Ibrahim Gardner
France is known for its dynamic entrepreneurial environment and business-friendly ecosystem. France has a lot to offer to international students who are looking to start a business, including a strategic location, a robust economy, a highly skilled workforce, and a supportive business environment. The country has made significant improvements in simplifying business regulations and reducing administrative burdens, making it easier for entrepreneurs to start and operate businesses. International students can benefit from various incentives, grants, and support programs offered by the French government, such as La French Tech and business incubators. In addition, France has a thriving tech ecosystem, excellent transport infrastructure, and a diverse consumer base, making it an attractive destination for international business ventures.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Student-entrepreneur status | Support structure, supervision, training, and continued social security coverage for graduates under 28 |
| Micro-entrepreneur status | Simplified fiscal, accounting, and social structure for individual entrepreneurs with a minimum amount of personal risk |
| MoovJee | Mentoring programme and competition for young entrepreneurs |
| Ecti, Egée, and AGIRabcd | Associations of former company heads that provide personalised assistance |
| Foreign entrepreneur website | mycompanyinfrance.fr |
| Business registration number | SIRET (9-digit SIREN number + 5-digit code specific to your company) |
| Main activity identifier | APE (Activite Principale de l’Entreprise) or NAF code |
| Business bank account activation | Requires Kbis certificate |
| Tax number | VAT number starting with FR + 2-digit code + SIREN |
| International trade identifier | EORI number from French Customs Authorities |
| Foreigner requirements | Passport with validity of at least 3 months beyond scheduled departure from France, proof of civil status and nationality, proof of resources (€21,203), business plan, proof of premises, etc. |
| Foreigner visa | Long-stay visa as residence permit (VLS-TS) marked Entrepreneur/Professional |
| Foreigner residence permit | Carte de séjour temporaire mention entrepreneur-profession libérale (temporary freelance-entrepreneur residency permit) |
| Permanent residency | Eligible after 5 years of continuous residence |
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What You'll Learn
Visa requirements for international students
International students intending to study in France are required to obtain a visa. The type of visa depends on the duration of the course and the nationality of the student.
Short-Stay Visa
If you are a non-European national intending to study in France for less than three months, you must obtain a short-stay visa for studies, or a "court séjour pour études". This visa is also applicable if you are taking a short-term study programme or language course. It is free of charge and does not require a residence permit.
Long-Stay Visa
For students intending to stay for more than three months, a long-stay visa is required. This visa is equivalent to a residence permit and is subject to further formalities upon arrival in France. The visa fee is typically €99, but rates may vary depending on specific cases.
Étudiant-Concours Visa
The "étudiant-concours" visa is a short-stay visa issued to students awaiting the results of an entrance examination. It cannot exceed a duration of 90 days and is not applicable to Algerian nationals due to the Franco-Algerian Agreement.
Student VLS-TS
The Student VLS-TS is a long-stay visa valid as a residence permit for students pursuing Bachelor's and Master's degrees. It allows students to stay in France for one year without requiring a separate residency permit.
Talent Passport VLS-TS
The Talent Passport VLS-TS is a long-stay visa for doctoral students and beyond.
Internship VLS-TS
The Internship VLS-TS is a long-stay visa for students intending to complete an internship in France as part of their programme in their country of residence.
Visa Requirements
When applying for a student visa to France, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Acceptance letter from a French university
- Proof of language proficiency (French or English, depending on the programme)
- Proof of financial means (approximately €615 per month)
- Airline ticket or reservation
- Medical insurance
- Documents stating accommodation arrangements
- Temporary address for the first three months or permanent address if already secured
- Valid passport
- Proof of civil status and nationality (passport or birth certificate)
- Extract from the criminal record or equivalent
- Tax status slip concerning income tax in France
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Business plan and registration
Foreigners, including international students, can set up a company in France. However, there are several requirements and procedures that must be followed. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you understand the process of business plan development and registration in France.
Business Plan:
Before starting any business in France, it is essential to create a comprehensive business plan. This document will outline your business goals, strategies, and financial projections. It should include information such as your target market in France, expected expenses and investments, and anticipated revenue for the upcoming years. Your business plan should be translated into French, as it will be crucial when dealing with French entities, such as banks.
