Consumer credit: rules evolve to prevent over-indebtedness

The order of 3 September 2025 transposes European Directive (EU) 2023/2225 into French law.

The new rules on consumer credit agreements will enter into application on November 20, 2026 in order to enable the professionals concerned to adapt their clauses and contracts.

The objective is to preventing over-indebtedness by regulating borrowing practices, particularly for small loans, short-term loans or loans that are easily accessible via the internet.

Which consumer loans are concerned?

The new rules apply to several types of loans which have hitherto been partially or totally excluded:

• credits without any fees or interest, known as “free credits” (or with negligible fees);
• credits of less than €200, known as “mini-credits”;
• short credits, less than 3 months with negligible fees (split or deferred payment);
• consumer credit from €75 000 to €100 000;
• Leases with purchase option (LOA).

Deferred debit cards will remain exempt from the regulations.

What consumer protection measures?

Borrowing practices will be better regulated through various key measures.

Advertising more framed

• Any communication concerning a consumer credit transaction must be “clear, fair and not misleading”.
• It must include the words “Attention! A credit costs money and must be repaid!”
• Highlighting the ease of obtaining credit will be prohibited.

Simplification and transparency

• Simplification of formalities for short or small loans, while ensuring transparency.
• Pre-contractual information provided by the lending institution more framed.

Analysis of the borrower's solvency

Financial institutions may consult, on an optional basis, the national reimbursement incident file to analyse the creditworthiness of borrowers, even on small loans. They will be able to alert consumers in the event of financial difficulties.

Other protective provisions

• Free referral of clients in difficulty to advisory services for indebted persons.
• Extended withdrawal periods for borrowers in the event of non-compliance by the lender with its contractual information obligations.
• Preferential conditions in case of early repayment.