For residency in one of Europe’s most beautiful countries
Minimum share capital of 1 EUR
Free access to the European Union market
Opportunity to obtain a residence permit
Avoidance of double taxation with 125 countries
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Brief overview of the program
Establishing a business structure in France provides you with a powerful commercial tool to execute large-scale entrepreneurial projects in one of Europe’s largest markets. Registering limited liability companies (SARL), simplified joint-stock companies (SAS), public limited companies (SA), as well as sole proprietorships, enables you to grow your business within a developed European economy and a stable legal framework. Additionally, you can obtain French residency status with the right to free movement throughout the European Union.
Processing time 1–3 weeks
Foreign ownership 100%
Types of legal entities
Registering a company in France is a reliable way to enter the European market and grow an international business. It provides access to a modern banking system and offers the opportunity to obtain a residence permit for entrepreneurs.
Limited Liability Company (SARL)
An ideal choice for small and medium-sized businesses, allowing risk limitation and maximum asset protection.
Participants’ liability is limited to their contributions
Minimum share capital of EUR 1
Number of members: 2 to 100
Simple management through appointed directors
Option to choose between corporate tax and personal income tax regimes
Simplified Joint-Stock Company (SAS)
A flexible structure ideal for startups, tech companies, and international enterprises, enabling streamlined management and investment attraction.
Complete freedom in bylaws and governance rules
Minimum capital of EUR 1
Unlimited number of shareholders
Ability to issue different types of shares
Simplified share transfer process
Joint stock company (SA)
A classic corporate structure for large businesses and participation in stock exchange operations, ensuring maximum transparency and attracting public investment.
Minimum capital — EUR 37,000
Minimum of 2 shareholders (7 for public companies)
Board of directors required
Possibility of public offering of shares
Strict corporate governance requirements
Single-member limited liability company (EURL)
The optimal solution for an individual entrepreneur who wants to establish a legal entity and protect personal assets.
One founder — natural or legal person
Minimum capital — EUR 1
Limited liability of the sole participant
Simple management and reporting
Possibility of conversion to SARL
How to ensure a successful company registration in France
Specific requirements and estimated costs
List of documents for company formation in France
Current business registration conditions for 2025
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Support for businesses abroad
iWorld specialists provide incorporation services for legal entities and help choose the optimal organizational and legal form and structure for a business, taking into account local legislation and tax advantages.
iWorld lawyers organize the opening of corporate accounts with leading local and international banks in accordance with compliance and regulatory requirements.
The iWorld team develops tax planning strategies in accordance with local legislation, optimizes the tax burden, and ensures that all necessary reporting is carried out.
iWorld employees take full responsibility for accounting in accordance with local standards, preparing reports, and complying with audit requirements.
iWorld specialists organize corporate governance, support changes in the company's structure, and ensure that record keeping complies with regulatory requirements.
The iWorld team provides legal support for all aspects of business operations in compliance with local legislation, including labor law and commercial transactions.
Company registration process
SergeyGeneral Manager at iWorld
Consultation and strategy selection
iWorld's corporate lawyers thoroughly review your business plan, determine the optimal organizational and legal form for your company, and develop a registration strategy tailored to the specifics of your business and development plans.
Document preparation and name reservation
iWorld specialists check the availability of the desired company name through the INPI database, reserve it in your name, and prepare a complete set of founding documents, including the articles of association in French.
Submission of documents and registration
iWorld lawyers submit the registration application through the INPI single portal, interact with government agencies, and ensure that all necessary documents are obtained, including the Kbis extract — official confirmation of company registration.
Opening a bank account
With the support of iWorld's banking partners, you open a corporate account with a reliable French bank and gain access to modern banking services and tools for managing your company's finances.
Obtaining a business visa and tax registration
iWorld lawyers help you obtain a merchant card or Passeport Talent visa to conduct business in France, as well as ensure that your company is registered for tax purposes and obtains all necessary taxpayer numbers.
