How to Register a Business in France

Certain formalities are needed to start a business in France.

Regardless of which country you reside in, you have to go through certain formalities, and you have to deal with certain regulatory bodies. It is no different in France, and it is important to know which documents you need to have and who you need to talk to when you are looking to set up a business in that country.

Instructions

1. Talk to your nearest Centre de formalités des entreprises. They people there will be an invaluable source of information about any detailed rules and regulations regarding registering a business in France. This is an excellent starting point to ensure you do not make any initial errors. Search the Centre de formalités des entreprises website to find the office nearest you (see Resources).

2. Check that your business name is not already taken. If you wish to be absolutely sure your business name is not already registered in France you will have to carry out a search with the Institut National de la Propriété Industrielle (see Resources).

3. Gather together a dossier of important documents. To be allowed to register a business in France, you will be required to present a number of documents, including a copy of the announcement of company formation, two copies of the articles of incorporation if you’re setting up a limited company, a signed declaration by the Managing Director—who will be officially running the business—that he has no criminal convictions, a copy of the MD’s identity card or passport, proof of the company’s address, and a statement from the MD if the company will be located in his residence for the first two years.

4. Fill in the MO form. Your local Centre de formalités des entreprises will provide you with this form, which is basically a form to create a new business in France. After you fill this in, the Centre de formalités des entreprises will forward the form and your documents compiled in Step 3 to the relevant authorities.

5. Pay the registration fee. When your business has been accepted you will be liable to pay a registration fee of between EUR200 and EUR350.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the paperwork safe. You will receive a receipt and certificate to confirm the creation of your business. These are vital when setting up a business bank account or attempting to gain credit, so ensure they are kept safe for future use.

References

• Just Landed: How to Register a Business in France

Resources

• Institut National de la Propriété Industrielle
• Centre de formalités des entreprises