France Freelancer Visa (Entrepreneur/Profession Libérale)

Nadia Dardón

Freelance writer

Last update 24 April, 2025

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Country Rating from Citizen Remote

Overall 3.2

Internet Infrastructure 4.0

Country Stability 4.0

Cost of Living 3.0

Ease of Obtaining Visa 3.0

Taxes 2.0

Quick Visa Facts

Visa length 1 year (renewable)

Possible to extend? Yes, it can be renewed annually and may lead to long-term residency.

Who can apply? Non-EU/EEA citizens who plan to work as self-employed professionals in France.

Minimum Income Requirements Around €1,766 per month (equal to France’s minimum wage)

Time for visa applications Typically 2–3 months, but processing times can vary by country and consulate.

Want to know if you can apply?

Complete a visa quiz and see if you qualify!

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France Freelancer Visa

France isn’t just for vacations anymore, it’s becoming a top choice for freelancers and digital nomads looking to live and work abroad. With its vibrant cities, charming countryside, excellent healthcare, and enviable work-life balance, France has a lot to offer anyone craving a change of scenery without putting their career on pause.

And the good news? There’s a visa for that.

The France Freelancer Visa, officially called the Entrepreneur/Profession Libérale visa, gives self-employed professionals the chance to live and legally work in France. Whether you're a freelance writer, graphic designer, consultant, or running your own small business, this visa could be your ticket to building your dream life in one of the world’s most iconic destinations.

What Is the France Freelancer Visa?

The France Freelancer Visa, officially known as the Profession Libérale or Entrepreneur Libérale (VLS/TS), is a long-stay visa that allows non-EU nationals to live and work in France as self-employed professionals. It's designed for individuals who wish to establish or participate in a commercial, industrial, artisanal, or agricultural activity, or to work in a liberal profession within France.

Who Is It For?

This visa is ideal for:

Freelancers: Such as writers, designers, consultants, and developers.
Entrepreneurs: Looking to start or take over a business in France.
Professionals in Liberal Professions: Including lawyers, accountants, architects, and other regulated professions.

It's important to note that certain professions may be subject to specific regulations, and applicants must meet the necessary qualifications or conditions related to their field.

What Does It Allow You to Do?

Holders of the VLS-TS "entrepreneur/profession libérale" visa are authorized to:

Reside in France: Initially for one year, with the possibility of renewal.
Engage in Self-Employed Work: Legally conduct business or professional activities in France.
Access Public Services: Such as healthcare and social security, subject to eligibility.

Upon arrival in France, visa holders must validate their visa within 15 days and complete all necessary formalities to carry out their professional activity.

Visa Requirements

Applying for France’s Freelancer Visa involves meeting specific criteria to demonstrate your ability to live and work independently in France. While the exact requirements can vary based on your profession and personal circumstances, here are the general prerequisites:

Demonstrate Economic Viability

To establish a new business in France, you must prove the economic viability of your project. If you're setting up an innovative business, you'll need to demonstrate its innovative nature, potentially through recognition by a public entity.

Sufficient Financial Resources

You must show that you have adequate financial means to support yourself. This typically means having an income at least equivalent to the French minimum legal wage for a full-time worker, which was €18,254.54 gross per year as of January 1, 2019.

Professional Qualifications

If your intended activity is subject to specific regulations, you must meet the necessary qualifications or hold relevant diplomas. This ensures compliance with French professional standards.

How to Apply for the France Freelance Visa—Step-by-Step Instructions

Applying for the France Freelancer Visa involves several steps, both before and after you arrive in France. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

Step 1: Submit Your Visa Application

You’ll need to apply for the visa from your home country or country of legal residence. This is done through the French Embassy or Consulate with jurisdiction over your area.

