Renting in France
Clear guidance for finding a long-term rental as a foreigner
Renting in France can feel confusing, slow, and frustrating, especially if you don’t have French income, a local guarantor, or a clear sense of how the system really works. Whether you’re planning your move, already searching, or trying to understand why landlords aren’t replying, you’ll find clarity here.
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Long-Term Rental Assistance - Hands-on support, tied to your success
If you’re tired of unanswered messages, confusing requirements, or not knowing whether your application is even being considered, this is where we step in. Our Long-Term Rental Assistance is designed specifically for international renters who want clarity, structure, and real momentum.
Renting in France: your most common questions, answered
These are real questions pulled directly from our Live Q&As with people actively trying to rent in France.
Do I need French income to rent in France?
No, but it does make things easier. If you don’t have French income, landlords need to clearly understand how your rent will be paid consistently. This usually means presenting pensions, remote income, or investment income properly, often alongside a third-party guarantor.
Is it easier to rent furnished or unfurnished?
For most newcomers, furnished rentals are easier. They usually come with one-year leases, feel lower-risk to landlords, and are more flexible if you plan to buy later.
Unfurnished rentals (often three-year leases) are possible, but landlords tend to be more selective.
Can I pay several months of rent upfront to secure a place?
For long-term rentals, landlords are not legally allowed to accept large upfront rent payments.
Offering this can actually raise red flags rather than help.
How far in advance should I start looking?
Listings typically appear 4-6 weeks before move-in. Starting too early can lead to frustration; starting too late limits your options. Timing matters.
Do I need a French bank account before renting?
No. Most people successfully use Wise or another EU IBAN initially, then open a French bank account once they have a lease and utility bills in their name.
Will my age or retirement status count against me?
No, as long as your income is stable and clearly documented. In many cases, pension income is viewed as more reliable than freelance or variable earnings.
Are agencies harder than dealing with landlords directly?
Often, yes.
Large agencies frequently rely on insurance products that exclude non-French income. Smaller agencies and direct landlords tend to be more flexible, if your dossier is presented correctly.
Not sure your plan for moving to France is fully thought through?
You may already have a clear idea of what you want, but still want reassurance that you’re approaching it in the right order.
The Moving to France Power Hour is a 1:1 strategy session with Ben Small, designed to help you step back, review your plans, and get clear on what actually matters next.
This isn’t a sales call. It’s a focused conversation to help you avoid unnecessary mistakes before you commit time, money, or energy.