France launches investor residency programme offering citizenship after five years

France has introduced a residency‑by‑investment scheme that grants a residence permit to investors who make a productive investment of at least €300,000. After five years of actual residence and compliance with legal requirements, participants can apply for French citizenship. The programme also provides Schengen free‑movement and the right to live and work in France.

Vesta Global, a consultancy specialising in international investment and residency, added the French scheme to its service portfolio. Co‑founder Teuta Narazan highlighted that the programme supports not only real‑estate purchases but also investments that contribute directly to the French economy, offering investors a strong alternative for business development and long‑term settlement planning. The move comes amid rising demand for European residency options as high‑net‑worth individuals seek education, lifestyle and security benefits across the EU, with notable interest from Turkish investors.