Would you like to know what types of companies are available in France? This article provides you with the main structures from which you can choose when starting a business here. Explore the available options and then contact our French agents for assistance throughout the company formation process in France.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Types of companies available in France | – limited liability company, – joint stock company, – limited or general partnership, – joint venture, – holding company, etc. |
Legislation | French Commercial Code/Company Law in France |
Most popular entity | SARL (société a responsabilité limitée), the equivalent of LLC |
| Minimum share capital for SARL | Not imposed. However, business owners can set the capital as low as EUR 1 for their SARLs. |
| Requirements for opening a SARL in France | – can be registered by at least 2 shareholders, – must have a manager (who should be a natural person), – partners can determine the amount of the share capital, – must have a bank account in France, – be registered for taxation. |
| Minimum share capital for JSCs in France | EUR 37,000 |
| Conditions for sole traders in France | Known as Entreprise Individuelle (EI), this entity must be registered for VAT and social contribution purposes in France, must have a business license, etc. |
| Can I buy a shelf company in France? (YES/NO) | YES |
| Opening a liaison office in France | Available option for foreigners interested especially in marketing and advertising specific businesses |
| Joint ventures in France | Joint ventures in France are not defined by a particular legislation. Nevertheless, such an entity can be registered as a contractual joint venture or as a corporate joint venture. |
| Branches and subsidiaries in France | Great option for large enterprises from abroad. There is no minimum share capital imposed for opening a branch in France, while for a subsidiary it is imposed. |
| Opening a holding company in France | Can be done with: – Articles of Association, – registering the business address, – appointing representatives, – obtaining a tax ID in France, – opening separate bank accounts, etc. |
| Accounting services for companies in France | Required. We can put you in contact with our French accountants. |
| Taxes in France | – income tax ranging from 0% to 45%, – 20% standard VAT rate with lower rates applied, – 5% withholding tax applied on net profit, etc. |
| Services we offer to foreign and local entrepreneurs | – assistance in document preparation, – support for opening a bank account and registering for taxation, – legal advice for hiring foreign staff, – help in getting a business license, as the case may be. Contact us and discover the company-related services we offer in France. |
What are the main types of companies in France?
- Limited liability company (LLC) – SARL,
- Joint stock company – SAS,
- Single-member LLC – EURL,
- Single-member SAS,
- Public limited company – SA,
- Sole proprietorship – EIRL.
Do I need a local partner to open a business in France?
No.
What is the most popular business/entity in France?
The SAS.
NOTE: Around 70% of newly incorporated companies in France in 2025 were SAS.
You can also read about the types of companies in France in the scheme below:
Who can start a SAS in France and what is the minimum share capital required?
At least one shareholder and a minimum share capital of EUR 1.
Why is SAS an optimal business structure in France?
- it provides flexibility,
- the company president can be an individual or another entity,
- low minimum share capital,
- more capital can be added,
- great option for startups in France,
- shareholders enjoy maximum business freedom in terms of governance rules, etc.
Are holding companies available in France?
Yes, you may read here information.
How can I set up a branch in France? What about a subsidiary?
Please read here and here about the key conditions.
Where is company registration done in France?
At the Guichet Unique – The French Trade Register.
We invite you to watch a video about the types of companies in France:
Is a liaison office a business option in France?
Yes, this is the representative office (RO) in France that can be established only for marketing and advertising activities.
Are partnerships available in France?
Yes, general and limited.
What are the general steps in opening a company in France?
- verify & reserve the trade name,
- prepare the Articles & Memorandum of Association,
- apply for a business license,
- open a corporate bank account in France,
- register for taxation in France,
- register the personnel with the French Social Security,
- get the company stamp, etc.
IMPORTANT: Each business structure is subject to specific formalities and conditions. We suggest you collaborate with our specialists in company formation in France to be prepped for business and skip the complexities.
What are the advantages of doing business/ opening a company in France?
- France is one of the most popular investment destinations in the world,
- there is complete access to the European Single Market,
- optimal logistics & infrastructure are great business advantages for foreign investors,
- France is a world-class innovation hub.
How can foreigners choose the right type of company in France?
Considering:
- Business flexibility,
- Taxation system,
- Types of investments,
- Business management & administration, etc.
What are the costs for company formation in France?
Starting from EUR 1,290.
Ready to explore more about the key company types in France? You may contact our French firm to benefit from the tailored company incorporation services we offer in France. Get assistance today!