How to File Taxes in France as an Expat (2025 Guide)

Filing taxes in France can feel overwhelming, especially if French is not your first language. As an expatriate, you may face additional challenges, such as understanding your residency status, avoiding double taxation and meeting local deadlines.

This guide explains how expats should file taxes in France in 2025, which documents are required, and how an English-speaking accountant can make the process smoother and less stressful.

Do expats need to file taxes in France?

Whether you need to file taxes in France depends primarily on your tax residency status:

• Resident taxpayers: if France is your main home, your place of professional activity or the centre of your economic interests, you are considered a French tax resident. You must declare your worldwide income in France.
• Non-resident taxpayers: if you live abroad but earn income from French sources (rental income, employment, pensions, dividends), you must file a French tax return for that income.

Tip: many expats underestimate the “centre of economic interests” rule. Even if you split your time between countries, if most of your income comes from France, you may be considered a tax resident here.

Key deadlines for 2025

The French tax calendar can change slightly each year, but in 2025 you should expect:

• Paper returns (rare, usually only for exceptions): by mid-May 2025.
• Online returns: phased deadlines depending on your département of residence, usually between late May and early June 2025.

Filing is mandatory online for almost all taxpayers. You will need access to the French tax portal (impots.gouv.fr).

Documents expats need for filing

To file your French tax return, prepare the following:

• Passport or ID
• French tax number (numéro fiscal)
• Proof of residence (rental contract, utility bills)
• Payslips or income statements
• Bank statements showing interest or dividends
• Details of foreign income (employment, rental, pensions, investments)
• Evidence of tax already paid abroad (for double tax treaties)

If you are new to France, you may need to request a tax number from your local tax office before your first declaration.

Avoiding double taxation

One of the biggest concerns for expatriates is double taxation: paying tax both in France and in your home country.

France has signed tax treaties with many countries, including the UK, the US, Canada, Australia and most EU nations. These treaties determine which country has the right to tax specific types of income.

• UK residents in France: pensions and salaries are usually taxed in France, while certain savings may remain taxable in the UK.
• US citizens: the US taxes worldwide income regardless of residency. You may still need to file with the IRS, but credits and treaties prevent double taxation.

This is where professional advice is essential. An English-speaking accountant can analyse your personal situation and apply the right treaty provisions. Our team also handles French and foreign income tax returns.

Common mistakes expats make

1. Missing deadlines – penalties apply for late filing.
2. Not declaring foreign bank accounts – French residents must declare all non-French bank accounts. Failing to do so can result in significant fines.
3. Confusing residency rules – thinking “I don’t live here full-time, so I’m not a resident” is often incorrect.
4. Not applying tax credits or deductions – expats sometimes overpay because they do not know which allowances exist.

How an English-speaking accountant can help

Tax law in France is complex, even for native speakers. Working with a bilingual chartered accountant (expert-comptable) ensures that:

• your residency status is assessed correctly;
• you benefit from applicable tax credits and deductions;
• double taxation is avoided through the correct use of treaties;
• your return is filed on time and in full compliance with French rules;
• you receive clear explanations in English, with no more guessing through French tax jargon.

At FKO Expertise, we support expatriates across France with tax preparation, payroll, business setup and ongoing accounting. Based in Montreuil (Paris area), our bilingual team helps expats stay compliant while making the French system easy to understand.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to file taxes in France if my income comes from abroad?

If you are a French tax resident, yes. You must declare your worldwide income, even if it is earned abroad. Tax treaties may prevent double taxation.

Can I file my French taxes in English?

No, the official tax forms are in French. However, an English-speaking accountant can prepare everything for you and explain each step in English.

What happens if I miss the filing deadline?

Late filing usually incurs a penalty of 10% to 40% of the tax owed, plus interest. It is best to file on time, even with estimated figures.

I have just moved to France. Do I need to file this year?

In most cases, yes. Even if you arrived mid-year, you will likely need to file for the period you lived in France.

Conclusion

Filing taxes in France as an expat does not have to be stressful. With the right preparation and professional help, you can stay compliant, avoid double taxation and even optimise your situation.

Looking for an English-speaking accountant in France? Contact FKO Expertise today for a free consultation. Our bilingual team in Montreuil (Paris area) will guide you through the French tax system step by step.