France Mortgage Insurance for Immigrants – France

France is a prime destination for immigrants seeking stability, opportunity, and long-term investment. 

Among those looking to settle permanently, purchasing a home is a major milestone and with that comes the need for mortgage insurance. 

Whether you’re buying an apartment in Paris or a countryside retreat in Provence, understanding France mortgage insurance for immigrants is crucial to making smart, secure financial decisions.

This guide provides a clear breakdown of what mortgage insurance is, why it’s important, how it works for non-French nationals, and how to find affordable options as an immigrant in France.

What is Mortgage Insurance in France?

Mortgage insurance, known in French as “assurance emprunteur”, is a type of insurance required by most lenders when you take out a mortgage (loan) to buy a property.

While not legally mandatory in France, most banks require borrowers to have mortgage insurance to protect themselves and the borrower in case of unforeseen events such as:

• Death
  
• Permanent disability
  
• Critical illness
  
• Loss of employment (optional coverage)
  

It ensures that the outstanding loan amount is repaid even if the borrower is unable to meet their obligations, giving both the bank and your family peace of mind.

Why Immigrants Need Mortgage Insurance

If you are an immigrant or expat planning to buy a property in France, mortgage insurance is essential for several reasons:

• Loan Approval: Most French banks will not approve a mortgage without an insurance plan in place.
  
• Financial Protection: It covers the remaining loan if you die or become permanently disabled.
  
• Family Security: Your loved ones won’t be burdened with unpaid mortgage debt.
  
• Residency Compliance: For long-term residents and immigrants applying for permanent stay, property ownership with secure financing adds credibility.
  
• Legal Safeguards: Ensures you’re covered under French lending laws and consumer protection standards.
  

Who Can Apply for Mortgage Insurance in France?

Mortgage insurance is available to both residents and non-residents, including:

• Immigrants with a valid residence permit
  
• EU and non-EU nationals
  
• Permanent and long-term residents
  
• Foreign investors buying a second home in France
  

Even if you are a new arrival, many insurers offer tailored policies for expatriates and foreign nationals—though terms may differ based on your status, employment, and health profile.

How Does Mortgage Insurance Work in France?

Mortgage insurance in France typically includes a set of protections, often packaged under a group policy from the lending bank or as an individual policy from a private insurer.

Core Coverage Includes:

• Death: Pays off the remaining mortgage in case of the borrower’s death.
  
• Total and Irreversible Loss of Autonomy (PTIA): Applies if you can no longer work or care for yourself.
  
• Permanent Disability (IPP/IPT): Coverage for partial or full long-term disability.
  
• Temporary Incapacity (ITT): Covers monthly payments during short-term illness or injury.
  

Optional Coverage:

• Loss of Employment Insurance: Protects in the event you lose your job (typically available to salaried employees in France).
  

Coverage is typically in place for the entire term of the mortgage loan, usually 15 to 25 years.

Choosing Between Group vs. Individual Policies

There are two main types of mortgage insurance in France:

Group Insurance (Assurance de groupe)

• Offered by the bank as a package deal.
  
• Easier to sign up for during the mortgage process.
  
• Standard coverage, not tailored to individual needs.
  
• Sometimes more expensive in the long run.
  

Individual Insurance (Assurance individuelle or délégation d’assurance)

• Offered by third-party insurers.
  
• Tailored to your health, age, and profession.
  
• Often cheaper, especially for younger or healthier borrowers.
  
• Banks must accept equivalent coverage under the Bourquin Law, giving borrowers the freedom to choose.
  

As an immigrant, choosing individual insurance can often lead to better coverage at lower cost, particularly if you are in good health or buying a property jointly with a spouse.

Key Factors That Affect Mortgage Insurance Cost

The cost of mortgage insurance is calculated based on:

• Age at the time of loan
  
• Loan amount and duration
  
• Health condition and medical history
  
• Employment type (salaried, self-employed, etc.)
  
• Smoking status
  
• Residency status and nationality
  

On average, mortgage insurance adds 0.2% to 0.6% of the loan amount per year. For a €200,000 mortgage, this could mean €400–€1,200 annually.

How to Apply for Mortgage Insurance as an Immigrant

Here’s a simplified process to follow:

Step 1: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Approach a bank or mortgage broker in France. Ensure you have:

• Proof of income
  
• Residency documents
  
• Valid ID or passport
  
• Credit history or international bank statements
  

Step 2: Choose Your Insurance Policy

Compare group and individual policies. Use online tools like:

• Meilleurtaux
  
• Empruntis
  
• Lelynx
  

Step 3: Undergo Medical Screening (if required)

Depending on your age and loan size, you may need to complete a health questionnaire or medical exam.

Step 4: Submit Documents

Provide the insurer with:

• Personal identification
  
• Residence permit or visa
  
• Mortgage loan offer
  
• Medical results (if applicable)
  

Step 5: Finalize the Policy and Begin Coverage

Once accepted, sign the insurance agreement. Submit it to your lender, who will validate the policy before disbursing your loan.

Best Mortgage Insurance Providers in France

Some top insurers offering mortgage protection include:

• AXA
  
• Allianz
  
• CNP Assurances
  
• Maif
  
• SwissLife
  
• Generali
  
• April International – Popular among expats and foreigners
  

Many of these providers offer bilingual support and expat-friendly plans.

Can You Switch Mortgage Insurance Later?

Yes. Under French law:

• You can switch policies within the first 12 months after signing your mortgage (Lemoine Law).
  
• After 1 year, you can change once a year on the loan anniversary if you find better coverage at a lower cost.
  

This flexibility allows immigrants to adjust their policies after settling in or improving their financial position.

Tips for Immigrants Seeking Mortgage Insurance

• Compare multiple providers to get the best deal.
  
• Declare medical history accurately to avoid denied claims later.
  
• If you’re buying as a couple, split coverage percentages wisely (e.g., 50%/50% or 100% on both).
  
• Choose a provider that offers customer support in English.
  
• Keep copies of your policy and communication for visa or tax records.
  

Owning a home in France as an immigrant is a life-changing achievement, and mortgage insurance is a key part of protecting that investment. 

Whether you’re newly arrived or a long-term resident, understanding your options for affordable coverage ensures that your homeownership journey is safe, secure, and financially sound.

By comparing offers, choosing the right provider, and staying informed of your rights, you can confidently take this major step toward building a future in France.