
LEGAL SERVICES - SETTING UP A COMPANY IN FRANCE
Company formation
Capital increase
Transfer of shares
Dividend distribution
GME Audit works with entrepreneurs from the start. Our support goes beyond accountancy: we take you through the French administrative process, which is where most founders lose time, and make the set-up straightforward.
We believe every business has room to grow, and we commit to giving you the support that makes that growth happen. Work with us to build and develop your company with confidence.
Here is what setting up a company in France looks like, in 10 steps:
Define the business project:
Run market research to test whether there is real demand and whether the venture stands up.
Write a detailed business plan covering objectives, strategy, the resources you need and financial forecasts.
Identify the commercial idea or business concept.
Choose the legal form:
Look at the available legal forms (SARL, SAS, EURL and others).
Weigh up shareholder liability, tax treatment and how much flexibility you want in running the company.
Pick the form that best matches the company's needs and objectives.
Draft the articles of association (statuts):
Set out how the company will operate, the rights and obligations of the shareholders, how profits are shared, and so on.
Prepare the statuts in line with the applicable laws and regulations.
Complete the administrative formalities:
File the statuts with the relevant Centre de Formalités des Entreprises (CFE), the business formalities office.
Complete the incorporation forms and provide the required supporting documents (copy of the statuts, shareholders' ID, and so on).
Publish a legal notice:
Publish a legal notice of incorporation (annonce légale) in an authorised journal, so that the creation of the company is a matter of public record.
Obtain a SIRET number:
Apply to INSEE for a SIRET number (Système d'Identification du Répertoire des Entreprises et de leurs Établissements).
This number uniquely identifies the company's establishment.
Deposit the share capital:
Deposit the company's share capital into a dedicated bank account opened in the company's name.
Obtain the certificate of deposit of funds issued by the bank.
Register the company:
Register the company with the Registre du Commerce et des Sociétés (RCS, the trade and companies register), or with the répertoire des métiers for skilled trades.
Receive the extrait Kbis, or extrait D1, confirming the company's registration.
Register with the tax authorities:
Apply to the relevant tax office for a TVA (French VAT) number.
Comply with the tax and filing obligations that apply to the company.
Complete any other specific formalities:
Depending on the activity, obtain the necessary licences, authorisations or permits.
Comply with any other regulatory obligation specific to the company's business.
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Every step matters for the legality and the durability of the company. Follow them in order, and get professional support where you need it, to avoid mistakes and delays in the process.
That is exactly what GME Audit does. With our expertise and experience, we guide you through the whole formation process, from defining your project to registering the company. Working with us means personal support, a proper understanding of what you need, and full compliance with the applicable regulations. Do not let the paperwork put you off: get in touch today and let us help you get your business off the ground.
