FRA9 FILE · Investing in France
Foreign investment in France: rules and support
What is open, what may be screened and which support routes to prepare.
See the essentials at a glance
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key points: Contrôle · Acquisition · Business France · Aides
The core rule for foreign investors
Foreign-owned companies can generally apply within the same support framework; funding is not automatic by nationality. Authorities assess investment, R&D, jobs, transition and regional impact created in France. Certain strategic-sector investments may also require foreign-investment screening.
Research tax credit (CIR)
CIR supports qualifying fundamental/applied research and experimental development. Business France’s 2026 guidance states a 30% rate on eligible mainland-France R&D expenditure up to €100m and 5% above. Public grants reduce the base, while technical evidence and project-level staff-time records are essential.
CII, JEI and intellectual-property tools
For SMEs, CII can support new-product prototypes and pilots through 2027 at 20% in mainland France on an annual eligible base capped at €400,000. Young innovative company, IP Box and other regimes have different tests. Do not count the same cost twice without a careful eligibility review.
France 2030 and Bpifrance
The €54bn France 2030 programme spans research to industrialisation across AI, quantum, space, cybersecurity, energy, health, mobility and decarbonisation. Support may be a grant, repayable advance, loan, guarantee or equity. Open-call scope, technology readiness, consortium and French-establishment requirements must be read project by project.
Regional investment and employment aid
Regions, local authorities, the state and EU funds may support plant, equipment, property, jobs, training, energy efficiency and transformation. Maximum intensity depends on company size, aid map and instrument. Select location through the total of energy, labour, suppliers, logistics and customers, not the grant alone.
Application order and incentive effect
Many public-aid schemes require an application before a binding contract, purchase order or project start. Prepare the business plan, funding table, employment and spend timetable first, then discuss eligibility. Never book support as certain income before a written decision.
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