French Visa and Residency Solutions for Entrepreneurs, Investors, Startup Founders and Independent Professionals (Freelancers) and their families
We'll help you permanently establish yourself and your business in France
Update: 30, September, 2024
Update: 30, September, 2024
French Visa and Residency Solutions for Entrepreneurs, Investors, Startup Founders and Independent Professionals (Freelancers) and their families
We'll help you permanently establish yourself and your business in France
Update: 30, September, 2024
Update: 30, September, 2024
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Residence permit valid for up to four years, with the option to renew. You have the right to establish and manage a company in any legal form under French law.
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Your spouse and dependent children can live with you and are free to pursue any paid employment in France.
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You and your family members are eligible to apply for French citizenship after five years of residency in France.
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There is no legal requirement to speak French or English.
Why France?
France, situated at the heart of Europe, is widely recognized as one of the world's most influential and prosperous nations. As a parliamentary democracy, it boasts a highly developed infrastructure, a respected judicial system, low crime rates, universal healthcare, and a reputable education system. Additionally, France's rich cultural heritage is celebrated through its numerous festivals and fairs.
Ways to obtain a French residence permit through business (key requirements):
- 1
Entrepreneur
Applicant must provide evidence of:- Opinion provided by the competent authority in France regarding the viability of the business project.
- Proof of company registration or enrollment in the social security system for self-employed individuals.
- If the activity is regulated: authorization to practice.
- Extract from the applicant’s police record or an equivalent document from their country of nationality.
- A tax certificate verifying the payment of income tax in France (if residing in France).
- Documents demonstrating the applicant’s ability to carry out the proposed commercial, industrial, or craft activity.
- Documents proving the applicant’s capacity to earn sufficient remuneration (at least equal to the minimum wage, €21,621.60 as of November 1, 2024).
- The activity must comply with public safety, health, and order requirements.
- 2
Regulated and non-regulated independent professions (freelancers)
Applicant must provide evidence of:- Proof of enrollment in the social security system for self-employed individuals or company registration in France.
- Authorization for practicing your profession. If the profession is regulated by an Order, provide authorization from the relevant professional Order. For medical or paramedical professions, proof of registration with the Medical Council or, where applicable, authorization to practice from the Ministry of Health.
- If the activity does not require specific authorization: A signed document detailing your professional project in France and any documents proving your professional qualifications (degrees, certifications, professional experience, etc.).
- Documents demonstrating that the activity will generate sufficient income, at least equal to the minimum wage in France for full-time work (€21,621,60 as of November 1, 2024)
- If you are continuing an existing activity, you will need to provide proof of the activity’s status and operation.
Independent professions, encompassing a wide range of intellectual or conceptual activities performed independently, are divided into two main categories: regulated and non-regulated. The former, such as lawyers, doctors, and architects, are governed by professional bodies and require specific qualifications to practice. The latter, including consultants, coaches, and digital professionals, offer more freedom in practice without the need for a dedicated degree. - 3
Talent Passport: new business creation
Startup founder(s) must provide evidence of:- A degree equivalent to at least a master’s level, or any document proving at least 5 years of relevant professional experience.
- Proof of company registration (e.g., K-bis extract or SIREN number) or documentation showing that the registration process has been initiated.
- Certification from the competent authority in France confirming the viability and seriousness of the business creation project.
- Proof of sufficient resources to support yourself and your family members, at least equivalent to the full-time minimum wage (SMIC).
- Evidence that the business project is funded with at least €30,000.
- 4
Talent Passport: innovative business project (including French Tech Visa for founders)
Startup founder(s) must provide evidence of:- Certification from the competent authority in France confirming the innovative nature of the business project.
- Proof of sufficient resources to support yourself and your family members, at least equivalent to the full-time minimum wage (€21621,60 as of November 1, 2024).
- 5
Talent Passport: business investor
Foreign investors looking to establish themselves in France for a planned investment can apply for a Talent Passport labeled as ‘Business Investor.’
