As a relocation expert and paperwork professional based in the South of France for the past 30 years, I know firsthand how overwhelming it can be to start a business here. When I launched my own venture in 2012, navigating the legalities, social charges, taxes, and setup felt like wandering through a minefield.
That eye-opening experience led me to expand my services in 2014 to include business creation and management. I also founded the Serenity Entrepreneur Club—a space designed to guide and support aspiring business owners in France, and most importantly, to take the frustration out of French paperwork.
Since then, we’ve helped launch over 100 businesses and supported more than 70 entrepreneurs in growing their companies successfully.
So where do we get started?
1. Which visa to apply for?
2. Which business structure?
3. What will it cost?
So many challenges and but try to enjoy the process, you will look back in a few years and realize what a wonderful roller coaster ride you have been on. Let’s break down those 3 questions above and take a deeper look at them.
If you’re dreaming of starting your own business in France, here’s where to begin. Let’s break it down into three key questions:
1. Which Visa Should You Apply For?
To guide you in choosing the right visa, I typically start with four essential questions:
• What’s your business activity or area of expertise?
• How much revenue do you expect to generate in the first 3 years? What would you like to earn?
• Are you launching this business solo or with a partner?
• Do you have capital to invest or personal savings to support the venture?
Your answers help determine both the visa and the most suitable business structure. Let’s look at your options.
Visa Options:
✔️ Liberal Profession Visa (Profession Libérale)
For freelancers or service-based professionals (consultants, graphic designers, etc.) using structures like micro-entreprise.
• Renewable multi-year residency card (2–4 years after year one)
• Language test & integration contract required for renewal
✔️ Entrepreneur Visa
For those engaged in commercial activities—buying/selling, running a shop, or acquiring a business.
• Ideal for those without large investments or academic diplomas
• Compatible with various business structures
✔️ Talent Passport Visa
Premium long-term visa for highly qualified professionals and their families.
• Categories include artists, recognized individuals, and entrepreneurs/investors
• Investment tiers: €30,000 (Talent Entrepreneur), €300,000 (Talent Economic)
• Multi-year 4-year card upon arrival
• No language or integration requirements
• Spouses receive work authorization
2. What Business Structure Is Best?
Choosing the right structure affects your taxes, social charges, and flexibility. Here are the main ones:
✔️Micro-Entreprise (Auto-Entrepreneur)
• Simplified tax and legal status
• No cost deductions, but strong tax abatements
• Great for low-risk startups and freelancers
✔️Régime Réel (Actual Accounting)
• Suitable for those with higher business expenses
• Taxed on net profit (turnover – costs)
• Still considered a sole trader (Entreprise Individuelle)
✔️EURL (One-Person Limited Liability Company)
• Owner’s salary is a deductible business cost
• Ideal for higher revenue with fewer expenses
✔️SARL (Limited Liability Company with Partners)
• For businesses with two or more partners
• Approx. 40% social charges on salary
✔️SAS / SASU (Simplified Joint-Stock Company)
• SAS = with partners | SASU = solo version
• Approx. 70% social charges, but more flexible structure
3. What Will It Cost?
This depends on your chosen structure and visa, but social charges typically range from 25% to 70% depending on status and setup. That’s why it’s crucial to get it right from the start—to avoid costly mistakes and delays.
Final Thought
Starting a business in France isn’t easy—but with the right guidance, it’s absolutely worth it. Many of our clients look back on the process and describe it as a rewarding roller coaster. With the right support, you can enjoy the ride too.
Don’t go it alone. Choosing the wrong visa or business path can cost time, money, and unnecessary stress. I offer a free 15-minute consultation to help you get clear on your project and how we can support you.
