EU Citizens:

• Full freedom of movement – simple town hall registration

Non-EU Citizens:

• Entrepreneur or liberal profession visa
• Business plan, income proof, and housing address
• Registration with URSSAF and social security required

• Structures: auto-entrepreneur (sole trader) or SARL (LLC)

  Steps for SARL:

  • Draft bylaws and appoint manager
  • Register with the Commercial Court
  • Open business bank account
  • Declare activity with tax office and social institutions

Timeline: 4–6 weeks

• Declare business at local town hall (Mairie)
• Food safety certification (HACCP training required)
• Alcohol license: needed for wine, beer, and spirits
• Public terrace use must be approved by the local authority

• Corporate tax: 25%
• VAT: 10% on food, 20% on alcohol
• Personal income tax: progressive up to 45%

Numerous English-speaking accountants in South France and expat hubs.

• Minimum wage (SMIC): ~€1,766/month (2025)
• Collective agreements apply in hospitality
• 35-hour work week standard, with strict rules on overtime
• Must register with URSSAF and labor office

• Standard lease term: 3-6-9 years
• Lease-to-own or rural property rentals common
• No restrictions for foreign buyers
• Renovation and signposting often require permits

• “Terroir” and regional identity are strong selling points
• Guests love storytelling, authenticity, and charm
• High demand for rural retreats and culinary stays
• Seasonality depends on region – summer in the south, year-round in Paris

• Regional Chambers of Commerce (CCI)
• Tourism development agencies
• Startup hubs in Bordeaux, Lyon, Marseille
• Platforms like “France Active” for social enterprises

• State bank Bpifrance
• EU funds for rural tourism and sustainability
• Micro-loans from ADIE and local cooperatives

• CCI France
• Bpifrance
• Official Government Services

France rewards quality – from cuisine to branding. Invest in your local story, presentation, and stay persistent through the paperwork.