How to start a company in France

Last checked: November 2026 · Currency: EUR

French startup teams almost always choose a SAS (société par actions simplifiée). Its articles are flexible, it can start with €1 of capital, and investors and the BSPCE employee stock-option scheme work best with it. Everything is filed online through the single business formalities portal (guichet unique) run by INPI. A legal notice must be published before registration.

General information, not legal or tax advice. Rules and fees change; always check the official source.

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