Freelance Visa in France
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What is a Freelance Visa in France?
The Freelance Visa in France, also called as Entrepreneur Visa, is a residence permit for foreign company founders or that allows to set up a company in France and live there. The validity period of this residence permit is 12 months, renewable subject to conditions.
Who is Eligible for the Entrepreneur Visa?
The entrepreneur must offer proof of the following in order to qualify:
- An economically feasible activity and, if he/she joins an existing company, its ability to provide him/herself sufficient compensation (at least equal to the minimum wage, which is set at €20,966.40 as of May 1, 2023),
- An activity suitable for the needs of public safety, health, and order.
The temporary residency permit with the designation “Entrepreneur/Self-Employed” authorizes the performance of the business activity in conjunction with the project being proposed.
Where to Apply for an Entrepreneur Visa?
You live outside France
Candidates living outside of France should submit an application to the French consular authorities in their normal home for a long-stay visa (VLS-TS) that is equal to a residence permit and is designated “Entrepreneur/independent professional.”
This VLS-TS has a 12-month expiration date and permits the bearer to conduct business.
Once they are in France, Entrepreneurs must use the dedicated platform administration-etrangers-en-france to authenticate their VLS-TS. During the first year of residence, there is no need to apply for a residence permit with the Prefecture. The foreign individual is thereafter required to go to a compulsory medical exam and/or welcome visit.
You are already living in France
If candidates are already in France on a different form of residence permit, they must apply for a change of status to the Préfecture (office of the Prefect, the local representative of national government) in their place of residence.
The individual in question will be granted a 12-month renewable ‘Entrepreneur/independent professional’ temporary residence permit.
Ready to navigate the complexities of the Entrepreneur visa in France? Contact our partners, experienced immigration lawyers, to receive personalized guidance, expert advice, and professional assistance with your visa application. Let us help make your extended stay in France a seamless and successful experience. Reach out to us now to start the process!
How can a lawyer help me with the freelance visa?
A lawyer can help you by providing legal advice and guidance throughout the application process. Some ways a lawyer can assist you include:
Eligibility assessment: A lawyer will review your qualifications and freelance work plan to ensure you meet the criteria for the Profession Libérale visa. This includes demonstrating that you have the expertise and resources to operate as a freelancer in France.
Business structure advice: Freelancers in France need to choose the right legal framework for their business (e.g., as an auto-entrepreneur, sole trader, or setting up a small company). A lawyer can help you select the best option based on your profession and business needs.
Document preparation: A lawyer will guide you through gathering and preparing the required documents, including:
- A detailed business plan explaining your freelance activity.
- Proof of professional qualifications or experience.
- Financial statements or proof of sufficient income to support yourself.
- Proof of accommodation in France.
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
- A valid passport and a clean criminal record.
Visa application submission: They will assist you in completing and submitting your freelance visa application to the French consulate in your home country, ensuring accuracy and thoroughness to avoid delays or rejections.
Navigating French bureaucracy: Setting up as a freelancer involves registering your business with the appropriate French authorities (such as URSSAF or the Chamber of Commerce). A lawyer will help you navigate these administrative steps and ensure your business is legally registered and compliant.
Residency permit process (Carte de Séjour): Once your visa is approved and you arrive in France, a lawyer will assist with the next step—applying for your carte de séjour (residency permit), which allows you to live and work as a freelancer in France.
Tax and social security guidance: As a freelancer, you will have tax obligations in France. A lawyer can guide you through registering for taxes, understanding social security contributions, and optimizing your tax structure to ensure compliance and efficiency.
Renewals and extensions: Freelance visas need to be renewed periodically. A lawyer will help ensure that your residency and work status are maintained without interruption by assisting with renewals and advising on long-term residency options.
Appeals and troubleshooting: If your visa application is denied, a lawyer can help appeal the decision, correct any issues, and resubmit the application with improved chances for success.
If you’d like assistance with obtaining your freelance visa in France or have questions specific to your situation, we’d be happy to set up a meeting to go over everything in detail. Would that work for you?
Our team of experienced lawyers is ready to assist you and guide you through the entire application process. Let us help you make your dream of living and working in France a reality.
Life
Work
Quality Life for You and Your Family
Why France?
Obtaining a freelance visa in France offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it opens an opportunity to live in one of Europe’s most captivating countries, with its vibrant cities, stunning coastline, and rich cultural heritage. Secondly, the visa enables access to France’s thriving digital and tech ecosystem, fostering networking opportunities and professional growth. Lastly, you will immerse in the warmth of French hospitality, savour its delectable cuisine, and explore its diverse regions while maintaining a flexible work-life balance.
Cultural immersion
Experience the rich French culture.
Location
Explore Europe without visa restrictions.
Stable economy
France has a stable and growing economy
Delicious cuisine
Taste world-renowned French food and wine.
Affordable living
Cost of living is lower compared to other European countries.
Healthcare access
Access to high-quality healthcare facilities and services.
Skilled workforce
France has a highly skilled and multilingual workforce.
Travel Opportunities
Explore diverse regions within France.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I begin the procedure?
The procedure should begin no later than three months before the intended date of arrival in France.
If the applicant is already in France, the procedure should begin two months before the current residence permit expires.
What's the cost of the Freelance Visa?
At the time of online validation, applicants must submit a tax payment of €200 to the French Office of Immigration and Integration (OFII). On top of this tax, residency permits additionally include a stamp duty fee of €25.
The long-stay visa required for entrance into France costs €99 in addition to the administrative fee of €225.
This is the cost implicid of getting the visa, the cost of our immigration lawyers to help you with the process can vary depending on each case. To get an accurate quotation of our immigration services, contact us to explore your case with a free consultation.
Extending your Freelance Visa
Applications for renewal must be submitted two months prior to the expiration of the residence permit.
Applicants must present documentation proving they are still in compliance with the requirements for receiving their permission.
The applicant must be able to demonstrate continuing compliance with the requirements established for permit eligibility at the time of the application for renewal with the Prefecture in order to renew a “Entrepreneur/Self-Employed” residence permit.
The founders of the company must additionally show that the Company has continued to operate and that it has generated resources equal to the SMIC, or €20,966.40 as of May 1, 2023. It has an administrative cost of 225€.
Can my family come with me?
Families accompanying foreign talent in this category are not eligible for the fast-track process but may still apply for a residence permit separate from the primary applicant (visitor status, employee status, etc., if the candidate has secured employment in France).
Otherwise, under the conditions of family reunification, families may petition for residency in France. When foreign nationals who have been legally residing in the country for at least 18 months want to bring their spouse and children to join them, family reunification terms apply.
Our Team
For us, Lexidy is a way of life and what excites us the most is to be able to deliver the happiness and satisfaction of a successful immigration process. We want to help you achieve your goals and dreams, whether it’s residence in France or simply an investment.
Visit us: Rez-de-chaussée sur cour, 14 Rue de l’Abbé de l’Épée, 75005 Paris
Call us: +33 1 76 40 35 43
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