Guide for Chinese Users to Register a French Company Account

How to Successfully Register a French Company Account Using Chinese Information A Comprehensive and Practical Guide

In today's increasingly globalized world, more and more Chinese businesses and individuals are setting their sights on international markets, particularly in Europe. France, as a major economy within the European Union, offers a mature business environment and solid infrastructure, making it an attractive destination for international investors.

For many Chinese entrepreneurs or business owners, registering a company bank account in France is a crucial step toward expanding into the European market. However, due to differences in language, legal systems, and operational procedures, many people face challenges during the process. Drawing from recent news and real-world experience, this article offers a comprehensive and practical guide to help you smoothly register a French company account using Chinese information-avoiding unnecessary detours.

1. Understanding the Basic Process of Registering a Company in France

Registering a French company bank account is not an isolated step-it usually comes after completing the company registration process. According to French law, a bank account must be opened using the company’s official registration details. Therefore, the first step is to complete the legal establishment of the company.

1.1 Choosing the Right Company Structure

The most common types of companies in France include

SARL Société à Responsabilité Limitée - A limited liability company, popular among small to medium-sized businesses due to its relatively low minimum capital requirement.

SAS Société par Actions Simplifiée - A simplified joint-stock company, offering more flexibility in governance and management.

For Chinese investors, SARL is often the preferred choice due to its simplicity and lower entry barrier.

1.2 Completing the Company Registration

To register a company in France, you need to submit documents such as the company’s bylaws, shareholder identification, and registered address to the Tribunal de Commerce Commercial Court. For Chinese investors, it's common to work with a French lawyer or a local registration agency to handle the paperwork.

1.3 Obtaining the SIREN Number

Once the company is registered, you will receive a SIREN number, which is the unique identifier for all French businesses-similar to China’s Unified Social Credit Code. This number is essential for opening a bank account, filing taxes, and other official business activities.

2. Preparing the Required Documents for Opening a Company Bank Account

After the company registration, the next step is to open a bank account. While French banks have become more open to foreign clients, they still maintain strict verification processes.

2.1 Company Registration Documents

These include the company’s articles of association, business license, SIREN number, and registration certificate. Most banks will require these documents to be translated into French and notarized or certified.

2.2 Identity and Address Proof for Shareholders and Legal Representative

Chinese shareholders need to provide copies of their passports, personal ID, and proof of address such as utility bills or bank statements. If the legal representative is not based in France, some banks accept remote account opening but will require a certified power of attorney.

2.3 Business Plan

To comply with anti-money laundering regulations, some banks may request a business plan outlining the company’s operations, projected turnover, and sources of funds. It’s important to make the plan detailed and logically structured.

2.4 Proof of Registered Address

French companies must have a legal registered address, which can be either a physical office or a virtual office address. Many registration agencies offer this service.

3. Choosing the Right Bank and Account Opening Method

France’s major banks include BNP Paribas, Société Générale, Crédit Agricole, and La Banque Postale, all of which offer corporate banking services. In recent years, digital banks such as Qonto and Bunq have gained popularity among SMEs due to their streamlined processes and transparent fee structures.

3.1 Traditional Banks vs. Digital Banks

Traditional banks offer comprehensive financial services but may have longer processing times and stricter requirements.

Digital banks provide more flexibility and faster onboarding, making them ideal for startups and remote operations, though their features may be more limited.

3.2 Do You Need to Be Present in France?

While some banks still require the legal representative to be physically present in France, an increasing number now support remote account opening-especially since the pandemic. Banks like BNP Paribas and Qonto allow non-residents to open accounts remotely.

3.3 Chinese Language Support

Some banks offer Chinese-speaking customer service or partner with local agencies to assist Chinese clients. It’s advisable to contact the bank in advance to confirm their specific requirements and support options.

4. Recent Trends and Policy Changes

At the end of 2025, France introduced updated business registration policies aimed at attracting foreign investment. These reforms have simplified some registration procedures and strengthened support for remote account opening.

For example, Business France, the national agency supporting international investment, launched a one-stop service to help foreign investors complete the entire process-from company registration to bank account setup. Meanwhile, the ACPR French banking regulator has been promoting digital banking services and encouraging banks to adopt electronic identity verification, making remote account opening more secure and efficient.

For Chinese investors, these developments are a positive sign. With proper preparation and complete documentation, it’s now entirely possible to complete the entire registration and bank account setup without ever setting foot in France.

5. Common Problems and Solutions

Problem 1 No French Address?

You can use a virtual office service. Many registration agencies provide registered address and mail forwarding services.

Problem 2 Bank Account Application Rejected?

Prepare multiple applications and try different banks. Make sure your business plan is clear and your funding sources are legitimate.

Problem 3 Language Barrier?

Choose a bank that offers Chinese language support or work with a professional agency to help with the process and avoid delays due to miscommunication.

6. Conclusion

While the process of registering a French company bank account can seem complex, it’s entirely manageable with the right preparation, complete documentation, and a suitable bank and service provider. As France continues to improve its support policies for foreign businesses, more opportunities are emerging for Chinese investors to establish and grow their presence in the European market.

We hope this guide provides you with a clear roadmap and practical insights to help you take your first confident step into the French market.