Independent Contractor in France: How to Register as Auto-Entrepreneur

What Does It Mean to Be an Independent Contractor in France?

In France, many professionals choose to work as freelancers instead of employees. This gives them full control over their activity, clients, and schedule. To operate legally, however, you must create a business entity.

The auto-entrepreneur status is the most popular choice for independent contractors in France because it is simple, quick to set up, and well-suited for freelance professionals across industries.

Note: this article is informational only and should not be considered legal advice. Always check official resources or consult a professional before taking action.

Legal Structures for Freelancers and Self-Employed Workers

When starting as an independent contractor in France, you must choose a legal form:

• Single-person businesses (société unipersonnelle): SASU, EURL, or auto-entrepreneur.

• Multi-person companies (société pluripersonnelle): SAS, SA, SNC, etc.

Turnover thresholds:

• Goods: up to €170,000/year

• Services: up to €70,000/year

Above these limits, you’ll need to move to a more advanced structure.

How to Register as an Auto-Entrepreneur

Setting up an auto-entrepreneur is straightforward:

1. Apply online at autoentrepreneur.urssaf.fr.

2. Provide a copy of your ID.

3. Your request is validated by the CFE (Centre de formalités des entreprises).

4. Within 10 days, you’ll receive your SIRET number and APE code.

5. Open a dedicated business bank account.

Optional: choose EIRL to separate personal and business assets.

Benefits of the Auto-Entrepreneur Status

1. Simplified Administration

• Quick registration process.

• Fewer accounting obligations.

2. Tax Advantages

• Simplified taxation system.

• No taxes if income stays below thresholds.

3. Professional Freedom

• Independence to manage clients and schedules.

• Flexibility to work from anywhere.

Conditions to Maintain the Status

To remain compliant as an auto-entrepreneur in France:

• Stay under €170,000 (goods) or €70,000 (services).

• Work independently, without subordination.

• Operate without employees (auto-entrepreneurs cannot hire staff).

Risks for Companies Hiring Auto-Entrepreneurs

Businesses hiring freelancers in France must be cautious:

• Misclassification risk: Courts can requalify a freelance contract as employment.

• Tax compliance: Payments, especially cross-border, must be handled properly.

A clear, compliant contract reduces these risks.

Downsides of Auto-Entrepreneur Status

While accessible, this system has limitations:

• No unemployment benefits or paid vacation.

• Contractors pay their own health insurance & pension contributions.

• Revenue caps limit scalability.

Conclusion

Becoming an independent contractor in France is accessible thanks to the auto-entrepreneur regime. It’s ideal for freelancers and self-employed professionals seeking flexibility, simplified taxes, and independence.

For companies, working with auto-entrepreneurs provides agility and access to skilled professionals, as long as contracts respect French labor laws.

Looking for opportunities as an independent contractor? Check out our remote opportunities in sales or customer care agents.