How to Get Business from Europe: A Step-by-Step Guide for Expats and Entrepreneurs

Europe, with its diverse economies, advanced infrastructure, and vast customer base, is a dream market for entrepreneurs worldwide. If you are wondering how to get business from Europe, especially as an expat or international entrepreneur, you need to understand local cultures, legal frameworks, and business practices. This guide will focus on the French market — one of Europe’s strongest economies — and walk you through French business culture, who can start a business in France, legal structures, expat tips, and how to start an online business that serves customers across Europe.

Understanding European and French Business Culture

To successfully get business from Europe, you must first understand that each country has its unique business culture. France, in particular, values formality, hierarchy, and precise communication.

• Build trust and relationships: French businesspeople may take time to warm up but once trust is established, relationships can be long-lasting.

• Language matters: While English is widely used in European business, speaking French when dealing with French clients or partners shows respect and effort.

• Negotiations and decisions: Expect structured meetings, attention to detail, and decision-making that often comes from top management.

These cultural nuances are critical if you want to get business from Europe, whether in France or neighboring countries.

Who Can Start a Business in France (and Europe)?

If you are planning to expand or start a business in Europe, France is a great entry point. Here’s who can set up shop:

• EU/EEA/Swiss nationals: Can freely start a business anywhere in the European Union, including France.

• Non-EU nationals (expats): Need the correct visa or residence permit. In France, common options include the Passeport Talent or a long-stay business visa.

• Foreign companies: Can open branches or subsidiaries in France and extend services across Europe.

Understanding these entry requirements is key to knowing how to get business from Europe legally and effectively.

Legal Structures for French Businesses

When setting up your business, choosing the right legal structure will help you comply with French and European regulations:

• Micro-entreprise: Best for freelancers or small online businesses, with simplified taxes and low turnover thresholds.

• EURL (single-owner limited company): Offers limited liability for the owner.

• SASU (simplified joint-stock company with one owner): Ideal for startups and scalable businesses.

• Branch or subsidiary: For foreign companies looking to establish a European base.

Each structure has implications for taxes, accounting, and legal responsibilities — essential to consider when working out how to get business from Europe.

How to Get Business from Europe as an Expat

Expats looking to start or grow a business in France and Europe should follow these steps:

1. Check visa requirements
   Make sure you have the right to live and work in France or the EU.

2. Prepare a solid business plan
   This is crucial for visa applications, funding, and market entry strategies.

3. Register your business
   Go through the local registration process (e.g., with the Centre de Formalités des Entreprises in France).

4. Understand tax obligations
   Each European country has its own tax system; in France, social charges are significant, so local accounting advice is key.

5. Network actively
   Join business groups, chambers of commerce, and expat entrepreneur communities to build connections across Europe.

By following these steps, you increase your chances of successfully getting business from Europe.

Starting an Online Business to Reach European Customers

One of the fastest ways to tap into the European market is through online business. Here’s how:

• Register your business legally in an EU country (like France) to benefit from cross-border trade rules.

• Comply with GDPR to protect customer data and avoid fines.

• Offer European-friendly payment methods like SEPA transfers, credit cards, and local e-wallets.

• Provide multilingual support, at least in English and the local language of your main markets.

An online business gives you the flexibility to get business from Europe without the heavy costs of physical expansion.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to get business from Europe is about more than just paperwork — it’s about cultural understanding, legal preparation, and smart strategy. France offers a solid gateway to the broader European market, whether you are setting up a small freelance service, a startup, or an online store. With careful planning, local support, and a focus on customer needs, you can build a thriving business that reaches across Europe.