France is one of the world’s largest economies and a strategic business gateway to the European Union. Its advanced infrastructure, strong legal framework, and access to a large consumer market make it an appealing destination for entrepreneurs and investors. However, if you're a non-EU citizen looking into company registration in France, there are specific rules and procedures you must follow.
This article provides a step-by-step guide to help non-EU residents navigate the process to register a company in France. Whether you're looking to open a small consultancy, tech startup, or export company, understanding the legal landscape of company registration in France will set you up for long-term success.
Can a Non-EU Citizen Register a Company in France?
Yes, non-EU citizens are allowed to register a company in France. French law does not restrict foreign ownership of companies, and non-residents can fully own and manage businesses in the country. However, there are additional administrative steps and legal requirements compared to EU citizens.
You do not necessarily need to be a resident of France to incorporate a business, but depending on the business type and your role in the company, a residence permit or visa might be required. This applies especially if you plan to actively run the business from within France.
Choosing the Right Business Structure
When planning company incorporation in France, the first major decision is selecting the appropriate legal structure. Common types include:
- SAS (Société par Actions Simplifiée) – A flexible and popular option for foreign investors. It allows a single shareholder (SASU for solo founders) and offers limited liability.
- SARL (Société à Responsabilité Limitée) – Suitable for small to medium-sized businesses with multiple partners. It has a more rigid structure but is familiar to French authorities.
- EURL (Entreprise Unipersonnelle à Responsabilité Limitée) – Similar to SARL in France but designed for solo entrepreneurs.
- Branch Office – A foreign company can open a branch in France, but it’s not a separate legal entity.
- Representative Office – Used for market research or promotional activities. No commercial operations are allowed.
Each structure has different requirements in terms of management, taxation, accounting, and liability, so it's essential to choose the one that aligns with your business goals.
Steps to Register a Company in France as a Non-EU Citizen
Here is a breakdown of the key steps involved in company registration in France:
1. Define Your Business Activity
Before proceeding, clearly outline your business purpose. Certain sectors in France (like finance, healthcare, and transport) require special authorizations or licenses. Be prepared to submit a business plan during the registration process, especially if you're applying for a visa or government incentives.
2. Choose a Company Name
Your company name must be unique and not infringe on existing trademarks. You can check name availability through the INPI (National Institute of Industrial Property). Once chosen, you can reserve the name temporarily.
3. Draft the Articles of Association
The Articles of Association (statuts) define how your company will operate, including shareholder roles, capital contribution, profit distribution, and more. This document must be signed by all shareholders and will be submitted to the Trade and Companies Register.
4. Deposit Share Capital
You must open a business bank account in France to deposit the minimum share capital:
- For SAS/SASU: Minimum €1 (recommended to deposit more for credibility)
- For SARL/EURL: Also €1 minimum, but with similar expectations
The bank will issue a capital deposit certificate, which is needed to complete incorporation.
5. Publish a Legal Announcement
A notice of incorporation must be published in an authorized legal gazette (journal d’annonces légales) in the department where the company is registered. This is a legal requirement and costs around €150 to €250.
6. File with the Business Registry
Submit your full company dossier to the Centre de Formalités des Entreprises (CFE) or online via the INPI portal. Documents include:
- Articles of Association
- Share capital deposit certificate
- Proof of identity
- Address of the registered office
- Proof of publication
- Declaration of non-conviction for directors
Once approved, your company will receive a Kbis extract, which is the official business registration certificate.
Also Read: Can Foreigners be Able to Register a Company in Russia?
Additional Requirements for Non-EU Directors or Shareholders
If you plan to actively manage the business from France, you’ll likely need a Long-Stay Visa (Visa de Long Séjour) or Residence Permit for Entrepreneurs. Requirements may include:
- Proof of sufficient income
- Business plan
- Health insurance
- Clean criminal record
- Office lease or home address in France
If you're incorporating the company as a passive shareholder or board member, a visa may not be required unless you plan to reside in France.
Costs Involved in Company Incorporation in France
While the minimum capital is symbolic, other costs should be factored in:
- Legal advice or incorporation service: €500 to €2,000
- Notary or lawyer fees (if needed): Varies
- Bank fees for capital deposit: €100 to €300
- Publication in legal journal: €150 to €250
- Registration fees: €50 to €250
- Accounting services: Ongoing monthly costs
Additionally, many entrepreneurs choose to work with local service providers to manage these tasks and ensure compliance, especially if they don’t speak French or are unfamiliar with local bureaucracy.
Taxation for Companies in France
After company registration in France, you must register for applicable taxes:
- Corporate Tax: The standard corporate tax rate is 25%
- VAT: Required for most businesses; standard rate is 20%
- Payroll Taxes: If you hire employees
- Social Contributions: Compulsory for salaried directors and employees
Non-compliance with tax and accounting obligations can result in heavy penalties, so it’s advisable to hire a French accountant or accounting firm to handle this part of the business.
Also Read: Why Should You Register a Company in Vietnam?
Opening a Business Bank Account in France
Opening a French business bank account is mandatory before you can fully incorporate the company. Banks typically require:
- Business plan
- Passport and proof of address
- Draft Articles of Association
- Proof of visa/residence permit (if applicable)
For non-residents, the process can take longer, and some banks may decline applications. Using an international-friendly bank or fintech platform can help simplify this step.
Conclusion
Registering a company in France as a non-EU citizen is entirely possible and can be a strategic move for entrepreneurs looking to access the European market. However, it involves several legal, financial, and administrative steps that must be followed precisely.
By understanding the process of company incorporation in France, choosing the right structure, and working with local experts when needed, you can establish your French business efficiently and in full compliance with local regulations.
Whether you're expanding into Europe or starting from scratch, France offers a stable, investor-friendly environment for business growth—especially for those who take the time to do it right.
FAQs
1. Can I register a company in France without living there?
Yes, non-EU citizens can register a company in France without being residents. However, if you plan to actively manage or run the company from within France, you’ll likely need a long-stay visa or residence permit.
2. How long does it take to complete company registration in France?
The average time to register a company in France is 1 to 3 weeks, depending on how quickly you provide documents, open a bank account, and complete legal publication requirements.
3. Is it mandatory to have a French business bank account to register a company?
Yes, to deposit share capital and receive a capital certificate, a French business bank account is required. This step must be completed before final company incorporation.
