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Real estate lawyer in France for foreign buyers

Posted on by Nadezda

Legal assistance for International Property Transactions in France

Nadezda Bonniot-Alupova — French-qualified lawyer, member of the Draguignan Bar, advising international and Russian-speaking clients throughout France.

Telephone in France: 04 22 47 00 26
WhatsApp / Telegram: +33 6 26 05 54 09

Buying property in France is an important personal and financial decision. For foreign buyers and non-residents, it can also raise legal, tax, banking and administrative questions that go far beyond the property itself.

A French real estate transaction is not limited to signing a preliminary contract or attending a meeting at the notary’s office. Depending on your situation, the purchase may involve your country of residence, tax residence, matrimonial property regime, source of funds, international bank transfers, foreign documents, powers of attorney, inheritance planning, residence in France and, in some cases, international restrictions or sanctions.

Our law firm assists foreign nationals, non-residents and international clients who wish to purchase real estate in France. We provide independent legal advice before you sign binding documents, helping you identify risks, understand your obligations and secure the transaction from the outset.

We advise clients purchasing apartments, houses, villas, holiday homes, commercial premises and investment properties throughout France.

Why foreign buyers need independent legal advice

Many foreign buyers assume that all legal issues will be handled by the French notary.

In France, the notary plays an essential role in real estate transactions. The notary prepares and authenticates the final deed of sale, verifies certain legal aspects of the transaction and ensures that the sale is properly registered.

However, the notary is not always in a position to provide detailed, strategic and independent advice tailored exclusively to the buyer’s personal interests, especially where the buyer is a foreign national or lives outside France.

A lawyer can assist you before you become contractually bound, analyse the risks from your perspective and advise you on issues that may not be limited to the property itself.

For an international buyer, the legal analysis may include questions such as:

  • Can funds be transferred to France without difficulty?
  • What documents will the bank or notary request?
  • How can the lawful origin of funds be proven?
  • Is an apostille, legalisation or certified translation required?
  • What happens if the buyer is married under a foreign matrimonial regime?
  • Should the property be purchased personally, jointly, through a company or under a specific ownership structure?
  • Could the purchase have tax or inheritance consequences?
  • Does buying property in France give any right to residence?
  • Are there any restrictions linked to the buyer’s nationality, residence or banking situation?

These questions should be addressed before signing the preliminary sale agreement, not when the final deed is already scheduled.

Legal review before signing a “Compromis de vente”

In France, most real estate purchases begin with a preliminary agreement, usually called a compromis de vente or a promesse de vente.

This document is not a simple reservation form. It creates legal obligations for the parties. Once signed, the buyer may be bound by strict deadlines, financing conditions, penalties and withdrawal clauses.

For this reason, the preliminary agreement should be reviewed carefully before signature.

Our law firm can assist with the legal review of the compromis de vente or promesse de vente, including:

  • the identity and capacity of the parties;
  • the description of the property;
  • the sale price and payment terms;
  • financing and mortgage conditions;
  • conditions precedent;
  • withdrawal rights;
  • completion deadlines;
  • penalty clauses;
  • obligations of the seller and buyer;
  • annexes and mandatory documents;
  • legal risks specific to the property;
  • practical risks linked to timing, financing or documentation.

For foreign buyers, we also examine the international aspects of the transaction, including foreign documents, international bank transfers, source of funds, powers of attorney and family law considerations.

The objective is simple: you should understand what you are signing before you sign it.

Comprehensive legal analysis of the property purchase

Our assistance is not limited to reading the preliminary sale agreement. We analyse the wider legal framework of the acquisition.

A property purchase may appear straightforward at first. In practice, difficulties often arise from surrounding issues: family status, foreign funds, banking compliance, tax residence, inheritance planning, documents issued abroad or administrative requirements.

Depending on your situation, our review may cover:

  • your nationality and country of residence;
  • your tax residence;
  • your marital status;
  • your matrimonial property regime;
  • whether you are buying alone, jointly or through a company;
  • the origin and transfer of funds;
  • foreign banking documents;
  • foreign civil status documents;
  • certified translations;
  • apostilles or legalisations;
  • powers of attorney signed abroad;
  • co-ownership documents;
  • easements and planning restrictions;
  • occupation of the property;
  • rental or investment plans;
  • first-level tax consequences;
  • communication with the notary, bank, real estate agent or translator.

