Registering a company in French Guiana is a step-by-step process that involves selecting a company type, choosing a name, preparing documentation, and registering with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of French Guiana and French Tax Administration. By following this guide and utilizing the provided resources, you should be well on your way to successfully establishing your business in French Guiana.
Step 1: Choose your company type
The first step in registering a company in French Guiana is to choose the type of company you want to register. The most common types are:
- Limited Liability Company (Société à Responsabilité Limitée - SARL)
- Joint Stock Company (Société Anonyme - SA)
- Simplified Joint Stock Company (Société par actions simplifiée - SAS)
- Sole Proprietorship with Limited Liability (Entrepreneur individuel à responsabilité limitée - EIRL)
Step 2: Choo se a company name
Before registering your company, you'll need to choose a suitable name. The French National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) has guidelines for acceptable names, which can be found at this link: https://www.inpi.fr
Step 3: Prepare the required documents
Next, prepare the necessary documentation for your chosen company type. The key documents are:
- Articles of Association (for SARL, SA, and SAS)
- Application for Company Registration (for all types)
These forms can be downloaded from the French Government's official website: https://www.service-public.fr
Step 4: Identify company officers and shareholders
You will need to identify at least one director (for SARL, SA, and SAS) or one representative (for EIRL). Directors or representatives must be at least 18 years old. Shareholders can be individuals or corporate entities.
Step 5: Capital requirements
French Guiana requires a minimum capital of €1 for SARLs, €37,000 for SAs, €1 for SASs, and no minimum capital for EIRLs.
Step 6: Register your company
Once your documents are ready, you can submit your application to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of French Guiana. This can be done in person at their office or online via the following link: http://www.guyane.cci.fr
The fees for registering a company are as follows:
- SARL: €41 (approximately)
- SA: €195 (approximately)
- SAS: €39 (approximately)
- EIRL: €23 (approximately)
Step 7: Register for taxes
After your company is registered, you must register for taxes with the French Tax Administration. This can be done in person at the local tax office or online via the following link: https://www.impots.gouv.fr
Step 8: Obtain necessary permits and licenses
Depending on your business activities, you may need to obtain additional permits or licenses. Check with the relevant authorities and industry regulators for specific requirements.
Time-frame:
The entire registration process, from preparing documents to receiving your Certificate of Incorporation, can take anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the complexity of your application.
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