Inheritance Laws in France - Recent Changes

Inheritance Laws in France - Recent Changes

The new laws updating the rules relating to inheritance in France were adopted in June 2006 and apply from January 1 2007.

Although these laws allow more flexibility, there are no changes in the basic structure. The most important change is the definition of a reserved heir.

These are the main changes affecting people buying property in France

In most cases parents are no longer considered reserved heirs.

An inheritance must now be accepted or refused withing 5 years, previously this was 30 years.

Grandchildren may now have assets left directly to them as long as the children agree.

A reserved heir may now renounce their right to an inheritance during the lifetime of the parent. This must be witnessed by two Notaires.

Marriage contracts need no longer be confirmed by a court, saving time and expense.

It is now possible for families to agree the way their inheritance is arranged. This is through a Pacte de Famille which is signed by all concerned. The Pacte de Famille is done through a Notaire and now ensures that any arrangement previously done orally can be formalised.

New "marriage contracts" will no longer have to be ratified by the courts, in any circumstances, which will make the use of this type of arrangement simpler and cheaper

Assets may now be left to a particular person, provided that the asset or the value of the asset will be returned to the beneficial inheritor. This will help to protect the surviving spouse have the use of a property with the children ultimately inheriting. This is particularly relevant for second marriages where there are other children.

This is a very brief resume of the recent changes and I do not pretend to be a legal expert. At all times qualified and independent legal advice must be sought.

Visitors Shopping in France - Getting Your Tax back

If you visit France for less than six months and you live outside of the European Union, then you can claim back the value Added tax on some larger purchases made.

You have to leave France within 60 days of making the purchase, so if you are staying longer save your big purchases for the last couple of months.

You have to keep the receipt and get a special detaxe form from the shop you buy the goods from, you will need your passport for them to give you this and not all shops will have the service or forms available - ask first.

Some shops offer "Tax Free Shopping" - you still pay tax and get the refund after leaving France. This is mainly from the larger stores and specialist shops.

For full information look at the official government site at... http://www.douane.gouv.fr/page.asp?id=39