This comprehensive approach is particularly important for non-residents and international clients, because a difficulty in one area can delay or compromise the entire transaction.

Who we assist

Foreign buyers purchasing property in France

We assist foreign nationals who wish to buy real estate in France, whether they live in Europe, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, the Middle East, Asia or elsewhere.

French property law may be unfamiliar to international buyers. We explain the legal process clearly and help clients understand the documents they are asked to sign.

Non-residents buying french property

Non-residents often face additional practical and legal issues, including remote signature, international powers of attorney, fund transfers, foreign banking documents and tax questions.

We can assist clients who are not physically present in France and coordinate with the notary, bank and other professionals involved in the transaction.

Buyers planning to relocate to France

For buyers who intend to move to France, the purchase may be part of a broader relocation project.

In such cases, real estate questions may overlap with residence permits, tax residence, family status, schooling, business activity or retirement planning.

Buying property in France does not automatically give a right to reside in France. However, it may be one element of a wider legal and personal project that should be analysed carefully.

Holiday home buyers

France remains a highly attractive destination for foreign buyers looking for a second home, holiday property or future retirement residence.

Before purchasing, buyers should understand the legal consequences of ownership, charges, local taxes, maintenance obligations, co-ownership rules and possible rental restrictions.

Investors

We assist clients who purchase property in France as an investment, including rental property, commercial premises or assets intended for long-term capital preservation.

The legal analysis may include ownership structure, tax residence, rental plans, local regulations and practical management issues.

International couples

Property purchases involving international couples require particular attention.

When spouses or partners have different nationalities, live in different countries or own assets in several jurisdictions, the acquisition may raise issues relating to matrimonial property, ownership shares, divorce, death and inheritance.

We advise clients on the legal implications of purchasing property jointly, individually or under a specific structure, taking into account their international family situation.

Common legal risks in french property purchases

A property purchase in France may involve risks that are not immediately visible to the buyer.

These risks may include:

  • unclear financing conditions;
  • short deadlines;
  • insufficient withdrawal protection;
  • contractual penalties;
  • defects in the property documentation;
  • co-ownership problems;
  • unpaid charges;
  • planned works in the building;
  • easements affecting the property;
  • planning restrictions;
  • unauthorised constructions;
  • existing tenants or occupants;
  • difficulties proving the source of funds;
  • delays in transferring money from abroad;
  • foreign documents not accepted in France;
  • tax residence consequences;
  • inheritance issues;
  • matrimonial property complications.

Some risks can be managed if they are identified early. Others may become extremely difficult to resolve after signing the preliminary agreement.

This is why legal review before signature is often more effective and less costly than dealing with a dispute after the transaction has progressed.

Buying property in France: key steps

Although each transaction is different, a typical French property purchase usually involves several stages.

1. Offer to purchase

The buyer may first make an offer to purchase the property. Depending on how it is drafted and accepted, the offer may already create legal consequences.

Before making an offer, it is important to understand whether it is binding, whether conditions should be included and whether financing or due diligence issues need to be addressed.

2. Preliminary sale agreement

The parties then sign a compromis de vente or promesse de vente.

This is a crucial stage. The agreement sets the legal framework of the transaction, including the price, deadlines, conditions and consequences of withdrawal.

Foreign buyers should not treat this document as a formality.

3. Cooling-off period

In many residential purchases, the buyer benefits from a statutory cooling-off period. However, this protection has limits and does not replace a proper legal review before signature.

The buyer should understand when the period starts, how it can be exercised and what happens after it expires.

4. Financing and source of funds

If the purchase is financed by a loan, the mortgage condition must be drafted carefully.

If the purchase is financed with funds from abroad, the buyer may need to provide evidence of the lawful origin of the funds. Banks and notaries must comply with anti-money laundering obligations and may request documents before accepting or transferring funds.

This stage can be sensitive for international buyers, particularly where funds come from several accounts, several countries, a company, a sale abroad, a gift, inheritance or family support.

5. Final deed of sale

The final deed of sale, known as the acte authentique, is signed before the notary.

At this stage, most essential conditions have already been fixed. The buyer should therefore avoid discovering major legal or financial issues only shortly before completion.

6. Registration and ownership

After signature, the notary registers the sale. The buyer becomes the legal owner of the property and will be responsible for taxes, charges, insurance and other ownership obligations.

Foreign funds, banks and proof of source of funds

One of the most common difficulties for foreign buyers is the transfer of funds to France.

