4. Business Professions and Activities in France

1. 4.1. Business Professions
   4.2. Regulated Activities

4.2. Regulated Business Activities in France

Certain business activities in France are 'regulated', with controls on access into a profession, or activity.

Foremost of these activities are certain of the professions libérales (lawyers, architects etc), but numerous other business activities require appropriate authorisation before you can start the business.

In most cases the authorisation required may be little more than registration with the Chambre de Commerce/Metiers.

In other cases additional criteria may be needed, such as the absence of criminal convictions, the need for a licence, or the need for an appropriate qualification and/or experience.

The business activities include bars, restaurants and hotels, gîtes, camp sites and bed and breakfast establishments, estate agency, driving schools, journalism, travel agent, hairdressing, transport business, security services.

However, do not assume that because they are 'regulated' it is difficult to get into these professions - the entry requirements vary.

Practice does vary between the various Chambres de Metiers but, at most, provided you can demonstrate some basic level of certificated training, or at least three years experience in the relevant trade, you can set yourself up in business.

If you hold appropriate qualifications, then you will normally be be asked to get them translated and certified by a professional translator.

If you have no qualifications, you would be well advised to bring testimonials, (translated into French and certified by a professional translator), which you can provide to the Chambre at the time of your registration.

This paperwork may also be required by your insurer when you make application for your professional indemnity insurance, if it is required by your activity.

More information on regulated business activities can be found by visiting Inforeg or APCE