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Opening and supporting a business in France

Business registration in France is a legal presence, the right to participate in tenders, work with local banks and investors. But the process, which looks simple on paper, in practice can drag on for months or end in a bank refusal. That is why many people turn to us.

At Prikhodko & Partners, we have been helping Ukrainian businesses enter France for several years. We don’t just “draw up the papers”, but we make sure that the company works and doesn’t create problems in a year.

Legal advice on business registration in France

Business registration in France: when is it really necessary?

The service is needed when you want to not just sell from Ukraine, but have a full-fledged legal entity in the EU. This is relevant for IT companies looking for investments from French funds, manufacturers opening distribution, importers who need a local warehouse, or those who plan to hire local specialists.

Without the right structure, you face high customs barriers, difficulties with VAT and the inability to open a normal account in a French bank. And with the right company, you get access to grants, preferential lending and a reputation that is not available in offshore.

Which company forms to choose in France – a comparison for foreigners

Most often, foreigners (including Ukrainians) choose between SARL and SAS. Both forms provide limited liability, but differ greatly in flexibility.

Company form	Minimum authorized capital	Number of participants	Management flexibility	Who is best suited for?
*SARL*	from €1 (in practice €1000-5000)	1- 100	Hard cash (according to the charter)	Family business, small and medium-sized companies
*SAS / SASU*	from 1 €	1 and more	Maximum (almost everything can be prescribed)	Startups, foreign investors, companies with scaling plans

SAS is a favorite among our Ukrainian clients precisely because of its freedom: you can appoint a president, register special rights for shareholders and easily attract new investments. SARL is easier to tax for small turnovers, but requires more formalities, in particular for accounting support of the business in France.

What form of company is most profitable for Ukrainian business in France?

For most of our clients – SAS (or SASU for one founder). It provides maximum flexibility, is convenient for attracting investments and does not require strict management rules, like SARL. But we always select an option for specific goals and turnover.

What tasks does full support for registration and running a business solve?

Choosing the optimal form and tax regime for your plans.
Preparation of a charter that protects your interests, and does not copy a typical template.
Registration with Guichet Unique, obtaining SIRET, TVA and all necessary numbers.
Assistance with opening a bank account in France (French banks are a separate story, they are very picky about non-residents).
Setting up accounting and tax accounting from day one.
Further support: monthly reporting, calculation of social contributions, compliance with labor legislation.

How long does it take to fully register a business in France?

With our support – from 3 to 5 weeks from signing the contract to receiving all the numbers and opening the account. On your own, the process often drags on for 2–4 months due to errors in documents and delays with the bank.

Risks if you do everything yourself

A mistake in the charter – and after six months you have to re-register the company.
Bank refusal in the account – without it the company is practically dead.
Missing the deadlines for tax reporting – fines of several thousand euros.
Incorrect registration of domicile – and the address is recognized as invalid.
Problems with KYC for a foreign founder – the process is delayed by 3-6 months.

Legal support for business registration in France

What documents will be needed to get started?

Passport or ID card of the founder(s) and manager.
Certificate of good conduct (for foreigners – with an apostille and translation).
Confirmation of domicile (lease agreement, agreement with a domiciliation service or director’s address).
Company charter.
Confirmation of contribution of authorized capital (bank certificate).
For certain types of activities – additional permits.

Can a Ukrainian register a company in France without being in the country?

Presence is not required – registration is carried out online through Guichet Unique. If necessary, we act as an authorized representative. A visa may be required for a non-resident director only if you plan to live and manage the company locally.