If you’re considering starting a business in France as a freelancer, consultant, or independent professional, the micro-entreprise regime is one of the simplest ways to get started. Whether you’re launching a commercial, artisanal, or liberal activity, the process to register is straightforward, but there are formalities and legal obligations to follow.
This guide walks you through how to register a micro-enterprise, the documents you’ll need, where to file your application, and what happens once your registration is submitted.
Table of Contents
What is a micro-enterprise?
A micro-entreprise (or micro-entrepreneur) is the French term for a simplified self-employed business structure. It offers:
- Streamlined registration
- Simplified tax and accounting obligations
- Eligibility for social and financial aids, like ACRE or ARCE
It’s ideal for those launching small businesses, freelance activities, or part-time ventures. Learn more about the micro-enterprise with our complete guide here.
Where to register your micro-enterprise
To become a micro-entrepreneur, you must submit a declaration of activity (immatriculation) through the official Guichet des formalités des entreprises, the government’s business registration portal.
- You can register online via the Guichet unique
- Registration must be completed no earlier than one month before the start of activity and no later than 15 days after starting the business
- A helpful video tutorial is available on Bpifrance Création to guide you through the process
Which register will you be listed in?
Depending on your activity, the micro-enterprise will be registered with:
- Commercial activities: the Registre du Commerce et des Sociétés (RCS) and the Registre national des entreprises (RNE)
- Artisanal or liberal professions: only the Registre national des entreprises (RNE)
- Commercial agents operating via a company: also registered with the RSAC (Registre spécial des agents commerciaux)
This registration is important for administrative and legal recognition of your business.
Documents required for registration
When registering your micro-enterprise, you must submit several key documents. These include:
- Proof of business address: e.g. recent utility bill (water, electricity, gas)
- Copy of the CAPE contract, if applicable (for those benefiting from the Contrat d’appui au projet d’entreprise)
- Identity documents: Copy of valid photo ID (passport or national ID) and signed declaration of honour of non-conviction and statement of parentage
- Declaration of asset protection (optional): If you wish to protect personal property not used in your professional activity
- Authorisations or qualifications: For regulated professions, include a copy of your licence, diploma, or permit to practice
Having these documents ready and clearly scanned will help speed up the process.
Is registration free?
Yes. Registering a micro-enterprise in France is free of charge. There are no administrative or government fees for submitting your application through the official portal.
What happens after submitting the application?
Once your registration is submitted online, you will immediately receive a:
- Récépissé de dépôt de dossier de création d’entreprise (RDDCE)
This is a temporary confirmation showing that your application is “pending registration.” It is valid for up to one month and allows you to:- Open a professional bank account (if applicable)
- Take out required business insurance
- Register with other public or private services (e.g. INSEE, URSSAF)
After your application is reviewed and approved, you’ll receive an official certificate of registration with your:
- SIREN number (business ID)
- APE code (activity classification)
- Other legal identifiers used in tax and administrative declarations
What if the application is incomplete?
If the Guichet des formalités des entreprises finds that your application is incomplete, you will receive a notice detailing the missing items. You must submit the missing documents within 15 working days to avoid having your registration cancelled or delayed.
What are the penalties for non-compliance?
Failing to register your micro-enterprise, or submitting incorrect information, can result in serious penalties.
- Deliberate false or incomplete information:
- Up to 4,500 € fine
- Up to 6 months of imprisonment
- Operating without registration:
- Considered a criminal offence
- Punishable by a 7,500 € fine
Always ensure that the information provided is complete, truthful, and submitted within the proper deadlines.
FAQs: Registering a micro-enterprise in France
How long does it take to register a micro-enterprise in France?
You can typically complete registration in a few days. The official confirmation may take up to two weeks, but you’ll receive a temporary receipt (RDDCE) immediately.
Do I need to register before starting my business?
Yes. You must register no later than 15 days after beginning your activity and no earlier than one month before.
Is registration really free?
Yes. There is no fee for registering a micro-enterprise via the official government portal.
Can I start a micro-enterprise if I’m already employed or a student?
Yes. The micro-entrepreneur status is compatible with part-time employment, studies, or even unemployment benefits.
What if I provide incorrect information in my application?
Providing false or incomplete details can lead to fines of up to 4,500 € and criminal penalties. Always submit accurate and complete documentation.
Final notes
Registering a micro-enterprise in France is a relatively simple and cost-free process, but it must be done correctly and within the legal timeframe. By using the official Guichet des formalités des entreprises, preparing your documents in advance, and understanding your obligations, you’ll ensure a smooth start to your self-employed business activity.
Whether you’re launching a side hustle, freelancing, or building a full-time business in France, this simplified structure offers a flexible and accessible route to entrepreneurship.
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