Starting a business in France

Last updated: March 5, 2026

Starting a Business in France: A Practical Guide for Dutch Emigrants

Moving to France and starting a business can be a rewarding venture but requires careful preparation and understanding of local rules. This guide provides practical steps, costs, and tips for Dutch citizens planning to launch a business in France.

1. Determine the Business Structure

Choosing the right legal structure is crucial. Common types include:

Entreprise Individuelle (EI): Sole proprietorship, simple but personal liability.
Micro-entrepreneur (auto-entrepreneur): Simplified system with turnover limits (€176,200 for trade, €72,600 for services in 2024).
Société à Responsabilité Limitée (SARL): Limited liability company, suitable for small to medium businesses.
Société par Actions Simplifiée (SAS): Flexible structure popular with startups and investors.

Each has implications for taxes, liability, and administrative burden.

2. Business Registration Process

Step 1: Prepare your business plan and choose your activity code (NAF code)

The NAF code categorizes your business for administrative and statistical purposes.

Step 2: Register your business

Registration depends on your activity:

Commercial activities: Register at the Centre de Formalités des Entreprises (CFE) of the Chamber of Commerce (CCI).
Craft trades: Register with the Chamber of Trades (Chambre des Métiers).
Professions libérales (liberal professions): Register with URSSAF.

You can perform registrations online via the official portal guichet-entreprises.fr.

Step 3: Obtain a SIRET number

Upon registration, you receive a SIRET number (business identification), mandatory for all operations.

3. Costs Involved

Micro-entrepreneur registration: Free.
SARL/SAS company registration: Around €70-€250 for official fees.
Publication of company formation notice: €150-€200 in a legal journal.
Professional licenses or certifications (if applicable): Costs vary.
Accounting services: Recommended for SARL/SAS, from €1,000/year depending on complexity.

4. Taxation and Social Charges

Taxes

Micro-entrepreneurs pay tax based on turnover with simplified rates (e.g., 12.8% for sales, 22% for services).
SARL/SAS are subject to corporate tax (impôt sur les sociétés), currently 25% (2024).
VAT (TVA) registration is required for most businesses with turnover over €85,800 (goods) or €34,400 (services).

Social Charges

Social security contributions depend on your status:

Micro-entrepreneurs pay a fixed percentage of turnover (approx. 22% for services).
SARL/SAS owners pay social charges based on salary and dividends.

5. Opening a Business Bank Account

Mandatory for companies (SARL, SAS), optional but recommended for sole traders.

You will need your identification documents, business registration (SIRET), and proof of address.
Banks may require an initial deposit (usually €1,000+).
Consider specialized accounts for foreign entrepreneurs or online business accounts.

6. Insurance and Compliance

Professional liability insurance is recommended and obligatory for some sectors (e.g., construction).
Register for health and safety if you employ staff.
Comply with French labor laws for hiring employees.

7. Practical Tips

Learn basic French business terms.
Use official resources: Service-Public.fr and Infogreffe.fr for company information.
Consider consulting a local accountant or business lawyer.
Understand local market conditions and regional business support programs.
Be aware of deadlines for tax declarations and social contributions (usually monthly or quarterly).

Common mistakes

Not registering with the correct CFE: Leads to delays or penalties.
Underestimating social charges and taxes: Especially for micro-entrepreneurs with increasing turnover.
Ignoring language barriers: Important documents are in French; professional help can prevent errors.
Not opening a separate business bank account for company structures.
Failing to publish the company formation notice: Mandatory for SARL/SAS.
Neglecting insurance requirements: Could lead to fines or personal liability.
Overlooking VAT registration thresholds: Can cause compliance issues.
Delaying registration: You must register before starting business activity to avoid penalties.

Starting a business in France as a Dutch emigrant requires compliance with local rules, registration steps, and financial planning. Use official websites and professional advice to navigate the process efficiently.

References:

Starting a business in France