Becoming Self-Employed or Starting a Liberal Activity in France: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’re considering creating or engaging in a commercial, industrial, artisanal, agricultural activity, or pursuing a liberal profession in France, this guide outlines the essential steps and requirements to help you navigate the process.
Your Situation
You aim to:
- Start a new business.
- Engage in an economic activity in France.
- Work in a regulated liberal profession.
Depending on your plan, specific steps and documentation are required to ensure compliance with French regulations.
Your Visa
To operate as a self-employed professional in France, you will need a long-stay visa equivalent to a residence permit (VLS/TS). This visa is issued with the designation « entrepreneur/profession libérale » (Self-employed in a regulated liberal profession).
Key points about the visa:
- Valid for one year upon validation.
- Must be validated within 15 days of arrival in France.
- Requires completion of all professional and administrative formalities before commencing your activity.
Supporting Documentation
Depending on your intended activity, here’s what you need:
- For Starting a New Business:
- Demonstrate the economic viability of your project.
- For Liberal Professions or Existing Businesses:
- Prove sufficient financial resources, equivalent to the minimum legal wage in France for a full-time worker.
📋 Tip: Use the Visa Wizard to identify the documents required for your specific situation.
Regulated Professions
If your chosen profession or activity is regulated:
- Ensure you meet all qualification and diploma requirements.
- Fulfill any additional conditions outlined for that profession.
📌 Important: Consult the list of regulated professions for detailed information.
Setting Up as a Private Medical Practitioner
For private medical practitioners:
- Conditions depend on nationality, qualifications, and registration with the French Order of Physicians.
- Check the list of eligible nationalities for practicing medicine in France (available in French).
- Complete all required administrative formalities before applying for your visa.
« Talent-Passport » for Economic Attractiveness
If your activity significantly contributes to France’s economic development, you may qualify for the Talent-Passport.
Advantages of the Talent-Passport:
- Stay in France for up to 4 years (renewable).
- Bring your family, who will receive a residence permit allowing them to work.
Helpful Resources
- Business France: Guidance for entrepreneurs and businesses.
- Agence France Entrepreneur (in French): Support for entrepreneurs.
Embarking on a self-employed journey in France requires careful preparation, but with the right steps, you’ll be well-positioned to start or expand your professional activity in one of Europe’s most vibrant economies.
Un commentaire