Shelf Company in France

We provide French readymade company registrations

Planning to start a business in France but concerned about the time-consuming online company formation process? House of Companies offers expedited company formation services. For those in urgent need or requiring a company with an established history, we provide Shelf Companies in France.

Buy your Readymade Company using
our Entity Management portal

Considering international expansion by purchasing a readymade company? Branching out can be challenging and costly. Our Entity Management system has you covered! France, like many European countries, allows you to register your current legal entity as a branch.

Try our Entity Management to register your branch or start your company during a Free Trial. Once your local branch is registered, you can use Entity Management to further run & grow your company!

Advantages of
Entity Management for Austria

Our shelf companies in France have history, or a dormant (clean) record

Immediate access to corporate info

Buy a brand with exposure and recognition!

Shelf Companies Vs. A New Legal Entity Formation

Wondering about the differences between starting a shelf company and incorporating a new company in France? Our blog provides a comprehensive introduction to company formation in France, covering:

  • What is company formation in France?
  • Importance of proper company formation under French law
  • Types of companies in France (SARL, SAS, SA, etc.)
  • Steps to forming a company in France
  • Considerations for company formation in France
  • Legal and financial implications
  • Working with House of Companies to start your company in France

Efficient Transfer of a French Shelf Company

For business owners looking to establish a presence in France, understanding the process of company formation and the different types of business entities available is crucial. We guide you through the process of forming a new company in France, the essential requirements, and the benefits of hiring professional company formation services in the country.

Shelf Companies can be a solution for entrepreneurs that need something extra (like a brand or history) very quickly in France.

Understanding the process of incorporation and the advantages of a readymade company in France

Company formation in France involves the process of incorporation, where a business entity is formally created and registered with the relevant French authorities, such as the Registre du Commerce et des Sociétés (RCS). This process establishes the legal existence of the company, allowing it to conduct business activities in France.

Requirements and documents for forming or buying a readymade private limited company in France

Forming a private limited company (SARL or SAS) in France requires specific documentation and fulfilling certain statutory requirements. These may include:

  • Statuts (Articles of Association)
  • Details of company directors and shareholders
  • Registered office address in France
  • Proof of capital deposit
  • Identification documents for directors and shareholders

Find out what others have
to say about us

"Working with House of Companies was simple. They handled everything with the local notary, saving me valuable time and effort."

Logistics Company Owner

"As an online retailer, I needed a local presence in France. The branch registration process was easy and stress-free."

E-commerce Business Owner

"Our staffing needs meant we had to register in France. Entity Management made it straightforward and seamless."

Recruitment & Payroll Specialist

Ready to Take Over a Readymade
Company in France?

If a branch registration for your existing company doesn’t meet your needs, explore our blog and roadmaps for country-specific pros and cons. When you’re ready to incorporate locally, House of Companies is here to provide full support.

Advantages of
Entity Management

Simplified onboarding process, share your details in your Control Panel

Online company formation is possible in France

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The Role of Your Company Name

Choosing a company name goes beyond branding—it's a formal identifier of the business that needs to be unique. To prevent issues, the chosen name should not conflict with trademarks or registered names already listed in the French Trade Register. This helps avoid legal disputes or confusion with other businesses.

Capital and Share Structure

When forming a company, it's crucial to decide on the capital amount and distribution of shares among stakeholders. These details need to be recorded in official documents, as they determine ownership stakes, voting rights, and financial responsibilities within the company.

Importance of Articles of Association

The Articles of Association are foundational documents that define a company's internal rules and structure. They outline how decisions are made, shareholder rights, and procedures for handling different operational situations. This document essentially governs how the company will function internally.

Understanding Legal Requirements for Incorporation in France

French company law outlines various requirements for incorporating a business, including regulations on structure, governance, and reporting. Compliance ensures that the company operates legally and avoids penalties. It also involves fulfilling statutory duties such as record-keeping and financial reporting.

Company Secretary's Role

Although not always mandatory, a company secretary in France can be instrumental in maintaining compliance with legal requirements. They manage essential records, facilitate regulatory communications, and ensure the company meets its legal obligations—critical for avoiding regulatory issues.

Industry-Specific Trade Regulations

Some industries in France have unique regulations, covering areas like taxation, operational procedures, and licensing. Understanding these requirements is crucial to ensure that the business operates within legal boundaries and avoids unnecessary complications.

Using Professional Services for Documentation

Professional services (like those offered by legal or business consulting firms) can handle the extensive paperwork and filing requirements involved in French company formation. This helps ensure the documentation is complete, accurate, and compliant, simplifying the setup process for the business owner.

Professional Assistance

Starting a company overseas can be complex, and hiring local legal, tax, and entity management experts can make the process smoother. Professionals can help you navigate the local business environment and avoid costly mistakes

Importance of Registered Office and Local Agent

French law requires companies to have a registered office—a physical address for official correspondence. A local agent may also be necessary, especially for international companies, to manage administrative tasks and ensure compliance with local regulations.

Expert Guidance in Legal and Corporate Structuring

Professional advisors provide tailored guidance on structuring the company in a way that optimizes tax and operational efficiency, while ensuring full compliance with French laws. This is especially helpful for foreign companies unfamiliar with French corporate regulations.

Historical Process of International Expansion

Expanding internationally has traditionally required navigating cultural differences, legal frameworks, and regulatory requirements. By drawing on extensive experience, firms like House of Companies help businesses overcome these challenges and ease the entry process into the French market.

Cost of Setting Up a Company in France

The cost of company formation in France can vary depending on the type of business and specific requirements. House of Companies offers competitive pricing for essentials like documentation and initial capital requirements, ensuring that your setup costs are manageable.

Why Work with Professionals

Professionals, such as accountants and lawyers, play a key role in managing the complex requirements of company formation. They ensure the business complies with regulatory and financial obligations, reducing the risk of errors and helping your company get off to a strong start.

Frequently asked questions

What are the main types of business structures in France?The most common business structures include Société à Responsabilité Limitée (SARL, similar to an LLC), Société Anonyme (SA, similar to a corporation), and Société par Actions Simplifiée (SAS, a flexible corporate form popular with startups). The choice depends on factors like ownership, liability, and tax considerations.

Do I need to be a resident of France to open a company there?No, non-residents can open a business in France, though certain business structures may require a French-based representative or registered agent.

What are the minimum capital requirements for forming a company in France?The minimum capital requirement depends on the business structure. For instance, an SARL and SAS require a minimum of €1, whereas an SA requires a minimum of €37,000. However, it’s common for businesses to set a higher initial capital based on operational needs.

Is a French bank account necessary for company formation?Yes, a French bank account is generally required to deposit the initial capital, which must be done before officially registering the company.

How long does it take to establish a company in France?The process typically takes about 1–2 weeks if all documents are in order. However, opening a bank account and gathering necessary documentation may extend the timeline.

Is professional assistance necessary for setting up a shelf company?While it’s possible to set up a company independently, professional assistance can help streamline the process, ensure compliance with regulations, and avoid potential pitfalls.

Wherever I pay tax,
that’s my home.

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to bring your business a step closer
to international expansion.

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