How to register a company in France as a non resident
You do not need to live in France, or hold a French residence permit, to own and run a French company. A non resident can incorporate a SASU or SAS remotely, provided the company has a valid registered office address in France. This guide explains the steps, the address requirement, and how Koulier lets you set that address up online from 10 euros per month.
Can a foreigner open a company in France
Yes. There is no nationality or residency condition to be a shareholder or, in most cases, the director of a French company. EU and non EU founders alike can create a SASU (single shareholder simplified company) or SAS entirely from abroad.
A residence permit is only required if you intend to physically live in France and manage the company on site. Running it remotely from another country does not require one.
The registered office address requirement
Every French company must declare a registered office (siège social) at a French address. This address appears on the company extract (Kbis), determines the competent commercial court, and sets the commune used to calculate the local business tax (CFE).
Non residents rarely have a French address of their own, which is where a domiciliation service comes in. A préfecture approved provider gives your company a compliant registered address without renting an office.
Steps to register remotely
First, choose the legal form (SASU is the most common for a single foreign founder). Second, secure a registered office address in France. Third, draft the articles of association and deposit the share capital. Fourth, publish a legal notice and file the incorporation with the registry to obtain the Kbis and SIREN number.
The whole process can be completed online. The registered address is the one step where a French presence is mandatory, and it is the piece Koulier provides.
Why use Koulier
Most international providers charge 49 to 60 euros per month for a French virtual office, or hide company formation behind custom quotes. Koulier gives you a préfecture approved registered address from 10 euros per month, with mail handling and digitisation, and a fully online subscription available in English.
You keep control of the incorporation and pair the address with your chosen accountant or formation partner.
Get a French registered address online
A préfecture approved registered office for your French company, with mail handling, fully in English, from 10 euros per month.
See domiciliation plansFrequently asked questions
Do I need to live in France to open a company there?
No. You can own and direct a French company from abroad. A residence permit is only needed if you plan to physically live in France to run it.
What address can a non resident use for a French company?
A domiciliation (registered address) service provides a préfecture approved French address for your registered office, so you do not need to rent premises or hold a personal French address.
How much does a French registered address cost?
With Koulier, a compliant registered office address starts at 10 euros per month, well below the 49 to 60 euros typically charged by international virtual office providers.