Guide to Registering a Company in France

If you’re looking to break into the business world in France, you’ll need to navigate the company registration process. This comprehensive guide makes it easy for aspiring entrepreneurs to get up to speed with the requirements and know what steps need to be taken in order to establish a successful business in France.

Understand What Is Needed to Register a Company in France

Before you begin the registration process, make sure you have all the required documents and information in order. This includes your company name and contact details, your business plan and objectives, a bank statement if applying for funds, and a detailed description of your proposed business activity that meets national regulations. You may need to provide proof that the company is financially secure if it involves selling consumer goods or services.

In France, the registration process differs depending on the type of company. Businesses registered with a local trade office must provide documents such as a business plan and credit references for any loans needed, in addition to a guarantee of financial security from an institution such as a bank. Companies registered as part of the national register (known as RCS) require more detailed information including their legal structure, capital requirements, ownership, and relevant background information about their directors and shareholders. Additionally, companies may need to produce additional documentation like copies of contracts or leases if they own assets or employ anyone. Make sure to get advice from appropriate experts when preparing the necessary paperwork for your business in France.

Choose Your Company Type and Setup Parameters

You must select the type of company you want to register, such as a société à responsabilité limitée (SARL), a EURL, or an SA. Once you have settled on the entity type and company name, you need to determine your setup parameters. Here you must decide things like who will be the shareholders, managers, administrators, and more. Lastly, make sure all employees are registered with France’s social security system before proceeding.

After completing the setup parameters, you need to create a draft Memorandum of Association (M&A). This document outlines the key elements of your company’s formation, defining legal rights and obligations between each member. France also requires a company-level tax declaration and an AME filing. These are online forms that provide specific information about your company to the French tax authorities. Once these steps are completed, formally register with the Registers of Commerce and Companies by either submitting documents manually or electronically. Finally, set up a récépissé de dépôt de dossier, which serves as proof that all paperwork has been submitted correctly to do business in France.

Obtain Necessary Business Approvals and Licenses

Next, you’ll need to obtain any necessary business and professional licenses. This depends on the type of business being conducted, so it’s important to research the specific requirements for operating in France. You may also need permission from relevant government authorities such as those responsible for taxes or labour laws before you can start trading.

Once all the licenses have been obtained and all the necessary paperwork has been submitted, the business can be registered in France by filing Articles of Association with the appropriate registry office, such as the Centre Démographique at your local ‘Sous-Préfecture’. The company will need to provide evidence of ownership and confirm that it meets all French legal requirements in terms of tax and labor regulations before it can be registered. Once approval has been granted, you will be able to start trading in France as a legally recognized entity.

Establish A Company Bank Account

In most cases, you’ll need to open a bank account specific to your company before registering with the Companies Registry. Choose a bank that’s equipped to handle business accounts and provides quality customer service. This will make your life much easier in the long run. When opening the account, you’ll need to have all relevant documents on hand such as a copy of the official certificate of formation as well as passports for each signatory and owner. Make sure everyone involved has access to a debit card from this account.

To register with the Companies Registry, you’ll need to provide the bank account number associated with your company’s savings or current account. Depending on the region and chosen bank, you may also have to certify that it is a commercial business account. Be sure to stay organized when you set up this corporate bank account, so everything runs as smoothly as possible during registration. The more effort you put in upfront, the better your chances are of successfully setting up a business presence in France without any hiccups.

Have FirmEU set up your French company

FirmEU is specialized in setting up French companies in combination with offering all the other important services. This includes bank account opening, address registration, and accounting & tax compliance. Do not hesitate to contact us for more information about any of our services!