The French National Assembly's finance committee approved changes to a zero-interest loan program, known as the PTZ, on Thursday, aimed at helping young parents afford larger homes. The update removes income requirements and raises the maximum loan amount to 100,000 euros. This measure is part of a broader effort by Minister Sébastien Lecornu to encourage higher birth rates. Earlier in September, the Prime Minister confirmed the continuation of the PTZ, which currently helps around 70,000 households annually buy property. The revised version will also extend the loan to families with a child due or under three years old.
During the committee meeting, deputies approved an amendment proposed by Jean-Paul Matteï (Les Démocrates), inspired by an earlier proposal from the Liot group. Under the new rules, the PTZ will be available to households with a child aged five and will not require income verification. The loan limit will be fixed at 100,000 euros, regardless of other factors that previously influenced the amount.
Jean-Paul Matteï described the change as "common sense," emphasizing that it supports young couples trying to expand their housing. He argued that while the measure may seem expensive, it would generate additional resources through investments. However, some lawmakers were skeptical, particularly about removing income conditions, which they believed could benefit wealthier families more than those in need.
Iñaki Echaniz (PS) raised concerns, noting that "the children of Bernard Arnault could therefore benefit from the PTZ for children if they wish to have children," referencing a past debate about universalizing a one-euro meal for all students. He argued that banks would prefer to lend to those who don't need the PTZ, and that removing income caps might "undermine the device at its core."
Other deputies warned about the financial implications of the expansion. Daniel Labaronne (Ensemble pour la République) highlighted the potential burden on public finances, estimating a cost of 1.35 billion euros by 2025. He emphasized that while the PTZ is free for borrowers, it is ultimately paid for by taxpayers. Guillaume Kasbarian (EPR) questioned whether the state should cover the interest costs for all households, suggesting that a "PTZ for all" might "slightly deviate from the original objective." Éric Coquerel (La France insoumise) added that this could also drive up housing prices.
The expanded PTZ is not yet finalized. Deputies will revisit the original government proposal during further debates in the chamber. For the measure to take effect in 2027, it must be included in the final law following the budget process.
French Parliament Expands Zero-Interest Loan for Young Families
AI-rewritten from original reportingHow it works
francehousing-policybirth-ratesptzpublic-finance



