Big news out of France this month—and if you're a digital entrepreneur, investor, or expat with French citizenship, you need to pay attention.
The French parliament has just approved a new tax measure that's turning heads. It's designed to stop high-income earners from escaping French taxes by simply moving abroad. In short, it shifts parts of France's tax system closer to the U.S. model of taxing based on citizenship—not just residency.
Here's what you need to know:
What’s Changing?
Up until now, France taxed people based on where they lived. Move abroad, and in many cases, your French tax obligations would end.
Not anymore.
Under the new law, if you're a French national who relocates to a low-tax country, you could still be on the hook for French taxes—for up to 10 years after you leave.
Who's Affected?👀
This doesn’t apply to everyone. The rule targets:
High earners (making more than €235,500 per year as of 2025)
French citizens who lived in France for at least 3 of the last 10 years
Those who move to countries where tax rates are significantly lower than France’s (around 40% less)
If that’s you, France may still expect a cut of your income—even if you no longer live there.
Why It Matters for Digital Entrepreneurs
As a digital business owner, you may have structured your life to maximize flexibility—choosing to live where taxes are friendlier or where the lifestyle fits your vibe. But if you hold a French passport and recently lived in France, that strategy could now come with new complications.
Your online income—from affiliate sales to digital products, coaching, SaaS, or ad revenue—could be considered taxable in France again. Even if you’ve gone fully remote. Even if you’re legally a tax resident elsewhere.
Yes, there are tax credits for what you pay abroad, and tax treaties will still play a role. But the burden is shifting.
Where to Invest $100,000 According to Experts
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And the Fed is lowering rates, potentially adding fuel to the fire.
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Why?
Contemporary art prices have appreciated 11.2% annually on average
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What Should You Do?
If you’re a French citizen living or planning to move abroad, here’s what to consider right now:
Check your recent French residency status
Did you live in France at any point during the last 10 years?
Review your income sources and where you're taxed
Are you making over €235,500 annually?
Are you living in a country with much lower tax rates?
Talk to a cross-border tax advisor
This is not a DIY situation. You need advice from someone who understands both French and international tax law.
Consider your long-term citizenship and mobility strategy
If France starts fully adopting citizenship-based taxation, your passport becomes a tax liability—not just a travel document.
Keep records and stay proactive
Document your residence, your taxes paid, and your income sources. If the French tax authority ever comes knocking, you want to be ready.
The Bigger Picture
This law is still new, and some parts could evolve. But the direction is clear: France wants to stop what it sees as tax avoidance by wealthy citizens moving abroad. And if other countries follow suit, we could see a shift in how global taxation works for mobile entrepreneurs.
Right now, your best defense is being informed and well-advised.
Thanks for reading. If you found this helpful, make sure to follow @thefreedom.brief on Instagram for daily insights and fresh takes on how to thrive in the digital economy.
Stay mobile. Stay smart. Stay free.
Sources: imidaily.com, telegraph.co.uk, savoryandpartners.com, citizensinternational.com, imperialcitizenship.com
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