels.

The change hopes to reduce France’s current exposure to unpredictable global energy prices and its reliance on ‘domestically produced’ electricity. The government will also expand its subsidised leasing scheme for electric cars to target high-mileage workers and encourage businesses to switch to electric vehicles, in an effort to honour its environmental pledges.

Reminder of Lead Rules for Dog Owners

Dog owners in France are being reminded of seasonal rules requiring dogs to be kept on a lead in forest areas during spring, specifically from April 15 to June 30. The restriction applies when walking off official paths in woods and forests, and is designed to protect wildlife during the breeding and nesting season. 

Outside of forest trails, dogs can still roam more freely but must remain under control and within about 100 metres of their owner. Anyone breaking the rules can face fines, as the measures are enforced to protect wildlife at a crucial time of year.

SNCF to Expand its Routes to Italian Hubs 

France’s national rail operator, SNCF, is hoping to enter Italy’s high-speed train market, with plans to start running domestic services from around 2026. It would put SNCF in direct competition with existing operators already offering links between cities such as Milan, Rome and Naples. 

However, the plans are currently tied up in a legal dispute, with SNCF challenging restrictions linked to access to Italy’s rail network and infrastructure, meaning the court’s decision will play a key role in determining whether the expansion can go ahead.

If you own a second home in France, your visits often come with a familiar rhythm: time with family, enjoying the region… and inevitably, a few purchases along the way.

From clothing and beauty products to gifts or personal items, these purchases quickly add up. What many non-EU residents don’t fully realise is that a part of this spending can be recovered.

Thanks to VAT refunds (tax-free shopping), you can reclaim the VAT paid on eligible goods — typically up to 20% of the purchase price.

A simple principle that is often overlooked

VAT refunds apply to goods that are purchased in France and taken out unused of the European Union.

In practice, this means that items you buy during your stay and bring back with you to the UK can qualify for a refund.

It’s a straightforward principle, but one that is often underused, especially by regular visitors who don’t necessarily think of their trips as “tax-free opportunities”.

A matter of awareness, not complexity

For many second-home owners, the challenge isn’t eligibility. It’s timing.

VAT refunds are rarely top of mind when travelling back and forth between countries. Purchases are made naturally, without necessarily thinking about the administrative side.

Yet with the right reflex, asking for the correct invoice and validating your documents before leaving the EU, the process is simple and accessible.

A more seamless way to manage VAT refunds

In recent years, digital solutions have made VAT refunds significantly easier to handle.

Zapptax is one of them, offering a fully digital experience designed for frequent travellers and expatriates.

With Zapptax:

• you request an invoice in Zapptax’s name when shopping in France
• upload it directly in the app
• your tax-free forms are generated automatically
• you validate them at customs when leaving the EU
• and receive your refund afterwards

The app allows you to manage multiple purchases across different trips, without paperwork or unnecessary complexity. 

Good to know : with Zapptax, you can order goods online, make them delivered in France and have them tax-free when returning home. You simply need to add Zapptax invoicing details when placing your order online.

Making the most of each trip

Owning a second home in France means travelling regularly, and these trips naturally come with spending.

Without changing your habits, simply being aware of VAT refunds allows you to make those purchases more efficient.A simple reflex before your next trip: think VAT refund.

Download the Zapptax app and make the most of your purchases in France.

To live in France, you’ll need to learn a lot about its healthcare system, because, for good or bad, it works a little differently from what most are used to. For example, you’ve probably heard about “mutuelle.” Here’s what it actually means for your wallet (and your wellbeing).

What is a French mutuelle?

The French Sécurité Sociale (public healthcare system) is excellent, but it doesn’t cover 100% of your medical costs. While it varies by treatment type, it typically reimburses around 60–70% of the state-set rate. The rest comes out of your pocket (that is, unless you have a mutuelle).

A mutuelle is supplementary health insurance that tops up what the state pays. Think of it as the missing piece that turns good coverage into comprehensive coverage. Around 95% of people living in France have one, and for good reason.

