For foreign managers from outside the EU, the EEA or Switzerland who wish to create a company on French territory, a specific residence permit exists: the "Passeport talent mention Créateur d'entreprise" residence permit. A shareholding in a French company can be considered as a creation project if it leads to a takeover of the company, taking into account the specificities of the project. Other projects involving participation in an existing company are covered by the temporary residence permit marked "entrepreneur/liberal profession". To be eligible, the business creator must provide proof of possession of a diploma corresponding to at least master's level or equivalent or proof of at least five years' professional experience at a comparable level, the existence of a real and serious project to create a business in France, which is economically viable. A certificate of recognition of the real and serious nature of the business creation project must be obtained on the dedicated platform; an investment of at least 30,000 euros in the business project; sufficient means of existence with resources corresponding to the minimum wage, i.e. 19,237 euros on January 1, 2022. In case the business creator does not meet such conditions: you must first apply for a long-stay visa from the diplomatic and consular authorities of your country of origin to enter France. Once in France, you can then apply for a temporary residence permit marked "entrepreneur / liberal profession" within two months of arrival. This card will be valid for one year. At the end of first year of residence, you must apply for a four-year residence permit. A foreigner who applies for a temporary residence permit to carry out a commercial, industrial or craft activity must provide evidence of an economically viable activity or, if they join an existing business, the ability to pay them sufficient remuneration (at least equal to the minimum wage), an activity that is compatible with safety, health and public peace, compliance with the obligations of this profession (e.g., requirements for diplomas or professional experience), the absence of any conviction or ban on practicing the profession.