Obtain a residence permit when registering a company
Starting a business in France can be grounds for obtaining an “Entrepreneur/Profession Libérale” (Entrepreneur/Liberal Profession) or “Passeport Talent – Créateur d'entreprise” (Talent Passport: Business Creation) residence permit. Along with the main applicant, the following people can also get resident status:
Family members
Key employees
Business partners
Apply now to get expert advice
Advantages of opening a company in France
Strategic location in the EU
France provides direct access to the single European market with 450 million consumers, opening broad opportunities for business scaling and entry into the international arena.
Developed financial system
France ranks among the world’s top five financial centers, with reliable banks and investment institutions offering a full range of corporate services and asset management tools.
Simplified registration procedure
Since 2023, the country has operated a unified online portal (INPI) for business registration, significantly speeding up the company formation process and reducing administrative barriers for foreign entrepreneurs.
Innovative ecosystem
France offers numerous business incubators, technology parks, and government innovation support programs, including La French Tech for tech startups.
High-quality workforce
The French education system ensures a steady influx of talented professionals in all production sectors, while labor laws provide a stable framework for protecting employee rights.
Developed infrastructure
France’s modern transport and logistics infrastructure enables efficient delivery of goods across Europe and offers multiple channels for engagement with the global market.
Impeccable business reputation
The French jurisdiction enjoys high trust among international partners and investors, facilitating profitable contracts and the steady attraction of investments.
Comparison of jurisdictions for company registration
Category
France
Spain
Montenegro
The UAE
Minimum share capital
from EUR 1
from EUR 1
EUR 1
AED 0
VAT
from 2.1%
from 4%
21%
5%
100% foreign ownership
yes
yes
yes
yes
Audit
yes
yes
yes
yes
Corporate tax
from 15%
from 15%
9%
0–9%
Personal income tax
0–45%
from 19%
from 9%
0%
Dividend tax
from 12.8%
from 19%
15%
0%
Get a personalized estimate for the cost of registering a company in France
iWorld specialists will prepare a personalized estimate with terms, stages, deadlines, taking into account your situation and all necessary fees.
Alternative jurisdictions for growing your business
What is a residence permit for financially independent persons in France. The terms of processing, requirements for applicants, necessary documents. How to get a residence permit in France for FIP independently or with the help of immigration specialists.
The conditions for obtaining a French residence permit under the special French Tech Visa program. What is Passeport Talent and why a startup visa is the best way to get a residence permit in France.
What is a visitor visa (Carte de sejour temporaire - Visiteur) in France. How to apply for a long-term visa Visiteur. Who can get a Visiteur card: requirements and conditions of issuance. Required documents. Timing, cost of opening a visa and residence permit in France for financially independent persons.
What are the differences between an SARL and an SAS when registering a company in France?
An SARL is a limited liability company with a rigid management structure regulated by law. It is suitable for small and medium-sized businesses with between 2 and 100 partners. An SAS is a simplified joint-stock company with maximum management flexibility, where the rules are defined in the articles of association by the partners. It is ideal for startups and fast-growing companies with the potential to attract investment.
What is the minimum share capital required to register different types of companies?
For most company types in France, the minimum share capital is EUR 1 (SARL, SAS, EURL, SASU). The exception is a joint-stock company (SA), which requires at least EUR 37,000. However, to open a bank account, it is recommended to have at least EUR 4,000 in capital.
How long does the full company registration process in France take?
Standard company registration via the unified INPI portal takes 5–10 business days from the moment all documents are submitted. However, the complete process, including opening a bank account and obtaining all permits, can take 2–3 months. The preparation stage, including name verification and document drafting, takes an additional 3–5 days.
Is the physical presence of the founders required in France to register a company?
Physical presence is not required for company registration — all documents can be submitted remotely via the INPI portal or through a representative with power of attorney. However, the personal presence of the director is required to open a corporate bank account and obtain a merchant card.
What tax benefits are available for new companies in France?
New companies are exempt from corporate income tax for the first 2 years of operation. For small and medium-sized enterprises, a reduced rate of 15% applies to the first EUR 38,120 of taxable profit, while the standard corporate tax rate is 25%. Various regional incentives and startup support programs are also available.
Get expert advice — contact us today
You can schedule a consultation with a company specialist either in person at our office or online. During the consultation, you’ll receive a detailed case analysis, a service cost estimate, and personalized recommendations tailored to your goals.