Seek legal help before moving to France

With France introducing new laws that will affect prospective property buyers, it is important to seek legal help when planning to make a move.

When immigrating to a foreign country it is important to hire a professional to explain complicated and sometimes unusual laws and their implications.

In the case of France, Niclas Downlatshahi, managing director at Leapfrog-properties.com, explained: "There are two new laws [in France]...The first is that [the] threshold for wealth tax has increased and the other is that capital gains tax ... is now reduced over a 30 year period."

Previously, capital gains tax had been reduced over a period of 15 years. The new rule will affect anybody moving to the country after February 1st 2012.

To navigate through the new laws, Mr Downlatshahi advises seeking legal help. When making a move conveyancing solicitors will also be vital.

Using British Conveyancing services to initially explain the differences between French and UK procedure is advisable, to ensure that movers are clear about foreign terms and conditions.

Published by Kevin Round