1. Proof of Identity and Legal Status
You must provide an official identification document and proof of legal status in France. The required documents include:
- Official Identification with a Photo – A valid passport, national ID card, or French/foreign driver’s license with a photo.
- Visa or Residence Permit – Non-European citizens must provide proof of legal residence in France, such as a valid visa or residence permit.
2. Proof of Address
To verify your current address, you must provide one of the following documents, dated within the last three months:
- Last three rent receipts – If you were previously renting.
- Certificate from the previous landlord – A formal statement confirming your rental history.
- Domiciliation certificate – Proof of your registered home address, often used by individuals without formal rental contracts.
- Latest property tax notice (avis de taxe foncière) – If you own property in France.
- Temporary accommodation receipts – If you have recently moved from abroad, hotel invoices or similar documents may sometimes be accepted.
3. Proof of Income and Employment
Landlords require proof of financial resources to ensure you can afford rent. Required documents include:
- Employment contract – A signed contract stating your salary and employment conditions.
- Last three pay slips – Frequently requested to demonstrate financial stability.
- Tax assessment notice – Your most recent tax return.
Additional documents depending on employment status:
For company representatives:
- Identity document of the signatory
- Employer certificate – Should specify the nature of the job, salary, and start date.
- Kbis extract (less than 3 months old)
- Company tax return (Avis d’imposition de l’entreprise) – Latest tax notice
- Power of signature – If the signatory is not listed on the Kbis
For self-employed individuals:
- Last two tax notices (Avis d’imposition)
- INSEE registration (SIRET number) – For freelancers
- Kbis extract – For company owners
- D1 extract from the trade register – Less than 3 months old (for artisans)
- Professional card – For liberal professions
- Last two balance sheets
4. Additional Documents (if requested)
Depending on your situation, you may also need:
- Home Insurance Certificate – Mandatory before moving in.
- Student ID Card or Enrollment Certificate – Required for students.
- Guarantor (“Caution Solidaire”) – If your income is insufficient, a guarantor (such as a parent or close relative) may be required to co-sign your lease.
- References – Some landlords may request references from previous landlords or employers to verify your reliability as a tenant.
5. Other Key Considerations
- Proof of Student Status – Students in France may need to provide an enrollment certificate (certificat de scolarité) or university acceptance letter.
- Guarantor (Garant) – If your income is insufficient, landlords often require a guarantor (garant), typically earning at least 3 times the rent. This person must provide financial documents and sign a guarantee agreement (acte de caution solidaire). Some landlords accept Visale, a free guarantor service for students.
- Affordability Criteria – Tenants usually need an income of 2.5 to 3 times the rent. If not, a guarantor or CAF housing aid (APL/ALS) can help.
Preparing these documents in advance can speed up the rental process and show landlords that you are a serious and reliable tenant. Given the competitive French rental market, having a complete application ready—including strong references—could make all the difference in securing your ideal apartment!
