French “Entrepreneur / Profession Libérale” Visa
A residence permit for non-EU freelancers and entrepreneurs who want to establish and run their professional activity in France.
This visa allows you to live in France while operating as a self-employed professional, freelancer, or business owner, with the possibility of annual renewal and long-term residency.
This visa allows you to live in France while operating as a self-employed professional, freelancer, or business owner, with the possibility of annual renewal and long-term residency.
Ability to work with clients in France and internationally as a freelancer or business owner
European residence with access to the Schengen Area
Simplified setup and tax regime for individual entrepreneurs
Renewable annually, with a pathway to citizenship and long-term residency after 5 years
How we can help
A 1-hour strategic call to assess your eligibility, provide you with a personalised application plan and address all your questions. Includes a customized relocation plan, reference PDF-guide with all key information and document templates, and 3 days of follow-up support.
A comprehensive review of documents prepared by the applicant to ensure compliance with legal and administrative standards, as well as translation and legalization requirements.
Turnkey support throughout the entire process, including the development of a personalized relocation and business strategy, preparation and review of all key documents in accordance with visa requirements, step-by-step guidance throughout the application process, and post-arrival steps in France.
Visa Consultation
Price: 270 €
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Documents Preparation & Review
Price: contact us for personal offer
End-to-End Support
Price: contact us for personal offer
Who is eligible?
You plan to launch or pursue a freelance or business activity in France
You can demonstrate a viable business project and realistic revenue projections
You have relevant professional experience or qualifications
You can show sufficient financial resources (at least €22,000 / year)
Examples of Eligible Occupations
Business consultants
Coaches
Translators
Wellness coaches
Online educators & tutors
Content creators
Digital marketing consultants
Graphic & motion designers
UX/UI & product designers
IT consultants
Tech specialists
Wellness coaches
Other independent professionals
FAQ — French Entrepreneur / Profession Libérale Visa
This long-stay visa is for individuals who want to create a business, run a self-employed activity, or work as a freelancer in France. It allows you to live in France for a year (with a possibility of renewal) and to carry out an independent professional activity.
You may apply if you:
- Plan to create or run a business in France (entrepreneur individuel, micro-entreprise, freelance activity, etc.).
- Can demonstrate a viable business plan and realistic financial projections.
- Have the skills and qualifications required for your planned activity.
- Can show sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your first year.
- Have accommodation in France and a clean immigration record.
No. This visa does not permit employment. However, you may work with French clients or companies as an independent contractor or freelancer.
The initial visa is valid for one year. If, after a year, your business is active and financially stable, you may apply for a 4-year residence permit.
Applicants must show that they can support themselves and sustain their business. Consulates typically expect:
- Savings or personal funds.
- A realistic business plan and financial projections showing expected income. We recommend demonstrating at least ~22,000€ per year (approx. 1,830€ per month).
- Evidence of clients, contracts, and market demand.
Any legitimate, compliant activity, such as:
- Freelancing (IT, design, consulting, coaching, marketing, etc.)
- Artisan or craft professions
- Services (translation, photography, tutoring, etc.)
- Small businesses or micro-entreprises
- Online or remote service businesses
Yes, a business plan is mandatory. It should include:
- Description of your activity
- Target market and pricing
- Financial projections
- Evidence of professional experience
- Explanation of how the activity will support your stay in France
Yes. Your spouse can apply for a ‘visiteur’ visa or, in some cases, a family long-stay visa. Children generally receive a long-stay visa as dependents.
On average:
- Preparing a visa dossier: 1–1.5 months
- Obtaining a preliminary approval of your business project: 1–2 months
- Booking an appointment: a few days to 1.5 months
- Processing time: 1–2 months
Yes. This visa allows travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days per 180 days outside of France.
Yes, this status can lead to French citizenship after 5 years of residence, provided you meet all requirements (stable income from your activity, tax compliance, integration, and French language level).
You may also apply for a 10-year residence card after 5 years of continuous legal stay.
You may also apply for a 10-year residence card after 5 years of continuous legal stay.