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How to Start a Company in France?

Fintech Harbor Consulting | How to Start a Company in France?
Reviewer: Bohdan Popovchenko
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France has a strong economy and a strategic location in Europe. In addition to a growing business environment, it is a great place to start a business. But this process has its subtleties and peculiarities. Today, Fintech Harbor Consulting LTDwill tell you how to set up a company in France and give you useful tips.

Fintech Harbor Consulting | How to Start a Company in France?

Why Start a Company in France?

Before delving into how to start a company in France, it is important to understand why you should choose this country: strong economy, strategic location in Europe, excellent quality of life

Key Benefits for Business Owners

The main advantages of doing business in France:

  • Highly educated labour force
  • Favorable tax environment
  • Simple and clear administrative process.

Economic and Market Advantages

France has a diversified economy that emphasizes new developments, innovation, and research. Industries range from aerospace to luxury goods.

Choosing the Right Business Structure

Before you start the process of opening a company in France, you must first choose the right legal structure for your business. Different forms of businesses can be opened in the country. They all differ in terms of liability, capital requirements, and management.

Overview of Legal Entities

The following businesses can be opened in the country:

  • EI (sole proprietorship);
  • SARL (limited liability company);
  • SAS (simplified joint stock company);
  • SA (public limited company).

Selecting the Best Fit for Your Business

Firstly, choosing the right structure and tax regime for your business is essential. You can also seek the assistance of specialists in company registration in France to help you with your choice. When selecting a structure, it is worthwhile to focus on personal assets and tax payments.

Fintech Harbor Consulting | How to Start a Company in France?

Steps to Registering a Company in France

It is worth considering how to register a company in France. The first thing you need to do is to apply to the CFE (registration center):

  • CCI (Chamber of Commerce and Industry);
  • CMA (Chamber of Commerce and Crafts);
  • URSSAF;
  • Chamber of Agriculture.

Preparing Required Documents

To start your own business, you need to collect several documents:

  • A completed registration form
  • Residence permit
  • Work visa
  • Registered trade mark
  • Opening of a bank account
  • Shareholders and relevant documents
  • Financial statements.

Completing the Registration Process

The following steps are required to complete the registration process:

  1. Apply for tax registration.
  2. Register the company’s employees with the social security authority.
  3. Get the company stamped.

Timeline and Key Milestones

The traditional scheme of how to register a business in France is as follows:

  1. Submit your identity card to the appropriate authority for registration.
  2. Register a trademark.
  3. Draw up the company’s statutory documents and have them notarised.
  4. Submit the documentation to the trade registrar.

Opening a Business Bank Account

The company should have a corporate bank account. It will ensure proper financial management and is crucial for compliance with all legal regulations.

Required Documentation

Opening an account requires the following:

  • Proof of identity
  • Proof of address
  • Proof of company registration
  • Business plan
  • Financial forecasts.

Choosing a Suitable Bank

Most often, business owners open accounts with:

  1. Crédit Agricole;
  2. Société Générale;
  3. BNP Paribas.
Fintech Harbor Consulting | How to Start a Company in France?

Understanding Tax and Compliance Obligations

To start a business in France, you must understand taxes and other obligations.

Corporate Taxes and VAT

You must register your company with the tax office to pay the relevant contributions:

  • IS (corporation tax) – paid on profits
  • TVA (VAT) – paid when the business exceeds a set turnover threshold
  • Social security payments – pensions, staff medical insurance.

Compliance for New Businesses

French laws require companies to keep financial records. Accounting records must include:

  • A general ledger to record all transactions
  • An inventory journal
  • Annual accounts.

FAQs

You must collect documents, register your trademark, and apply to the relevant registration authority.

A local bank account facilitates transactions and provides a solid financial basis for the company’s development.

Four business forms can be registered in France: EI, SAS, SARL, and SA. 

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