Setting up in France

Company forms

• SAS (société par actions simplifiée): the most common form for foreign subsidiaries. Flexible governance, no minimum share capital required by law, one or more shareholders.
• SARL: a more regulated limited company, common for small businesses.
• Branch (succursale): an extension of the Indian company, not a separate legal entity; simpler but the parent carries liability.
• Liaison office: limited to non-commercial activities such as market research.

The steps for an SAS

1. Draft the articles of association (statuts) and appoint a president.
2. Deposit the share capital in a bank or with a notary.
3. Publish a legal notice of creation.
4. File the registration online through the single business formalities portal.
5. Receive the registration number (SIREN/SIRET) and the extract (Kbis).
6. Register for VAT and set up payroll.

Online filing has made registration fast. Opening a bank account for a foreign-owned company can take longer; start early.

Support available

• Business France helps foreign investors with information, introductions and setting up.
• Regional development agencies support investors in their regions with sites, incentives and recruitment.
• The research tax credit (crédit d'impôt recherche) can support R&D activities.

People

• Indian managers can be transferred through intra-company transfer permits or Talent passports.
• Entrepreneurs and employees of innovative companies have specific Talent passport categories.
• French labour law is protective; get local HR and legal advice before hiring.

India–France context

2026 is the India–France Year of Innovation, with focus areas including AI, digital technologies, and science. This creates events, programmes and visibility for Indian companies entering France.