Effortlessly incorporate and manage your company in France with Vepapu—offering all-in-one services from registration to compliance, banking, and visa support.
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Unlock Growth Opportunities in an Emerging Market
Requires fewer costs to operate and administer a company.
Simplified compliance requirements and regulatory processes.
A largely qualified workforce with global exposure.
Allows for foreign shareholding up to 100% in the company.
Everything You Need for Seamless Company Formation
Experience seamless company formation from anywhere with Vepapu. Our digital incorporation services ensure you can register your company online without the need to travel or submit paperwork in person.
We guide you through each step of the process, ensuring compliance with local regulations and providing support for any incorporation-related queries.
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Meet the local requirements online with Vepapu. Having a local registered office address is mandatory for your company's registration and we will help you meet this requirement. We will receive, scan, and email you if any mail is received from the authorities at your address.
You can also build a physical presence in the country by opting for our nominee director services, who will act as your company's director while you retain total control over your company.
You can capitalise on our strong banking relationships with traditional banks as well as digital-first banking providers.
You would need to physically visit the bank's location if you opt for a traditional brick-and-mortar bank, while modern digital banking providers welcome you with an online onboarding process.
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Leverage Vepapu’s expertise to navigate the visa application process for your business needs. Whether you require work visas for your team or investor visas to secure your investment rights, we facilitate the entire process.
Our services include comprehensive guidance on meeting eligibility criteria, preparing necessary documentation, and submitting applications efficiently to minimize wait times and complications.
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Mandatory documents and information required for your company formation
A certified true copy (scanned version) of the passport (valid for at least 6 months)
A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (C.V.), Resumé, or Linkedin profile.
One of the scanned copies of a bank reference, bank statement, Utility bill, or Driver license.
It should clearly show the holder's full name along with a physical address written in English (P.O. Box addresses are not accepted).
It must be the most recent version and dated within the last 3 months.
Please provide us with certified true copy (scanned version) of the following company documents:
Certificate of Incorporation
Memorandum and Articles of Association / Constitution
Register of Director
Register of Shareholder / UBO
Extract of the company’s details from the Registrar of Companies, which can include any of the following: Business Profile / Certificate of Incumbency / Certificate of Good standing (valid for within 6 months if any).
All members of the corporation, including Directors, Shareholders, Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBOs), and Contact persons, must provide identity and address proofs as mentioned above.
From Paperwork to Approval: Making Company Formation Fast and Straightforward
Click here and fill out the short form to let us know your requirements.
Afterwards, our team will get in touch with you to guide you through the process.
Begin the company incorporation process by sharing the requested documents, as listed here. This enables us to begin the mandatory KYC and due diligence procedures to comply with local and international laws.
During the process of due diligence, our team might request additional information, documents, or clarification as needed.
If you ever feel lost while organising the documents, please contact us, as your dedicated manager from Vepapu will guide you through it.
Our team will now have the required information and documentation in hand to proceed with completing the required paperwork involved in incorporating your company.
We will complete one or multiple application forms as required and coordinate with the registry to submit them for their official approval.
We will do timely follow-ups with the registry and actively work with them if they require any further clarification or documentation before their approval.
If there are any other registrations with different government departments that are generally required before commencement of any business, required for your specific business industry, or that you have chosen voluntarily, we will promptly complete them.
As Vepapu strongly believes that company incorporation is just the first step in any business journey, we will accompany you throughout your business's life cycle by keeping it in good standing with local rules and regulations.
We will take care of monthly, quarterly, bi-annual, or annual reports and return filings with the authorities. We will timely inform you of the upcoming compliance deadlines, such as conducting an annual general meeting, for your prompt action.
Get in touch and ask us anything. We'd love to help.
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The SARL is the most popular business structure in France, requiring at least one shareholder and a minimum share capital of 1 euro. The shareholders' liability is limited to their capital contributions. The company is managed by one or more managers appointed by the shareholders, and an auditor is required if the company meets certain financial or size criteria.
The SA is designed for larger businesses and requires at least seven shareholders, with a minimum share capital of EUR 37,000. Management is overseen by a board of directors, and the appointment of a statutory auditor is mandatory. This structure is more complex and is suitable for companies planning to go public or operate at a significant scale.
