We Offer Strategic Legal Services
VAT and Customs Registration in France
Register your business for VAT and customs in France with our experienced tax lawyers and compliance paralegals.
We take care of every stage — from preparing the registration forms to obtaining your French VAT number, EORI number, and ensuring your operations meet all fiscal and customs obligations for cross-border trade.
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What is VAT and Customs Registration in France?
If your company sells goods or provides services in France, you may be required to register for Value Added Tax (TVA) and customs purposes (EORI).
VAT registration enables your business to charge and reclaim French VAT, while customs registration allows you to import or export goods legally within the EU.
Foreign and non-resident companies often need to register before starting operations — even without a French branch.
This registration ensures compliance with French and EU fiscal rules, allowing smooth cross-border transactions and access to VAT refunds.
Main Advantages :
Legal compliance: Stay aligned with French tax and customs laws for international operations.
Access to VAT recovery: Claim input VAT on your purchases and expenses in France.
Trade without interruption: Obtain an EORI number (Economic Operator Registration and Identification) to import or export goods through French customs.
Faster logistics: Customs registration ensures goods are cleared efficiently at ports and borders.
Professional representation: We act as your authorized contact before French tax and customs authorities.
In short: registering for VAT and customs is essential to operate lawfully and efficiently within the European market.
How to Register for VAT and Customs in France?
With FrenchCo.lawyer, VAT and customs registration becomes a smooth, transparent process — fully compliant with French and EU legislation.
Here is how we assist you, step by step:
Collecting Information and Assessing Eligibility
We review your company’s structure and planned activities in France to determine whether VAT or customs registration is mandatory or optional. We gather corporate documents, business purpose, turnover expectations, and transaction details.
Preparing the Registration Application
Our lawyers draft and prepare all required documentation — including the VAT registration form, EORI application, proof of business activity, and the company’s identification documents.
Filing with French Authorities
We handle submission to the Service des Impôts des Entreprises Étrangères (SIEE) and French Customs (Douanes), following up until your registration is validated.
Obtaining VAT and EORI Numbers
Once approved, you receive: A French VAT number (numéro de TVA intracommunautaire), and An EORI number (Economic Operator Registration and Identification), required for customs clearance and trade.
Ongoing Compliance Assistance
We provide ongoing guidance for your VAT filings, customs declarations, and ensure all periodic obligations are met.
Why Choose FrenchCo.lawyer?
Because fiscal compliance in France demands legal precision and practical execution. At FrenchCo.lawyer, your registration is managed entirely by qualified French lawyers and specialized paralegals, ensuring: Direct communication with French tax and customs authorities; Full compliance with EU trade regulations; Transparent updates at each step; Secure handling of all corporate documents. You can focus on your operations — while we ensure your VAT and customs registrations are completed accurately and efficiently.
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What We Need From You for VAT and Customs Registration?
To register your company efficiently, we will simply ask for the following documents and information:
Corporate Information
Certificate of incorporation or trade register extract; Proof of registered office or head office address; Description of your activities in France (sales, services, or imports/exports).
Tax and Banking Details
Foreign VAT number (if applicable); Bank account details for VAT refund or payments; Proof of trading activity (sample invoices or contracts).
Identification and Authorization
Identity documents of directors or authorized representatives; Signed power of attorney authorizing us to act on your behalf.
And Then?
Once we receive these elements, our team prepares, files, and follows up your applications with the relevant authorities until both your VAT and EORI numbers are officially issued. You will then be ready to trade in France and across the EU, fully compliant with French tax and customs law.
VAT and Customs Registration– Simple Process, Clear Budget
Flat legal fee starting from €950 excl. taxes* Includes: Preparation and filing of VAT and customs registration forms; Liaison with tax and customs offices; Delivery of official VAT and EORI numbers.
Additional mandatory costs: administrative and registry fees (depending on company origin and type of activity).
No hidden costs, no intermediaries — full transparency guaranteed.
Our commitment:
No hidden add-ons or inflated “packages”
No third-party resellers
Authentic legal expertise
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Why Choose Us?
We Believe in Transparent, Lawyer-Led VAT and Customs Compliance
Fast and reliable processing: From VAT registration to customs account activation, we handle every step quickly and efficiently.
Legally compliant filings: Every declaration and registration is prepared according to current French and EU tax regulations.
Protective legal oversight: All documentation is reviewed by lawyers to ensure your company’s fiscal security and full compliance.
High professional standards: Every filing is completed under the supervision of licensed French lawyers, guaranteeing accuracy and accountability.
Let us handle your VAT and customs registration — so you can focus on expanding your business across France and Europe.
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Understanding VAT and Customs Registration in France
When is VAT registration required in France?
Any company — whether established in France or abroad — that performs taxable operations in France may be required to register for Value Added Tax (TVA).
Under Article 286 ter of the French Tax Code (Code général des impôts), registration becomes mandatory when a business:
- Sells goods or provides services within France;
- Imports goods through French customs;
- Holds stock or goods in France for resale;
- Organizes events or exhibitions with taxable income; or
- Provides electronic, digital, or distance sales to French customers.
Even foreign businesses without a permanent establishment in France must register if their transactions are taxable in France.
However, EU-based companies may use their intra-EU VAT number for cross-border operations under reverse charge mechanisms, while non-EU companies must usually appoint a fiscal representative in France.
How to obtain a VAT number in France?
VAT registration typically follows five main steps:
- Preliminary assessment – identifying whether your operations require VAT registration (supply of goods, services, distance sales, etc.).