Your employer will have to provide a company-wide mutuelle and pay half the costs, but if you’re anything other than an employee (think self-employed, retired, or arriving as an expat), you’ll need to arrange your own.

When you’re first getting used to the system, it’s helpful to have a mutuelle provider that serves its customers in English, like Feather.

What does a mutuelle cover?

The specifics depend on your plan, but most mutuelles cover these key areas.

• The hospital stay gap: The public system covers 80% of hospital costs. Your mutuelle picks up the remaining 20%, and many plans also cover extras like a private room.
• Dental care: This is where a mutuelle really earns its keep. Fillings and cleanings get partial state reimbursement, but crowns, bridges, and dentures can be expensive without top-up cover.
• Optical care: The government provides barely any coverage for both glasses and contact lenses. That’s where a lot of Mutuelle will provide a ton of value, because they typically offer an annual allowance between €100 and €300. That you can use on anything from frames to eye exams or lenses.
• Specialist consultations: Many specialists in France charge above the state-set rate (known as “dépassement d’honoraires”). Without a mutuelle, you’d cover that difference yourself.
• Alternative therapies: It will vary depending on your plan, but if you select one with relatively strong coverage, you might get coverage for services that Sécurité Sociale doesn’t reimburse at all, such as osteopaths, acupuncturists, or other practitioners.

What isn’t covered?

You’re still gonna need to be paying some out-of-pocket costs even though you sign up for a Mutuelle, for example:

• The €1 co-payment: This is standard everywhere in France. All doctors and specialists must charge the end consumer at least €1.
• Dental implants: implants aren’t necessarily recognised by the public system, unlike crowns and bridges. If this is something important to you, there are some mutuelles out there that offer partial coverage, but many don’t.
• Adult orthodontics: Only the most expensive Mutuelle will contribute to adult orthodontics. Otherwise, the typical cutoff age for treatment coverage is 16 to 18 years old.
• Cosmetic procedures: Of course, elective cosmetic treatments that aren’t medically necessary will have to be paid out of pocket.
• The “100% reimbursement” catch: This is something that catches a lot of people off guard. If your plan says 100% coverage, that doesn’t mean 100% of the final bill. It just means 100% of the official Social Security rate. Hence, what that means is if your doctor charges more than the rate (which you should always double check before getting whatever treatment you’re considering), you are still going to have some out-of-pocket cost.

How to choose the right mutuelle

Always compare plans, and when you do, pay close attention to the different levels of reimbursement, especially for dental and vision care, because this is where there will be the most variation between insurance companies. It’s also the areas most likely to cause frustration if you didn’t explore them thoroughly beforehand.

You’ll also want a plan that uses the “tiers payant” system. That’s where your doctor/healthcare professional bills the insurer directly, so you don’t pay upfront and wait for reimbursement. And if you’re an expat, being able to manage everything in English makes a real difference when you’re navigating claims or choosing a provider.

This is exactly why we created Feather’s private mutuelle. It’s designed specifically for expats in France: strong dental and optical coverage, tiers payant included, flexible monthly plans you can cancel anytime, and an entirely English-language experience from sign-up to claims.

What about the gap before your mutuelle kicks in?

If you’re newly arrived in France, there’s often a waiting period of several months before you’re registered with Sécurité Sociale and can access a mutuelle. During that time, you still need health coverage, especially since it’s a visa requirement.

Feather’s expat health insurance covers you from day one (no medical checks, no long-term lock-in, and everything in English). Once you’re registered with the public system, you can switch straight to our private mutuelle, so your coverage never has a gap.

Thinking of swapping a flat in Fulham for a farmhouse in France? From packing to paperwork, international moves can come with challenges. Trusted movers AnyVan have put together a helpful guide on the most common mistakes to avoid when moving furniture from the UK to France. Here are 5 mistakes to look out for: 

1. Not planning ahead

One of the most common mistakes people make is leaving the move to the last minute. Moving to another country takes time to organise, and being hasty often leads to higher costs, limited availability, and unnecessary stress. AnyVan suggests starting at least two to three months in advance to avoid the rush. 