The SAS is a flexible and increasingly popular entity that requires at least one shareholder and a minimum share capital of EUR 37,000. It offers greater flexibility in management structures and decision-making processes. An auditor is only required if the company exceeds specific thresholds in terms of turnover, employees, or balance sheet total.
The SNC is a partnership requiring at least two partners, with no minimum share capital. Partners have unlimited liability, meaning they are personally liable for the company’s debts. This structure is suitable for small businesses with trusted partners who are willing to share full liability.
The SCS consists of at least one general partner, who has unlimited liability, and one silent partner, whose liability is limited to their capital contribution. The general partner manages the business, while the silent partner provides capital but does not participate in day-to-day management.
The SEL is a specialized business structure for professionals (e.g., lawyers, doctors) who wish to practice their profession within a corporate framework. It allows professionals to combine resources and share liabilities while maintaining individual professional responsibilities.
The EURL is a single-member company that combines features of a limited liability company and a sole proprietorship. It does not require a minimum share capital, and the owner’s liability is limited to the company’s assets, although they may lose personal assets if the business incurs significant debts.
A branch office is an extension of a foreign company in France, not a separate legal entity. It carries out business activities on behalf of the parent company and is fully dependent on it. The branch must be registered with the French Commercial Court and follow local regulations, but the parent company is responsible for the branch's liabilities and obligations. The branch office is subject to French taxation on its operations within France.
A representative office is a non-commercial presence in France, primarily used for market research, promotional activities, or acting as a liaison between the parent company and local clients or partners. It cannot engage in any commercial activities that generate revenue. Since it doesn't conduct business, it is not subject to French corporate taxes. The representative office is ideal for companies looking to explore the French market without fully committing to business operations.
Foreigners can indeed incorporate a company in France, with the Société à Responsabilité Limitée (SARL) being one of the most common structures chosen by foreign entrepreneurs. The SARL is particularly attractive because it allows for foreign ownership, with no restrictions on the nationality or residency of its shareholders or directors. A SARL can be established with as little as one shareholder, who can be a foreign individual or a foreign legal entity, and the minimum share capital required is just 1 euro. The shareholders' liability is limited to their contribution to the share capital, providing a level of protection for foreign investors. Additionally, the management structure of a SARL is flexible, with the possibility of appointing foreign directors who may reside outside of France.
France has made significant reforms in its Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policies to attract foreign investors, making it easier for non-residents to set up and operate businesses. The French government has simplified administrative procedures, reduced the corporate tax rate, and introduced incentives to encourage foreign investments, particularly in innovative sectors. The FDI framework ensures that foreign-owned businesses receive the same legal protections and benefits as domestic companies. France's stable legal environment, access to the European market, and strong infrastructure further enhance its appeal to foreign entrepreneurs looking to incorporate a company in Europe.
A SARL in France requires at least one director, who is responsible for managing the company’s day-to-day operations. The director, referred to as a "gérant," can be of any nationality and does not need to reside in France. There is no requirement for the director to be a shareholder, and corporate entities are not allowed to act as directors in a SARL; only individuals can hold this position. While a nominee director is not prohibited, French law requires transparency in company management, and the director's identity must be disclosed in the public register.
A SARL can be formed with a minimum of one shareholder, known as an "associé," and there is no upper limit on the number of shareholders, making it a flexible option for both small and larger businesses. Shareholders can be individuals or corporate entities, and there are no restrictions on nationality, allowing full foreign ownership. In fact, the SARL structure is particularly accommodating to foreign investors, as it permits 100% foreign shareholding. Like directors, the identities of shareholders must be registered with the relevant French authorities, ensuring transparency.
The SARL requires a minimum share capital of just 1 euro, which can be divided into shares of any value as determined by the shareholders. This low capital requirement makes it accessible for startups and small businesses. The capital can be contributed in cash or kind (e.g., property, equipment), and it is divided into shares that represent ownership in the company. The share capital is deposited in a bank account in France before incorporation, and the bank provides a certificate of deposit that is required for the registration process.
Every SARL must have a registered office in France, which serves as its official address for legal and administrative purposes. The registered office can be a commercial space, an office, or even the home of one of the directors or shareholders, provided it meets local zoning regulations. Virtual offices are also permissible, allowing foreign founders to establish a French address without the need for a physical presence. The registered office address must be specified in the articles of association, and any change in the location must be officially reported to the French Trade and Companies Register (RCS).
