6 November 2026
Set up a French SARL Company
Find out how you can set up a SARL, the French limited liability company, and what the process involves. We offer full assistance for French LLC formation.
Foreign investors who want to set up a company in France in 2026 can choose among several types of structures. Among these, the limited liability company, known as SARL, is very popular, second only to the SAS. In the article below we will only discuss the main traits of the French SARL, and not the registration procedure which is fully outlined on www.companyformationfrance.com.
SARL formation in France from EUR 1,290
Complete company formation package. Ask for a detailed quote for your case.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Who can register a SARL in France? | Residents and non-residents who want to start a company in France. |
Formalities for opening a company in France | – preparation of Articles of Association, – tax registration, – opening a bank account, – obtaining the necessary licenses and permits |
Minimum share capital | EUR 1 |
| Local corporate bank account | Yes, but not mandatory |
| Tax registration (YES/NO) | Yes |
| We provide support for company formation in France (YES/NO) | Yes |
| Time frame for starting a business | Around 2 weeks |
| Board of managers (YES/NO) | No board – one or more managers (gérants), who must be natural persons |
| Legal representative (YES/NO) | No |
| Resident director required (YES/NO) | No |
| Office rent (YES/NO) | Yes |
| Possibility of hiring expats (YES/NO) | Yes |
| Annual financial statements required (YES/NO) | Yes |
| Best use for SARL in France | Suitable for most activities in France, such as trading, manufacturing, IT, tourism, agriculture, etc. |
| Advantages of SARL in France | – fast company incorporation, – low maintenance costs, – less bureaucracy, – advantageous taxation |
What is a SARL in France, and why is it so popular?
SARL (Société à Responsabilité Limitée) is the equivalent of the limited liability company in France. This is a popular business option for local and foreign entrepreneurs due to its flexibility, especially for small, medium, and family-owned companies in France.
How many shareholders are required to set up a SARL in France?
At least one. In case of the sole shareholder being a natural person who personally acts as manager then the SARL is subject to simplified publication formalities. Also a limited liability company may not have more than one hundred shareholders.
Do I need a French partner to open a SARL in France?
No, anyone from any country can own 100% of the French SARL. There are however some blacklisted countries as far as the French banks are concerned, but that will not hinder the SARL incorporation process in itself.
Can a French SARL have other companies as shareholders?
Yes, however if the foreign company will be main shareholder then the SARL will be considered a Subsidiary.
You can discover the procedure for setting up an LLC in France in the scheme below:
What are main characteristics of the share capital?
- The minimum share capital is 1 EUR, however for businesses that would like a professional profile we recommend 2-3,000 EUR;
- The shares must be fully subscribed by the shareholders, including those representing contributions in kind.
- Shares representing cash contributions must be paid up by at least one fifth of their amount. The balance is paid in one or more installments within 5 years of the company's registration with the French Trade Register
- The share capital cannot be withdrawn until the full registration takes place.
Is a legal representative/agent required to open a SARL in France or can I open the company myself?
It’s not legally required, but we suggest you collaborate with a specialist in the field, such as our French company formation agent, who can guide you step by step through the incorporation process and also provide related services such as legal office.
NOTE: Shareholders will need to present valid IDs/passports, a capital deposit certificate, a declaration of beneficial owners (UBO), and proof of a registered business office, etc. Non-EU shareholders do not need residency in France; only a non-EU manager who lives in France needs a residence permit allowing the activity.
Below is a video presentation on SARLs in France:
What are the attributions of the SARL’s Director?
Towards third parties, the director has the widest powers to act in all circumstances on the company's behalf, except for powers the law expressly gives to the shareholders. As a result please make sure you have absolute confidence in your appointed director.
Can the Director be liable in some cases?
Yes, even if the SARL is Limited Liability Company, directors are liable for: breaches of the laws or regulations that apply to limited liability companies; breaches of the Articles of Association; or even mistakes in their management.
How are Decisions taken in the SARL?
The Articles of Association can stipulate how decision-making is done in your French SARL. In meetings and written consultations, decisions are adopted by one or more shareholder(s) holding more than half of the shares. If this majority is not reached, and unless the Articles say otherwise, the shareholders are called or consulted a second time. Decisions are then taken by a majority of votes cast, whatever the number of voters.
Can we perform changes in the shareholding structure?
Yes, shares may be freely transferred between members, but these may be transferred to third parties outside the company only with the consent of a majority of shareholders holding at least half of the shares, unless the articles of association require a higher majority.
Do I need to travel to France to open a SARL?
No. Our specialists in company formation in France can act on your behalf via a power of attorney to set up a SARL in France.
We offer personalized business incorporation procedures for those interested in setting up a new SARL or buying a ready-made one in France.