Do I need prior French clients to apply for a profession libérale visa?
There are a number of conditions that must be fulfilled when applying
Many professions are regulated in France and require a recognised certificate
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Reader Question: I am thinking of applying from the UK for a profession libérale visa. Is it true I would need to have at least one French client already? I have reliable freelance income but from UK-based clients.
The profession libérale visa is a type of 'self-employment' visa for people who wish to work full-time in France.
There are a number of conditions that must be fulfilled in order to receive one.
Firstly, your business idea must be economically viable, meaning that it will provide enough income to live off (at least the minimum wage of €1,400 after social charges). You must also show relevant experience or qualifications related to the job that you are going to do, and in some cases you have to apply for an assessment of the viability of your plans in the region where you want to work.
Read more: Micro-entrepreneur status – Pros and cons of self-employment in France
However, you do not need French clients already in place.
In fact, you do not technically need French clients at all, you can serve clients abroad as long as you are generating sufficient income and you set up a properly registered French business once you arrive in France.
As stated you will need a concrete and well thought-out business plan.
Note that many professions are regulated in France and require a recognised certificate some of which are only open to EU citizens. You may need to contact a professional body in France to ask about potential compatibility.
