France provides a variety of business visas aimed specifically at freelancers or entrepreneurs who wish to establish themselves in the country. In this article we give detailed information about how to get you the right France visas for Freelance/Entrepreneur; what their regulations are, and what the requirements before you can receive one.
Types of Visas for Freelancers and Entrepreneurs
1. Passport Talent – Business Creator Visa
This visa is aimed specifically at individuals who want to establish their own business in France. It is a product of the wider group of “Talent Passports” with which France is seeking to increase its appeal as an economic force.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Project Viability: You have a genuine desire and are committed to start a business, create jobs for others or take up one already in existence.
- Financial Investment: At least €30,000 must be invested into the business.
- Educational/Professional Experience: You must have a master’s level qualification or equivalent, and at least five years of relevant professional experience.
Application Process:
- Pre-arrival: Apply for a long-stay visa (VLS/TS) with the mention “entrepreneur/professional” via the France-Visas website.
- Post-arrival: When you arrive in France, you will need to apply for a multiannual residence permit within two months. This permit is valid for 4 years initially and can be renewed.
Required Documents:
- Completed visa application form.
- Proof of investment capital (bank statements, business plan).
- Educational qualifications or evidence of professional experience.
- A valid passport and recent photographs.
- Proof that you have arranged your accommodation in France.
- Detailed business plan and financial forecasts.
2. Carte de Séjour – Entrepreneur/Profession Libérale
This residence permit is for anyone who is running their own business in France: either self-employed or freelance activities such as consultants, arts professions, and independent contractors.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Business Registration: You must register your business with the relevant French authorities (Chamber of Commerce, URSSAF for liberal professions).
- Financial Stability: You must demonstrate that your business will earn enough income to pay at least the basic legal wage in France (amounting to around €1, 776.92 per month (2024)).
Application Process:
- Pre-arrival: Get a long-term visa for France from the French consulate in your home country.
- Post-arrival: Within two months of arrival, apply for a residence permit at the local prefecture.
Required Documents:
- Proof of business registration and activity (statutes, registration certificates).
- Documents attesting to the company’s financial situation plus proof income
- Valid passport and recent photographs.
- Proof of accommodation in France.
- Health insurance which covers you during your stay in France.
- Documentation of professional qualifications or experience.
3. Visa for Innovative Economic Project
This visa aims at those who would like to start a business, based on their new and innovative business plan, in France, which must be recognized by a French public body.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Innovative Project Recognition: Your project must be recognized as innovative by a relevant public body in France.
- Financial Stability: Make sure that you have enough money to support yourself and your new project.
Application Process:
- Pre-arrival: Apply for the visa via the France-Visas website.
- Post-arrival: Obtain the residence permit within two months of arrival.
Required Documents:
- Recognition document from the public body.
- Detailed business plan and proof of innovation.
- Financial statements and proof of income.
- Valid passport and recent photographs.
- Proof of accommodation in France.
Conclusion
A variety of visas are available for self-employed persons and businessmen/women all having their own specific requirements and merits. Before you leave your home country, of course it is necessary to establish your eligibility and to prepare certain papers. Nevertheless, exact needs will vary from one country to another. For more detailed information, you can visit the official French visa website or consult the Service-Public.fr for guidance tailored to your specific situation.
By following this advice, you will make the process of applying for a visa more simple and be able to start your business in France.
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