This option is available if the investor engages in a direct investment through one of the following methods:- Personally
- Through a company they control
- Through a company where they hold at least a 30% ownership stake
In addition, applicants must satisfy the following cumulative requirements:- They must create, preserve, or commit to creating or preserving jobs within four years of the investment.
- They must invest or commit to investing a minimum of €300,000 in fixed tangible or intangible assets.
Direct investments encompass share capital contributions, reinvested earnings, or loans between affiliated companies. However, purely financial investments do not qualify under this program. - 6
Talent Passport: Corporate Officer
Applicants must provide the following evidence:- Proof of a gross annual salary of at least three times the French minimum wage (SMIC), equivalent to €64,864.80 as of November 1, 2024, in their role as a legal representative of an establishment or company based in France.
- Proof of employment for more than three months as either an employee or corporate officer within an establishment or company that is part of the same group.
Duration of Residence Permits for Entrepreneurs, Investors, and Independent Professionals (Freelancers)
Entrepreneurs and Independent Professionals (Freelancers)
The temporary residence permit for entrepreneurs and independent professionals allows the holder to conduct business activities related to an approved project. This residence permit is initially valid for 12 months and can be renewed under certain conditions. After holding the initial 12-month residence card and meeting specific eligibility criteria, you may qualify for a 4-year temporary residence card during the next renewal process.
All Talent Passport categories
The duration of this residence permit depends on the nature, characteristics, and duration of the project. The maximum validity is four years and is renewable.
The temporary residence permit for entrepreneurs and independent professionals allows the holder to conduct business activities related to an approved project. This residence permit is initially valid for 12 months and can be renewed under certain conditions. After holding the initial 12-month residence card and meeting specific eligibility criteria, you may qualify for a 4-year temporary residence card during the next renewal process.
All Talent Passport categories
The duration of this residence permit depends on the nature, characteristics, and duration of the project. The maximum validity is four years and is renewable.
Residence Permits for Family Members
Entrepreneurs and Independent Professionals (Freelancers)
Family members of foreign entrepreneurs and independent professionals, including spouses and minor children, do not automatically receive residence permits following the approval of the main applicant’s request.
However, they can independently apply for residence permits through the following options:
Additionally, family members may apply for residency in France through the family reunification procedure. This option is available to foreign nationals who have legally resided in France for at least 18 months and wish to bring their spouse and children to join them.
All Talent Passport categories
Family members of foreign entrepreneurs and independent professionals, including spouses and minor children, do not automatically receive residence permits following the approval of the main applicant’s request.
However, they can independently apply for residence permits through the following options:
- Visitor Status: For family members who wish to reside in France without engaging in employment.
- Employee Status: For family members who secure a job in France.
- Student Status: For family members intending to study in France.
Additionally, family members may apply for residency in France through the family reunification procedure. This option is available to foreign nationals who have legally resided in France for at least 18 months and wish to bring their spouse and children to join them.
All Talent Passport categories
- The family of a Talent Passport holder (spouse and minor children) can benefit from the simplified accompanying family procedure and obtain a "Talent Passport – Family" residence card without needing to go through the family reunification process. Your spouse and minor children will receive residence cards valid for the same duration as yours.
- Additionally, your spouse will be authorized to engage in any professional activity in France, whether as an employee or an entrepreneur, without needing to apply for additional work authorization.
Long stay visa D «visiteur» to France
Long stay visa D «visiteur» to France
If you are just beginning to think about starting your business in France, but are not ready to set up a company right away, you may benefit from a visa «visiteur» which allows you to stay in France permanently but does not allow any professional activity. Once you have decided to start your business, you may request a change in your status through a prefecture in France.
Major requirements:
• Proof of funds to meet living costs in France not less than €1,426.30 net per month as of November 1, 2024.
• Proof of accommodation in France for permanent living (rental agreement, property deed).
• Proof of your professional status and financial situation.
If you are just beginning to think about starting your business in France, but are not ready to set up a company right away, you may benefit from a visa «visiteur» which allows you to stay in France permanently but does not allow any professional activity. Once you have decided to start your business, you may request a change in your status through a prefecture in France.