A good place to start is by creating a checklist. This should include sorting your belongings, researching international removal companies, booking your transport in advance, and preparing documents for customs. Booking early can help you secure better rates and ensure availability for your preferred dates.

2. Underestimating packing 

Packing furniture for international transport isn’t quite the same as packing for a local move. If you’re doing it yourself, make sure you use strong packing materials and wrap items carefully to avoid damage.

Label boxes clearly and keep a list of what’s inside each one. This is also useful when preparing your customs inventory. Take a look at AnyVan’s international packing guide for more expert packing tips and tricks. 

3. Moving items you don’t actually need

Now’s the perfect time to channel your inner Marie Kondo. Don’t pay to transport stuff you don’t love (or even like). It’s a common mistake that can cost you hundreds of pounds.

International removals are usually priced by volume, so it makes sense to avoid taking things that aren’t essential. If you’re unsure about whether to bring certain items, consider whether they’re worth the transport cost to you. 

You can sell or donate things you no longer need. Or, if you’re not quite ready to part with them, using a storage solution is a good option. AnyVan offers secure UK storage with flexible access when you’re ready.

4. Incomplete or incorrect paperwork

Since Brexit, moving goods from the UK to France requires customs paperwork, and missing documents can lead to delays at the border (which no one wants!).

Key documents include:

• A detailed inventory of all items
• Proof of your new residence in France
• Completed customs declaration forms

Good news! If you’re moving your main residence and the goods have been owned for more than six months, you can usually move them without paying import duties or VAT. That said, the paperwork still needs to be accurate.

Some international removal services, including AnyVan, help with customs documentation to make sure everything is correct and ready before you travel.

5. Trying to do it all yourself

Unless you’re an expert at international logistics (and have a van, mates with muscles, and nerves of steel), it’s best to leave this one to the pros.

A trusted removals service like AnyVan won’t just help you move, they can help protect your furniture, sort the admin, and make sure your prized glass coffee table arrives in one piece. Plus, they include options for additional insurance and extra care for fragile items.

You can use AnyVan’s free quote tool to compare prices from trusted international movers in minutes. Save up to 40% on your move, with flexible options and relax knowing that your furniture will get to France safely for a great price.

We have been looking at what property management in France really is, and why absentee owners need to source reliable and trustworthy property caretakers to ensure they can truly enjoy their ownership of a property at a distance. For this article we consider how regular inspection or security visits to your property can help at many levels to reach that goal.

More Than a Walk-Around

Inspecting a property isn’t only a matter of walking around its perimeter and checking there are no obvious signs of damage or vandalism, although that must be the first check item on arrival at any property. Once inside we also encourage the reading of electricity, gas and water meters at each visit, logging those in the client file so that any out-of-the-ordinary use can be investigated further. We can also assist with notifying the utility companies of current usage as needed.

One such example was from Les Bons Voisins in the Occitanie region where they were able to spot an apparent use of water out of all proportion to the norm during a visit one spring to a property with a pool. The pool was built into a hillside and surrounded by a landscaped rockery which had completely disguised a water leak due to a broken underground pipe: it wasn’t enough to be obvious as far as the level in the pool was concerned (the lowering of which had been attributed to evaporation!) but it was certainly enough to potentially build up over time into an enormous water bill for the absentee owner. Logging the water meter reading drew the issue to the attention of the property manager, who was able to arrange a simple fix and avoid a potentially huge cost.

Good to know: Most French properties now have the smart Linky electricity meter (managed by Enedis), which transmits electricity readings automatically — and owners can monitor their consumption remotely at mon-compte-particulier.enedis.fr. Water and gas meters are generally not yet smart, however, and still benefit greatly from manual logging by your property manager during inspection visits.

Keeping the Electricity On

If there are no long gaps between visitors to a property, many clients will often prefer to keep the electricity switched on, perhaps leaving items in the freezer, and saving them from the potential headache of switching the Livebox supplying the Wi-Fi back on — in case it is temperamental and might take days to settle back down. If this is the case, inspection visits are vitally important in case there has been any temporary cut in the supply due to weather conditions. Electricity cuts are far more frequent in France than people in the United Kingdom are used to, particularly in rural areas.

