Determining the Nature of Your Business Activity as a Microentrepreneur in France

Directorate for Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister)

If you plan to start a business as a microentrepreneur in France, determining the nature of your activity is crucial. Your classification affects tax obligations, regulatory compliance, and registration procedures. Understanding these distinctions helps ensure a smooth setup and adherence to the microentrepreneur France framework.

Types of Business Activities for Microentrepreneurs in France

Businesses in France fall into three main categories:

  • Commercial activities (e.g., trade, hospitality, services)
  • Crafts and artisanal businesses (e.g., skilled manual work, trades requiring expertise)
  • Liberal professions (e.g., consulting, coaching, intellectual services)

Certain activities, such as agriculture, do not qualify under the microentrepreneur France scheme.

1. Identifying a Commercial Business as a Microentrepreneur in France

Characteristics of Commercial Activities

A commercial business under the system involves:

  • Buying goods or products for resale at a profit
  • Providing services in hospitality, transport, entertainment, IT, or security
  • Leasing goods or services

Note: Only movable goods qualify for trade-related activities.

Do You Need a Diploma?

No specific diploma is required to operate a commercial business under the microentrepreneur France framework.

Is the Micro-Enterprise Model Suitable?

Yes, but revenue thresholds apply:

  • Services & Liberal Activities: €77,700
  • Trade & Hospitality: €188,700

Allowed vs. Excluded Commercial Activities

Allowed: Food trucks, delivery services, graphic design, photography, event DJing Excluded: Real estate agencies, pharmacies, opticians, tobacco shops

Who to Contact?

  • Registration: Business Formalities Window (Guichet Unique)
  • Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) for guidance

2. Identifying an Artisanal Business as a Microentrepreneur in France

Characteristics of Artisanal Activities

To be classified as a craftsman under the microentrepreneur France regulations, your business must:

  • Appear on the official list of craft trades
  • Employ fewer than 11 people at creation
  • Require specific technical skills, proven by a diploma or professional qualification

Examples: Hairdressing, plumbing, pastry-making, taxi services, shoe repair

Is the Micro-Enterprise Model Suitable?

Yes, provided annual revenue stays within micro-business thresholds.

Who to Contact?

  • Registration: Business Formalities Window
  • Chamber of Trades and Crafts (CMA) for assistance

3. Identifying a Liberal Profession as a Microentrepreneur in France

Characteristics of Liberal Professions

A liberal activity primarily involves intellectual services, such as consulting or coaching.

  • Requires a diploma or professional qualification
  • Services are billed as fees rather than direct sales

Examples: IT consulting, translation, professional coaching, public writing

Is the Micro-Enterprise Model Suitable?

Yes, but regulated professions are excluded. Check the official directory of regulated professions for details.

Who to Contact?

  • Registration: Business Formalities Window
  • URSSAF handles micro-entrepreneurs in liberal professions

4. Unauthorized Activities for Microentrepreneurs in France

Certain activities are not eligible under the microentrepreneur France scheme, including:

  • Agricultural activities: Farming, equestrian training, farm tourism
  • Artist-author professions: Activities classified as artistic creations

Note: Horse boarding and equestrian shows are commercial activities, not agricultural.

Who to Contact?

For agricultural business registration, consult the Chamber of Agriculture.

Conclusion

Choosing the correct classification for your business is essential when becoming a microentrepreneur in France. This affects taxation, administrative obligations, and compliance with regulations. Consulting the relevant Chamber of Commerce, Chamber of Trades, or URSSAF is crucial for accurate guidance and successful registration under the microentrepreneur France system.