France Braces for November Changes as Costs Rise and Protests Continue: News Digest

As November approaches, several changes are coming into effect across France, affecting tenants, property owners and motorists. The government has announced plans to reduce fuel prices, winter driving requirements return in mountain areas, and the annual eviction truce begins. Meanwhile, new education reforms have been announced following weeks of demonstrations, with further protests expected in the coming days. Here are the headlines you need to know about France this week.

Winter Eviction Truce Begins on 1 November

France’s annual winter eviction truce begins on 1 November and runs until 31 March 2027. During this period, landlords generally cannot evict tenants from their homes, even if a court has ruled in their favour over unpaid rent. Gas and electricity disconnections are also prohibited during the winter period. However, there are exceptions, including certain cases involving squatters and properties deemed unsafe. The truce does not cancel outstanding rent debts, and eviction proceedings may resume once the period ends. The rules are particularly relevant for landlords and tenants navigating the French rental system.

French Government Announces Fuel Price Cuts from November

Motorists in France could benefit from lower fuel prices from 1 November, following a government announcement on 22 October. The release of 10 million barrels from strategic oil stocks is intended to reduce pump prices by an estimated 12 to 18 cents per litre between November and January. The government is also offering financial support to eligible independent rural petrol stations to help ensure the reductions reach customers. Actual savings will depend on how quickly individual stations pass on the lower prices, making it worth comparing prices locally over the coming weeks.

Sterling Strengthens as French Property Buyers Gain More Spending Power

Sterling is currently trading close to €1.19 against the euro, giving British buyers looking at property in France a stronger exchange rate than at this time last year, when the pound was closer to €1.15. The approximately 4% appreciation means that a £100,000 transfer now converts to around €4,000 more than it would have a year ago, offering additional purchasing power for those considering a French holiday home, investment property or permanent residence.

However, exchange rates are only one part of the overall cost of buying property abroad. The rate offered by a currency specialist can differ from that available through a traditional high street bank, potentially making a significant difference on larger transfers. Moneycorp can help buyers understand their options and plan currency transfers around their property purchase. To discuss your circumstances with a currency specialist, speak to Moneycorp.

Winter Driving Requirements Return Across Mountain Regions

Drivers heading to France’s mountain regions should prepare for the return of winter equipment requirements from 1 November. Until 31 March 2027, vehicles travelling in designated communes across 34 departments must either have four winter tyres fitted or carry suitable snow chains or snow socks. The rules cover parts of the Alps, Pyrenees, Massif Central, Jura and Vosges, as well as other mountain areas. Not every commune in these departments is necessarily covered, so drivers should check the official map before travelling. Anyone planning a winter holiday or regularly driving through mountain areas should make sure their vehicle meets the requirements before setting off.

France Announces Major Changes to University Admissions

The government announced a series of education reforms on 26 October following weeks of demonstrations by secondary school pupils and students. The Parcoursup university admissions platform is set to be replaced by a new system for the 2028 admissions campaign, with improvements planned for 2027. These include clearer explanations of admission decisions and greater support with choosing courses. The government has also pledged 15,000 additional higher education places between 2027 and 2028, including 10,000 new places in vocational higher education courses known as BTS. Student grants are also due to be adjusted in line with inflation from 2027. The proposals aim to address concerns about access to education, overcrowded classes and the cost of studying.

Further Demonstrations Expected Across France

Following demonstrations on 24 October, further protests are planned for 31 October, with additional trade union action expected on 5 November. Demonstrations have been driven by concerns about living costs, public services, education and inequality, placing pressure on the government to respond. President Emmanuel Macron has said that measures will be taken to protect shops and businesses during future demonstrations, following reports of disruption and damage in some areas. Residents and visitors should check local announcements before travelling, particularly in major cities, where demonstrations may affect public transport, road access and opening hours.

Property Wealth Tax Payment Deadline Approaches

Property owners liable for France’s impôt sur la fortune immobilière (IFI), the real estate wealth tax, should check their payment arrangements ahead of the November deadline. The deadline to sign up for direct debit for the November payment is 31 October, with the debit scheduled for 26 November. The tax applies to qualifying net property assets above €1.3 million, subject to the relevant rules and exemptions. It is calculated on the value of taxable real estate holdings after eligible deductible debts, rather than on the purchase price of a property alone. British residents with substantial property assets in France should check whether their holdings fall within the scope of the tax and seek professional advice if their circumstances are complex.