France Entrepreneur Visa

Overview

To qualify for one of the various Entrepreneur Visa options in France applicants must meet several key requirements. This may include submitting a viable business plan for a business that can contribute to the French economy. Either starting a new business, taking over an existing one, or investing in a start-up business.

Here are the general requirements:

• Be of legal age (usually 18) in your home country.
• Possess a clean criminal record in France and your home country.
• Have sufficient health insurance valid for your stay in France.

Business Project Requirements:

The business project must have a clear business plan and be able to generate income of at least equivalent to the French minimum wage, which is currently €21,621.60 per year as of 2025. It should be able to create jobs, attract investment in France.

For new businesses, the entrepreneur must be able to prove their business idea fills a market gap in the French economy, is innovative, and it has the potential for growth.

For existing businesses, the entrepreneur must show financial stability and they have the competence to manage it successfully, such as having the required skills.

If investing in a French startup company, the investment should be significant and contribute to the start-up’s growth and success.

Depending on the business sector, applicants may need to provide proof of qualifications such as diplomas or Master’s degrees. And have sufficient funds to support themselves.

Applying From Outside France

If applying for an Entrepreneur Visa from outside of France, you must first obtain a France Long Stay Visa, equivalent to a residence permit (VLS-TS). You can get this form from the French embassy or consulate in your home country.

In addition, you must register with the French Office of Immigration and Integration (OFII) within two months of your arrival in France.

Applying From Inside France

If already residing in France on a different type of visa or resident card, you can transition on to the French Entrepreneur Visa. To do this, you will need to submit an application at your local prefecture or apply online through the official France-Visas website.

Overview

During the France Entrepreneur Visa application process, you are required to submit several key documents, such as a valid passport, along with a completed visa application form at the French consulate or embassy in your home country. You must also prepare a detailed business plan outlining the business venture.

Here are the five key steps in applying for a Entrepreneur Visa:

Step 1: Identify your Entrepreneur Visa option:

Review the types of visas mentioned previously and identify which one best fits your situation (profession, type of business, project recognition, etc.).

Step 2: Prepare your documents:

The required documents will vary depending on the chosen visa, but can include:

• A valid passport
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Professional qualifications (if applicable)
• A detailed business plan, which includes financial projections
• Proof of sufficient financial resources (bank statements, investments)
• An endorsement letter (if required, e.g., French Tech Visa label)
• A project description and recognition documents (if applicable)

It is also important to ensure all documents are translated into French (if necessary) and are properly certified.

Step 3: Choose your application method:

• Apply for a Long-stay visa or Multiyear residence permit at your local French consulate.
• Apply for the Talent Passport through the French Tech Visa platform. Or through French administration after project recognition.

Step 4: Complete the application form and pay fees:

• The application forms vary based on the visa, but generally involve personal information, business details, and supporting document declarations.
• The visa fees also vary by each type of visa, typically between €100 to €200.

Step 5: Submit your application and attend an interview:

After submitting all documents and forms, you will be required to attend an interview. On the day of the appointment, it is a good idea to arrive as early as possible.

Bring all documents with you to ensure you are not missing anything. If any documents are missing, the appointment will need to be rearranged which will lead to delays. Be prepared to answer questions about your plan for the business, qualifications, and financials.

Typical Processing Time

The processing time for a France Entrepreneur Visa can vary depending on the volume of applications received, and your circumstances.

Typically, it can take from one to three months for an application to be processed.

It is essential to apply well in advance of an intended travel date to account for any unforeseen delays in processing your visa application.

Overview

French Entrepreneur Visas are initially granted for one year, which gives ample time for entrepreneurs to establish and develop their businesses. They are renewable yearly for a maximum of 4 years and are extendable if all the visa conditions are met.

This may include continuing to run a successful business and maintaining clean criminal records. Additionally, applicants must have complied with all French regulations. This is crucial when applying for a visa or France work permit renewal.

They may also need to submit updated business plans and provide financial statements to support their renewal requests.

Here is a breakdown of the validity of French Entrepreneur Visas.

Permanent Residency In France For Entrepreneurs

France offers various pathways for entrepreneurs to obtain permanent residency. However, they must have fulfilled their current visa requirements.

Such as, continuous residence in France, they are financially stable, and their businesses have contributed to the French economy.

Here are four key options for permanent residency:

1. Talent Passport – Business Creator Visa:

• Targets entrepreneurs launching or acquiring French businesses.
• Offers a long-term residence permit and potential French citizenship.
• Requires a detailed business plan, financial resources, and French government endorsement.

2. Multiyear Residence Permit:

• Entrepreneurs must have held a temporary residence permit for four years.
• Having successful business operations and are financially stable.
• Leads to a permanent residence permit after five years.

If you meet these requirements you can apply for this permanent residence permit.

3. Carte de Résident (Resident Card):

Entrepreneurs can also transition from a temporary residence permit to the renewable residence permit “Carte de Résident” (Resident Card).

• This permit is valid for up to 10 years, and can lead to French citizenship.
• Open to entrepreneurs with successful businesses and long-term residence in France.
• Applications may involve demonstrating economic integration and social ties.

4. Investor Visa:

Another option for entrepreneurs is to apply for the ‘Investor Visa’ program and this visa can also lead to permanent residence permit in France.

• It requires an investment of at least €300,000 in a French business.

Overview

The France Entrepreneur Visa allows entrepreneurs to bring their families to France. However, they must apply for a “Long-Stay Visa” for family reunification. It offers significant benefits for entrepreneurs and their families. Such as emotional support and stability, especially during the initial phases of setting up a new business.

The family can also access the French education system, as their children have the opportunity to enrol in French schools. It can also foster cohesion within the family unit as it provides an opportunity for shared experiences and creates lasting memories in France.

However, getting familiar with the French language and culture can help to ease the integration of entrepreneurs and their families. Also, careful planning can ensure a smoother transition.

Financial Considerations

When applying for the entrepreneur visa, applicants should also consider the financial implications of bringing their family with them to France.

It is essential to plan for the expenses related to healthcare, housing, education, and other living costs for each family member.

Adequate financial preparation will ensure a comfortable and stable life for the entrepreneur and their accompanying family members.