- Collection of documents – company certificate of incorporation, articles of association, proof of business activity in France, and identification of the legal representative.
- Submission to the SIEE – application forms (Cerfa 14187 or Cerfa 15332) are filed with supporting evidence.
- Verification by the authorities – the French Tax Administration checks eligibility and completeness.
- Issuance of the VAT number – once approved, a French numéro de TVA intracommunautaire is assigned.
The process usually takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on documentation and complexity.
When should VAT registration be completed?
VAT registration should be completed before starting taxable activity in France.
This ensures that all invoices issued are compliant — displaying a valid French VAT number — and that input VAT on business expenses can be reclaimed.
Failure to register on time may result in:
- VAT assessed retroactively;
- Late payment interest (0.20% per month);
- Administrative fines (up to €5,000 per infraction); and
Possible rejection of VAT refund claims.
What obligations follow VAT and customs registration?
Once registered, a company must:
- File periodic VAT returns (monthly or quarterly);
- Pay VAT due or request a refund for VAT credit;
- Keep proper records of all invoices and import/export documents;
- Issue compliant invoices mentioning the French VAT number;
- File Intrastat (DEB/DES) declarations, if relevant; and
- Report imports and exports electronically through customs systems.
- File periodic VAT returns (monthly or quarterly);
Can VAT be recovered in France without registration?
Foreign companies from EU Member States may recover French VAT without formal registration, using the EU refund mechanism (Directive 2008/9/EC) via their home tax authority.
However, non-EU companies must either:
- Appoint a tax representative to request VAT refunds under reciprocity agreements; or
- Register directly for French VAT to claim deductions on input tax.
In both cases, VAT refund claims must be submitted before September 30 of the following year and supported by original invoices.
Who must register for customs (EORI) purposes?
Any business involved in importing or exporting goods across EU borders must obtain an EORI number (Economic Operator Registration and Identification).
This number is mandatory to:
- Clear goods through French customs;
- File customs declarations;
- Access EU-wide customs databases; and
- Receive or send goods internationally.
The EORI number links your company to customs authorities across the EU, ensuring traceability and compliance with the Union Customs Code.
Without it, goods can be blocked at the border or incur delays and penalties.
Can a foreign company register for French VAT and customs without a French office?
Yes — a foreign company can register remotely, even without a French branch or office.
- EU/EEA companies: can register directly with the Service des impôts des entreprises étrangères (SIEE) in Noisy-le-Grand.
- Non-EU companies: must appoint a tax representative (mandataire fiscal) established in France, who assumes joint liability for VAT compliance.
This representative ensures all filings, payments, and communications with the French Tax Administration and Customs Authority (Douanes) are properly managed.
Thus, registration is accessible worldwide — but the compliance channel differs depending on your country of establishment.
How to obtain an EORI number in France?
For companies importing or exporting goods through French borders, the EORI application is handled by French Customs (Direction Générale des Douanes et Droits Indirects).
Steps include:
- Preparation of the file – including proof of registration (for foreign companies, VAT certificate or equivalent).
- Online submission via the customs portal “SOPRANO.”
- Verification of identification details by French Customs.
- Issuance of the EORI number, usually within 48 hours.
The same EORI number is valid throughout the European Union, meaning there is no need for a separate registration in each Member State.
What documents are required for VAT and customs registration?
Authorities require clear documentation proving both the existence of the company and its economic activity in France. Typically:
- Certificate of incorporation or trade register extract;
- Company’s articles of association;
- Proof of the registered office or address;
- Identification of directors or legal representatives;
- Description of the activities conducted in France;
- Sample contracts, invoices, or purchase orders showing intended transactions;
- Bank account details (for VAT payments/refunds).
For non-EU companies:
- Appointment letter or power of attorney for the tax representative;
Copy of their representative’s professional accreditation.
How does VAT registration interact with customs procedures?
The VAT number and EORI number work together:
- The VAT number identifies your company for fiscal purposes — it governs invoicing, tax payments, and VAT deductions.
- The EORI number identifies you as an economic operator for customs clearance, enabling you to import/export goods under your name.
For example, when you import goods through a French port, your EORI number identifies your company in the customs declaration, while your VAT number allows you to self-assess import VAT (autoliquidation de la TVA à l’importation).
This integrated system ensures smoother logistics and fiscal transparency.
Register for French VAT & Customs
Let our French lawyers & paralegals handle your registration and compliance process for you.
More About VAT and Customs Registration in France
Can foreign companies register for VAT in France?
Yes. Non-resident businesses can obtain a French VAT number even without a local entity. We assist with full fiscal representation when required.
What documents will I need?
You’ll need proof of incorporation, identity documents, tax certificates, and evidence of French or EU commercial activity.
Do I need a fiscal representative?
If your company is established outside the EU, a French fiscal representative is mandatory. We provide this service directly.
How long does VAT registration take?
Typically 2–3 weeks once all documents are provided, depending on tax authority processing times.
Can I register remotely?
Yes. The entire VAT and customs registration process can be handled online with certified digital submissions.
What are the typical costs?
- Our flat legal fee covers preparation, filing, and follow-up with French authorities. Only official taxes or courier fees apply additionally.
What about EORI and customs compliance?
We register your EORI number and ensure your company meets all French and EU import-export requirements.
Can I modify or cancel my registration later?
Yes. We manage VAT deregistration or status updates if your operations change or expand within the EU.