Registration and Visa Requirements:
To register your business in France, you will need to gather several documents and meet specific requirements. Here is a list of the essential steps and considerations:
- Visa and Residence Permit: As an international student, you will need a valid visa and residence permit to stay in France. Before arriving in France, apply for a long-stay visa (VLS-TS) marked as Entrepreneur/Professional. This visa will allow you to reside in France and work on your company creation project for one year. After establishing your business, you can apply for a residence permit as an Entrepreneur/Professional. Remember that you must pay the required fees and taxes, such as the €200 tax and €25 stamp duty, for a total of €324.
- Business Address: To register your business, you must have a business address in France. This can be a virtual office or physical premises, depending on your needs and preferences.
- Supporting Documents: You will need to provide various supporting documents to register your business officially. These may include your passport, birth certificate, proof of civil status and nationality, and an extract from your criminal record. Additionally, you will need to present your business plan, a multiannual provisional budget, and proof of your ability to carry out your business, such as diplomas or certificates.
- Financial Requirements: There are specific financial requirements that you must meet. You will need to provide proof of financial resources corresponding to at least €21,203. Additionally, you may need to present a certificate of credit balance from a French bank account in your name or a bond from an authorized bank or insurance company operating in France.
- Premises Documentation: Depending on your business type, you may need to provide a copy of your commercial lease or sublease agreement, along with an activity statement detailing your business activities.
- Social Security and Taxation: Familiarize yourself with the French social security system for the self-employed. Additionally, understand your tax obligations, such as income tax (IR) payments, and obtain the necessary tax status slips.
- Business Identification Numbers: Once your business is registered, you will receive various identification numbers. These include your SIRET number, which consists of a 9-digit SIREN number and a 5-digit code specific to your company. You will also receive an APE or NAF code, identifying your primary business activity.
- Bank Account Activation: After receiving your Kbis (certificate of your new company), your French bank account will be activated, and your share capital will be accessible.
- VAT Registration: You will receive a welcome letter from the tax office with your VAT number, which starts with "FR," followed by a 2-digit code and your SIREN number. This VAT number is essential for tax-related matters.
Remember to refer to official government sources and seek professional advice to ensure you have the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding business registration in France.
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French bank account
Foreign nationals can set up a company in France. However, they must have an Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour, or APS (a temporary residency permit). This allows them to stay in France for one year after graduation while they develop their business idea. Once the APS expires, if the company is still operational, the individual must apply for a carte de séjour temporaire mention entrepreneur-profession libérale (temporary freelance-entrepreneur residency permit), which will authorise them to conduct a non-salaried professional activity.
A French bank account is not a legal requirement for international students studying in France. However, it is recommended, as handling finances from a foreign account can be challenging and expensive. International card transfers often come with high fees and poor exchange rates.
There are two standard types of French bank accounts that are useful for international students:
- Current account (compte courant): This is the most basic bank account in France, with no service fees for the basic package and easy access to funds for managing daily expenses. Many French banks have special offers for students, young adults, and non-resident accounts.
- General savings account (Livret): This type of account is for saving money that is not needed right away but can be quickly accessed and transferred to and from your current account. Most banks also provide the option of a tax-free savings account (Livret A).
To open an account, you will need to visit a branch of a French bank in person, by appointment, and provide several documents, including ID, proof of enrollment, and proof of address. English-speaking services are available in international banks and online banks but are less common in smaller regional banking institutions. It is recommended to bring a translator or request to complete the necessary documents later if the staff does not speak English.
Online banks are becoming an increasingly popular option for students, as they often offer free, quick, and digital account opening with low banking fees. Examples include Revolut, Nickel, and Hello bank! (a BNP Paribas subsidiary).
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Student-entrepreneur status
Foreign nationals can set up a company in France, but they must obtain an Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour (APS), or a temporary residency permit. This allows them to stay in France for one year after graduation while they develop their business project.
The French government has implemented various initiatives to encourage students and graduates to start their own companies, regardless of their nationality. One such initiative is the Student-Entrepreneur National Status, which enables students to develop an entrepreneurial project as part of their higher education journey, with the benefit of supervision and support. This status is available to graduates under 28 years of age, and it allows them to continue receiving student Social Security coverage.