Orange’s Livebox remains France’s most widely used home internet router. More recent models (Livebox 5 and 6) are more stable, but rural line quality varies significantly. Owners of rural second homes should consider asking their property manager to physically restart the Livebox after any reported power cut, or invest in a 4G/5G backup dongle as an extra precaution.

Security: Varied, Vigilant and Up to Date

Our inspection visits, although regular, are always varied as to day and time, and if we can, we occasionally open shutters and leave them open for a few days, giving the property the appearance of being occupied. This helps to avoid targeting from opportunist criminal elements. A suitable combination of visible security — CCTV, a prominent alarm system, smart lighting on timers, and a property that appears occupied — remains a strong deterrent. The technology available to homeowners has improved considerably in recent years and is now more affordable and remotely accessible than ever.

It is worth noting that France’s official statistics body (SSMSI) has reported a modest rise in burglaries in recent years, and rural properties are specifically at risk: research shows that rural burglars are often better prepared than opportunistic urban ones, researching targets via online maps and monitoring owners’ social media to confirm when homes are empty. Isolated holiday homes are disproportionately vulnerable, making regular, varied inspection visits all the more important.

Practical security tips for 2026: 1. Do not post holiday plans or photos on social media. 2. Register with Opération Tranquillité Vacances — a free gendarmerie scheme where officers check on your property while you are away (register at your local brigade or via gendarmerie.interieur.gouv.fr). 3. Remotely viewable CCTV, smart doorbells and programmable lighting timers are now affordable and widely available. 4. A visible, local property manager remains one of the most effective deterrents of all.

The Best Security: Les Bons Voisins

With our own network being called ‘Les Bons Voisins’ (the good neighbours), the best assistance of all for any absentee owner and their property manager is to make friends with the actual neighbours of the property. We always ensure that we make ourselves known to the neighbours on either side of a property we are caring for, leaving them our contact details and asking them to alert us if they see anything untoward.

In fact, the most helpful heads-up I personally ever had from a neighbour was a phone call to let me know I had left a Velux window wide open and there was a large storm brewing shortly after. I had time to return to the property and shut the window — which was above the double bed in the master bedroom — and avoid significant and embarrassing damage that would have been caused by the deluge a few hours later. A nice bottle of wine and heartfelt thanks was duly delivered to that neighbour on my next visit!

A Worthwhile Investment

The investment in a property in France is not insignificant, so it would be false economy to stint on its ongoing management. Regular inspection visits can truly spot issues before they become problems, as well as give you the peace of mind you want as an absentee owner. As with the old stitch-in-time proverb, a few euros spent on asking your property manager to make regular inspection visits will save you the angst of the unknown and provide reassurance and timely reaction to issues — all of which are beyond price.

Inspection Visits for Letting Properties Too

Inspection visits are not necessarily just for vacant properties. If you have paying guests in your property, having your property manager pop in during their stay to check on the property can also have the benefit of ensuring the guests are happy and have no issues with their stay. This level of customer service can be a wonderful investment.

Gone are the days when an unhappy holidaymaker didn’t have a platform on which to share their views. Today, reviews on platforms such as Airbnb, Booking.com, Vrbo and Abritel are central to booking success — and a single poor review can have a real impact. Your friendly professional property manager visiting on your behalf makes your guests feel welcomed, valued and looked after on a whole different level to many other properties, resulting in great feedback and recommendations.

French legislation has tightened rules around short-term letting in recent years, and 2026 brings further significant changes under the Loi Le Meur (November 2024). All furnished tourist lets must now be registered via a national online service by May 2026, with a registration number displayed on all listings. Tax relief for unclassified short-term rentals has been sharply reduced — the micro-BIC income threshold drops to €15,000 with only a 30% allowance, making it far less advantageous than before. Having your property formally classified (1–5 stars) preserves more favourable tax treatment. Municipalities also have new powers to cap rental days or restrict short-term letting in their area. If you are letting your property, it is well worth seeking up-to-date tax and compliance advice — your property manager will be happy to point you in the right direction.

