Investment in France
Investing in France is possible through buying property, registering a company, entrepreneurship, or financially independent residency. Each method requires proof of funds, health insurance, and a clean criminal record. For company registration or entrepreneurship, a business plan and a minimum capital of €23,000 are mandatory. Property investment also has space requirements based on family size.
Foreign investors can obtain a one-year residency, leading to permanent residency and citizenship after five years. France offers a strong infrastructure, EU access, and attractive incentives for investors. However, high living costs in cities like Paris and French language proficiency may be challenges.
You can contact the consultants of Malekpour Institute for more information and to assess your conditions regarding immigration to France through investment, and benefit from free consultation.
France as an Investment Destination
France, officially the French Republic, is a major Western European country with Paris as its capital.
France, the EU’s second most populous country with over 67 million people, is a global leader in tourism and ranks fourth in UNESCO World Heritage sites. Known for high living standards, excellent healthcare, and a strong economy, France offers great opportunities in industries like machinery, energy, and agriculture.
Its central location in Europe and stable business climate make it a top choice for investors and immigrants. In this article, discover the main ways to invest and move to France.
Investment Conditions in France
With a stable political environment, strong infrastructure, and a range of incentives, France is an attractive destination for international investors seeking economic advancement. Investing in France has specific requirements and conditions that must be met by the applicant. Here, we will examine these conditions:
- Having a valid passport
- Receive Health Insurance in France
- Proof of finance
- Having physical health
- Payment of Visa
- Proof of your residence in France
- Failure to do so
Residency through Investment in France
It should be mentioned that France is not very immigrant-friendly, and immigrants cannot easily obtain a passport and residency in France unless the individual acts through business and investment as mentioned below.
Investing through company registration in France grants a one-year visa, extendable up to five years. After this period, investors can apply for a 10-year visa and eventually permanent residency. In general, all investment or immigration paths require five years of residence in France before applying for permanent residency and French citizenship.
Below, we outline the duration and key conditions for residency and citizenship through different investment options in France. Keep reading for full details.
Investment Methods in France
Investment methods in France include buying property, registering a company, entrepreneurship, and self-sufficiency. Buying property alone does not lead to residency but is a way for secure investment. Registering a company and entrepreneurship is suitable for individuals with strong business ideas, while the self-sufficiency method is for those who can support their living expenses without the need to work.
Residency in France through Property Purchase
Buying property is one of the best ways to invest and gain residency in France. Applicants must purchase 17–34 m² per family member, with prices varying by location—ranging from €5,300 to €13,000 per m² in Paris. Property buyers must also pay relevant taxes. This method offers a straightforward path to residency in a developed and highly desirable country like France.
It is noteworthy regarding buying property in France that you will only gain temporary residency, and obtaining a French passport and citizenship directly through purchasing property is not feasible; it merely facilitates the process of securing citizenship and a passport.
Investing in France through Company Registration
Company Registration in France is a popular investment route. If you already own a business, you can register it in France, act as its employee, and set a salary of over €2,000/month. You must prove your active management role and open a company bank account.
A detailed business plan is required. The minimum capital varies: €23,000 for a simple public company and €37,000 for a public limited company. After registration, you receive a one-year residency, extendable as long as the business operates. After 5 years, you can apply for permanent residency and eventually French citizenship. Other investment options are discussed below.
Investing in France through Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurs can invest in France without a job offer by starting or buying a business. To apply, submit a strong business plan and proof of financial capacity at the French embassy in your home country. The investor intending to pursue entrepreneurship in France should know that a one-year visa is initially granted, extendable up to five years, followed by a 10-year residency and potential permanent residency.
Visa approval depends on your business type and market viability. Hiring a skilled lawyer is highly recommended to navigate the process and understand the French business landscape.
Investing in France through Self-Sufficiency
Another method to obtain residency and citizenship in France is through the method called self-sufficiency visa in France or financial independence residency. Self-sufficiency is a passive investment route to French residency. Applicants must prove they can support themselves and their family without working in France by showing income, assets, and financial documents—without transferring funds into France.
Initial residency leads to permanent residency after 5 years, and a French passport is possible one year after obtaining a 10-year residency. This is an ideal option for retirees or financially independent individuals. Some conditions for investing in France through self-sufficiency are mentioned below:
- Applicants must prove that they have 40,000 euros or its equivalent in their account for six months.