Major requirements:
• Proof of funds to meet living costs in France not less than €1,426.30 net per month as of November 1, 2024.
• Proof of accommodation in France for permanent living (rental agreement, property deed).
• Proof of your professional status and financial situation.
How much do our services cost?
If you need assistance we offer for you to book a 30-minutes verbal consultation in which we'll examine your situation, answer your questions and come up with an action plan.
The cost of the consultation is 150 euros TVA inclusive.
After the consultation you will know:
The cost of the consultation is 150 euros TVA inclusive.
After the consultation you will know:
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Major requirements to ensure a positive decision in your situation
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How we can help you
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Action plan for your situation
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Estimated processing time of you case
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Our fees and other expenses for the entire procedure
Procedure for Obtaining a Long Stay Visa (D) or Residence Permit in France for Entrepreneurs, Investors, and Independent Professionals (Freelancers)
- 1
Company formation or registration as a self-employed individual in the French social security system, if applicable, and obtaining an official opinion from a competent authority in France regarding your project.
- 2
Booking an appointment at a French consular office or an authorised visa center or a prefecture in France.
- If you don't hold a French residence permit yet you should initially obtain the appropriate visa D for France while in the country of your citizenship or your permanent residence.
- If you already hold a residence permit in France, you should apply at the prefecture of your place of residence in France.
- 3
Filing Documents: Submit the required documents at a French consular office, an authorized visa center, a prefecture in France, or through the official website of the French Ministry of the Interior (ANEF) for all Talent Passport categories.
Processing time of your file will depend on the reason for obtaining a visa (residence permit) and can vary from several weeks to several months.- If you submit your documents through a prefecture in France or via the official website, and your application is approved, you will receive a card titled "carte de séjour," indicating the validity period and your rights to work or engage in professional activities in France.
- If you file your visa application with a consular office of France abroad (or an authorised visa center) and your application is approved you'll initially get a visa D to enter France. After that you'll have to apply to the French prefecture of your place of residence for the "carte de séjour" or in the case of VLS-TS visa D, validate your visa online and in some cases pass a medical examination.
Our team
With over 20 years of experience, Zlokazov & Company is an innovative international consulting firm based in France, dedicated to effectively and efficiently assisting clients from around the globe. We are consistently recognized for the results we achieve, our unwavering commitment to quality, and our dedication to understanding the business and cultural contexts of our clients.
Located in Lyon and Côte d'Azur, Zlokazov & Company operates throughout France. Our use of modern information exchange technologies enables us to provide legal support to clients worldwide.
One of our primary areas of expertise is supporting entrepreneurs and companies in opening new businesses or acquiring existing enterprises. We have a deep understanding of business needs and the experience and knowledge to develop tailored solutions for each client's unique situation.
Our office can assist clients fluently in English, French, and Russian.
Tell us about your situation. There are often a variety of solutions available—we'll find the most efficient and cost-effective option and propose a clear plan of action.
Located in Lyon and Côte d'Azur, Zlokazov & Company operates throughout France. Our use of modern information exchange technologies enables us to provide legal support to clients worldwide.
One of our primary areas of expertise is supporting entrepreneurs and companies in opening new businesses or acquiring existing enterprises. We have a deep understanding of business needs and the experience and knowledge to develop tailored solutions for each client's unique situation.
Our office can assist clients fluently in English, French, and Russian.
Tell us about your situation. There are often a variety of solutions available—we'll find the most efficient and cost-effective option and propose a clear plan of action.
Contact us
We operate Monday through Friday from 09:00 to 17:00 Paris time (CET, CEST).
Please send us a message to arrange a consultation.
In order to save both your time and ours, we kindly ask you to make your first request exclusively by filling out the contact form on this website describing your situation - our specialists will contact you via the method and time most convenient for you and in the language of your choice (English, French, Russian).
We meet with clients online and in our offices by appointment only.
Please send us a message to arrange a consultation.
