France's new investment opportunities: Attracting US investors through new bilateral agreement

France is opening up. Last week I highlighted in my monthly newsletter how France’s Senate had taken its first step towards relaxing the 90 out of every 180-day rule for British visitors, following the UK’s departure from the European Union.

For the 60,000 Brits who own homes in France, down from 89,000 in 2008, the Senate’s Bill, if passed in December, will grant them an automatic right to a long-stay visa.

Fast forward a week, and US residents will benefit from a simplified process and a four-year carte de séjour residency card under the new agreement, making it more accessible for them to explore investment opportunities in France.

Unlike Golden Visa initiatives in other European countries, purchasing property does not qualify for a long-stay visa. The rule is tailored for investors, defined as those establishing a business, investing in one, or making a financial commitment to the country, without a specific investment threshold.

Effective from November 16th, the application process for US residents is streamlined through the French online visa portal under the Talent Passport section. French investors in the US will also enjoy an extended four-year visa, as opposed to the previous 25-month option.

According to Mark Harvey, Head of International Residential at Knight Frank, "It’s really encouraging to see France sign this agreement with the US and a potential relaxation of rules for British homeowners on the cards. This will hopefully have a domino effect across Europe helping reverse some of the reticence we’ve seen among a new generation of US and UK buyers eager to secure a property in the EU."

Where do Americans buy in France?

Knight Frank's data highlights Paris, especially the 7th and 16th arrondissements, the French Riviera, notably the Caps and sought after inland enclaves around Mougins and Valbonne, as well as Provence, as popular choices among US residents.

Currency play

Currency dynamics play a significant role in this opportune moment. With the current strength of the dollar and a weakened euro, American buyers enjoy a notable advantage. A €1 million property now costs US$1,089,550, compared to US$1,126,200 two years ago, resulting in a 3% saving of US$36,650 based on currency fluctuations alone.

For further insights into the prime residential markets in France, download our latest research or contact Mark Harvey to discuss current trends in more detail.