Can a non-European entrepreneur create a business in France?

✅ In brief

Yes, but the conditions depend on the non-European entrepreneur's situation.

A foreign person can, in some cases, create or own a company in France without residing there.
However, living in France, actually carrying out the activity on French territory, creating a sole proprietorship or using the micro-entrepreneur regime may require an appropriate residence permit or authorization.
You need to distinguish company ownership, the role of corporate officer, residence in France and actual performance of the activity.

Leegal helps make French procedures easier to read: status, address, documents, supporting documents and order of steps.
The process separates business creation from visa, residence or work authorization questions.
The requested information makes it possible to prepare the creation file when the situation falls within the scope handled by the platform.

Check the right to reside and the right to work in France.
Distinguish company creation from actual performance of the activity.
Seek competent advice if there is any doubt about a visa or residence permit.
Rules may vary depending on nationality, place of residence, type of activity and whether or not you work from France.
Supporting documents and authorizations to check may vary depending on the situation and the actual performance of the activity in France.
If there is any doubt about the right to reside or work, you should check with the competent authorities or a professional.

Leegal is not a law firm or an accounting firm.
The platform provides an assistant, templates, a formalities service and, where necessary, referral to professionals.
For a personalized legal, tax, social security or accounting question, it is recommended to seek advice from a qualified professional.

Leegal can support business creation, but it does not replace an administrative or legal check on the right to reside or work.

Updated on: 06/07/2026

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