In 2025, several notable changes will take place in France across various sectors:
- Instant bank transfers: Starting January 9, 2025, instant bank transfers within the SEPA zone (Single Euro Payments Area) will be free of charge. This regulation applies to all French banks and is mandated by the European Parliament. The service is available 24/7 and completes transfers within 10 seconds.
- Increase in tobacco prices: Tobacco prices will rise on January 1, 2025. The price of a pack of cigarettes may increase by up to 1 €, pushing the cost of some packs over 12.50 €. This includes cigarettes, cigars, heated tobacco, and rolling tobacco.
- PEL (Housing Savings Plan) interest rate: Starting January 1, 2025, the interest rate for new PELs will decrease to 1.75%, down from 2.25%. The change applies only to new accounts, while existing ones will retain their previous rates.
- Postal service price increase: From January 1, 2025, La Poste will implement a price increase for mail and parcels, with an average rise of 6.8%. Colissimo shipments will increase by an average of 5.2%, both domestically and internationally.
- Unemployment insurance reform: New rules for unemployment benefits, which were agreed upon in December 2024, will apply from January 1, 2025. One major change will be the move toward a standardised monthly payment system. Currently, the amount of unemployment benefits is calculated based on the number of days in the month, meaning higher payments in months with 31 days. Starting on April 1, 2025, benefits will be paid on a fixed monthly basis, using a 30-day calendar month as the standard. This change will ensure that the payment amount remains consistent, regardless of the number of days in a particular month. The new rules will apply to individuals whose employment ends after April 1, 2025, as well as to those who are subject to dismissal procedures initiated from that date.
- Pension increase: Pensions will be raised by 2.2% starting January 1, 2025, to match inflation. The increase will benefit retirees across France, ensuring that the purchasing power of pensions remains aligned with inflation rates.
- Social security ceiling: The ceiling for social security contributions will increase by 1.6% in 2025, rising to 47,100 € annually and 3,925 € monthly. This change affects contributions to various social security programs, including pensions and health insurance.
- Tourism rental regulations: New regulations for short-term rentals will be introduced in 2025. All property owners offering vacation rentals will need to register the property as their primary residence. Additionally, tax deductions will be reduced, and stricter energy performance requirements for rental properties will be enforced. More on this in our article on New tourism rental regulations in France for 2025.
These changes reflect France's ongoing efforts to regulate financial, tax, and social systems to align with evolving economic and environmental considerations.
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