French banks and notaries are subject to strict anti-money laundering rules. They may ask for documentation proving the origin of the funds used for the purchase.

This may include, depending on the situation:

  • bank statements;
  • sale agreements for property sold abroad;
  • company documents;
  • tax returns;
  • proof of income;
  • inheritance documents;
  • gift agreements;
  • loan agreements;
  • documents showing the transfer chain between accounts.

For international clients, it is important to anticipate these requests. Documents issued abroad may need to be translated, apostilled or legalised. In some cases, delays can jeopardise the transaction timetable.

We help clients identify these issues before they become urgent.

Foreign documents, apostilles and powers of attorney

International property transactions often require documents issued outside France.

These may include passports, birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce judgments, company documents, tax documents, banking documents or powers of attorney.

Depending on the country of origin and the purpose of the document, the French notary or other parties may request:

  • certified translation into French;
  • apostille;
  • legalisation;
  • notarisation;
  • verification of the authority issuing the document.

If the buyer cannot travel to France to sign the deed, a power of attorney may be required. Powers of attorney signed abroad must be prepared carefully to ensure they are accepted in France.

A defective or incomplete power of attorney can delay the transaction.

Matrimonial property and inheritance issues

For married buyers, the question of matrimonial property is essential.

A buyer married abroad may be subject to a foreign matrimonial property regime. This can affect ownership of the property, the rights of the spouse, the consequences of divorce and inheritance.

For example, the legal consequences may differ depending on whether the spouses are married under a regime of separation of property, community property or another foreign system.

International couples should also consider the consequences of death, especially where assets and family members are located in several countries.

A French property purchase should therefore be examined not only as a real estate transaction, but also as part of the buyer’s wider family and estate situation.

Does buying property in France give a right to residence?

No. Buying property in France does not automatically give a foreign national the right to live in France.

Ownership of a house or apartment may support a broader residence project, but it does not replace the need for a visa or residence permit where one is required.

Foreign buyers who plan to spend significant time in France should seek advice on immigration and residence issues separately from the property transaction.

Our law firm regularly advises foreign nationals on French immigration law and can analyse whether the purchase forms part of a wider relocation or residence strategy.

Difference between a french notary and a lawyer

The French notary is indispensable in most real estate transactions. The notary prepares the authentic deed, carries out legal formalities and ensures that the sale is properly registered.

A lawyer’s role is different.

A lawyer provides independent advice to the client, analyses risks from the client’s perspective and may intervene before the buyer signs binding documents.

For foreign buyers, this distinction is important. The notary secures the legal completion of the transaction. The lawyer helps the buyer understand whether the transaction, as structured, is legally and strategically appropriate for their personal situation.

In complex international transactions, the notary and lawyer often have complementary roles.

Remote legal assistance

Many international clients purchase property in France while living abroad.

Our law firm can assist clients remotely by email, telephone or video conference. We can review documents, provide written recommendations, coordinate with the notary and assist with questions relating to foreign documents, powers of attorney, translations and deadlines.

Remote assistance is particularly useful for non-residents who cannot easily travel to France for every stage of the transaction.

Why choose our law firm

Our firm is particularly suited to property transactions involving international elements.

We combine experience in several areas that often intersect in foreign buyers’ transactions:

  • French real estate law; international private law; immigration law; administrative law; first-level tax analysis; foreign civil status documents; international family situations; Russian-speaking and English-speaking clients; remote assistance for non-residents.

This broader perspective allows us to identify issues that may not be purely real estate-related but may have serious consequences for the buyer.

A property purchase may raise questions about residence, tax, family law, inheritance, banking compliance or foreign documentation. These matters should be considered together, not separately at the last minute.

Frequently asked questions

Can a foreigner buy property in France?

Yes. In principle, foreign nationals can buy property in France. French law does not prohibit a person from purchasing real estate solely because they are not French.

However, practical difficulties may arise depending on the buyer’s country of residence, banking situation, source of funds, family status or international restrictions.

Do I need a lawyer if a notary is already involved?

In many cases, yes.

The notary handles the formal completion and registration of the sale. A lawyer provides independent legal advice focused on the buyer’s interests, especially before signing the preliminary agreement.

This is particularly useful for foreign buyers, non-residents and international couples.

Should I consult a lawyer before signing the compromis de vente?

Yes. This is often the best time to obtain legal advice.

