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Company Formation in France - Fast, Online & Compliant

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Company Formation in France with Leadforce offers UK and international founders a fast, fully online, and compliant route to establishing a business in France. We manage the complete company registration in France process, from selecting the right legal structure and filing with the French company registry to bank account assistance, VAT registration in France, and ongoing compliance support.

Trusted by entrepreneurs, investors, and growing businesses, Leadforce removes complexity and ensures your French company is correctly formed and ready to operate with confidence.

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Why Choose France for Company Formation

Company Formation in France gives businesses direct access to one of Europe's largest economies and the wider EU single market. France offers a stable legal framework, internationally respected corporate governance, and a transparent business registration France system that supports both domestic and foreign entrepreneurs.

With a strong consumer market, world-class infrastructure, and a highly skilled workforce, France remains a prime destination for international expansion. Registration through the French company register enhances credibility with banks, partners, and clients, while clear incorporation rules reduce risk and uncertainty. For UK businesses post-Brexit, setting up a business in France provides a reliable base for EU trading, hiring, and long-term growth.

Types of French Companies Available

Company TypeDescriptionTypical Use
SAS (Société par Actions Simplifiée)Highly flexible company structure with limited liability, no minimum share capital, and simple governance.Startups, foreign founders
SASUSingle-shareholder version of the SAS, offering full control with limited liability.Solo entrepreneurs
SARL (Société à Responsabilité Limitée)Traditional limited liability company with a more regulated structure and clear management rules.SMEs, family businesses
EURLSingle-member SARL providing limited liability and a structured framework for individuals.Individual operators
Sole Proprietorship FranceSimple individual business setup with minimal formalities but no separation between personal and business liability.Freelancers, consultants
Branch OfficeNon-independent extension of a foreign company operating in France under the parent entity.Initial market entry
SubsidiarySeparate legal French company owned by a foreign parent, offering full operational independence.Long-term expansion

Minimum Share Capital and Ownership in France

Minimum share capital requirements in France depend on the chosen legal structure, making Company Formation in France accessible to startups, SMEs, and international investors alike. Most French company types allow incorporation with no statutory minimum capital, provided the capital is sufficient to support the business activity.

For popular structures such as SAS and SARL, the minimum share capital is €1, which can be contributed in cash or, in certain cases, in kind. Capital contributions may be paid in full or partially at incorporation, with the remaining balance payable within the legally permitted timeframe.

France places no restrictions on foreign ownership, allowing 100% foreign shareholding in most business sectors. Companies can be owned by a single shareholder or multiple shareholders, depending on the structure selected. Leadforce advises on capital structure, shareholder arrangements, and ownership planning to ensure your French company is compliant, credible, and fit for long-term growth.

How Our Company Formation in France Service Works

Our Company Formation in France service is designed to be fast, fully online, and compliant, with clear milestones at every stage. From initial consultation to company activation, Leadforce manages the entire process while keeping you informed at each step.

1
Consultation & Structure Selection
We begin with a detailed consultation to understand your business goals, ownership structure, and future plans in France. Our specialists assess whether an SAS, SARL, SASU, EURL, or another structure is most suitable based on liability protection, management flexibility, tax efficiency, and whether you are a foreign or UK-based founder.
2
Documentation & Company Registration
Once the structure is confirmed, we prepare all statutory incorporation documents, including articles of association, shareholder details, and registered office information. These documents are then filed with the French company registry and the registrar of companies France. We manage all communications with the authorities, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and swift approval while avoiding common registration delays.
3
Banking & Tax Setup
After registration submission, we support the opening of a French or EU business bank account by preparing the required documentation and facilitating introductions to suitable banking partners. At the same time, we handle corporate tax in France registration and VAT registration in France where applicable, ensuring your company is properly set up for trading and tax reporting from the outset.
4
Company Activation & Go-Live
Once incorporation, banking, and tax registrations are completed, your French company becomes fully operational. You receive all official company documents, registration certificates, and confirmation of compliance. At this stage, your business is legally established, compliant, and ready to trade, invoice clients, hire staff, or expand operations within France and the wider EU.

