5 October 2026
Open a Holding Company in France
Find here how to set up a holding company in France, and also contact our French agents for representation in registration.
Setting up a holding company in France is easy if you access our online services. Below is information about this type of entity that might interest you as an international entrepreneur, with the mention that our French agents in company formation are at your disposal with in-depth assistance and more details.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Legal entities used | Limited Liability Company, Joint-Stock Company |
Incorporation method | With the French Trade Registry |
Incorporation time | Around 2 weeks |
| Advantages | Fast incorporation, simple formalities |
| Precautions | It must confirm share capital with bank statements |
| Shareholding structure | 1 shareholder |
| Minimum Capital | EUR 1 |
| Taxation | 25% corporate tax rate (15% on the first EUR 42,500 of profit for eligible SMEs); participation exemption on qualifying dividends and capital gains |
| Control | Foreign ownership permitted |
| Accounting and Reporting | General accounting rules; statutory audit only above size thresholds (2 of 3: EUR 5m balance sheet, EUR 10m turnover, 50 employees) or as head of a group exceeding them |
| Number of double taxation treaties | About 120-125 tax treaties in force |
Are there any restrictions in creating a holding company in France in a certain business sector?
No. Foreign investors can set up holding companies in any business sector in France.
What are the purposes of a holding company in France?
- can hold shares in different subsidiaries,
- useful for tax optimization,
- financial risks are isolated through holding companies in France,
- valuable assets are protected through French holding companies, etc.
What are the proper business structures for French holding companies?
You can read about the advantages of holding companies in France in the scheme below:
Where do I register a holding company in France?
At the French Trade Register – Guichet Unique.
What is the minimum share capital required?
EUR 1, but it is recommended to deposit around EUR 1,000 – EUR 5,000.
How many shareholders can set up a French holding company?
At least one but no more than 100.
What are the key conditions for opening a holding company in France?
- opening a corporate bank account and depositing the share capital,
- registering for taxation with the tax authority in France.
- providing translated & notarized documentation,
- providing information about the registered business address,
- appointing the manager(s) or president (no supervisory board is required for a SARL or SAS).
What are the documents solicited for registering a holding company in France?
- the statutory documents, comprised of the Memorandum and Articles of Association,
- an application form;
- passport copies;
- bank statement confirming the deposit of the share capital.
How many directors are needed for a French holding company?
At least one.
Are voting rights guaranteed through a holding company in France?
Yes.
How are holding companies taxed in France?
- 25% CIT on 5% subsidiary shares,
- 3% on capital gains,
- 0.25% tax rate on dividends circulating between subsidiaries inside a tax-combined group.
What is the time frame to set up a holding company in France?
Around 2 weeks.
Is it hard to open a holding company in France?
No, as long as tailored assistance throughout the formalities is provided.
NOTE: Our specialists in company formation in France can manage the incorporation procedures and represent customers from abroad.
If you want to open a holding company in France, please feel free to contact our consultants. You can also benefit from the services of our accountants in France as soon as you set up your holding company in this country.