For many expatriates living in France, choosing the right long term investment and wealth management structure is essential. Assurance Vie remains one of the most popular and tax efficient solutions for residents. Among the wide range of providers available on the market, One Life offers a flexible pan European platform that suits internationally mobile clients. Whether you are building a long term investment strategy, planning inheritance arrangements, or seeking more freedom over your asset allocation, One Life Assurance Vie can be an excellent option.
In this guide, we explore the features, advantages, costs, and considerations surrounding One Life to help you understand how it works and whether it aligns with your financial objectives as an expat in France.
What Is One Life Assurance Vie
One Life is a Luxembourg based provider of life insurance and wealth structuring solutions. Their Assurance Vie contracts are widely used by expatriates because they combine tax efficiency, investment flexibility, and strong regulatory protection. As a Luxembourg insurer, One Life operates under the triangle of security model. This means client assets are held separately by an independent custodian bank appointed and supervised by the regulator. In Luxembourg, the Commissariat aux Assurances (CAA) is the regulatory authority overseeing custodian banks, ensuring strict regulatory oversight and client asset protection. For clients, this provides an additional layer of security not always found in traditional French Assurance Vie contracts.
One Life Assurance Vie contracts allow you to invest in a wide range of assets from traditional funds to managed portfolios. They are particularly attractive for investors who want more choice or bespoke portfolio management.
Why Expats Choose One Life Assurance Vie
Strong Regulatory Protection
Luxembourg is known for its strict financial oversight. The triangle of security is specifically designed to keep policyholder assets secure, ensuring their safety and protection. In the unlikely event of default, policyholder assets remain protected and accessible.
Flexible Investment Options
One Life offers a broad investment universe from low cost index funds to actively managed strategies and discretionary portfolio management. For clients with higher investment amounts, access may extend to more sophisticated vehicles under appropriate advisory conditions. Clients may also have access to a dedicated fund, which is a specific type of investment available within Luxembourg life insurance policies and is distinct from other fund types such as specialized insurance funds.
Cross Border Portability
For internationally mobile expatriates, portability is essential. One Life contracts can often be maintained even if you move to another European country. This brings continuity to your financial planning as life circumstances evolve.
Tax Advantages in France
When structured correctly, the One Life Assurance Vie follows the French tax rules on life insurance. This means beneficial tax treatment after eight years, favourable inheritance planning options, and flexibility over withdrawals.
Wealth Management with One Life Assurance Vie
At the heart of One Life Assurance Vie is a commitment to providing expertly customised wealth management solutions for clients across the globe. Whether you are a French resident or an international investor, our dedicated team is focused on helping clients manage and transfer wealth flexibly, securely, and efficiently.
With One Life, you gain access to a comprehensive range of investments and contract options, each designed to meet the unique needs of our diverse client base. Our wealth management approach is built around understanding your personal objectives and delivering solutions that align with your long-term financial goals. From selecting the right investment strategies to structuring your contract for maximum benefit, we work closely with you at every stage.
Our team’s expertise ensures that your wealth is managed with the highest level of care, providing peace of mind as you navigate the complexities of international finance. We offer solutions that allow you to transfer wealth flexibly, adapt to changing circumstances, and maintain control over your assets, no matter where life takes you.
By choosing One Life Assurance Vie, you are partnering with a provider that understands the importance of security, efficiency, and tailored service. We are here to support you in building, preserving, and passing on your wealth, offering a world-class experience for clients in France and around the world.
How One Life Assurance Vie Works
Opening the Contract
To open a contract, you work with an authorised financial adviser who will guide you through the suitability process, risk assessment, and documentation. Minimum investment levels may apply depending on the version of the contract and the investment choices selected.
Investment Strategy
Once the contract is open, you can choose from a range of investment models. This can include:
• Managed portfolios
• ETFs
• Traditional funds
• Specialist strategies
• Active or passive investment approaches
La gestion of your portfolio can be tailored to your personal objectives and financial situation, ensuring a personalized approach to wealth management.
Your adviser will help you select an approach aligned with your objectives, timeframe, and risk profile.
Withdrawals and Access
Withdrawals can be taken at any time. They are taxed according to the French Assurance Vie rules. These rules provide clients with options for reduced taxation after eight years of the contract and the possibility of using the annual allowance.
Succession Planning
One Life Assurance Vie allows you to nominate beneficiaries. This can help structure assets for heirs and provide more flexibility for international families.
Succession planning with One Life Assurance Vie can also be integrated with retirement and retirement planning strategies, offering a comprehensive approach to wealth management.
Key Benefits for British and International Expats
Tax Efficient Growth
Taxation is only applied when you withdraw funds. Gains inside the contract grow tax deferred which can significantly improve long term returns.
Favourable Inheritance Rules
Assurance Vie offers potential inheritance tax advantages, particularly for funds paid in before age seventy. This is especially valuable for blended families and expatriates with heirs in different countries.
Simplified Reporting
Your adviser will support you with the French reporting requirements. One Life works with professional advisers to ensure annual statements are clear and compliant.
Broad Currency Options
You can hold investments in several currencies which is helpful for expats with international income or future plans outside France.
Costs and Considerations
Understanding charges is essential for making an informed decision.
Typical costs may include:
• Policy fees
• Investment fund charges
• Custodian fees
• Adviser fees
A transparent adviser will always provide a clear breakdown of costs before you proceed. At Harrison Brook, we work on a fee based model to ensure clarity and alignment with clients, while also ensuring high standards, compliance, and client trust throughout our process.
You should also consider whether you prefer a simpler low cost French Assurance Vie or the broader investment flexibility that a Luxembourg contract provides. One Life is often more suitable for clients with larger portfolios or more complex financial needs.
Is One Life Assurance Vie Right for You
It can be an excellent option if you are:
• An expat living in France seeking more investment choice
• Looking for strong regulatory and custodial protection
• Building a long term tax efficient strategy
• Managing assets across multiple countries
• Planning inheritance for cross border families
For smaller portfolios or those seeking a simple low cost solution, a standard French Assurance Vie may be more appropriate.
A qualified cross border adviser can help you determine the best structure for your situation. Building trust with your adviser is essential for long-term financial success.
FAQs – One Life Assurance Vie
Is One Life regulated in France
One Life is regulated in Luxembourg and operates throughout Europe under EU freedom of services arrangements. French residents can hold One Life Assurance Vie as long as it is set up correctly through a regulated adviser.
Is One Life better than a traditional French Assurance Vie
It depends on your goals. One Life offers wider investment options and stronger custodial protection. A French Assurance Vie can be more cost effective for straightforward needs.
Can I change my investments later
Yes. You can adjust your investment strategy within the contract at any time. Your adviser will guide you through any implications.
What is the minimum investment
Minimums vary but are typically higher than standard French Assurance Vie products. Your adviser will confirm the requirements.
Can I keep my One Life contract if I leave France
Often yes. Portability is one of the advantages. It is important to review your tax position in the new country.
Speak to Harrison Brook France
Choosing the right Assurance Vie structure can transform long term financial planning for expatriates. Harrison Brook helps clients around the world manage their wealth and assets securely and efficiently. If you would like to understand whether One Life Assurance Vie suits your goals, our advisers are here to help.
Speak with a Harrison Brook adviser today and take the next step in building your financial future.
