Do business in France
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Benefits
Why choose Commenda for your company expansion in France
Choose the right French entity for your business
We support SARL and SAS incorporation based on your needs, whether you’re building a product company or a European HQ.
Take the complexity out of French compliance
Our expert partners help you handle VAT, CIT, URSSAF, and financial statement filings.
Comply with local governance and labor laws
We assist with director appointments, UBO declarations, payroll registration, and social security compliance.
Entity Types
Choose the right business structure for your company
SARL
- Limited liability protection
- Well-suited for small to medium-sized businesses
- Easier to set up and manage compared to SAS
- More structured governance, which can reduce internal disputes
- Preferred for family-owned or closely held companies
- Ownership is limited to 100 shareholders
- More rigid management structure (must have at least one manager “gérant”)
- Transfer of shares is more restricted and may require shareholder approval
- Must be registered with the Registre du Commerce et des Sociétés (RCS)
- Requires VAT and SIRET/SIREN registration
- Annual financial statements and CIT filing required
- URSSAF and payroll registrations mandatory if hiring employees
Société par actions simplifiée (SAS)
- Limited liability protection
- 100% foreign ownership allowed
- Minimum share capital: €1 (recommended ≥ €1,000)
- No local director requirement (but local address and bank account needed)
- Suitable for both operating and holding companies.
- Must be incorporated through a notary or legal partner
- Must register with the Registre du Commerce et des Sociétés (RCS)
- Requires VAT and SIRET/SIREN registration
- Annual financial statements, CIT, and VAT returns required
- URSSAF and payroll registrations mandatory if hiring
Got questions? Schedule a call with one of our experts
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I consider incorporating in France?
France is a major gateway to the EU, with a large consumer base, a skilled workforce, and strong infrastructure. It offers a favorable environment for innovation, especially in tech, manufacturing, and green industries. With recent reforms aimed at reducing corporate tax and simplifying labor laws, France is increasingly startup- and investor-friendly.
Do I need to be physically present in France to set up a company?
No. Commenda enables full remote setup of a French entity via digital signature and proxy powers. All key documents can be executed electronically, although certain banks may still request in-person verification for account opening.
What are the key compliance requirements for companies in France?
After incorporation, companies in France must:
– File annual accounts with the Commercial Court registry
– Submit corporate income tax returns (standard rate: 25%)
– Register and report for VAT (if applicable)
– Maintain payroll and social security filings for employees
– Report beneficial ownership to the national registry (RBE)
Commenda supports your filings and ensures you remain compliant year-round.
Can foreign individuals or companies fully own a French company?
Yes. France allows 100% foreign ownership of companies in most sectors. Non-EU founders may need to appoint a resident director or complete additional identity verification, but there are no restrictions on control or equity ownership for standard commercial activities.
Are there tax incentives or government programs for foreign investors in France?
– Research Tax Credit (CIR) of up to 30% on eligible R&D expenses
– Subsidies for innovation, green energy, and job creation through Bpifrance
– Exemptions for startups in Jeune Entreprise Innovante (JEI) status
– Reduced corporate tax rates for SMEs under certain thresholds
Commenda can assess eligibility and navigate the French incentive landscape on your behalf.
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