French decree expands loan possibilities for national museums

A decree issued on May 22, 2026, in France broadens the ability of national museums to lend artworks. Previously, loans were restricted to non-profit cultural organizations, excluding commercial entities like galleries. Now, loans can be made to any public or private legal entity that guarantees public accessibility, for temporary cultural exhibitions or cultural promotion events aimed at fundraising for restoration or collection enrichment. The decree also allows deposits of cultural goods in historical monuments open to the public, removing the previous requirement that the monument be owned by a local authority. Deposit durations are clarified: a maximum of five years renewable, except for certain categories (e.g., works deposited before October 7, 1910, or for at least 50 years, dation works, deposits to foreign museums, and MNR works) which can be renewed up to 25 years. This reform, long awaited by professionals, aims to improve circulation of national collections while securing legal practice.