After the compromis de vente is signed, many obligations are already fixed. It may then be difficult to renegotiate deadlines, conditions, penalties or withdrawal clauses.

Can I buy property in France remotely?

Yes, in many cases. A buyer may sign certain documents remotely or through a power of attorney.

However, powers of attorney signed abroad must be drafted and formalised correctly. They may require notarisation, apostille, legalisation or certified translation.

Does buying property in France allow me to live in France?

No. Property ownership does not automatically grant a visa or residence permit.

If you plan to live in France, you should analyse your immigration situation separately.

What documents may be requested from a foreign buyer?

Depending on the transaction, the notary or bank may request identification documents, proof of address, proof of marital status, bank statements, source of funds documents, tax documents, company documents, powers of attorney, translations or apostilles.

Can foreign funds be used to buy property in France?

Yes, but the origin of the funds must often be documented.

Banks and notaries may request evidence showing where the money comes from and how it was transferred. This should be anticipated before signing the preliminary agreement.

What if I am married under a foreign matrimonial regime?

Your matrimonial property regime may affect the purchase. It can influence ownership, the rights of your spouse, divorce consequences and inheritance.

This issue should be reviewed before signing the purchase documents.

Can the law firm communicate with the notary?

Yes. Depending on the scope of the assignment, we can communicate with the notary, bank, real estate agent, translator or other professionals involved in the transaction.

Do you assist Russian-speaking clients?

Yes. The law firm assists French, Russian-speaking and international clients, including clients living outside France.

Book a consultation

If you are planning to buy property in France and you are a foreign national, a non-resident, an international couple or a buyer using funds from abroad, it is strongly recommended to obtain legal advice before signing any binding document.

Our law firm can review your situation, identify legal and practical risks, and assist you in securing the transaction.

We assist clients remotely and can work with clients in French, Russian and English.

Telephone in France: 04 22 47 00 26
WhatsApp / Telegram: +33 6 26 05 54 09

News

Buying property in France: the complete legal guide for foreign buyers

Posted on by Nadezda

Telephone in France: 04 22 47 00 26
WhatsApp / Telegram: +33 6 26 05 54 09

Buying property in France is an exciting opportunity, whether you are looking for a holiday home, relocating with your family, planning your retirement or making a long-term investment.

France remains one of the most attractive real estate markets in Europe, not only because of its lifestyle and stable property market, but also because of the legal protection offered to buyers.

Purchasing property abroad naturally raises many questions.

  • Is the seller really the owner?
  • What happens if the property is subject to a mortgage?
  • Is my money protected?
  • Can I complete the purchase remotely?
  • Do I need my own lawyer if a notary is already involved?

The good news is that the French legal system provides one of the highest levels of protection for real estate transactions. Every sale is subject to extensive legal checks designed to ensure transparency and legal certainty.

For international buyers, however, the purchase is often more than a simple property transaction. It may also involve international banking, tax planning, inheritance issues, matrimonial property regimes or relocation to France.

This guide explains how the French conveyancing system protects buyers and why independent legal advice can make the purchasing process even more secure and straightforward.

Why France is considered a safe country for real estate purchases

France has developed a highly regulated conveyancing system that provides significant legal safeguards throughout the purchasing process.

Rather than relying solely on private agreements between the parties, French law requires multiple legal and administrative checks before ownership can be transferred.

Several professionals contribute to the transaction, including the estate agent, technical surveyors, the lending bank and, most importantly, the French notary.

Their combined role is to reduce legal uncertainty and ensure that ownership is transferred in accordance with French law.

The French notary: a public officer ensuring legal certainty

Every property purchase in France is completed before a French notaire.

Unlike a lawyer acting for a client, the notary is a public officer appointed by the French State. The notary does not represent either the buyer or the seller but acts impartially to ensure that the transaction complies with French law.

Before completion, the notary is responsible for numerous legal formalities, including:

  • verifying ownership;
  • checking registered mortgages and legal charges;
  • obtaining administrative information;
  • preparing the authentic deed of sale;
  • collecting taxes and registration duties;
  • registering the transfer of ownership.

The notary’s intervention is one of the cornerstones of the French property system.

Verification of ownership

Before the sale can be completed, the notary verifies that the seller has the legal right to sell the property.

This includes examining previous title deeds and consulting official land registration records.

These investigations provide buyers with confidence that ownership is being transferred by the rightful owner.

