Transferring Money to France: What International Property Buyers Need to Know in 2025
Picture it: a Provençal farmhouse, a Parisian pied-à-terre, or a ski chalet in the Alps. Whatever your dream French home looks like, one thing’s certain, you’ll need to transfer money internationally to make it happen.
And while buying property in France is a lifestyle move for many, it’s also a major financial commitment. That’s why how and when you move your money matters just as much as where you plan to sip your café au lait.
Here’s what international buyers need to know about transferring money to France in 2025.
Why Currency Strategy Is Très Important
If you’re purchasing in euros but your income or savings are in USD, GBP, CAD, or another currency, you’re exposed to exchange rate fluctuations.
And here’s the thing:
A slight change in the rate even 1–2% can add or subtract thousands from your final bill.
For example, on a €400,000 purchase, a small rate swing could mean a €8,000 difference. That’s your notaire fees covered or a wine cellar stocked for years.
Instead of letting the market dictate your costs, you can plan your transfers with intention.
Should You Use Your Bank?
You can, but we wouldn’t recommend it.
Banks tend to:
Offer worse exchange rates than specialist providers
Add steep transfer fees
Provide no tools for rate tracking or locking in
Leave you without real support if issues arise
A currency provider (like Moving Currency) gives you:
Better exchange rates
Access to forward contracts
Dedicated personal support
We work with buyers every day who are transferring money for properties in France, and we understand the quirks of the process (bureaucracy included).
Can I Lock in a Rate?
Yes through a forward contract, which is ideal for the French buying process.
In France, it’s common for months to pass between the Compromis de Vente and the Acte de Vente. During that time, the exchange rate could shift unfavourably unless you’ve secured it in advance.
With a forward contract, you can:
Fix today’s rate for up to 12 months
Avoid budget stress
Plan each payment stage with confidence
You don’t need to play the FX guessing game, we’ve got options that let you sleep at night.
How Property Payments Work in France
The standard process usually includes:
A 5–10% deposit paid after signing the Compromis de Vente
The balance due at the notaire's office on completion day (Acte de Vente)
Funds are most often sent to:
Your French notaire’s escrow (client) account
Timing is key, funds must be received before the completion meeting. And late payments can delay the transaction or result in penalties.
We make sure your euros get to the notaire on time, in full, and with all documentation provided.
When Should You Start Planning?
Simple: as early as possible.
Even if you're just starting to browse listings in Dordogne or daydreaming about Paris balconies, we can:
Help you understand your euro budget
Set up rate alerts or talk about transfer options
Keep an eye on market movements so you don’t have to
That way, when your dream home appears, you’re ready to act quickly and confidently.
Human Help from Real Experts
At Moving Currency, we work with international buyers from the US, UK, Canada, and beyond to simplify cross-border property payments.
Whether you're buying for investment, relocation, or joie de vivre, we make sure your funds:
Move efficiently
Land safely
Save you money compared to using a bank
And you get a real person to speak to throughout (bonjour, that’s me! ).
Let’s Talk France
Before you transfer a centime, let’s chat. One quick conversation could save you thousands—and lots of unnecessary stress.
Book a free call with Claire
Or visit www.movingcurrency.com
We’ll help you move your money with ease, so you can focus on the important things like choosing the perfect bottle of Bordeaux for your new kitchen.