The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not legal, tax, or financial advice. Tax laws change frequently and may vary based on individual circumstances. Always verify specific rates, deadlines, and requirements with a qualified tax professional or your local tax authority before making any decisions.
How to get paid from French clients
France has strict invoicing rules and specific VAT (TVA) requirements. Getting these right ensures smooth payments.
Check Your Tax Obligations →EUR via SEPA
French companies pay via SEPA within the EU (free, 1-2 days). Outside EU, Wise EUR accounts with French IBANs work well. Wire transfers cost €15-25. French companies strongly prefer SEPA — get a EUR receiving account.
Payment details for France
TVA (French VAT) reverse charge
For B2B services from outside France, autoliquidation (reverse charge) applies. Your invoice must state "Autoliquidation de la TVA - article 283-2 du CGI" (for non-EU providers). EU providers reference the relevant directive. Missing this line WILL cause payment delays.
French invoicing specifics
French law requires factures (invoices) to include: SIREN/SIRET of the French client, your business details, sequential numbering, precise service dates, and mandatory legal mentions. France is increasingly requiring e-invoicing — check if your client uses a platform like Chorus Pro (mandatory for government clients).
Payment terms (Loi LME)
French law limits B2B payment terms to 60 days from invoice date (or 45 days end of month). French companies generally respect these limits. Late payment penalties are legally mandated at 3x the legal interest rate plus a fixed €40 recovery fee.
Payment tips for France freelancers
Always submit tax forms (W-8BEN, NR301, or equivalent) before your first payment to avoid unnecessary withholding.
Track every payment with date, foreign currency amount, exchange rate, and local currency equivalent for accurate tax reporting.
Compare payment platform fees across at least 3 providers — the savings add up to 2-5% of your annual income.
Keep all payment fees and currency conversion costs documented — they are tax-deductible business expenses.
Use a multi-currency account (Wise, Payoneer) to hold funds and convert when exchange rates are favorable.
Invoice promptly after delivery and set clear payment terms (Net 15 or Net 30) to maintain consistent cash flow.
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