Head of International Corporate Law and Fintech Practice
Expert in fintech, crypto, and international corporate law with over 20 years of experience. Specializes in crypto licensing (VASP/CASP), iGaming business support, and international structuring, asset protection, and OSINT analytics for risk assessment and due diligence.
Company Registration in France
France is one of the leading economies in the European Union, with a GDP of over €3.2 trillion in 2025 and a stable environment for business development. Thanks to its EU membership, developed banking system and access to the European market of over 450 million consumers, the country remains an attractive jurisdiction for company registration. The law firm “Prikhodko & Partners” provides full support to Ukrainian and international clients seeking to enter the French market – from choosing the legal form to tax optimization and opening accounts.
Main taxes paid in France
The French tax system is considered one of the most detailed in Europe. It is built on the principle of fairness, but provides for a significant tax burden.
- Corporate tax (Impôt sur les sociétés, IS): As of 2025, the rate is 25%, but for small companies with profits up to 42,500 euros, a reduced rate of 15%.
- Value-added tax (TVA / VAT): Standard rate – 20%, reduced rates of 10% and 5.5% apply to food, books, energy, etc.
- Social contributions: Employers pay between 25% and 42% of the employee’s salary – one of the highest rates in the EU.
- Local taxes: In particular, the cotisation foncière des entreprises (CFE), which is based on the value of office space.
In 2025, France ranked 16th in the “Ease of Paying Taxes” ranking according to PwC, behind Ireland but ahead of Italy and Spain.
Steps to register a business in France
Registration of a company in France usually takes from 7 to 45 business days, depending on the type of legal entity and the preparation of documents.
Main steps:
- Choosing the organizational and legal form – from a sole proprietorship to a joint-stock company (more details below).
- Choosing a legal address (domiciliation): This can be commercial real estate, co-working or a provider’s office.
- Preparing statutory documents: Memorandum of Association (statuts), decision on the appointment of a director, statement of ultimate beneficiaries.
- Opening a corporate account in a French bank: Banks require confirmation of the source of funds and a business plan.
- Deposit of authorized capital: The minimum amount depends on the form – from 1 euro to 37,000 euros.
- Filing with the commercial court (Greffe du Tribunal de Commerce): It is he who registers the company and issues the K-bis extract, which is the official confirmation of registration.
- Obtaining a tax number (SIRET / SIREN): It is assigned by INSEE – National Institute of Statistics and Economic Research.
- Registration with tax and social authorities.
A standard package of documents
To register a company in France, a standard package of documents is required, which includes:
- a passport or ID card of the founders;
- a document confirming the address of residence (utility bill, bank statement);
- the articles of association (statuts);
- a certificate of contribution of the authorized capital;
- a lease agreement or confirmation of the legal address;
- a statement of the ultimate beneficiaries (Déclaration des bénéficiaires effectifs).
An example from the practice of “Prikhodko and Partners”: When opening a company with non-residents from Ukraine, the notary required apostilled translations of Ukrainian documents. Our lawyers prepared the legalization and translation in two days, which allowed the client to avoid postponing registration.
The main organizational and legal forms of business
SARL (Société à Responsabilité Limitée) — an analogue of the Ukrainian LLC
The most popular form, suitable for small and medium-sized businesses. Minimum capital — 1 euro, number of participants — up to 100. The director can be a non-resident.
SAS (Société par Actions Simplifiée) — a simplified joint-stock company
Suitable for innovative and venture projects. Flexible charter, the ability to attract investors without changing corporate control.
SA (Société Anonyme) — a classic joint-stock company
Requires a minimum of 37,000 euros in capital, at least two directors and an audit. Used for large structures.
EI (Entreprise Individuelle) — an analogue of a sole proprietorship
The simplest form, but with full liability of the owner. Often used for freelancers and consulting services.
How does “Prikhodko and Partners” help with company registration in France?
Our approach is based on comprehensive support, which includes:
- Preparation of documents and translations. We provide legalization of Ukrainian documents, their notarization and translation into French in accordance with the requirements of local authorities.
- Choosing the optimal form of the company and tax model. For example, SAS is often recommended for startups due to the flexibility of the capital structure.
- Opening an account in a French bank or payment system. We cooperate with BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole, Qonto, as well as with fintech solutions for non-residents.
- Tax consulting and accounting support. Our specialists help you register in the TVA system, choose the micro-entreprise or régime réel regime, depending on your turnover.
- Legal support in further activities. In particular, preparation of contracts, protection of interests before tax and regulatory authorities.
Registering a business in France is not just a legal formality, but a strategic step towards entering one of the most powerful EU markets. Despite the complex tax system, the country offers stability, developed infrastructure and a high level of legal protection. The law firm “Prykhodko and Partners” provides full support to Ukrainian entrepreneurs in France – from registration to operational management, taking into account all the requirements of 2025. If you are planning to start a business in the EU – France can be your strategic start, and our team will provide every stage – without risks and bureaucracy.
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