For many members, the hardest part of starting a business in France isn't the idea — it's the paperwork. Three members who've been through it recently shared exactly what the process looked like for them, so you can walk in prepared.
Step one: decide if micro-entreprise is right for you
The micro-entreprise status is popular with newcomers because it's simple to set up and the tax reporting is proportional to what you actually earn. It suits freelancers, consultants and small service businesses well, though it isn't the right fit for every venture, so it's worth a quick chat with an Academy mentor before you commit.
"I registered on a Tuesday evening from my kitchen table. The form itself took twenty minutes — it was everything I didn't know to prepare beforehand that slowed me down."
Step two: gather the essentials
You'll want proof of address, a valid ID or residence permit, and a clear description of your planned activity. If your profession is regulated, you may need an additional qualification document — our Resource Library has a checklist by sector.
Step three: register and receive your SIRET
Once submitted, most members report receiving their SIRET number within one to three weeks. This number is what allows you to invoice legally, so it's worth building your first client conversations around that timeline rather than promising immediate delivery.
Step four: your first invoice
French invoices have specific mandatory fields. The Academy's business toolkit includes an editable invoice template that already has these built in, so you're not formatting from scratch under deadline pressure.
Want guidance tailored to your situation? Bring your questions to the next Business Showcase, or apply for one-to-one mentorship through the Get Involved page.
