France

Company Formation in France

France

Formation Time

1–2 weeks

Min. Capital

€1 (SAS/SARL)

Corporate Tax

25%

Foreign Ownership

100%

Overview

France is the EU's second-largest economy and seventh globally. The SAS (Société par Actions Simplifiée) has become the preferred structure for startups and SMEs due to its flexibility. France offers generous R&D tax credits (CIR) and a thriving startup ecosystem supported by La French Tech.

EU 2nd economy

121 treaties

30% R&D credit

SAS flexibility

Why Choose France

EU's 2nd largest economy

121 double tax treaties — world's 3rd largest network

Generous 30% R&D tax credit (CIR)

La French Tech ecosystem

SAS structure — extremely flexible

€1 minimum capital

Business Entity Types

Entity	Ownership	Directors	Capital	Tax	Best For
SAS	100%	1 (Président)	€1	25%	Startups, tech, services
SARL	100%	1 (Gérant)	€1	25%	Family businesses, SMEs

Step-by-Step Formation Process

Draft Articles

2–3 days

Prepare bylaws (statuts).

Capital Deposit

1–3 days

Deposit capital at French bank or Caisse des Dépôts.

CFE Registration

1–2 weeks

Costs & Fees

Government / License Fee	EUR 250+
Our Service Fee	USD 3,500+
Annual Renewal	USD 2,500+

Fees are indicative and may vary based on business activity, entity type, and additional approvals required. Contact us for a precise custom quote.

Get Custom Quote

Banking

French banks require in-person visits for corporate accounts.

Account Opening Time

1–3 weeks

Multi-Currency

Yes — multiple currencies supported

Recommended Banks

BNP ParibasSociété GénéraleCrédit MutuelQontoShine

Tax Overview

Corporate Tax

25%

Personal Income Tax

0–45%

VAT / Sales Tax

20%

Capital Gains Tax

Included in CIT; participation exemption available

Withholding Tax

25% on dividends (reduced by treaties)

Double Tax Treaties

121 countries

CIR (Crédit d'Impôt Recherche) provides 30% R&D tax credit on first €100M of R&D spend.