Frequently Asked Questions (UK Buyers)
Can UK citizens still buy fishing lakes in France after Brexit?
Yes. Brexit did not remove the right for UK citizens to buy property in France. The main changes since Brexit relate to how long you can stay visa-free and what you need to prove if you want to live in France long-term. For official visa routes and requirements, start with the France-Visas long-stay visa overview.
Do I need French residency to own a fishing lake?
No. You can own a fishing lake without being resident in France. The important distinction is between owning property and staying in France beyond the visa-free allowance (or operating a business on the property).
How long can UK citizens stay in France now (visa-free)?
UK travellers can visit France (and the wider Schengen area) for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa for tourism/visits. See the UK government’s official France entry requirements for the current rule and examples.
If I buy a lake, does that give me residency rights?
No. Property ownership does not grant residency. If you want to live in France for more than the 90/180 allowance, you’ll need an appropriate long-stay visa (and in many cases a follow-on residence permit process). France’s official guidance on private/tourist stay expectations is outlined in France-Visas: Séjour touristique ou privé.
What “minimum earnings” or resources are required for a visitor-type stay?
Requirements can vary by prefecture and your personal situation, but France’s official public service site provides a baseline for the “visiteur” residence permit and the resources level used as a reference. See Service-Public.fr: Carte de séjour temporaire “visiteur” for the current figure and acceptable forms of proof.
What is “micro-entrepreneur” status and why do lake owners use it?
The micro-entrepreneur (micro-enterprise) regime is a simplified framework that many small operators use because it reduces admin and uses a simplified tax/social contributions approach. Official guidance on the micro-enterprise regime and thresholds is available at Service-Public (Micro-enterprise tax regime). Practical guidance is also available via URSSAF’s official micro-entrepreneur essentials page.
What types of fishing lakes are UK buyers usually looking for?
UK buyers often consider (a) private leisure lakes for personal use, (b) established fisheries with facilities and proven stock, or (c) renovation/development projects. To understand what’s currently available and compare regions, access, and facilities, most buyers start by reviewing fishing lakes for sale in France.