Europe
Send Money to France
Last updated: February 2026|Written by Matt Woodley
Quick Facts
Important Note
Notaire payments for property
Sending money from the UK to France requires choosing the right provider for GBP to EUR transfers. The exchange rate, fees, and delivery speed vary significantly between providers. Below we cover how money transfers to France work, what the banking system looks like on the receiving end, how to avoid common pitfalls, and which FCA-regulated providers offer the best rates for EUR transfers in 2026.
How Money Transfers to France Work
France uses the SEPA system for all EUR transfers. SEPA Instant Credit Transfers arrive in under 10 seconds and are supported by most French banks including BNP Paribas, Credit Agricole, and Societe Generale. For property purchases, all funds must be paid through the Notaire (notary). French IBANs begin with FR followed by 25 characters.
Common Reasons People Send Money to France
- Buying property (rural houses, Parisian apartments, ski chalets)
- Paying French Notaire fees and taxes
- Living expenses for expatriates
- Pension and retirement income transfers
- Renovating a French property
Tax & Regulatory Information
France levies notaire fees of 7-8% on resale properties and 2-3% on new builds. Non-residents pay 19% capital gains tax plus 17.2% social charges on property sales. France's wealth tax (IFI) applies to real estate assets exceeding EUR 1.3 million. The Franco-British double taxation treaty prevents being taxed twice on the same income.
This is general guidance only. Consult a qualified tax adviser for advice specific to your circumstances.
GBP/EUR has traded between 1.10 and 1.20 through 2024-2026. The rate is influenced by ECB and Bank of England monetary policy divergence. On a EUR 200,000 property, each 1 centime move on GBP/EUR represents approximately GBP 1,500.
Bank vs Specialist: How Much Can You Save on EUR Transfers?
Indicative rates based on a typical GBP 10,000 transfer. Actual rates vary by provider and market conditions.
| Metric | High-Street Bank | Specialist Provider |
|---|---|---|
| Exchange Rate | 1.1330 | 1.1700 |
| Transfer Fee | £25 | £0 |
| Estimated Saving | -- | Save ~3.4% |
Rates are indicative and updated periodically. Check live rates with each provider for the most accurate quote.
Best Providers for Sending Money to France
We have reviewed and rated the top money transfer services for sending money to France. All providers below are licensed, regulated, and IMT accredited.
Currencies Direct
IMT Score: 94/100Best Overall for Large Transfers
Fees
Zero fees
Speed
1-2 days
Min.
$100
TorFX
IMT Score: 91/100Best for Property Purchases
Fees
Zero fees
Speed
1-2 days
Min.
£100
Wise
IMT Score: 92/100Best for Speed & Small Amounts
Fees
Low transparent fee
Speed
Minutes to hours
Min.
£1
OFX
IMT Score: 88/100Best for 24/7 Support
Fees
Zero fees over £1,000
Speed
1-3 days
Min.
£100
XE
IMT Score: 87/100Best for Currency Coverage
Fees
No transfer fees
Speed
1-4 days
Min.
£1
Disclosure: We may receive compensation when you click on links to providers on this page. This does not affect our editorial independence or the ranking order. Our reviews are based on independent research and real customer feedback. Read our editorial policy.
5 Expert Tips for Sending Money to France
Practical advice from our editorial team, based on market data and feedback from thousands of users who have sent EUR.
Always use SEPA for EUR transfers to France -- faster and cheaper than SWIFT
Property completions in France can take 3-4 months after signing the Compromis de Vente
The 10-day cooling-off period after signing the Compromis is unique to French law -- use a forward contract during this period
French Notaires will only accept funds from the named buyer -- no third-party transfers
Request a SEPA Instant transfer for same-day completion payments
Frequently Asked Questions: Sending Money to France
What is the cheapest way to send money from the UK to France?
Use a specialist provider and request a SEPA transfer. SEPA transfers to France cost a fraction of SWIFT and arrive within hours. Specialists charge 0.1-0.6% margin vs 2.5-4% at banks. On a GBP 50,000 property deposit, you save approximately EUR 1,700-2,000 vs a bank.
How do I pay a French Notaire for a property purchase?
Your specialist provider can send directly to the Notaire's client account. The Notaire will provide their bank details (IBAN and BIC) and a reference number. The funds must come from the named buyer on the Compromis de Vente -- the Notaire will reject third-party payments. Send funds 2-3 days before the signing of the Acte de Vente to ensure they clear in time.
How long does a UK to France transfer take?
SEPA transfers typically arrive within 1-4 hours. SEPA Instant (supported by most French banks) arrives in under 10 seconds. SWIFT transfers take 1-2 business days. UK high-street banks take 3-5 days. For property completions, always use SEPA and send at least 2 days before the Acte signing.
What taxes apply when buying property in France?
Notaire fees of 7-8% on resale properties (2-3% on new builds), which include the Notaire's commission plus registration taxes. If the property is worth over EUR 1.3 million, France's wealth tax (IFI) may apply. The Franco-British double taxation treaty ensures you are not taxed twice on the same income or gains.
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