Frequently asked questions about Donation

No. The surviving spouse may claim a lifetime right of use and habitation over the property that was their main residence at the time of the spouse’s death, provided it belonged to the couple or to the deceased (Article 764 of the French Civil Code). However, case law (a body…

Yes. Article 924-4 of the French Civil Code stipulates that heirs with reserved rights may bring an action for reduction or revendication against third parties holding real estate that was donated and subsequently disposed of by the recipient. In practical terms, if your father's gift encroaches on your brothers' and…

Yes. When the beneficiary of a donation is domiciled in France on the day of the donation or has had his tax residence in France for at least six years during the last ten years preceding the donation, all the assets he receives located in France or outside France are…

Yes. A minor may receive a gift, but as they are legally incapable (Article 414 of the Civil Code), a legal representative (usually a parent) must on their behalf (Articles 935 and 382 of the Civil Code).

Yes. Under French law, the principle is that ownership of the land includes ownership of everything on and beneath it (Article 552 of the Civil Code). This means that even if you financed the construction of the house, your sister remains the owner. For the house to become your property…