Entrepreneurship in France
Starting a Company in France: What You Need to Know
Thinking of launching your business in France? Here’s a practical guide covering residence permits, legal structures, and the key steps you need to take before setting up your company.
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France has become one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for entrepreneurs – combining a strong innovation ecosystem, international community, and growing support for founders from around the world.
Whether you’re a recent graduate, freelancer, or experienced professional, here’s what you need to know about setting up your business in France.
Who can start a company in France?
EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals can freely create and operate a business. Non-EU nationals must hold a visa or a residence permit (titre de séjour) that explicitly allows self-employment or business creation, such as:
  • Carte de séjour "Entrepreneur / Profession libérale"
  • Carte de séjour "Talent – Porteur de projet"
  • Carte de séjour "Talent – Personne de renommée internationale"
  • Temporary residence permit for graduates (RECE / APS), valid for one year after graduation from a French higher education institution. Once your company is running, you can transition to an entrepreneur or talent-based permit.
What are your options in terms of business structure?
  • Micro-entreprise: the simplest option with very few administrative requirements as well as lower taxes and social charges. It is ideal for freelancers or solo entrepreneurs.

  • EURL: a limited liability company with a single founder. It’s suitable if your business is in the early stages and you’re the only owner. This form works well for freelancers, consultants, IT specialists, or independent professionals who want to limit personal liability. It’s best if you plan a simple management structure and no external investors at the start.

  • SASU: a simplified joint-stock company with one shareholder. This is a preferred option if you anticipate future growth or plan to bring in co-founders or investors. It can easily be converted into an SAS once additional shareholders join. The SASU also offers flexibility in management.

  • SARL: a limited liability company with two or more partners. This structure is suitable for small businesses, where simplified management and lower administrative costs are a priority. It’s often chosen for family businesses or companies not planning to raise external capital.

  • SAS: a simplified joint-stock company. This flexible structure is often chosen by startups aiming to grow or attract investment. For tech and innovation-driven projects, the SAS is generally the most suitable option thanks to its scalability and investor-friendly framework.

For more details about taxation of businesses in France, see the 🔗official government page.
The best part? You don’t have to do it alone.
You can find free advice and resources from:

For young founders:
  • 🔗MoovJee and other mentoring networks
  • 🔗Pépite France network, which connects universities, companies, and mentors to help students and recent graduates develop their projects through training and personalised support

Whether you’re a student with a startup idea or an international professional ready to build your future in France, there’s a clear path and plenty of support to make it happen.

If you’re planning to launch your business in France, we can help you choose the right legal structure and residence permit.