To incorporate a company in France, you need to prepare and submit various documents. These documents are essential to comply with French regulations and ensure your business operates legally. The documents will be used in KYC due diligence procedures, application preparation, and document submission to the authorities.
Incorporating a company in France involves several detailed steps, each crucial, for ensuring that the business is legally established and ready to operate. Below is a step-by-step guide to the incorporation process:
The first step is to decide on the legal structure of your company, such as a Société à Responsabilité Limitée (SARL) or Société par Actions Simplifiée (SAS). Once the structure is selected, you need to choose a unique company name. The name must be checked for availability through the French Patent and Trademark Office (INPI) and the Commercial Court Registry to ensure it does not conflict with existing business names.
Every company in France must have a registered office address, which serves as its official location for legal and administrative correspondence. This can be a physical office, or you may opt to use a domiciliation service, especially if you are a foreign entrepreneur. The address should be chosen based on your business needs and must comply with local zoning regulations. The registered office address will be used in all official documents and must be included in the company’s articles of association.
To proceed with the incorporation, you must open a corporate bank account in France. This account is used to deposit the initial share capital, which varies depending on the chosen legal structure. For example, the minimum share capital for a SARL is €1. The bank will issue a certificate of deposit, which is a crucial document required for the company registration process.
The next step involves drafting the incorporation documents, particularly the articles of association, which outline the governance structure and operational rules of your company. These documents must be notarized to be legally binding. The articles of association are critical as they define the roles of directors, shareholders, and other key aspects of the company’s functioning. Notarization is a legal requirement in France and adds a layer of authenticity to the documents.
Once your documents are prepared and your capital deposited, you will register your company with the Centre de Formalités des Entreprises (CFE). The CFE acts as a one-stop shop for business registration in France. Here, your company will be assigned a unique registration number known as the SIREN, which is essential for all legal and commercial transactions. This step also includes registration for social security and other mandatory insurance, ensuring your business is compliant with French labor laws.
After registering with the CFE, you must publish a legal notice of the company’s formation in an authorized legal journal (Journal d'Annonces Légales - JAL). This publication serves as a formal and public declaration of your company's existence and is a mandatory requirement under French law. The notice includes key details about the company, such as its name, structure, capital, and registered office address. Following this, your company will be listed in the National Register of Enterprises, and you will receive essential identification numbers such as the SIRET and NAF.
Most businesses in France must register for Value Added Tax (VAT), known as TVA in French. This is necessary for tax compliance, especially if your business engages in trade within the European Union. Additionally, you must register with the relevant social security organizations, which is mandatory for both the business owner and any employees. This ensures that contributions are made towards health insurance, pensions, and other social benefits, which are a significant part of the French social system.
Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to obtain specific licenses or permits. For instance, if you are entering regulated sectors such as food and beverage, real estate, or financial services, compliance with industry-specific regulations is mandatory.
After incorporating a company in France, several ongoing compliance requirements must be fulfilled to ensure that the business operates legally and maintains good standing. Here's an overview of the key compliance requirements:
Every company in France is required to prepare and file annual financial statements. These statements must be submitted to the French Commercial Court Registry within six months of the end of the financial year. The financial statements typically include a balance sheet, profit and loss account, and notes on the financial activities of the company.
Companies in France must file corporate tax returns annually. The corporate tax (Impôt sur les Sociétés) rate is applied to the company’s taxable income. The standard corporate tax rate in France has been gradually reduced in recent years to encourage business growth and foreign investment. Companies must ensure that tax returns are accurately prepared and submitted to the French tax authorities (Direction Générale des Finances Publiques) within three months after the financial year ends. Additionally, businesses may be required to make quarterly advance tax payments based on their expected annual liability.
If your company is registered for Value Added Tax (VAT), regular VAT returns must be submitted to the tax authorities. The frequency of VAT filings—monthly, quarterly, or annually—depends on the size of the business and the amount of VAT due. The VAT return details the amount of VAT collected on sales and the amount of VAT paid on purchases, with the difference either being paid to the tax authorities or reclaimed. Maintaining accurate records of all VAT-related transactions is crucial for compliance.
