Entrepreneurship in France
Entrepreneurship in France is one of the methods of investment in France for immigration and obtaining residency in this country. The types of entrepreneurships in France include:
- Traditional Entrepreneurship
- Digital Entrepreneurship
- Social Entrepreneurship
- Green Entrepreneurship
- Innovation-Based Entrepreneurship
- Cultural and Artistic Entrepreneurship
To immigrate to France through entrepreneurship, applicants must be at least 18 years old, have sufficient capital, a solid and innovative business plan, relevant experience, and at least a B1 level French certificate. Costs vary by business type and location.
If the business idea has been tested in the home country, a 4-year residency is granted; otherwise, a 2-year renewable residency is issued. Renewal requires proof of active business operations in France. For personalized guidance, contact the experts at Malekpour Immigration Institute.

Advantages of Entrepreneurship in France
Entrepreneurship in France offers several advantages. Some of the advantages of entrepreneurship in France include:
| Reasonable tax rate compared to other European countries | Obtaining companion visas for spouses and children up to 18 years of age |
| Low inflation rate in France | Benefit from educational facilities and other rights |
| High regulatory quality index (investors are supported by the French government) | Government and financial support for entrepreneurs |
| Traveling to EU member countries without a visa | International communications and global cooperation opportunities |
| Transparent legal and regulatory system | Suitable geographical location for international trade |
| Innovation and research environment | Access to the large European market |
| Possibility of expanding your business in EU member countries |
Types of Entrepreneurships in France
Applicants can engage in entrepreneurship in various fields in France. The types of entrepreneurships in France include:
- Traditional Entrepreneurship
- Digital Entrepreneurship
- Social Entrepreneurship
- Green Entrepreneurship
- Innovation-Based Entrepreneurship
- Cultural Entrepreneurship
The diversity in types of entrepreneurships indicates that France provides a suitable environment for entrepreneurs to operate in various economic and social sectors. Individuals should choose one of the types of entrepreneurships in France based on their field of activity and professional experience.
Traditional Entrepreneurship
This type of entrepreneurship relates to ordinary and traditional businesses that usually operate in the service or production industries, such as restaurants, shops, and small enterprises.
Digital Entrepreneurship
With the advancement of technology, many entrepreneurs in France are turning towards online businesses and new technologies, such as digital startups, applications, online platforms, and e-commerce stores, etc.
Social Entrepreneurship
This type of entrepreneurship primarily focuses on solving social and environmental issues. It includes social entrepreneurs who seek to create positive changes in society and usually initiate projects in the fields of education, health, or environmental conservation.
Immigrant Entrepreneurship
In France, many immigrants are also starting their own businesses as entrepreneurs. These entrepreneurs generally seek to create businesses that meet the specific needs of the immigrant community while also being beneficial to local communities.
Green Entrepreneurship
This type of entrepreneurship refers to businesses such as the production of organic products, renewable energy, green transportation, and other environmental initiatives that seek sustainable and eco-friendly solutions. France is one of the leading countries in developing green startups and environmental entrepreneurship.
Innovation-Based Entrepreneurship
This type of entrepreneurship seeks new innovations in products or services. In France, startups that focus on innovation in technology, medicine, or other scientific fields are thriving. The French government also supports this type of entrepreneurship by providing financial facilities and consulting.
Cultural Entrepreneurship
With its rich history and culture, France provides an excellent environment for entrepreneurship in the fields of art and culture, which includes galleries, theaters, films, music, and other artistic and cultural projects.
Conditions for Entrepreneurship in France
Conditions for entrepreneurship in France will vary depending on the field of entrepreneurship, the individual’s goals for entrepreneurship, etc. Some of the most important conditions for entrepreneurship in France include:
| Be at least 18 years old | Establish a business bank account |
| Prove of having the necessary capital to set up a business in France | Meet the needs of target customers |
| A business plan that is beneficial to the national interests of France | Have at least a bachelor’s degree |
| Register the business in the relevant centers | Have educational and work experience related to the field of activity |
| Have management knowledge and experience | Have a French language certificate at level B1 |
| Knowledge of tax laws and local regulations | Comply with health and safety standards |
| Have the necessary licenses for certain industries | Register with the social security system |
| Pay attention to environmental issues (if necessary) | Create a network and collaborate with other entrepreneurs |
Meeting these conditions allows you to undertake the process of company registration in France and obtain a SIREN/SIRET identification number. Note that depending on the type of business, additional specific permits may also be required.
