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Easy Tax Guide for Expats in France

Navigating the French tax system doesn’t have to be complicated. We’ve created a straightforward guide to help you confidently tackle tax season. Learn how to file, get familiar with essential terms, and find answers to common questions—all designed to make the process smoother for expats like you.

January 10, 2025

How bunq Makes Filing Taxes Easy

Taxes are a fact of life, but with bunq, they don’t have to be stressful. Whether your income is local or international, we simplify the process so you can handle your taxes with ease. Stay ahead of deadlines, avoid mistakes, and file confidently—all with the tools and support you need.

Where to Find Official Deadlines and Updates

  • impots.gouv.fr: The official website for French tax services, where you’ll find filing forms and the most accurate information.

  • service-public.fr: A helpful source for filing deadlines and FAQs.

  • French Income Tax Calculator: A reference tool to estimate your tax obligations. Always verify your calculations using official resources like impots.gouv.fr or Service-Public.fr.

When and How to File Your Taxes

Am I required to file taxes in France?

If you live in France for over 183 days a year, hold your primary job here, or maintain significant financial ties, you’ll need to file taxes annually.

Key Deadlines to Remember

  • Online filing: Deadlines vary by department, typically between mid-May and early June.

  • Paper filing: Usually due in early May.

Forms You’ll Need:

  • Form 2042: For general income.

  • Form 2047: For income earned outside France.

  • Form 2044: For rental income.

To ensure accuracy, always check the official tax authority website for specific dates.

Key Tax Terms for Expats

Simplify tax season with this glossary of must-know terms:

  • Avis d’imposition: Your tax notice, detailing what you owe or will be reimbursed.

  • CSG and CRDS: Social contributions funding healthcare and welfare programs.

  • Déclaration de revenus: Reporting your yearly income to the French tax authorities.

  • Prélèvement à la source: Withholding tax deducted directly from your income.

Why bunq Is Your Perfect Partner for Taxes in France

 With bunq, you have everything you need to stay organized, save time, and ensure compliance—all in one app. Here’s how bunq simplifies your tax journey:

  • Seamlessly manage payments: With a dedicated French IBAN, you can handle tax payments effortlessly. Schedule automated transfers and track every payment with ease, ensuring you never miss a deadline.

  • Stay organized with up to 25 Bank Accounts: Take control of your tax savings by creating bank accounts to set aside funds. For example, reserve 30% of your income for taxes to avoid last-minute financial stress when payments are due.

  • Simplify international finances: Hold multiple currencies and enjoy up to 5 Foreign IBANs for easy cross-border transactions.

  • Simplify your paperwork: Easily download bank statements and export invoices directly from the app to meet French tax requirements. Access details like IBANs, account opening dates, and transaction records to keep your income and expenses organized.

  • Tax reporting made easy: Investing with bunq? You’ll receive annual tax reports by March, making it simple to declare capital gains and investment income.

  • Streamline your bookkeeping: bunq’s built-in tools, like receipt and invoice scanning, make it easy to maintain accurate records of your expenses and transactions—perfect for both personal and business use.

  • Stay comfortable in English: If French isn’t your first language, bunq helps you manage finances stress-free with an English-friendly interface.

Start today and experience how bunq helps expats stay organized and confident in their financial journey.



FAQs about Taxes in France

Q: What income is taxable in France?

A: Income from salaries, pensions, rental properties, and investments is taxable. For foreign income, tax treaties may help you avoid double taxation.

Q: Can I file taxes in English?

A: While the forms are in French, guides like this one make it easier to navigate.

Q: What happens if I miss a deadline?

A: Late filings may result in penalties, but reaching out to the tax office promptly can minimize any impact.



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Easy Bank Pro icon
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The bank account that makes budgeting easy.

Easy Bank Pro XL icon
bunq Elite

€18.99/month

The bank account designed for your international lifestyle.

Find your perfect fit

Personal

Business

Easy Savings icon
bunq Free

Free

The essentials to get you started.

Easy Bank icon
bunq Core

€3.99/month

The bank account for everyday use.  

Easy Bank Pro icon
bunq Pro

€9.99/month

The bank account that makes budgeting easy.

Easy Bank Pro XL icon
bunq Elite

€18.99/month

The bank account designed for your international lifestyle.

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