Prepare the following documents:

Completed visa application form
Valid passport
Proof of professional activity (business plan, contracts, portfolio, etc.)
Proof of financial resources
Health insurance coverage
Proof of accommodation in France
Any supporting qualifications or diplomas (if required for your profession)

Step 2: Wait for Approval and Receive Your Visa

If you meet the requirements and plan on staying in France for 12 months or less, the Embassy or Consulate will grant you a long-stay visa equivalent to a residence permit bearing the mention corresponding to your situation, valid for 12 months.

Step 3: Validate Your Visa After Arrival

Once you arrive in France, you must validate your long-stay visa within 3 months. This is done online via the official platform.

Step 4: Apply for a Residence Permit (if staying longer)

If you plan to stay beyond the initial 12 months, apply to renew your visa or request a multi-year residence permit at your local prefecture. This should be done at least 2 months before your visa expires.

How Much Does the France Freelancer Visa Cost?

As of now, the application fee for the France long-stay freelancer visa (VLS-TS) is €269, payable when you submit your application at the French consulate or visa center.

Once in France, you may need to pay an additional fee of approximately €200 when validating your visa online.

France Freelancer Visa: Taxes & Banking

Navigating taxes and banking as a freelancer in France might seem as complex as mastering the art of a perfect croissant, but with the right guidance, it becomes a manageable—even rewarding—part of your entrepreneurial journey. France’s progressive tax system and social charges are designed to fund its world-renowned healthcare and social safety nets, while modern banking options cater to globetrotting freelancers.

Whether you’re a solo creative invoicing international clients or a consultant building a local client base, understanding the financial landscape—from income brackets to the ease of neobanking—is key to thriving in a country where liberté extends to how you manage your money.

Taxes for Freelancers in France

As a self-employed individual in France, your income is subject to progressive income tax rates. For the 2025 tax year (applicable to income earned in 2024), the brackets are as follows:

Up to €11,497: 0%
€11,498 to €29,315: 11%
€29,316 to €83,823: 30%
€83,824 to €180,294: 41%
Over €180,294: 45%

In addition to income tax, freelancers are required to pay social security contributions, which fund various benefits such as healthcare, pensions, and family allowances. These contributions are managed by URSSAF and can vary based on your professional activity and income level. It's advisable to consult the official URSSAF resources or a tax professional for detailed calculations.

Tax Considerations for U.S. Citizens

For American freelancers, it's important to note that the United States taxes its citizens on worldwide income. However, the U.S.-France Tax Treaty helps prevent double taxation. Under this treaty, you may be eligible for foreign tax credits or exclusions, such as the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE), which can reduce your U.S. tax liability. It's advisable to consult with a tax professional experienced in international taxation to navigate these complexities effectively.

Banking for Freelancers

France boasts a robust banking system, with numerous options tailored for freelancers and self-employed individuals. Traditional banks like BNP Paribas, Société Générale, and Crédit Agricole offer business accounts suitable for managing professional finances. Additionally, neobanks such as Qonto and Shine provide digital-first banking solutions designed specifically for freelancers, featuring streamlined account management, invoicing tools, and integration with accounting software.

Opening a business bank account in France typically requires proof of identity, proof of residence, and documentation of your business activity. It's essential to compare the services and fees of different banks to find the best fit for your professional needs.

Living in France as a Digital Nomad

Living in France as a digital nomad offers a unique blend of professional ease and cultural richness. Whether you're working from a sunlit Parisian café, a quiet coastal town, or a buzzing coworking space in Lyon, you'll find that the country values both productivity and leisure.

The work-life balance is refreshingly intentional, long lunches, walkable cities, and a strong café culture make it easy to slow down without losing momentum. France also has solid infrastructure, reliable internet access (even in smaller towns), and a growing community of freelancers and remote professionals to connect with.

Best Cities for Freelancers in France

France is full of cities that offer a great quality of life for freelancers, but a few stand out for their blend of opportunity, affordability, and community. Whether you’re drawn to big-city buzz or a more relaxed pace, here are three top choices to consider.