Verification of existing mortgages and registered charges

One of the most valuable protections offered by the French system concerns registered security interests affecting the property.

Before completion, the notary carries out official searches to determine whether the property is subject to:

  • mortgages securing bank loans;
  • judicial charges;
  • legal liens;
  • other registered encumbrances.

If any registered security exists, the buyer does not become responsible for the seller’s debt.

Instead, the notary arranges for the secured creditor to be paid directly from the purchase price and completes the necessary formalities so that the property is transferred free from those registered security interests.

This process provides buyers with an important level of legal protection.

Mandatory technical reports

French law requires sellers to disclose extensive information regarding the property’s condition.

Depending on the characteristics of the property, the seller must provide technical reports concerning:

  • energy performance (DPE);
  • asbestos;
  • lead;
  • termites;
  • electrical installations;
  • gas installations;
  • natural and technological risks;
  • wastewater systems.

These reports enable buyers to assess the property’s condition before making a final commitment.

Urban planning and administrative information

The legal status of a property extends beyond the building itself.

The notary also obtains official information concerning planning regulations and administrative restrictions that may affect the property.

This may include:

  • zoning rules;
  • public easements;
  • planning restrictions;
  • rights of pre-emption;
  • certain public development projects.

Such information is particularly valuable for buyers intending to renovate or extend the property.

Secure handling of purchase funds

International buyers often have understandable concerns about transferring substantial sums of money abroad.

In France, purchase funds are generally transferred to the notary’s dedicated client account.

The notary ensures that taxes are paid, existing creditors are settled where necessary and the seller receives the purchase price only after all legal conditions have been fulfilled.

This structured process provides significant financial security throughout the transaction.

Cooling-off protection

French consumer protection legislation grants additional protection to most private buyers purchasing residential property.

Following signature of the preliminary agreement, buyers generally benefit from a statutory cooling-off period during which they may withdraw from the purchase without giving any reason.

This safeguard allows buyers additional time to reflect before becoming definitively bound.

Mortgage financing protection

Where the purchase depends on obtaining a mortgage, the preliminary contract usually contains a financing condition.

If the agreed financing cannot be obtained despite genuine efforts and the contractual conditions are satisfied, the purchaser may generally withdraw without losing the deposit.

Transparency throughout the purchase process

One of the strengths of the French conveyancing system is its transparency.

Before completion, buyers receive detailed documentation concerning:

  • ownership;
  • technical reports;
  • co-ownership regulations;
  • planning information;
  • taxes and purchase costs;
  • legal restrictions affecting the property.

This enables purchasers to make informed decisions before signing the final deed.

International buyers face additional legal questions

For foreign purchasers, the acquisition of French real estate often raises questions that extend beyond the property transaction itself.

These may concern:

  • international bank transfers;
  • source of funds requirements;
  • tax residence;
  • inheritance planning;
  • matrimonial property regimes;
  • ownership through companies or family structures.

Each situation is different and may require individual legal advice.

Buying property remotely

Many international buyers successfully complete their purchase without travelling to France for every stage of the transaction.

Depending on the circumstances, documents may be signed electronically or through a power of attorney.

Careful organisation makes remote purchases entirely feasible.

Why many foreign buyers choose to instruct their own lawyer

The French notary plays an essential role in every property transaction.

However, the notary remains impartial and cannot advise exclusively one party.

Many international buyers therefore appreciate having an independent lawyer acting solely in their interests.

A lawyer can:

  • explain every stage of the transaction in English or Russian;
  • review contracts before signature;
  • answer legal questions promptly;
  • identify potential risks;
  • coordinate with the notary, estate agents and banks;
  • assist with source of funds documentation;
  • advise on inheritance, family law and international issues.

A single point of contact throughout the transaction

One of the practical challenges for international buyers is coordinating the numerous professionals involved in a property purchase.

Estate agents, banks, surveyors and notaries each perform different functions, and obtaining timely answers can sometimes be difficult, particularly for buyers living abroad.

Having an independent lawyer provides a single legal point of contact throughout the transaction.

Rather than managing communications with several professionals, buyers benefit from personalised legal support, practical guidance and prompt answers at every stage of the purchase.

This continuity often makes the transaction smoother, more efficient and considerably less stressful.

Practical recommendations before signing

Before committing to the purchase of property in France, foreign buyers should:

  • understand every contractual obligation;
  • review all technical reports carefully;
  • organise financing at an early stage;
  • prepare source of funds documentation;
  • consider tax and inheritance implications;
  • seek independent legal advice whenever international issues arise.

