Self-Employed Visa in France

This service is designed for non-EU citizens who wish to live and work in France as self-employed professionals. Whether you are an entrepreneur launching a startup, a freelancer in the creative or digital industries, or practicing a regulated profession such as architect, therapist, or consultant, this visa allows you to legally reside and conduct business in France.

The visa – known as the “visa entrepreneur/profession libérale” – is ideal for those who want to establish their own income-generating activity without being employed by a French company. British citizens post-Brexit, Americans, Australians, and other non-EU nationals regularly use this route to begin a professional journey in France.

To qualify for the entrepreneur visa in France, applicants must meet several key criteria:

• Professional Activity Plan: A clear and viable business plan showing the nature and scope of the self-employed activity. This must demonstrate that the business will generate sufficient income to support the applicant in France.

• Relevant Qualifications: For regulated professions, proof of diplomas or certifications may be required, and recognition of those qualifications by the relevant French authority.

• Minimum Income Level: While not officially fixed, the French administration expects applicants to show they can earn at least the equivalent of the French minimum wage (SMIC), which is approximately €1,766 gross/month (2024).

• Business Registration: Applicants must register their business or professional activity with URSSAF or the relevant professional registry in France.

• Proof of Accommodation: Evidence of a fixed address in France (e.g., rental contract, property deed).

• Health Insurance: Proof of comprehensive health insurance coverage valid in France.

• Clean Criminal Record: A recent criminal record check from the applicant’s country of residence.

1. Initial Assessment: We begin with a consultation to assess your eligibility based on your profession, business model, and supporting documents.

2. Business Plan Preparation: We assist in preparing a compliant and persuasive business plan tailored to French administrative expectations.

3. Document Compilation: We help you gather and legalise the required documents, including translation where necessary.

4. Application Submission: You will apply for the long-stay visa (VLS-TS) at the French consulate in your country of residence.

5. Visa Approval: Once approved, you will receive a visa valid for one year, renewable thereafter.

6. Business Launch & Compliance: Upon arrival, we guide you through business registration in France and compliance with local tax and legal obligations.

7. Visa Renewal Support: We provide ongoing assistance with the visa renewal process and residency transition after the initial period.

• Legal Residency and Work Rights: The visa grants the right to reside in France and run your own business legally.

• Pathway to Long-Term Residency: After five years of legal residency, you may apply for a permanent residence permit or even naturalization.

• Family Inclusion: The visa allows you to apply for a family reunification procedure to bring your spouse and children.

• Tax & Legal Clarity: Our local experts help you navigate the visa application process avoiding costly mistakes or penalties.

• Professional Integration: We support your integration with relevant chambers of commerce and industry networks to help you thrive professionally in France.

• Personalised legal advice from an experienced French immigration and business lawyer

• Assistance in drafting or reviewing your business plan to meet visa standards

• Guidance on obtaining necessary professional recognition (if applicable)

• Full preparation of your visa application documents

• Advice on securing compliant health insurance and housing documentation

• Representation or accompaniment to French administrative appointments (where possible)

• Assistance with registration of your business with URSSAF or appropriate bodies

• Support with annual visa renewals and residency transition