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France

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

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France

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25% Corporate Tax

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

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36th in Tax Competitiveness (2023)

International Tax Competitiveness Index 2023.

France's tax system is structured to support its robust economy and social framework, offering stability and predictability for international businesses.

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R&D Tax Credit (CIR)

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.

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70% Achievement on SNS #1: Fast Startup Score (2024)

Efficiency of starting a business and administrative support.

With a top rating for startup efficiency, France provides a highly supportive and digitalised environment, making it fast and easy to launch a new business.

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0.6% GDP Growth in 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.

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100% on SNS #6: Access to Finance Score (2024)

Availability of public and private funding for startups.

France has a mature and vibrant venture capital market, providing startups with excellent access to the funding needed to scale and innovate.

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32nd on Ease of Doing Business Ranking

Measures regulatory performance for operating a national firm.

France has made significant strides in simplifying its administrative procedures, offering a clear and well-regulated environment for business operations.

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€42.20/hr Labour Cost

Average hourly labour cost in 2023.

France's labour costs reflect its highly skilled, educated, and productive workforce, making it an investment in quality, innovation, and economic strength.

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45% Top Personal Income Tax Rate

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.

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11th in European Health Index (2025)

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.

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20th on Global Cost of Living Rank (2025)

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.

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33rd on Global Happiness Rank (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.

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74th in Global Security Index (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.

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75.1% Working-Age Employment Rate (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.

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97% on SNS Digital First Score (2024)

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.

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2.3% Annual Inflation Rate (2024)

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.

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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.

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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.

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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).

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Talent ‘Business Investor’ Visa

The 'Talent – Business investor' permit lets non-EU investors settle in France via a €300k+ direct investment that creates jobs, excluding purely financial-only investments.

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French Tech Visa for Employees

The French Tech Visa offers a multi-year 'Talent – Qualified employee' permit to non-EU hires of innovative firms, requiring a contract with a Ministry-recognised company.

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