Visit Les Bons Voisins: www.lbvfrance.com

Email: [email protected]

Tel: 0033 (0) 562 29 26 62

The window for taxpayers to submit their 2025 income will open this Thursday, France’s departments suffer varying levels of ‘diesel drought’ due to ongoing international conflicts, and new registration rules for UK caravan & trailer drivers in Europe have been launched. Here are the headlines from French newspapers this week.

French Income Tax Declaration to Open This Week

On 9 April, the limited window for taxpayers to file their income tax returns for 2025 will open. The deadlines will vary if you use paper or online declarations. Paper declarations must be submitted first; your return must be posted by 19 May 2026, not received by then. 

Deadlines for online declarations vary by department:

Departments 1-19: Thursday, 21 May 2026 Non-residents with a French-source income must also submit by this date

Departments: 20-54 (including Corsica): Wednesday, 27 May 2026

Departments 55-976 (including Overseas) Thursday, 4 June 2026

Online declarations are made through the personal space on the impots.gouv.fr website.

France Hit with Diesel Shortages

Due to the ongoing conflict in Iran, France is experiencing fuel shortages nationwide, driving prices to a record high of €2.33 per litre. Around 13% of petrol stations are running low on or have run out of diesel, which is by far the country’s most widely used fuel. 

The severity of this ‘diesel drought’ varies from department to department, with some areas feeling the squeeze much harder than others. Territoire de Belfort, Indre-et-Loire, and Tarn-et-Garonne are among the most affected, where around a fifth or more stations are facing shortages. 

UK Caravan Owners Warned Over New Number Plate Rules

Caravans and trailers over 750kg must now be registered before travelling to many European countries, including France. Once registered, a separate trailer registration number and plate must be displayed alongside the car’s number plate. 

A duplicate of the car’s plate on the caravan is no longer sufficient for British caravan/trailer drivers travelling abroad. Drivers must also carry their registration certificate and be ready to show it if stopped. Failing to comply with these new rules could lead to delays at borders or fines up to €750.

France is set to miss the deadline for registering travellers in the EES system, while French lorry drivers are protesting over increasing fuel prices, and new residency changes for French citizens will take effect on April 1. Here are the headlines from French newspapers this week.

France to miss EES Deadline for Registering Travellers 

France is expected to miss the EU’s deadline to fully register all travellers under the new Entry/Exit System (EES) due to ongoing technical problems with equipment and software used to collect biometric data. The deadline, March 31, 2026, is part of a phased rollout ahead of full system operation from April 10, when passport stamping is due to end.

However, issues such as malfunctioning pre-registration kiosks, difficulties linking national systems to EU databases, and concerns about long border queues have slowed progress. Similar delays are being seen elsewhere in Europe, and authorities are considering more flexible timelines to cope, introducing partial suspensions of the EES system in busier periods while fixes are implemented.

French Lorry Drivers to Protest Against Fuel Costs This Week

Lorry drivers across France are staging nationwide protests this week, which will cause major disruption on motorways and in cities. The protesters are demanding greater government support to offset rising fuel costs, triggered by the conflict in Iran. Action began over the weekend with blockades on key routes such as the A7 near Lyon and the A71/A89 around Clermont-Ferrand, instigating a “go-slow” (snail) operation in Paris, clogging the surrounding ring road. 

Further disruption is expected in multiple regions, including Pays-de-la-Loire, Occitanie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, and Nouvelle-Aquitaine, with blockades of major roads and access points to public buildings. The protests follow a breakdown in negotiations with the government, whose proposed fuel discount has been widely criticised by industry leaders as insufficient.