Process Timeline (Indicative)

Consultation & Structure Selection
1-2 business days
Documentation & Registration
5-7 business days
Banking & Tax Setup
3-5 business days
Company Activation
1-2 business days
Total estimated timeframe: 10-15 business days, depending on documentation readiness and banking approvals.

Required Documents & KYC Checklist

To complete company registration in France, the following documents are required:

  • Valid passport for directors and shareholders
  • Proof of residential address
  • Business activity description
  • Shareholding and management structure
  • Registered office address in France
  • Source of funds declaration

All KYC checks are conducted securely and in line with French and EU regulations.

Why Choose Leadforce for your Company Formation in France

Proven Expertise
Leadforce brings years of hands-on experience in Company Formation in France, supporting UK and international founders across multiple industries. Our team understands French corporate structures, the French company registry process, and cross-border considerations such as ownership, taxation, and compliance. This depth of expertise allows us to anticipate issues, avoid delays, and structure your company correctly from day one—saving time, cost, and unnecessary risk.
Guaranteed Compliance
Every company we register is formed in strict accordance with French and EU regulations, ensuring full legal validity and long-term stability. From filings with the French corporate registry to statutory documentation and tax registrations, compliance is built into every step. This protects your business from penalties, rejections, or operational disruptions and ensures your French company remains audit-ready and regulator-ready at all times.
Dedicated Advisors
With Leadforce, you are assigned a single dedicated advisor who manages your Company Formation in France from start to finish. This means clear communication, faster responses, and consistent guidance tailored to your specific goals. Your advisor coordinates registration, banking assistance, VAT registration in France, and post-incorporation support—so nothing is missed and nothing is outsourced without oversight.
Transparent Pricing
We believe clarity builds trust. Leadforce offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees, giving you a clear understanding of costs before you proceed. Our packages are structured to match different business needs, whether you are a startup, SME, or international investor. Any optional add-on services are explained upfront, allowing you to budget confidently and avoid unexpected charges.
End-to-End Support
Leadforce delivers complete, end-to-end support that goes far beyond basic company registration. From incorporation and bank account assistance to corporate tax in France, VAT compliance, and ongoing advisory services, everything is handled in one place. This joined-up approach ensures your French company is not only registered—but fully operational, compliant, and ready to grow.

Pricing & Package Comparison - Company Formation in France

PackagePrice (£)Key FeaturesWho It's Recommended ForGet In Touch
Basic£895Company formation in France with the French company registry, Preparation and filing of statutory incorporation documents, Legal structure guidance (SAS, SARL, etc.)Entrepreneurs and early-stage startups needing a straightforward and compliant French company registration
Standard£1,695All Basic features, Registered office address in France, Bank account assistance in France, VAT registration in France guidanceSMEs and growing businesses planning to trade in France with banking and VAT compliance
Comprehensive£2,395All Standard features, Corporate tax registration in France, Compliance and statutory setup, Dedicated account managerEstablished businesses requiring structured tax, compliance, and operational setup in France
Ultimate (Best Value)£2,995All Comprehensive features, Priority processing, Virtual office services in France, Ongoing post-incorporation advisory and compliance supportInternational investors, non-resident founders, and companies seeking full end-to-end support for expansion into France
Please note: Prices may vary depending on the selection of additional services or the scope and quantity of requirements involved.

What's Included in Our Company Formation in France Package

  • End-to-end company formation in France
  • Filing with the French company register
  • Statutory documents preparation
  • Business registration France compliance checks
  • Guidance on corporate tax in France
  • Professional support throughout the process

Bank Account Assistance in France

A business bank account is not optional — it is a fundamental requirement for Company Formation in France, enabling capital deposits, VAT registration, client payments, and day-to-day operations. With Leadforce, company formation and banking support are handled in one place, eliminating delays that commonly arise when founders try to manage banks separately.

We provide structured assistance with French and EU business bank accounts, guiding you through documentation preparation, compliance checks, and introductions to reputable banking partners. By aligning the bank application with your French company registration, we reduce friction, avoid mismatches in corporate records, and help your business become operational faster — with compliant, reliable banking from the outset.