- For their spouse, they must have an additional 20,000 euros in their account besides the initial 40,000 euros.
- For each child, they must also have at least 10,000 euros, in addition to the original capital of 40,000 euros.
It should be stated that by investing in France through this method, individuals can easily obtain permanent residency in France and ultimately the passport of this country for themselves and their family.
Best Investment in France
The best method of investment in France is company registration and entrepreneurship, as it not only allows for residency and citizenship but also has high profit potential. Among various industries, information technology, renewable energy, and tourism are some of the best options for investment. With a stable economy, government support for startups in France, and a strategic position in the EU, France provides an ideal environment for entrepreneurs and investors.
Additionally, the French government offers diverse tax incentives and facilitations to attract foreign investors, making entry into this market easier.
Cost of Investment in France
The cost of investment in France varies depending on the chosen method. The table below presents the required costs for each investment method:
| Investment Method | Minimum Required Capital | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Property Purchase | Varies (€5,300–€13,000 per m² in Paris) | Leads to temporary residency, but not direct citizenship. |
| Company Registration | €23,000–€37,000 | Varies by company type (SAS or SA); requires a business plan. |
| Entrepreneurship | Minimum €30,000 | Requires a business plan and proof of financial capacity. |
| Financial Self-Sufficiency | €40,000 + €20,000 (spouse) + €10,000 (per child) | No need to transfer funds to France; must show assets in a bank account. |
Steps for Investment in France
Investing in France involves several stages, each requiring compliance with specific conditions and documentation. To succeed in this process, applicants must be familiar with legal, tax, and residency procedures.
- Choosing the investment method
You must first choose the right way to invest, such as buying property, company registration, entrepreneurship or self -esteem. Each method has its own conditions and costs. - Business Plan Preparation
If you register a company or entrepreneurship, you need to provide a strong business plan that shows that your business is profitable and useful for the French economy. - Company registration or purchase of assets
To register the company you need to go through the legal process and open a business bank account. In the method of purchasing the property, after finding the right property, the sign is signed and the transfer of the document. - Get an investment visa
After completing the early steps, you should apply for an investment visa through the French Embassy and submit your financial, identity and business documents. - Payment and legal fees
Depending on the type of investment, taxes such as corporate income tax, asset tax or VAT (VAT) must be paid. - Receive residence and renewing it
After investing, you will first get a temporary residence that, as the economic activity continues and the laws, can extend it into permanent residence and ultimately French citizenship.
Required Documents for Investment in France
Investing in France offers countless opportunities for individuals and businesses looking to invest in the dynamic economy and strategic position of this country within the European Union. However, it should be noted that investing in France requires the submission of specific documentation. These documents include:
- Visa application form
- Copy of ID and Passport
- Residence certificate
- Three new photos (with white background)
- Tax Certificate (in the country of origin)
- Evidence of your ability to do the desired work (if necessary)
- Master’s Degree (or Document represents at least 5 years of professional experience)
Top Cities in France for Investment
| City | Key Advantages | Investment Opportunity |
|---|---|---|
| Toulouse | Major French city; popular student hub with consistent housing demand | High rental yield from student housing; favorable property market |
| Nantes | Strong transportation system; growing industrial sector | Rising property values; excellent long-term capital growth potential |
| Lyon | Hosts prestigious universities; close to Switzerland, Italy, and the Mediterranean | Continuous property price growth; high demand from students and professionals |
| Rennes | One-third of population are students; low unemployment; job opportunities | Logical and profitable for student rentals and general housing investments |
| Poitier | Affordable housing; beautiful architecture; long-term rental demand | Attractive for long-term investors; increasing property prices |
| Tour | Tourist city near Paris; scenic and culturally rich | Competitive property prices; strong demand from both tourists and buyers |
Investment Opportunities in France
France is a top global economy—5th largest worldwide and 2nd largest consumer market in Europe—offering strong opportunities for foreign trade and investment. As a founding EU and Eurozone member, its central location provides direct access to the single European market and partners.