Good preparation remains one of the best ways to avoid unnecessary delays and legal complications.

Conclusion

France offers one of the safest legal environments in the world for purchasing real estate.

Mandatory notarial supervision, verification of ownership, searches for registered mortgages and legal charges, secure handling of purchase funds, extensive technical disclosures and strong consumer protection all contribute to a highly reliable conveyancing system.

For international buyers, however, the property transaction often forms part of a much broader personal or investment project.

Independent legal advice helps ensure that the purchase is not only legally secure but also fully adapted to your individual circumstances, your family’s objectives and your international situation.

With careful preparation and appropriate legal guidance, buying property in France can be both a secure investment and an enjoyable experience.

Telephone in France: 04 22 47 00 26
WhatsApp / Telegram: +33 6 26 05 54 09

News

Attorney-Countersigned Deeds in France (Actes d’Avocat)

Posted on by Nadezda

Secure Your Legal Agreements with a French Lawyer

Nadezda Bonniot-Alupova — French-qualified lawyer, member of the Draguignan Bar, advising international and Russian-speaking clients throughout France.

Telephone in France: 04 22 47 00 26
WhatsApp / Telegram: +33 6 26 05 54 09

When entering into a legal agreement in France, many foreign individuals and international businesses assume that every important document must be notarised. In reality, French law offers another highly valuable legal instrument: the attorney-countersigned deed, known in French as an acte d’avocat.

An attorney-countersigned deed combines the flexibility of a private agreement with the legal security provided by a qualified French lawyer. It is widely used to formalise agreements while ensuring that the parties fully understand their rights and obligations under French law.

Whether you are purchasing property, investing in a French company, lending money to a family member, or negotiating a commercial agreement, an attorney-countersigned deed can provide significant legal protection.

What Is an Attorney-Countersigned Deed?

An attorney-countersigned deed is a private legal agreement drafted or reviewed and countersigned by a French lawyer.

Unlike a simple contract downloaded from the internet or drafted without legal assistance, the lawyer confirms that:

  • the parties have been properly identified;
  • each party has legal capacity to enter into the agreement;
  • the legal consequences have been fully explained;
  • the parties have given informed consent;
  • the agreement complies with French law;
  • the document accurately reflects the parties’ intentions.

This gives the agreement enhanced evidential value in the event of a future dispute.

The lawyer’s countersignature is not merely a formality. It demonstrates that independent legal advice has been provided and that the parties entered into the agreement with full knowledge of its legal implications.

Why Choose an Attorney-Countersigned Deed?

Many disputes arise because contracts are copied from templates that do not reflect the parties’ actual situation or fail to comply with French law.

An attorney-countersigned deed offers a much higher level of legal certainty.

Its advantages include:

  • greater legal security;
  • enhanced evidential value before French courts;
  • customised drafting for your specific circumstances;
  • compliance with French legislation;
  • reduced risk of future litigation;
  • clear allocation of rights and obligations;
  • legal advice tailored to your objectives.

For international clients unfamiliar with the French legal system, professional legal drafting is particularly important.

Who Can Benefit from This Service?

We regularly assist:

  • foreign nationals purchasing property in France;
  • expatriates relocating to France;
  • international investors;
  • entrepreneurs establishing businesses in France;
  • mixed-nationality couples;
  • family members organising private financial arrangements;
  • companies entering into commercial agreements governed by French law.

Types of Agreements We Can Prepare

Every situation is different. We draft agreements tailored to the specific needs of each client.

Our services include:

Real Estate Agreements

Real estate transactions often involve substantial financial commitments.

We prepare and review agreements relating to:

  • private property sales;
  • preliminary sale agreements;
  • co-ownership arrangements;
  • occupancy agreements;
  • family property arrangements;
  • investment structures;
  • agreements between co-purchasers.

For foreign buyers, we also verify that the proposed arrangements are consistent with French property law, inheritance rules and, where appropriate, matrimonial property regimes.

Loan Agreements

Loans between family members, friends or business partners should always be documented.

A professionally drafted agreement helps avoid misunderstandings and provides clear evidence of:

  • the amount lent;
  • repayment terms;
  • interest (if applicable);
  • guarantees;
  • consequences of default.

Share Purchase Agreements

When acquiring or transferring shares in a French company, properly drafted documentation is essential.