Documents Required for Entrepreneurship in France
Applicants looking to start a business and obtain residency in France as entrepreneurs must provide the following documents:
| Valid passport | Establishment of a business bank account |
| Minimum Bachelor’s degree | Work recommendations |
| Work experience related to the proposed business field | Provision of a technical and economic feasibility report of the project |
| Detailed business plan including market analysis, competitors, marketing and financial strategy | Certificate of proof of the required initial capital |
| Documents related to business registration | Bank statements to prove financial means to live in France |
| Tax identification number (SIRET) | Documents related to the choice of the legal structure of the business |
| Documents of work in France (lease or certificate of ownership) | Documents related to employee salaries (if employed) |
| Specialized or industrial licenses (if required) | Certificate of no criminal record |
| Social and health insurance |
Dear clients, for updating your information, you can refer to the official website of the French immigration office at https://www.ofii.fr/.
Steps for Entrepreneurship in France
Having conditions for entrepreneurship in France, you must properly go through all the steps. The main steps in the entrepreneurship process in France include the following:
- The first step is identifying and developing a business idea. In this stage, the entrepreneur must conduct market research, identify target customers, analyze competitors, and prepare a complete business plan.
- After preparing the business plan, the entrepreneur must proceed to the company registration stage. This stage includes selecting the type of company, completing documents and legal formalities, and obtaining necessary permits.
- At this stage, the entrepreneur must invest the necessary capital to start their business. Financing sources can be through personal capital, bank loans, attracting investors, or receiving government grants.
- After preparing the business infrastructure, the marketing and customer acquisition stage begins. In this stage, the entrepreneur needs to design and implement advertising and sales strategies.
- Finally, after launching the business, the management and development stage begins. In this stage, the entrepreneur must manage financial affairs, human resources, production and service delivery, and also plan for the development of their business.
Costs of Entrepreneurship in France
For entrepreneurship in France through starting a business and a new idea, there is no minimum investment amount specified. However, generally, the main individual must have approximately 20,000 euros in financial capability, which increases by 6 to 7 thousand euros for each accompanying person.
Overall, experts estimate the total costs of entrepreneurship in France to be between 30,000 and 100,000 euros. However, this amount varies significantly based on factors such as the type of business, its location, and the amount of initial capital involved. It is recommended to consult relevant advisors beforehand to obtain a more accurate estimate of the costs.
Conditions for Obtaining Permanent Residence and Passport in France through Entrepreneurship
Individuals who intend to pursue entrepreneurship in France can obtain residency in France in two ways:
- In the first method, the applicant must show that he/she has tested his/her idea in the country of origin, in which case, if other conditions are met, the person will be granted a 4-year French residency.
- In the second method, people who have not tested their idea in their country can obtain a 2-year French residency, which can be extended.
To renew your residency, you just need to show that you have fully implemented your business plan in France and are actively engaged in it. Ultimately, in the fifth year of residency, you can apply for permanent residency in France and in the seventh year for citizenship and French passport.
Frequently Asked Questions About Entrepreneurship in France
- What are the conditions for a French entrepreneurship visa?
The French entrepreneurship visa requires having an innovative business idea, sufficient investment, and the ability to create jobs in France.
- How much capital is needed to start a business in France through entrepreneurship?
No minimum amount is specified in this regard, but depending on the type of entrepreneurship, you will need between 30,000 to 300,000 euros in capital.
- What documents are required for entrepreneurship in France?
A business plan, at least a bachelor’s degree, relevant work experience in the proposed business area, and work references are among the required documents for entrepreneurship in France.
- Can one achieve permanent residency in France through entrepreneurship?
Yes, by living in France for 5 years through entrepreneurship, you can achieve permanent residency in this country.
Conclusion:
The French entrepreneurship visa is ideal for those with an innovative business idea, sufficient capital, and the ability to create jobs. Key requirements include a French language certificate, relevant experience, and a strong business plan.
For expert guidance, consult with Malekpour Institute for free initial advice and support throughout your startup journey in France.


