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France

France offers a unique blend of innovation, quality of life, and economic opportunity within the European Union.

France

Business card group

Corporate Tax Rate 25% (2026)

A reduced 15% rate applies for SMEs on the first €42,500 of profit.

France's stable 25% corporate tax rate, combined with targeted relief for SMEs, creates a supportive and competitive environment for business growth in a major EU economy

R&D Tax Credit 30% up to 100M (2026)

30% tax credit on R&D expenses up to €100M.

France powerfully stimulates innovation through its R&D tax credit (CIR), one of the most generous in Europe, covering 30% of R&D expenses for all companies.

ESNA SNS#1: Fast Startup Creation Score 88% (2025)

30% tax credit on R&D expenses up to €100M.

France powerfully stimulates innovation through its R&D tax credit (CIR), one of the most generous in Europe, covering 30% of R&D expenses for all companies.

GDP Growth 0,7% (2025)

Annual real GDP growth rate forecast.

As a leading global economy, France is projected to see steady GDP growth, underpinned by strong domestic demand and a diversified industrial base.

ESNA SNS#6: Access to Finance Score 100% (2025)

Availability of public and private funding for startups.

France's thriving startup scene is supported by a sophisticated and accessible financial ecosystem, offering excellent access to venture capital and public funds.

Economic Sentiment Indicator (ESI) 100,4 (2026)

A snapshot of business and consumer confidence.

The Economic Sentiment Indicator (ESI) measures overall confidence in the economy by combining survey results from consumers and key sectors such as industry, services, retail, construction, and (where available) financial services.

Labour Cost 43,70€ (2024)

Average hourly cost of employing a worker.

France's labour costs are an investment in one of the world's most educated, productive, and innovative workforces, driving a high-value economy.

Work & Living card group

Top Personal Income Tax Rate 45% (2025)

Progressive tax brackets start from 0% up to 45%.

France's progressive tax system underpins its world-class social model, funding exceptional public services like healthcare and education that ensure a high quality of life.

Euro Health Consumer Index Score 11th (2026)

Overall measure of national health system performance

With a top-tier healthcare system, France provides its residents with universal access to high-quality medical care, consistently ranking among Europe's best.

Global Cost of Living Rank 29th (2026)

Measures relative costs of goods and services.

France offers a sophisticated and high-quality lifestyle, where higher living costs are matched by strong purchasing power and access to exceptional cultural amenities.

Global Happiness Rank 33rd (2024)

Evaluates national wellbeing and overall life satisfaction.

Ranking among the world's happiest nations, France's high life satisfaction is driven by its rich culture, strong social connections, and healthy work-life balance.

Global Peace Index 74th (2025)

Assesses national peacefulness, safety, and security levels.

France offers a safe and secure environment with a stable political landscape and a strong rule of law, ensuring a protected setting for its residents and businesses.

Working-Age Employment Rate 75,10% (2024)

Percentage of population aged 20-64 that is employed.

With a high and rising employment rate, France's dynamic job market provides extensive opportunities for its skilled and productive workforce.

ESNA SNS#8: Digital First Score 96% (2025)

Measures the digital-by-default availability of key public services.

As a European leader in e-government, France provides comprehensive and accessible digital public services, enhancing efficiency for citizens and businesses alike.

Annual Inflation Rate 0,90% (2025)

Measures the change in consumer prices over time.

With inflation stabilising at a low rate, France's economy offers a predictable and secure environment, protecting the purchasing power of consumers and businesses.

Visa card group

Embassies and Consulates of France

Source External link

The official website for French embassies and consulates is diplomatie.gouv.fr, offering directories, contacts, visa info, and services for representations worldwide.

Entry for EU citizens

To enter French territory, foreign nationals must be in possession of a valid national identity card or passport. No other documents are required. The French authorities reserve the right to refuse entry into French territory.

Entry for Non-EU citizens

To enter in France some mandatory documents must be presented at the request of the Border Police upon your arrival in France, such as, a valid passport issued less than 10 years before and valid for at least 3 months after the envisaged departure date, a valid visa, if required, or proof of accommodation covering the whole duration of the stay (hotel reservation and/or certificate of staying with a relative validated in the town hall).

Passeport Talent

The multi-year "passeport talent" residence permit was created to help foreign employees and self-employed persons develop France’s economic attractiveness. Your employment contract and your stay in France must exceed three months. It will allow you to stay for a maximum of four years commencing on the date of your arrival in France

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