Can registration be handled remotely?

Many files can be coordinated remotely, subject to document, signature and banking requirements. A bank may ask for additional checks or originals. We agree the practical process after reviewing the file.

Does owning a French company give me a visa?

No. Company ownership, management and immigration permission are distinct questions. Visa or residence assistance requires a separate review and agreed scope.

Will a French bank accept my application?

The bank or payment institution decides under its own eligibility, identity and compliance requirements. We can assist with the agreed dossier; account opening and timing are not guaranteed.

French business law · Lancier Avocats

Set Up a Company in France as a Non-Resident

Living outside France does not by itself prevent you from forming a French company. Your activity, ownership, management role and practical arrangements still need to be reviewed. Company formation and permission to live or work in France are separate matters.

Guillaume Prom Thiounn · Attorney at the Paris Bar · Updated 9 October 2026

Assess Your French Expansion Fees & scope

Founder(s)
French company
French activity

01 / Key considerations

Choose a structure for the business you will run.

Your residence alone does not determine whether a SAS, SASU, SARL or EURL fits. Start with the shareholders, management powers, funding and decisions you expect to make.

Individual or corporate shareholders
Management and decision-making arrangements
Funding and future investors
Share transfer and shareholder relationship rules

02 / Key considerations

Organise documents and practical steps.

A cross-border dossier needs a realistic plan for document collection, signatures and banking checks. The registered office is provided by an independent provider if you choose domiciliation; Lancier Avocats helps find and coordinate it within the agreed scope.

Identity and shareholder documentation
Foreign corporate evidence where applicable
Capital deposit and bank requirements
A French address and signature arrangements

03 / Key considerations

Keep immigration and specialist work in view.

If you intend to move to France or carry out a regulated activity, flag this at the outset. Incorporation does not itself provide immigration permission, authorisations or a complete tax analysis.

Residence and work permission where relevant
Regulated activity and professional authorisations
Tax and social-security issues requiring specialist review
Separate scope and quotation for additional work

Practical questions

Before you choose.

General information, not advice on a particular project. For official background, see Business France’s establishment options and company formation steps.

Legal services are provided by Lancier Avocats. View Guillaume Prom Thiounn’s professional profile.

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