1. Paris

As France’s capital and creative epicenter, Paris offers endless opportunities for freelancers—especially in fields like media, fashion, design, and tech. The city is packed with coworking spaces, networking events, and cafés where you can work with a view. Its cosmopolitan vibe means it’s easy to connect with international clients and collaborators. The cost of living is undeniably high, particularly when it comes to rent, but for many freelancers, the inspiration, energy, and access Paris provides make it well worth the price.

2. Lyon

Lyon combines elegance and efficiency with a slower pace than Paris. Often considered France’s gastronomic heart, the city also boasts a strong startup culture, excellent public transport, and a relatively affordable cost of living. It’s a great fit for freelancers looking for a city that feels dynamic but not overwhelming. With a walkable city center, beautiful architecture, and easy access to nature, Lyon strikes a solid balance between work and lifestyle.

3. Toulouse

Located in the sunny southwest, Toulouse is a charming mix of old-world beauty and modern industry. It’s a major hub for aerospace and technology, which makes it especially appealing for freelancers in those sectors. But Toulouse is also colorful, creative, and more relaxed than larger cities. The cost of living is lower, the vibe is friendly, and the weather is mild most of the year—ideal for those seeking a vibrant but affordable base with plenty of character.

Cost of Living

The official currency of France is the Euro. €1 EUR = $1.1291 USD.

The average net monthly salary in France is around €2,587, which equates to approximately $2,922 USD.

Here’s a rundown of what you should expect to pay in different cities:

Paris

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) - €1,439.74 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) - €3,025.00 per month
Basic Utilities - €224.80 per month
Wi-Fi - €31.66 per month
Public Transport - €2.50 one-way
Groceries (2 people) - €400-€600 per month

Lyon

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) - €866.76 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) - €1,727.33 per month
Basic Utilities - €235.48 per month
Wi-Fi - €32.56 per month
Public Transport - €2.05 one-way
Groceries (2 people) - €350-€500 per month

Toulouse

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) - €748.33 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) - €1,393.75 per month
Basic Utilities - €160.69 per month
Wi-Fi - €31.75 per month
Public Transport - €1.80 one-way
Groceries (2 people) - €300-€450 per month

FAQs

Is there a digital nomad community in France?

Yes! France has a growing digital nomad and freelancer community, especially in cities like Paris, Lyon, and Toulouse. You'll find coworking spaces, networking events, and online groups that make it easy to connect with other remote workers. There's also a rising number of international nomads choosing France for its lifestyle, culture, and central location in Europe.

What is the best time of year to visit France?

Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) are ideal times to visit France. The weather is pleasant, tourist crowds are lighter, and it's easier to enjoy local life—especially if you're scoping out cities to live in. Summers can be hot and crowded, particularly in tourist hubs like Paris and the south of France, while winters are quieter but can be charming (especially in smaller towns and Alpine regions).

Do I need to speak French to get approved for the freelance visa?

While speaking French isn’t a formal requirement for the visa, it’s highly recommended, especially when it comes to dealing with paperwork, local authorities, or setting up your business. Having at least a basic understanding of French can make the process much smoother and show good faith in integrating into local life. In some cases, embassies may ask about your French proficiency during the visa process.

Can I work with international clients while living in France on this visa?

Yes, you can work with international clients as a freelancer in France. The visa allows you to operate as a self-employed professional, and that includes invoicing clients outside of France. Just make sure you register your business correctly in France and report your income according to French tax laws—even if the income comes from abroad.

Which of France's neighboring countries issue visas for digital nomads?

Several European countries are now issuing digital nomad visas, including Spain, Portugal, Germany, and Italy. The other EU countries issuing digital nomad visas are Croatia, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Iceland, Malta, Romania, and Norway.

Can I get help applying for a French freelance visa?

If you need help applying for a freelancing visa, you can talk to Citizen Remote. Get specific advice from one of our experts, or outsource the entire application to our team.

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