How much deposit for a non-resident French mortgage?
It is every overseas buyer’s first question: how much do I need to put down? For a non-EU non-resident, French banks often ask for a deposit from 20 to 30% of the price, sometimes more, and always on top of buying costs. Here is what moves that figure.
General information. This is not an offer of credit or personalised advice, and no rate is guaranteed. Yann Nachtrieb, registered mortgage broker (COBSP) and insurance broker (COA), and financial investment adviser (CIF), ORIAS no. 26009903.
A larger deposit than for a resident
A resident in France can sometimes borrow with a deposit limited to the buying costs. A non-resident is seen as a higher risk, so banks ask for more of your own money. In practice, an EU non-resident often gets away with a more moderate deposit, while a non-EU non-resident, including UK buyers since Brexit, frequently puts down 20 to 30% of the price, sometimes more.
These are orders of magnitude. Some banks go lower for a very strong file, others ask for more. Nothing is fixed: it is negotiated with the right lender.
Buying costs come on top of the deposit
Never forget this: buying costs (notaire fees, around 7 to 8% on an existing home) are not covered by the mortgage and come on top of the deposit. So for an older property you need, in cash, the deposit plus those costs. Some banks also ask for a cash reserve, a few months of payments set aside.
Budgeting the whole thing from the start avoids a nasty surprise on the day you sign at the notaire.
What drives the deposit
| Factor | Effect |
|---|---|
| EU resident | Often a more moderate deposit |
| Non-EU non-resident | Often 20 to 30%, sometimes more |
| Strength of the file | A strong profile can lower the ask |
| Buying costs | 7 to 8% on top, not financed |
| Cash reserve | Sometimes required in addition |
Indicative orders of magnitude that vary widely by bank and profile. No acceptance or rate is guaranteed.
Frequently asked questions
Can a non-resident buy with no deposit?
Rarely. Banks almost always require a significant deposit from a non-resident, especially outside the EU. A no-deposit loan is the exception, reserved for very strong profiles, and never guaranteed.
Does the deposit have to come from France?
No, your savings can be held abroad. The bank will check their origin and availability. The exchange between your currency and the euro is worth planning into the budget.
Are notaire fees included in the deposit?
No, they are on top. Plan for the deposit plus around 7 to 8% of costs on an existing home, paid in cash at the notaire. See the non-resident mortgage guide.
How much will you need?
Book a free 45-minute call, in English. We set a realistic deposit and find the bank most open to your profile.