We assist with:

  • share purchase agreements;
  • transfer documentation;
  • warranties;
  • representations;
  • completion mechanisms;
  • post-completion obligations.

Shareholders’ Agreements

Shareholders’ agreements define how a company will be managed and help prevent conflicts.

Typical provisions include:

  • voting rights;
  • management powers;
  • dividend policy;
  • exit mechanisms;
  • transfer restrictions;
  • deadlock resolution;
  • confidentiality.

Commercial Contracts

Businesses operating in France frequently require contracts that comply with French commercial law.

We draft:

  • service agreements;
  • consultancy agreements;
  • agency agreements;
  • distribution agreements;
  • supplier contracts;
  • partnership agreements;
  • confidentiality agreements (NDAs);
  • settlement agreements.

Family and Private Agreements

Legal certainty is equally important in personal matters.

We prepare agreements concerning:

  • financial arrangements between partners;
  • family loans;
  • acknowledgements of debt;
  • private settlements;
  • ownership arrangements;
  • asset management.

International Clients

Cross-border situations often involve several legal systems.

We regularly advise clients living outside France who need agreements governed by French law.

Our work may include consideration of:

  • conflict of laws;
  • international taxation;
  • foreign matrimonial property regimes;
  • succession issues;
  • residence status;
  • powers of attorney;
  • cross-border enforcement.

Where necessary, we coordinate with foreign lawyers, accountants and notaries to ensure a coherent legal strategy.

Attorney-Countersigned Deed or Notarial Deed?

Foreign clients frequently ask whether they need a notary or a lawyer.

The answer depends on the nature of the transaction.

Certain legal acts—such as the final transfer of ownership of French real estate—must be executed before a French notary.

However, many agreements do not require notarisation and may instead be prepared as attorney-countersigned deeds.

In many situations, involving a lawyer before the notarial stage provides substantial added value. We help negotiate the terms, identify legal risks, draft bespoke clauses and protect your interests throughout the transaction.

Rather than replacing the notary, we work alongside the notarial process whenever appropriate.

Why Work with Our Firm?

Our firm regularly advises international clients in matters involving French law.

We combine experience in:

  • French real estate law;
  • contract law;
  • company law;
  • immigration law;
  • family law;
  • tax-related issues affecting foreign nationals.

Because we work extensively with international clients, we understand the practical challenges they face when dealing with the French legal system.

Every agreement is individually drafted to reflect your objectives, protect your interests and minimise future legal risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an attorney-countersigned deed legally binding?

Yes. Once signed, it is a legally binding agreement under French law.

Can it be signed remotely?

In many cases, yes. Depending on the circumstances, electronic signature solutions may be used in compliance with applicable legal requirements.

Can the agreement be drafted in English?

Yes. We regularly prepare bilingual or English-language documentation for international clients. Where the agreement is intended to produce legal effects in France, we ensure that it complies with French law.

Is an attorney-countersigned deed recognised by French courts?

Yes. French law grants enhanced evidential value to attorney-countersigned deeds. The lawyer’s countersignature confirms that the parties received legal advice and understood the legal consequences of the agreement.

Contact a French Lawyer

If you need a legally secure agreement in France, our firm can assist you from the initial drafting stage through to signature and implementation.

Whether your matter concerns real estate, business, family assets or cross-border transactions, we provide practical legal advice tailored to international clients.

Contact us to discuss your project and obtain legal assistance for your agreement under French law.

Nadezda Bonniot-Alupova — French-qualified lawyer, member of the Draguignan Bar, advising international and Russian-speaking clients throughout France.

Telephone in France: 04 22 47 00 26
WhatsApp / Telegram: +33 6 26 05 54 09

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The Special Economic Zones (SEZ) of the Russian Federation

Posted on by Nadezda

FEDERAL LAW. NO. 116-FZ OF JULY 22, 2005. ON SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONES IN THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION

The Special Economic Zones (SEZ) of the Russian Federation are a large-scale federal project aimed to bring in investments and advanced scientific, manufacturing, and management technologies.

The zones provide companies with a unique opportunity to use the full range of Russia’s investment opportunities while avoiding the typical concerns related to non-market business pressures and inefficient administration.

Economic Stability

Investing in the Special Economic Zones is the best way to capitalise on Russia’s steady economic recovery (estimated 4% GDP growth in 2010)*, the growing consumer activity of one of the world’s biggest markets (Russia has a population of 141 million, and the entire FSU region has 281 million people), and the economy that has the third biggest gold and currency reserves ($476 Bn in 3Q2010).

