Guide to Starting a Business in France


Welcome to our comprehensive guide to starting a business in France.

In the guide we consider the different business structures, setting up a company and the formalities of business registration.

The guide also includes information on French business taxation, banking and social security contributions.

Most expatriates choose to establish their business as a micro-entreprise, which we consider briefly in this guide, but we also have a separate, comprehensive guide at Guide to Micro-Entrepreneur Business in France.


  1. Introduction
  2. Top Tips
  3. Getting Start-Up Advice
  4. Business Professions and Activities
  5. Business Structures
  6. Registering Your Business
  7. Business Premises
  8. Banking, Accounting & Insurance
  9. Taxation of Business Profits
  10. Other Business Taxes
  11. Social Security Contributions
  12. Financial Assistance

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