Your French Mortgage Checklist

All the documents non-residents need for a successful French mortgage application

Applying for a mortgage in France as a non-resident can feel like navigating a maze. French banks are meticulous, and their documentation requirements go beyond what many buyers are used to in their home country. Having a complete file prepared in advance is the best way to avoid delays — and to demonstrate that you’re a strong, serious borrower.

Below is a comprehensive checklist of what French lenders typically expect.

1) Personal Identification

  • Valid passport(s) for all applicants.

  • Proof of current address (utility bill or official correspondence, less than three months old).

  • Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or civil partnership documentation (if applicable).

2) Income Verification

For Salaried Employees

  • Employment contract(s).

  • Last three months’ payslips.

  • Most recent annual income statement (such as a P60 in the UK or a W-2 in the US).

  • Last two to three years of tax returns.

For Self-Employed or Business Owners

  • Last three years of personal tax returns.

  • Last three years of company accounts (P&L and Balance Sheets)

  • Recent management accounts or interim figures if the latest year’s accounts are not finalised.

3) Banking & Credit History

  • Recent bank statements (last three months) for all current accounts.

  • Statements for savings and investment accounts.

  • Mortgage or loan statements for any existing debt.

  • A credit report from your home country (e.g., Experian, Equifax, TransUnion).

4) Deposit & Funds Evidence

  • Proof of available funds for the down payment (apport personnel).

  • Documentation showing the origin of funds — whether from savings, sale of an asset, inheritance, or transfer.

  • Evidence of funds to cover notary and registration fees (usually 7–8% on a resale, 2–3% on new builds).

5) Property Documentation

  • Signed purchase agreement (compromis de vente or promesse de vente)

  • Diagnostic Survey Pack

  • Draft deed or reservation contract (for new builds).

  • Property details including floor plans, price breakdown, and location.

6) Insurance Requirements

French banks usually require life and disability insurance linked to the loan. For this, you’ll need:

  • Completed medical questionnaire.

  • Recent medical reports (if requested).

  • Identification details for beneficiaries.

7) Additional Notes for Non-Residents

  • Consistency is critical: Lenders often want documents translated into French by a certified translator.

  • Currency stability matters: If your income is not in euros, banks may stress test your repayment capacity against exchange rate shifts.

  • Timing: Many lenders require that all documents be dated within the last three months, particularly payslips and bank statements.

Final Thoughts

The French mortgage process may feel paperwork-heavy, but it’s designed to give both lender and borrower security. By preparing these documents in advance, you’ll not only shorten the approval timeline but also position yourself to negotiate stronger terms.

How BlueSky France Finance Can Help

We know exactly what French banks look for in a non-resident file. Our advisors can pre-check your documentation, highlight gaps before you apply, and structure your file in the format lenders prefer. This saves you time, avoids costly delays, and helps you secure the right mortgage on the right terms.