Ready to open your French business bank account without delays?

Speak to our experts today and get bank account assistance aligned seamlessly with your company formation in France.

Our Trusted banking Partners

We've partnered with leading providers to offer your new company a seamless solution.

Barclays Bank logo
ANNA Money bank logo
HSBC Bank logo
Lloyds Bank logo
Monzo Bank logo
NatWest Bank logo
Revolut Bank logo
Santander Bank logo
Tide Business Bank logo

Optional Add-On Services

Regulatory Compliance in France

All companies formed in France are required to meet ongoing compliance obligations set by the French company registry (RCS) and relevant local authorities. These include annual filings, updates to company records, and adherence to statutory reporting requirements. Failure to comply can result in penalties or operational restrictions. Leadforce monitors key deadlines, manages required filings, and supports statutory updates, ensuring your French company remains compliant, transparent, and audit-ready throughout its lifecycle.

Taxation in France

Corporate tax in France applies to registered entities based on their legal structure and taxable profits. Understanding tax obligations from the outset is a critical part of Company Formation in France, particularly for foreign-owned and cross-border businesses. Leadforce provides structured guidance on corporate tax registration, reporting requirements, and compliance obligations, helping businesses avoid errors, reduce exposure to penalties, and maintain efficient tax management within the French regulatory framework.

VAT Registration in France

VAT registration in France becomes mandatory once statutory thresholds are reached or when a company engages in VAT-liable activities such as trading goods or services within France or the EU. Leadforce manages the VAT registration in France process end to end, including application preparation, submission to the tax authorities, and guidance on ongoing VAT filing obligations. This ensures your business can trade legally, invoice correctly, and remain compliant from day one.

Who This Service Is For

  • UK entrepreneurs expanding into Europe
  • Non-resident entrepreneurs and investors
  • Startups and scale-ups
  • SMEs entering the French market
  • Professionals seeking a compliant French business presence

Who Should Consider Ready-Made Shelf Companies

Ready-made shelf companies in France are best suited for businesses that need immediate operational readiness. These pre-registered entities are fully compliant and have no trading history, allowing faster activation.

They are particularly beneficial for:

  • Businesses facing tight contract or tender deadlines
  • Entrepreneurs needing urgent bank account opening
  • Investors requiring established company dates for credibility
  • Companies entering France with accelerated market timelines

By choosing a shelf company, you can bypass standard incorporation delays while maintaining full compliance with the French company registry and local regulations.

Ongoing Support After Purchase

Leadforce provides continued accounting, tax, compliance, and advisory support after company formation in France, ensuring long-term stability and regulatory confidence.

Customer Reviews & Testimonials

"Leadforce handled our Company Formation in France end to end, and the speed genuinely surprised us. From the first consultation, they clearly explained the SAS structure, timelines, and documentation. We had regular updates, no chasing, and full visibility throughout the process. Our company was registered smoothly, and we were ready to move forward with banking and VAT planning without delays."
James R., Tech Startup Founder (London)
"As a non-resident founder, I was concerned about navigating French regulations remotely. Leadforce took complete control of the process, explained every step in plain English, and ensured everything was fully compliant with the French company registry. The guidance on structure, tax registration, and ongoing compliance made the entire experience stress-free."
Sophie M., Independent Consultant
"Professionalism is what stood out most. Leadforce delivered exactly what they promised—accurate filings, compliant documentation, and clear timelines. Their understanding of cross-border structuring and corporate tax in France gave me confidence that the company was set up correctly from day one. I would not hesitate to use them again."
Mark T., Private Investor
"The bank account assistance in France was a major reason we chose Leadforce, and they delivered. They prepared the documentation, guided us through compliance checks, and coordinated introductions with banking partners efficiently. Without their support, this would have taken weeks longer. Everything was handled professionally and transparently."
Elena V., E-commerce Business Owner
"Leadforce saved us a significant amount of time and administrative effort. Instead of dealing with multiple advisors, everything—from company registration in France to compliance guidance—was handled in one place. Their structured approach meant no delays, no rejections, and no unnecessary back-and-forth with authorities."
Daniel K., Property Investor
"What I appreciated most was the transparent pricing and the quality of advice. There were no hidden costs, and every service was explained clearly before we proceeded. Our advisor was knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely invested in getting our French company set up correctly for long-term operations."
Laura B., SME Owner
"The process was efficient from start to finish. Leadforce helped us select the right structure, managed filings with the French corporate registry, and kept everything moving. We were operational much faster than expected, with full confidence that the setup was compliant and future-proof."
Alex D., Startup Founder
"Leadforce didn't just stop at incorporation. Their post-formation support around tax, VAT registration in France, and ongoing compliance has been invaluable. Knowing we have a reliable partner handling regulatory matters allows us to focus fully on growing the business."
Priya S., Business Consultant

