The decree (arrêté) of May 13, 2026, setting out the list of supporting documents required for an application for an economic viability assessment of self-employed activity – submitted in connection with the temporary residence permit “entrepreneur/self-employed professional” provided for under Article L. 421-5 of the CESEDA (French Code on the Entry and Residence of Foreigners and the Right of Asylum) – clarifies the documentation expected for this type of file.
Among the documents required in all applications, one new requirement is particularly worth noting for applicants residing outside France: the submission of a criminal record extract.
Who is affected?
This requirement applies only to foreign nationals residing outside France at the time of application. They must provide a criminal record extract, along with a French translation prepared by a certified (sworn) translator.
Other documents required in all applications
In addition to the criminal record extract, the annex to the decree provides that every application file must also include:
- a copy of the passport;
- where applicable, supporting documents demonstrating compliance with the regulatory conditions for exercising the intended profession or activity;
- if the activity is already registered, a certificate of registration with the National Business Register (RNE) dated less than six months prior.
Additional documents depending on the applicant’s situation
The decree then distinguishes between several scenarios:
Starting a new activity (sole proprietorship or company): a presentation of the project and business plan, proof of a credit balance on a bank account, supporting documents relating to premises and material resources, and evidence of relevant qualifications or experience.
Joining an existing company: a tax status statement (P 237), the company’s articles of association or proof of appointment, and – depending on the applicant’s status – either an employment contract or accounting documents evidencing income at least equivalent to the minimum wage (SMIC).
What this means for applicants
Applicants for the “entrepreneur/self-employed professional” residence permit who reside abroad should now plan ahead for:
- obtaining the criminal record extract from the competent authorities of their country of nationality;
- having it translated by a certified (sworn) translator;
- preparing the economic viability assessment file according to their specific situation (starting a new activity, taking over a business, or joining an existing company), ahead of submitting the residence permit application itself.