Human Resources

Russia has a 94.1 million strong manpower and some influential research schools, many of which are concentrated in regions where the Special Economic Zones are located. Investors can employ highly skilled local personnel and have access to R&D in science, technology, and medicine.

Transport Access

Russia’s advantageous geographic position, developed transport infrastructure and integration with international transport corridors, most of which pass through the country, allows quick delivery of the special zones’ products to the domestic market, Europe, Middle East, Asia-Pacific, and North America.

Russia’s Challenges are Investors’ Opportunities

The challenges related to Russia’s quite obsolete industry and underdeveloped infrastructure can be seen as strategic opportunities by SEZ investors. Given the tax and customs privileges, localisation of technology-intensive products finds a ready market in Russia, which is tight for high-quality and affordable locally-produced industrial goods.

The Special Economic Zones’ unique advantage is that they remove the administrative barriers, protect investors from corruption, provide direct access to the benefits of Russian economy, and translate the challenges faced by Russia into drivers of commercial success. Such companies as Yokohama, Isuzu, Air Liquide, Bekaert, Rockwool, and Sollers appreciate the potential of the Russian special zones and run successful operations there.

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Profit Tax in Russia

Posted on by Nadezda

Taxpayers

Russian businesses, Non-Russian businesses that operate in the Russian Federation through permanent establishments and (or) gaining income from sources located in the Russian Federation

Taxable object

Profit For Russian companies:

income minus costs as established in Chapter 25 of the Tax Code of the Russian Federation

For Non-Russian companies operating in the Russian Federation through permanent establishments:

income minus costs as established in Chapter 25 of the tax Code of the Russian Federation

For Non-Russian companies with income sources located in the Russian Federation:

Income gained from sources located in the Russian Federation as identified by Article 309 of the Tax Code of the Russian Federation
Tax base

Income as identified in Article 247 of the Tax Code of the Russian Federation Special rules may apply in cases where a different from 20% tax rate is used

Reporting period

First, second and third quarters

Tax period

Calendar year

Tax rates

20%(general rate);

0% tax rate applies to (same conditions must be filled):

income received by legal entities engaged in educational and (or) medical activity (under the conditions mentioned in the Article 284.1 of the Tax Code)
income received by the Central Bank of the Russian Federation from activity which as established by the Federal Law «On the Central Bank of the Russian Federation (the Bank of Russia)»
income received by research and development companies according to the Federal Law «On Innovation Center «Skolkovo» Withholding tax rates Dividends 0 %
dividends received by Russian companies due to participation exemption rules (under conditions ofArticle 284 of the Tax Code) 9% – dividends received by Russian legal entities from Russian and foreign companies 15%
dividends received by foreign legal entities from Russian companies Interests 15%, 9%, 0% tax rates may be applied to interest income gained from operations with certain types of securities depending on their issue and circulation conditions;
Other Incomes than dividends, interests, royalties paid to Russian non-residents (according to provisions of the Article 310 of the Tax Code) and income which are not connected with activity of permanent establishment is subject to withholding tax with the following tax rates:

10% on income from using, holding or leasing ships, planes and other mobile transport or containers in connection with international transport activities;
20% on all other incomes
Advance payments

Advanced payments are made for each reporting period, as a rule, on a monthly basis. The taxpayer may also opt for reporting taxable income and making payments on the basis of its actual results on a monthly basis

Tax return Filling

Return at the reporting period-end must be submitted to tax authority not later than 28 calendar days from the relevant reporting period-end. Annual tax return must be submitted to tax authority not later than on 28th day of March of the year following the expired tax period

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Value Added Tax (VAT in Russia)

Posted on by Nadezda

Taxpayers

Legal entities and individual entrepreneurs

Subject to tax

Sales of goods, works and services, transfer of property rights

Taxable period

A quarter of a year

Tax rate

0, 10, 18%  depending on type of goods and operations (e.g. export), in some cases a calculation rate (10/110, 18/118) is applied, e.g. upon receipt of advance payment

Tax calculation

Percentage share of the tax base

Tax payment

The tax is paid for the expired tax period in equal shares no later than on the 20th day of each of the three months following the expired tax period (general case)

Tax return

Not later than on the 20th day of the month following the expired quarter of a year