Quick check
Which obligations apply to you in France?
Answer two questions: we show you the likely formalities and the right support.
1Where is your company established?
In the European Union
2What is your activity in France?
Stock, warehouse or sales shipped from France
VAT registration is probably required
- VAT registration in France
- VAT returns (CA3 or CA12)
- EMEBI and DES for intra-EU flows
Online sales to consumers (B2C)
The OSS one-stop shop can simplify your obligations
- Above €10,000 of EU distance sales, VAT of the customer’s country applies
- Quarterly OSS return filed from a single country
- French registration if you hold stock in France
Services or digital services
The place of supply needs checking
- B2B: reverse charge by the customer, as a general rule
- B2C: French VAT may apply, reportable through the OSS
- Digital services tax above the thresholds
Employees, premises or vehicles in France
Direct taxes may apply
- CFE and, in some cases, CVAE
- Payroll tax
- Company vehicle taxes and property tax
Outside the European Union
A tax representative is generally required
- Mandatory as a general rule for a non-EU company liable for VAT in France
- Exceptions may apply under mutual assistance agreements
- We check your situation with you
How it works
A structured process, in four steps
A proven method, from the first conversation to long-term follow-up.
- 01
Diagnostic
We review your business and flows to identify your VAT, indirect tax and direct tax obligations in France.
No commitment - 02
Mandate & registration
You give us a written mandate, then we start the registrations needed to secure your position.
Written mandate - 03
Returns & follow-up
We file your recurring returns on time and follow your notices, letters and deadlines.
On time - 04
Monitoring & assistance
We track regulatory changes and assist you in case of an audit or a claim.
Long term
Why take the quick check?
A foreign company that sells, stores or buys in France may be subject to VAT or tax obligations without always realising it. The quick check helps you spot, in a few questions, the steps that may apply to you and the kind of support that fits.
What the quick check covers
- Where you are established: a company inside the European Union or outside it.
- Your activity in France: stock or warehouse, sales to consumers or businesses, imports, services.
- Likely steps: VAT registration, periodic returns, filings for intra-EU flows, the OSS/IOSS scheme where relevant.
- Support options: the Hanoutax services that could meet your need.
Who is concerned?
| Profile | Typical situation | Steps to review |
|---|---|---|
| EU company | Stock or sales from France | VAT registration, returns, intra-EU filings |
| Non-EU company | Selling goods or services in France | Appointing a fiscal representative, registration, returns |
| Online seller | Sales to consumers (B2C) in several countries | OSS/IOSS scheme, distance-selling thresholds |
| Importer | Goods brought into France | Import VAT, EORI number, customs regimes |
| Company with no local presence | One-off transactions or services | Place of supply analysis, possible reverse charge |
This table is indicative: one company can fit several rows, and the rules depend on the facts. To go further, see our pages on VAT filings, OSS / IOSS and fiscal representation for VAT.
What happens after the quick check?
If you want to go further, you can contact us to discuss your situation.
FAQ
Is the quick check free?
The online quick check is offered at no charge. Any terms for an engagement are set out separately.
Are the results legal advice?
No. They are general indications, to be confirmed against your specific situation.
Do I need to be established in the EU to use it?
No. It is meant for companies established inside the European Union as well as those established outside it.
What if my case fits none of the proposed situations?
Contact us and describe your activity: we can then look at your situation in more detail.
Informational content, not legal advice. The rules that apply depend on your situation.
Ready to secure your taxes in France?
Talk to Hanoutax to review your situation and identify priority actions, with no commitment.