26/07/2024
A timbre fiscal (literally tax stamp) is a tax that must be paid for some administrative formalities.
In this article, we'll tell you what exactly it is, how to find out how much to pay, how to make the payment, and how to prove that you paid it. Let's start!
Step 1: What is a timbre fiscal?
In a few words: it is a tax.
For a more precise definition, a timbre fiscal is an official document issued by the French administration which proves that you have paid certain administrative costs. It is used for procedures such as applications for residence permits (titre de séjour), applications for naturalization or applications for family reunification.
The process is done in 2 parts: first, you pay the necessary amount (detailed in steps 2 and 3) and you get a kind of payment voucher (the timbre fiscal). Then the administration will use this voucher for your procedure (the timbre fiscal is then used, it can no longer be reimbursed).
Concretely, it looks like this (electronic version)
Step 2: How do I know how much to pay?
The amount of the tax stamp depends on the type of procedure you are applying for.
If you need to withdraw your titre de séjour (residence permit): the amount will be indicated in the SMS received to tell you that the titre de séjour is ready.
Step 3: How to pay it?
You have two options: either online or at a licensed tobacco shop (bureau de tabac).
Option 1: Online
Go to this website: https://timbres.impots.gouv.fr/
> “Débuter l’achat”
> Select the category corresponding to your request, for example “Titre pour étrangers” for a titre de séjour
> Fill in the amount then “Valider” then “Ajouter au panier”
> Choose whether you prefer to receive the timbre fiscal by email or SMS then “Valider le panier”
> Proceed to payment
> You will then receive the timbre fiscal by SMS or email depending on what you have chosen.
Example of an email
Option 2: In a licensed tobacco shop (bureau de tabac)
You can buy a timbre fiscal from a tobacco shop if the shop is equipped to edit them. It must be equipped with the approved point of sale application.
You pay, and the tobacco shop gives you the timbre fiscal.
Step 4: How to prove that you paid it?
If you have opted for online payment, do not forget to print the electronic timbre fiscal to add it to your application and present it to the administration!
If you paid at a tobacco shop, you should already have the document with you.
💡Pro tip :
The timbre fiscal is valid for 1 year from the date of purchase. To prevent it from no longer being valid when you submit your application, wait until you have finished preparing your application before purchasing it.
💡Pro tip :
In case you made a mistake, and if the timbre fiscal has not been used, you can have it refunded on the site