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Can a French citizen register a company in India?
Yes, a French citizen can register a company in India by following the incorporation process, obtaining a Digital Signature, DIN, and fulfilling MCA and FDI rules.
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What is the easiest business structure for French entrepreneurs in India?
A Private Limited Company is the most preferred option because it allows foreign ownership, offers limited liability, and is easy to expand.
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Is physical presence required to register a company in India from France?
No, physical presence is not required. All documents can be submitted online, and verification can be completed virtually.
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Do French founders need an Indian partner to start a company?
No, most sectors allow 100 percent foreign ownership, so an Indian partner is not mandatory unless the sector has specific FDI restrictions.
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Is a resident director required for registration?
Yes, at least one director must be an Indian resident as per the Companies Act, but the remaining directors can be French nationals.
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What documents are required from French shareholders or directors?
A passport, proof of address in France, passport size photo, and notarized and apostilled documents are generally required.
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How long does it take to register a company in India from France?
The process usually takes 7 to 15 working days depending on document accuracy and MCA processing timelines.
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Do French companies need RBI approval to invest in India?
Most sectors fall under the automatic route and do not need prior RBI approval, but restricted sectors require separate permissions.
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What taxes apply to a company formed by a French founder in India?
The company will be subject to Indian corporate tax, GST (if applicable), TDS rules, and annual ROC compliances.
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Can a French director manage the company remotely?
Yes, French directors can manage the company remotely while ensuring compliance is maintained by the resident director and Indian team.
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Is a visa required for French nationals to run a company in India?
A visa is not required to incorporate a company, but a business visa or employment visa is required to work or manage operations in India physically.
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Can the company open a bank account in India?
Yes, once incorporation is complete, PAN and KYC documents are issued, and the company can open an Indian current bank account.
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Can profits earned in India be repatriated to France?
Yes, profits can be repatriated after paying applicable taxes and following RBI and FEMA guidelines for remittances.
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Do French businesses need GST registration in India?
GST registration is required if the company supplies goods or services beyond the threshold limit or operates in multiple states.
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Are audited financial statements mandatory?
Yes, all Indian companies must prepare audited annual financial statements and file them with MCA every year.
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Can a French company hire Indian employees?
Yes, the Indian entity can hire employees locally and must comply with labor laws, PF, ESIC, and payroll regulations.
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What are the main compliances after registration?
Annual ROC filings, auditor appointment, GST returns, income tax returns, TDS filings, and maintaining statutory registers.
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Can a French company open a liaison or branch office instead of a subsidiary?
Yes, French companies can open liaison, branch, or project offices, but these structures have stricter RBI regulations.
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Does the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) apply?
Yes, India and France have a DTAA that helps avoid double taxation and provides tax credits and treaty benefits.
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How does Ebizfiling help French entrepreneurs set up in India?
Ebizfiling assists with DSC and DIN issuance, document apostille, incorporation filings, FDI guidance, bank account setup, GST registration, and full compliance management for smooth business operations.