Student-entrepreneurs can also benefit from other support structures, such as the movement for young people and student entrepreneurs (MoovJee), which provides mentoring programmes and competitions. Additionally, they can turn to associations of former company heads, such as Ecti, Egée, and AGIRabcd, for personalised assistance and networking opportunities.
The micro-entreprise, formerly known as the auto-entreprise, is another option for student-entrepreneurs. This is a simplified fiscal, accounting, and social structure for individual entrepreneurs, allowing them to start a company with minimal personal risk. However, there is a turnover threshold that must not be exceeded, and this differs depending on the type of business.
To obtain the Student-Entrepreneur National Status, project leaders can apply to the Pépite initiative if they have graduated from the baccalaureate or an equivalent diploma and have the ambition to create or resume an entrepreneurial activity. This status provides a supportive framework for students to pursue their entrepreneurial ventures while receiving the necessary guidance and resources.
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Support and resources for entrepreneurs
Foreign nationals can set up a company in France, but they must have specific documents, including a long-stay visa as a residence permit (VLS-TS) marked Entrepreneur/Professional. This visa costs €99 and allows the holder to reside in France and carry out their company project for one year. After this, they can apply for a residence permit as an entrepreneur. Nationals from the European Union, European Economic Area, and Switzerland can freely start a company in France.
There are numerous support structures, programmes, and resources available for entrepreneurs in France, including for students and foreigners. Here are some key ones:
- Student-entrepreneur status: This offers a support structure, supervision, and training for student entrepreneurs. It also allows graduates under 28 to continue benefiting from student social security coverage.
- Micro-entrepreneur status: This is a simplified fiscal, accounting, and social structure for individual entrepreneurs. It allows for a minimum amount of personal risk when starting a company.
- MoovJee: This is a movement for young people and student entrepreneurs that provides mentoring and a competition.
- Ecti, Egée, and AGIRabcd: These are associations of former company heads that offer personalised assistance and networking opportunities.
- Mycompanyinfrance.fr: A French government-launched website dedicated to foreign entrepreneurs, providing information in English on starting a company in France.
- Doing Business in France: Practical guides that inform entrepreneurs about the legal, fiscal, and social aspects of establishing a business in France.
- Financial support: The French government has introduced programmes and tools to facilitate fundraising for startups, with many implemented via the Banque Publique d'Investissement (Bpifrance). This includes the "1 jeune, 1 solution" plan, which aims to boost access to training and qualifications in digital technology-related occupations.
- French Tech Grant: This scheme provides between 10 and 30 thousand euros to help young startups cover their initial expenses.
- I-LAB: This scheme, overseen by the Ministry of Higher Education, supports the creation of innovative companies through two competitions: the Concours national d'aide à la création d'entreprises de technologies innovantes and the Prix PEPITE, Tremplin l'Entrepreneuriat Etudiant.
- University programmes: Some universities have created startup programmes and incubators, such as the University of Saclay's "Startup Heroes" web series and the University of Orleans' Polytech Startup Lounge incubator.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students can start a business in France. There are many statutes, assistance programs, and specialized structures to help students and graduates easily start a company in France, regardless of the project or their nationality.
France has a large market of over 500 million consumers in the European Union, which is easily accessible due to its central location in Europe. It also has excellent transport infrastructure, including major international airports, high-speed rail networks, and extensive road systems, making it a hub for global business activities. The French government actively encourages foreign investment through various incentives, grants, and support programs. France also offers attractive research and development (R&D) tax credits, encouraging companies to invest in innovation and technological advancements.
International students must have an Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour (APS), or a temporary residency permit, to be able to create a company in France. This allows them to stay in France for one year after graduation while they develop their project. When the APS expires, if the company is a going concern, a temporary freelance-entrepreneur residency permit must be obtained, which will authorize the conduct of a non-salaried professional activity. A business plan will also need to be created and translated into French.
The first step is to create a business plan, which will outline the mission statement and vision for the company. This plan will need to be presented in French. The next step is to register a business address in France, which can be done by opening a virtual office or finding physical premises for the business. After this, a French bank account will need to be opened, and the required share capital deposited. Finally, all necessary documentation must be gathered, including proof of civil status and nationality, a criminal record check, and proof of resources corresponding to at least €21,203.
