Global Business Roadmap · 2026
How to Start a Business in France
How to start an SAS in France, French corporate tax 2026, SARL business setup, GDPR compliance, and the 35-hour work week explained.
01 · Legal Structure
Entity Structures
- SARL — Société à Responsabilité Limitée (Limited Liability, 1–100 partners).
- SAS — Société par Actions Simplifiée (most flexible, preferred by tech founders).
- Micro-Entrepreneur — Simplified regime under €77,700 services / €188,700 goods.
02 · Tax & VAT
Corporate Tax & VAT
- 25% standard corporate tax rate (Impôt sur les Sociétés).
- TVA (VAT): 20% standard, 10% reduced, 5.5% essentials.
- GDPR compliance is mandatory — €20M or 4% of global turnover penalties.
03 · Labor & Licensing
Labor & Regulatory
- 35-hour standard work week (heures supplémentaires beyond).
- 5 weeks paid vacation minimum + 11 public holidays.
- Registration via Guichet Unique (INPI) — replaces CFE since 2023.
Mogul Pro Tip: Pair an SAS with a personal SCI (Société Civile Immobilière) to hold real estate assets separately from operating risk.
Executive Note: Choose SAS over SARL for raising capital — simpler share transfers and no max partner cap.
Frequently Asked Questions — France
Real answers for international founders
What is the minimum capital for a French SAS?
There is no legal minimum — you can register an SAS with as little as €1 of share capital. Most founders capitalize €1,000–€10,000 to project credibility with banks and suppliers, but the law itself sets no floor.
How long does it take to incorporate an SAS in France?
Through the Guichet Unique (INPI) portal, an SAS can typically be registered in 7–14 business days once your statuts (bylaws), proof of capital deposit, and proof of business address are submitted.
Do I need to be a French resident to own a French SAS?
No. Non-residents can fully own an SAS. However, opening a French business bank account remotely is the most common bottleneck — neobanks like Qonto and Shine accept non-resident founders.
What is the corporate tax rate in France for 2026?
The standard French corporate tax (Impôt sur les Sociétés) is 25%. SMEs with profits under €42,500 qualify for a reduced 15% rate on that first tranche.
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