Company Formation in France without uncertainty

Leadforce combines expert-led advice, guaranteed compliance, and seamless digital processes to deliver company formation in France with confidence. Every client benefits from dedicated support, transparent pricing, and fast turnaround times.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - Company Formation in France

Helpful Guides & Insights

Your expert resource for everything related to Company Formation in France. Explore our guides and articles to make informed decisions for your business.

This section is designed to educate, guide, and empower entrepreneurs, startups, and SMEs who want to establish a French company efficiently and compliantly. Each resource serves a specific purpose, helping readers understand structures, legal requirements, taxation, and practical steps while providing actionable insights for decision-making.

Foundational Guide: "Understanding French Company Structures" - Read the Full Guide
This guide explains all French company types, including SAS, SASU, SARL, EURL, and sole proprietorships. It covers governance rules, shareholder requirements, liability, and suitability for different business models. Entrepreneurs can use this guide to select the structure that aligns with their goals, ensuring compliance with the French company registry and long-term operational efficiency.
Practical How-To: "How to Open a Business in France" - Learn How
A step-by-step walkthrough of company formation in France, covering document preparation, registration with the French corporate registry, director appointments, and bank account setup. This guide helps UK and international founders understand timelines, requirements, and common pitfalls, making the process smoother and less stressful.
Strategic Insight: "SAS vs SARL: Which Is Right?" - Compare Options
A comparative analysis of SAS and SARL, focusing on governance flexibility, taxation, minimum capital, and investor appeal. This insight helps founders evaluate the best structure for their startup, scale-up, or SME, balancing compliance, liability protection, and future growth opportunities.
Practical How-To: "VAT Registration in France Explained" - Learn More
Explains the VAT registration process, thresholds, and obligations for new companies. Founders learn when VAT registration is mandatory, how to apply with French tax authorities, and how professional support ensures ongoing compliance. This guide prevents penalties and supports smooth business operations.
Foundational Guide: "Corporate Tax in France" - Understand More
Provides an overview of corporate tax rates, reporting requirements, and tax planning strategies. Founders gain insight into obligations, deadlines, and optimised tax structures for different company types, helping them maintain profitability while staying fully compliant.
Video Content: "France Company Formation Explained" - Watch Now
A visual, easy-to-follow explanation of the company formation process in France. Covers company types, registration steps, banking setup, VAT, and ongoing compliance. Ideal for visual learners or those seeking a concise overview before taking action.

Ready to expand into France with confidence?

Trust Indicators & Accreditations

Company Formation in France With Confidence

Government-Approved Agents
Leadforce is officially recognised to handle company registrations, ensuring all filings with the French company registry are fully compliant and legally valid.
ICO Registered
We safeguard your personal and business data in line with the UK Data Protection Act and GDPR standards, giving you peace of mind.
Professional Indemnity Insured
Our services are backed by insurance, protecting you against errors, omissions, or negligence during the incorporation and advisory process.
Secure Payment Processing
All transactions are processed through secure, fully compliant channels, ensuring your payments for incorporation and add-on services are safe.

These accreditations ensure your company formation in France is handled securely, compliantly, and professionally.

Your Company Formation in France Journey, Simplified

  • Fast, Online & Compliant
  • Expert Structure Selection
  • Bank Account Assistance
  • VAT Registration Support

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