France attracts investors with its thriving industrial sectors like automotive, aerospace, pharmaceuticals, scientific research, and IT services. These advantages make France a prime destination for investors seeking business growth and residency opportunities. Below, we explore key investment sectors in detail.
| Key Sectors of the National Economy | High-Potential Sectors | Privatization Programs | Tenders, Projects & Public Procurement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aerospace, Automotive, Food Industry, Pharmaceuticals, Luxury & Fashion, Micro-electrotechnology, Logistics, Medical Equipment | Biotechnology, Telecommunications, Business Services, ICT, Environment | Electricity, Gas, Rail Transport, Postal Services | EU public markets, Business opportunities in the EU, Public markets & projects in France |
Advantages of Investing in France
Investors eager to invest in France are keen to know the advantages of investing in this country. Firstly, it should be mentioned that the required capital for investment in various sectors in France is at least 300,000 euros, a sum that remains in the individual’s account and is not blocked in a French account, which is considered beneficial.
This article has been prepared by experts from Malekpour Institute, and any form of copying from its content without citing the source is legally and religiously prohibited. Other advantages of investing in France include:
- The applicant is not required to provide a high score in language proficiency.
- The individual can make their investment either individually or jointly.
- Additionally, the country’s low unemployment rate can also be seen as a factor for increasing your profits as an advantage.
Obtaining an Investment Visa in France
To obtain an investment visa in France, the applicant must choose one of the investment methods such as company registration, entrepreneurship, property purchase, or self-sufficiency. After selecting the right method, it is essential to provide financial documentation, a business plan (if required), proof of financial capacity, and pay the necessary embassy fees.
This visa is usually initially issued as a temporary one-year residency and can be extended and converted to permanent residency if business activities continue. Moreover, the applicant can receive dependent visas for family members (spouse and children under 18 years) that allow them to reside, study, and work in France.
Investment Taxes in France
Investment taxes in France vary depending on the type of investment and the level of income. Some of the main taxes include:
| Tax Type | Rate and Description |
|---|---|
| Corporate Income Tax (CIT) | 25% standard rate; 20% for small companies with income under €42,500 |
| Value Added Tax (VAT) | 20% standard rate; reduced rates of 10% and 5.5% for certain goods/services |
| Personal Income Tax | Progressive rates from 11% to 45% depending on income |
| Capital Gains Tax (CGT) | 30% total (12.8% tax + 17.2% social charges) |
| Wealth Tax (IFI) | 0.5% to 1.5% on assets over €1.3 million |
| Payroll Tax | Approximately 40% of employee wages including social security and other costs |
Investing in France and Investment Standards
France offers a secure environment for investors, with no major sectoral restrictions on foreign capital. The country has a top-rated property seizure risk of 1 (on a scale of 1–7), indicating strong legal protections. Additionally, France maintains a high corruption control rate, reflecting strong government oversight and institutional transparency—making it a reliable choice for long-term investment.
Investing in France and Influential Economic Indicators
Investors looking to invest in France must pay attention to certain economic indicators that significantly influence the country’s investment climate.
Income tax and corporate tax are two critical and impactful factors on income and investments in any country. The lower the tax rate, the more attractive investment naturally becomes.
Another significant influential indicator is the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The higher the GDP of a country, the better its economic growth and profit potential, thus presenting a favorable outlook for investment in that country.
Disadvantages of Investing in France
While France offers many investment advantages, it also has challenges. Key drawbacks include social class gaps between immigrants and locals, and the high cost of living—especially in Paris, the main hub for business growth. Additionally, fluency in French is essential for job opportunities and smooth integration. Being aware of these factors helps investors prepare and succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions about Investing in France
- What is the best way to invest in France?
One of the best methods for investing in France is by submitting a business plan for company registration and self-sufficient residency.
- Can residency be obtained by purchasing property in France?
Under certain conditions, residency can be obtained through purchasing property in France.
- Can residency in France be obtained through investment in franchises?
No. To invest in franchises, you must first obtain residency in France through other means.
- Can a French passport be obtained through investment?
You cannot directly obtain a French passport through investment; however, after several years of living in France, you can apply for a passport.
Conclusion:
Investing in France offers opportunities through company registration, property purchase, and more, with clear residency and citizenship pathways. As a developed country with rich culture, high education, and strong social welfare, France provides a promising future for investors. For personalized advice or questions about investing in France or other countries, contact Malekpour Institute for a free consultation or leave your questions in the comments.
