France Entrepreneur Visa: How to Qualify by Opening a Business

France is one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for entrepreneurs looking to start a new chapter abroad. With a strong economy, access to the EU market, and a world-renowned quality of life, it’s no surprise that the France Entrepreneur Visa is gaining popularity among foreign business owners and investors.

If you're considering company registration in France as a pathway to French residency, this guide will walk you through the requirements, process, and how opening a company in France can help you qualify for the entrepreneur visa.

What Is the France Entrepreneur Visa?

The French Entrepreneur Visa, officially known as the "Profession Libérale" residence permit, allows non-EU nationals to live in France while running their own business or working as self-employed professionals. It’s also sometimes referred to as the "entrepreneur/profession libérale" permit or simply the French entrepreneur residence permit.

It’s ideal for individuals who wish to:

• Launch a new business

• Work as a freelancer or independent consultant

• Establish a branch of an existing foreign company

• Run a startup or join an incubator program

The visa is typically valid for one year, renewable annually, and can lead to long-term residency or even citizenship.

Who Is Eligible?

To be eligible, you must prove that:

• You are a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen

• You plan to open and operate a business in France

• Your business is economically viable

• You have sufficient financial resources to support yourself

• You meet the legal requirements for company registration in France

If you're already in France on a different visa, you may be eligible to change your status to the entrepreneur permit once you begin business activities.

Also Read: How Non-US Residents Can Register a Company in the USA

Choosing the Right Business Structure in France

Before you apply for the visa, you need to decide on the legal structure of your business. This directly affects your visa application, taxation, liability, and operations.

Common structures for foreign entrepreneurs include:

1. Auto-Entrepreneur (Micro-Entrepreneur)

   • Simple and fast to set up

   • Suitable for freelancers and small-scale businesses

   • Income ceiling applies (~€77,700 for services and €188,700 for goods)

2. SAS (Société par Actions Simplifiée)

   • Flexible structure for startups and partnerships

   • No minimum capital required

   • Can be owned 100% by a foreigner

3. SARL (Société à Responsabilité Limitée)

   • Common for small to mid-sized businesses

   • Offers limited liability

   • Requires at least one director

4. EURL (Entreprise Unipersonnelle à Responsabilité Limitée)

   • Single-person version of SARL

   • Ideal for sole proprietors who want limited liability

Most foreign entrepreneurs choose the SAS or SARL structure when they register a company in France, as these allow full foreign ownership and are well-regarded by authorities and banks.

How to Qualify for the French Entrepreneur Visa by Opening a Company

To qualify for the visa, your business must be viable and legally registered. Here’s how you can do it:

Step 1: Prepare a Business Plan

A well-detailed business plan is essential. It should outline:

• Description of your business activity

• Market analysis

• Revenue forecasts and cash flow

• Organizational structure

• Legal structure and capital investment

• Proof that the business can generate minimum wage-level income (about €20,000/year)

Step 2: Register Your Company

Begin the company registration in France process by:

• Choosing your business structure (SAS, SARL, etc.)

• Selecting a company name and checking its availability

• Drafting the Articles of Association

• Opening a French business bank account

• Depositing share capital (minimum of €1 for SAS, though higher capital is advised)

• Publishing a legal notice in a journal of legal announcements

• Registering your company with the Centre de Formalités des Entreprises (CFE) or through the INPI online portal

Once complete, you will receive a Kbis extract, the official company registration certificate.

Step 3: Apply for the Entrepreneur Visa

With your business registered, you can begin your visa application. Submit the following:

• Valid passport

• Business plan

• Proof of financial means (bank statements or investor funds)

• Company registration documents (Kbis, Articles, etc.)

• Proof of accommodation in France

• Health insurance

• Police clearance certificate

You’ll apply at the French consulate in your home country, or in some cases, directly in France if already residing there legally.

Also Read: How to Register a Company in Dubai as a Foreigner

Financial Requirements

There is no fixed investment threshold, but you must demonstrate:

• The ability to financially support yourself (generally equivalent to French minimum wage)

• Initial capital or funding to cover business setup and at least 6–12 months of expenses

If you're bringing family, your income must be sufficient to support dependents as well.

Taxes and Social Contributions

After opening a company in France, you’ll be subject to:

• Corporate tax (25% standard rate)

• Social contributions based on business income

• VAT registration, depending on your revenue

• Personal income tax on any salary or dividends received

France has a reputation for high social charges, so factor this into your financial projections. However, France also offers tax exemptions and credits for startups, innovation, and R&D.

Benefits of the Entrepreneur Visa

• Residency in France with the ability to renew and apply for long-term stay

• Access to healthcare, education, and infrastructure

• Opportunity to bring your spouse and children

• Pathway to permanent residency or citizenship

• Chance to scale and expand within the EU market

This visa is also an ideal step for digital nomads, investors, or professionals seeking a foothold in Europe through France company registration.

Challenges to Be Aware Of

• Language barrier: Most registration documents are in French

• Bureaucracy: Business setup can take several weeks due to paperwork and approvals

• Banking: Opening a business account may require an in-person visit

• High social charges: Employer and self-employed contributions can be significant

Working with a local accountant or business consultant is highly recommended to navigate the setup smoothly.

Conclusion

If you're planning to relocate and launch a business in Europe, France offers a solid path through the entrepreneur visa. By completing company registration in France and proving that your business is viable, you can unlock the benefits of French residency and tap into one of the world’s most lucrative and stable markets.

From registering a company in France to securing long-term immigration status, the process is entirely achievable with the right planning, support, and documentation. Whether you’re a solo founder, freelancer, or experienced entrepreneur, opening a company in France could be the first step toward a rewarding future.

Also Read: How Long Does It Take to Register a Company in Vietnam?

FAQs

1. Can I get the France Entrepreneur Visa without speaking French?
Yes, language proficiency is not a strict requirement, but speaking French will help with daily operations, bureaucracy, and networking. It’s highly recommended to learn the basics.

2. How long does it take to register a company in France as a foreigner?
The process can take 2 to 6 weeks, depending on your legal structure and whether all documents are in order. Using a local agent can speed up the process.

3. Can I bring my family on the France Entrepreneur Visa?
Yes. Once your visa is approved, your spouse and dependent children can apply for family reunification or dependent visas, granting them residency as well.

4. Is there a minimum investment required for the visa?
There is no fixed amount, but you must show enough funds to cover startup costs and personal living expenses—typically at least €20,000 per year.