In order to save both your time and ours, we kindly ask you to make your first request exclusively by filling out the contact form on this website describing your situation - our specialists will contact you via the method and time most convenient for you and in the language of your choice (English, French, Russian).
We meet with clients online and in our offices by appointment only.
Book Your Consultation Today
If you are interested in our consultation please:
- fill the questionnaire (in order to save both your time and ours, we kindly ask you to make your first request exclusively by filling out this form describing your situation)
- after receiving your request we'll send you an invoice to pay using your chosen method of payment
- we'll propose time slots for the consultation once payment is received.
We meet with clients online and in our offices by appointment only.
French Riviera - Côte d'Azur: 930, Route Des Dolines, 06560 Valbonne FR
Lyon: Gare des Brotteaux, 15, place Jules Ferry, 69006 Lyon FR
Switzerland: Seestrasse 79, 806 Bäch SZ
© 2004-2025 ZLOKAZOV AND COMPANY
French Riviera - Côte d'Azur: 930, Route Des Dolines, 06560 Valbonne FR
Lyon: Gare des Brotteaux, 15, place Jules Ferry, 69006 Lyon FR
Switzerland: Seestrasse 79, 806 Bäch SZ
© 2004-2025 ZLOKAZOV AND COMPANY
Book Your Consultation
We meet with clients online and in our offices by appointment only.
The cost of the consultation is 150 euros TVA inclusive.
If you are interested in our consultation please:
The cost of the consultation is 150 euros TVA inclusive.
If you are interested in our consultation please:
- fill the questionnaire
- after receiving your request we'll send you an invoice to pay using your chosen method of payment
- we'll propose time slots for the consultation once payment is received.
Website Disclaimer: the information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice on any subject matter. Read more
Website Disclaimer
The transmission or receipt of information through this website, in part or in whole, or communication with ZLOKAZOV AND COMPANY (CHAPTERA, SARL) via the Internet or email does not establish an attorney-client relationship between you and us. You should not send any confidential information to us in response to this website. Such submissions will not create an attorney-client relationship, and any information disclosed will not be treated as privileged or confidential unless we have agreed to represent you as legal counsel, and a written engagement agreement has been signed with CHAPTERA, SARL.
The materials provided on this website may not reflect the most current legal developments. The content and interpretation of laws discussed herein are subject to change. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this website to the fullest extent permitted by law. You should not act or refrain from acting on the basis of the information on this website without seeking professional legal counsel.
Social Media Channels Disclaimer
The media content posted on our social media channels and/or website is intended to provide a general overview and discussion of the topics addressed. It does not establish an attorney-client relationship and should not be relied upon as a substitute for seeking legal advice regarding your specific situation.
CHAPTERA, SARL assumes no responsibility for actions taken or not taken based on the information provided in these publications. All videos, podcasts, and other media produced and published by CHAPTERA, SARL are copyrighted and all rights are reserved.
The transmission or receipt of information through this website, in part or in whole, or communication with ZLOKAZOV AND COMPANY (CHAPTERA, SARL) via the Internet or email does not establish an attorney-client relationship between you and us. You should not send any confidential information to us in response to this website. Such submissions will not create an attorney-client relationship, and any information disclosed will not be treated as privileged or confidential unless we have agreed to represent you as legal counsel, and a written engagement agreement has been signed with CHAPTERA, SARL.
The materials provided on this website may not reflect the most current legal developments. The content and interpretation of laws discussed herein are subject to change. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this website to the fullest extent permitted by law. You should not act or refrain from acting on the basis of the information on this website without seeking professional legal counsel.
Social Media Channels Disclaimer
The media content posted on our social media channels and/or website is intended to provide a general overview and discussion of the topics addressed. It does not establish an attorney-client relationship and should not be relied upon as a substitute for seeking legal advice regarding your specific situation.
CHAPTERA, SARL assumes no responsibility for actions taken or not taken based on the information provided in these publications. All videos, podcasts, and other media produced and published by CHAPTERA, SARL are copyrighted and all rights are reserved.