Companies with employees in France must comply with social security regulations. This involves registering with the French social security system and making regular contributions to various social insurance schemes, including health insurance, pensions, unemployment insurance, and other social benefits. Employers are required to withhold these contributions from employees' salaries and remit them to the relevant social security bodies. The contributions are calculated based on the employee’s gross salary and must be paid on a monthly or quarterly basis.
Maintaining proper corporate governance is essential for compliance. This includes holding annual general meetings (AGMs) where shareholders review the company’s performance, approve the financial statements, and make key decisions such as the appointment or removal of directors. The minutes of these meetings must be recorded and kept in the company’s official records. Additionally, the company must maintain accurate and up-to-date records of its shareholders, directors, and any changes to the company’s articles of association. These records must be available for inspection by relevant authorities when required.
Depending on the size and turnover of the company, it may be required to appoint a statutory auditor (commissaire aux comptes). Companies that exceed specific thresholds, such as having more than 50 employees, a turnover of over EUR 8 million, or a balance sheet total of more than EUR 4 million, must have their accounts audited annually. The auditor's role is to ensure that the company’s financial statements present a true and fair view of its financial position and that the company complies with French accounting standards.
If your company handles personal data, it must comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and French data protection laws. This includes ensuring that personal data is processed lawfully, maintaining records of data processing activities, and implementing appropriate security measures to protect data. Companies must also appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO) if they engage in large-scale processing of personal data or if data processing is a core activity.
Depending on the nature of the business, certain licenses and permits may need to be renewed periodically. For example, companies in regulated industries such as finance, healthcare, and food services must ensure that they comply with ongoing regulatory requirements, including safety inspections, renewals of operating licenses, and adherence to sector-specific regulations.
Any significant changes in the company’s structure, such as a change in directors, shareholders, or registered office address, must be reported to the French Commercial Court Registry. These changes must be formally documented and filed with the relevant authorities to update the company’s official records. Failure to report such changes can result in legal penalties and administrative issues.
Companies in France are subject to corporate income tax on their profits. The standard corporate tax rate has been reduced over the years and, as of 2023, stands at 25% for most companies. A lower rate of 15% applies to the first €42,500 of profit for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that meet certain criteria, such as having an annual turnover below €10 million and at least 75% of their capital owned by individuals or companies that qualify as SMEs.
Value Added Tax (VAT), known as Taxe sur la Valeur Ajoutée (TVA) in France, is a consumption tax applied to most goods and services. The standard VAT rate in France is 20%, but reduced rates of 10%, 5.5%, and 2.1% apply to certain goods and services, such as food, books, and medications. Companies must register for VAT if their taxable turnover exceeds the threshold of €85,800 for goods or €34,400 for services. VAT returns are typically filed monthly or quarterly, depending on the size of the business.
In France, employers are required to contribute to social security on behalf of their employees. These contributions cover various benefits, including health insurance, pensions, unemployment insurance, and family allowances. The employer’s contribution rate is approximately 40-45% of the employee’s gross salary, while the employee’s contribution is around 20-25%.
Companies in France are also subject to various local taxes, the most significant of which is the Contribution Economique Territoriale (CET). The CET is made up of two components: the Contribution Foncière des Entreprises (CFE), based on the rental value of business premises, and the Cotisation sur la Valeur Ajoutée des Entreprises (CVAE), which applies to companies with a turnover exceeding €500,000 and is based on the company’s added value. The combined rate for the CET is capped at 3% of the added value.
France imposes withholding taxes on certain types of income paid to non-residents, such as dividends, interest, and royalties. The standard withholding tax rate on dividends is 30%, but it may be reduced under a double taxation treaty. Similarly, interest and royalty payments are subject to a withholding tax of 0% to 33.33%, depending on the circumstances and applicable treaties. It is important for companies to understand these obligations, especially if they have foreign shareholders or engage in cross-border transactions.
France offers one of the most generous R&D tax credit systems in the world, known as the Crédit d’Impôt Recherche (CIR). Companies conducting qualifying research activities can receive a tax credit equal to 30% of eligible R&D expenses, up to €100 million, and 5% for expenses above this threshold.
France has an extensive network of double taxation treaties with over 100 countries. These treaties are designed to prevent double taxation of income and to facilitate international trade and investment. They often provide reduced withholding tax rates on dividends, interest, and royalties and determine which country has taxing rights over certain types of income.
