How does impatriate tax regime affect your finances?

Are you an expat considering moving to France? Or are you already living in France and wondering how to optimize your tax situation? The impatriate tax regime in France can offer numerous benefits, but navigating its complexities can be challenging. In this article, we’ll break down the essential points you need to know about this regime and answer key questions, such as: How does it work? Who is eligible? And what are the benefits and limitations? If you’re planning to set up a company in France, it’s essential to understand the tax implications of the impatriate regime, which can impact your company setting-up decisions.

What do expats really need to know about impatriate tax regime?
Impatriate tax regime : Basics and essentials to know



Understanding the impatriate tax regime

The impatriate tax regime in France is designed to attract highly skilled workers and executives from abroad, providing a competitive edge for businesses and a favorable tax environment for individuals. To qualify, individuals must meet specific criteria, ensuring that the regime benefits those who contribute to France’s economic growth and innovation.

Eligibility criteria for the impatriate tax regime

To be eligible, individuals must meet the following criteria:
  • They must not have been domiciled in France for tax purposes during the five years prior to taking up employment.
  • They must be employed by a company established in France.
  • They must not have come to work in France on their own initiative or already established their residence in France at the time of recruitment.

According to the OECD’s report on taxation of expatriates, it’s essential to understand the tax implications of working abroad. For more information on tax regulations in France, see the French government’s official website.

If you don’t understand the tax implications of working abroad, you may be leaving money on the table. – Nicholas J. Fiore, Journal of International Taxation, 2018

How the impatriate tax regime works

The regime offers several benefits, including:
  • Exemption from income tax on the additional part of remuneration directly linked to carrying out a professional activity in France.
  • Exemption of the portion of remuneration corresponding to working abroad days in the direct and exclusive interest of the company.

If you’re dealing with debt recovery issues in France, it’s crucial to understand how the impatriate regime affects your debt recovery process.

The key to successful tax planning is to understand the rules and regulations of the countries in which you operate. – William P. Streng, Kluwer Law International, 2020

Calculating the exemption and other benefits

Impatriate employees can choose between two options:
  • An exemption of up to 50% of total remuneration (impatriate bonus and fraction of remuneration for working abroad).
  • Exemption of up to 20% of total taxable remuneration (excluding impatriate allowance and employee savings or share ownership schemes) for the remuneration corresponding to the activity carried out abroad.

In addition, impatriate employees benefit from a 50% exemption on foreign-source income from transferable securities, certain intellectual property products, and gains from the sale of securities, provided that the payment is made by a person established outside France in a country or territory that entered into a tax treaty with France containing an administrative assistance clause to combat tax fraud. For more information on tax assistance, see our tax assistance – individuals and corporate page.

The PACTE Act and its implications

The PACTE Act, enacted on May 22, 2019, introduces a scheme allowing impatriates to deduct social security contributions relating to retirement in their country of origin or another country from their taxable remuneration. For more information on the PACTE Act, see the French government’s official website.
 
This scheme takes the form of a temporary exemption from compulsory old-age insurance for impatriates. This exemption can represent a significant saving in terms of social security contributions for impatriates.

Tax planning is an essential part of financial planning for expats. – Ernst & Young, 2020

Property wealth tax and other considerations

The impatriate regime also makes it possible to limit the tax base to property assets located in France. This advantageous tax measure applies for 5 years. If you’re dealing with business and commercial issues in France, it’s essential to understand how the impatriate regime affects your business and commercial issues.

Unlock the full potential of the impatriate tax regime

By understanding the eligibility criteria, benefits, and considerations, you can optimize your tax situation and make the most of the impatriate tax regime. Don’t hesitate to seek expert advice to ensure you’re taking advantage of all the benefits available to you. With the right guidance, you can navigate the complexities of the tax regime and achieve your financial goals.

At My French Lawyer, registered lawyers remain at your disposal should you have any queries regarding the impatriate regime from a tax and social security standpoint. They will provide you with their best advice to secure your interest. For any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us at your convenience.

Maximize your tax benefits with expert guidance

Navigating the impatriate tax regime can be complex, but with the right guidance, you can unlock significant tax benefits. At My French Lawyer, our team of experienced lawyers and tax experts provides personalized advice on tax assistance for individuals and corporate entities. We’ll help you:

  • Understand the eligibility criteria and benefits of the impatriate tax regime
  • Calculate the exemption and optimize your tax situation
  • Ensure compliance with all tax regulations and laws

Whether you’re setting up a company, dealing with debt recovery, seeking tax assistance, or navigating business and commercial issues, we’re here to help.

Ready to take control of your tax situation? Book a meeting with our experts today and discover how we can help you achieve your financial goals and navigate the complexities of the tax regime. Contact us now to schedule your consultation!