April Changes for French Residents

From 1 April 2026, several changes take effect in France affecting energy costs, benefits, and healthcare communications. Gas prices will fall slightly, by about 0.7%, reducing costs for both heating and cooking. At the same time, the annual chèque énergie scheme opens the same day, with eligible households beginning to receive vouchers worth up to €277 between April 1 – 20 to help pay energy bills. In healthcare, the state system (Assurance Maladie) will introduce a new, clearer email format to make official messages easier to recognise and navigate.

Join our Webinar on Buying Property & Moving to France

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French has been named the world’s fourth most spoken language, a free webinar for UK residents planning a move to France is just days away, and Air France is preparing to launch a new London Gatwick to Paris route. Elsewhere this week, homeowners in some parts of France are being reminded of undergrowth clearance rules ahead of the warmer months, Americans living in France are approaching key US tax deadlines, and teachers’ unions are preparing for industrial action at the end of March. Here are the headlines from France this week.

French overtakes Arabic to become world’s fourth most spoken language

French is now the world’s fourth most spoken language, according to the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie’s 2026 report, with 396 million speakers across five continents, meaning it has moved ahead of standard Arabic to take fourth place behind English, Mandarin and Spanish. The figures are a reminder that French is not just the language of France, but a truly global language with growing weight in education, business and digital life. The same report notes that French is also the fourth most used language on the internet and is studied by almost 170 million learners worldwide, underlining its continued international reach and influence.

Last chance: Moving to France in 2026 free webinar

Last chance to register for FrenchEntrée’s upcoming webinar, Moving to France in 2026: Essential Information for UK Residents, taking place on Thursday March 26 at 4pm GMT. Aimed at UK residents planning a move to France this year, the session will offer practical guidance on the key questions to consider before relocating, from finances and property to visas, legal matters and healthcare, making it a useful one-stop overview for anyone hoping to make the process smoother and less daunting.

New Air France London – Paris route

Air France is launching a new twice-daily service between Paris Charles de Gaulle and London Gatwick on the 29th of March. The route will be operated by Airbus A220 aircraft and adds Gatwick to Air France’s existing London network alongside Heathrow and London City. Elsewhere on the 2026 schedule, new France links are also due to launch from London Stansted to Paris Charles de Gaulle, Manchester to Montpellier, Birmingham to Nice and, from summer, London to Toulon. Across the Atlantic, Paris Charles de Gaulle is also adding Las Vegas, while Nice is set to gain a new nonstop connection from Boston.

Undergrowth clearance rules

Property owners in fire-prone parts of France are again being reminded of the rules on débroussaillement, the legal obligation to clear undergrowth around buildings. The requirement can apply to properties located within 200 metres of woodland, scrub or moorland, and the clearance zone usually extends at least 50 metres from the building, sometimes beyond the boundary of the plot. Find out your obligations as a homeowner here.

US tax deadlines for Americans in France

Americans living in France are approaching two key US tax deadlines: the 15th of April remains the standard date for paying any federal tax due for the 2025 tax year, while those living abroad receive an automatic extension to the 15th of June to file their return. Many people will not actually owe US tax because they can use provisions such as the foreign earned income exclusion, which is $130,000 per qualifying person for tax year 2025, and the foreign tax credit, but they still generally need to file in order to claim those benefits. Anyone with non-US financial accounts totalling more than $10,000 at any point in the year may also need to file an FBAR, which is due on the 15th of April but is automatically extended to the 15th of October. Americans abroad who need more time to file their return can also request a further extension to the 15th of October by submitting Form 4868 by the 15th of June.

Teacher strikes planned

Industrial action is set to return to France at the end of the month, with several major teachers’ unions calling a nationwide strike on Tuesday the 31st of March as part of a wider week of action running from the 30th of March to the 3rd of April over education budget cuts. Wider rolling strike notices also remain in place across parts of the public sector, including a civil-service notice running until the 31st of March, allowing local stoppages to be called at short notice. On the transport side, the clearest current disruption linked to industrial action is on some TER services in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, where train timetables may be adjusted because of social movements, while several upcoming interruptions on the Paris network are being presented as engineering works rather than strike action, including planned closures on Metro lines 13 and 14 later this week.

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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.