When registering for VAT in France, the French tax authorities (Service des Impôts) require proof that your business is real, active, and legally established.
For this reason, certain documents must be provided to hellotax so we can submit your VAT registration application.

Below is a simple guide explaining what documents are required — and why.

1. Company Establishment Document / Certificate of Incorporation

What it is

The official document confirming your company’s legal formation (for example, a Company Register extract).

Why it’s needed

It proves that your business exists as a legal entity.

How to get a new copy

You can request an updated extract from your local Company Register or Companies House (depending on your country). Many registers allow you to download documents online for a small fee.

2. VAT Certificate (Home Country – if applicable)

What it is

A document confirming that your company is registered for VAT in its home country (if already applicable).

Why it’s needed

It demonstrates that your business already operates within the VAT system, which supports your French VAT registration.

How to get a new copy

Request a current VAT certificate from your local tax authority, often available via an online tax portal.

3. Tax Identification Certificate (if applicable)

What it is

A document showing your company’s tax identification number (this may be different from your VAT number in some countries).

Why it’s needed

The French tax authorities may require confirmation that your business is registered for tax purposes in its home country.

How to get a new copy

Contact your home country’s tax authority. In many cases, this can be downloaded via their online system.

4. Articles of Association

What it is

The legal document that defines how your company is structured and identifies directors or legal representatives.

Why it’s needed

The French tax office must know who is legally responsible for the company.

How to get a new copy

This can usually be obtained from your Company Register or the legal provider that set up your company.

5. Company Bank Statement

What it is

A recent company bank statement showing:

• Bank name and address

• Account holder name

• IBAN / SWIFT (BIC)

Why it’s needed

It proves that your company has an active business bank account.

Note: This does not have to be the account you will later use to pay French VAT.

How to get a new copy

Download an official PDF statement from your online banking platform or request a stamped statement from your bank.

6. Director’s ID or Passport

What it is

A valid, government-issued photo ID (passport or national ID card) for the company director(s) or legal representative(s).

Why it’s needed

The French tax authorities must verify the identity of the individuals responsible for the company.

How to get a new copy

Ensure the document is valid and not expired. Renew it through your local authority if needed.

7. Additional information you may be asked to provide

Depending on your business model, the French tax office may request additional documentation, such as:

• Previous VAT registrations in other EU countries

• Proof of warehouse or storage facilities in France (address, lease, contracts)

• Sales agreements or contracts demonstrating French business activity

• Import or customs documentation

• Proof of online marketplace activity (Amazon, eBay, etc.)

✅ Quick Checklist

• All documents must be recent (issued within the last 6 months)

• Documents must be clear and readable (PDF scans preferred; no blurry photos)

• If translations are required, hellotax will inform you

👉 Providing these documents promptly helps ensure your French VAT registration is processed smoothly and without unnecessary delays.