I am non-EU, resident in France. I plan to do some freelance translation work in the language combinations English >< Afrikaans, for companies/agents in the UK, USA or South Africa. All work will be received and delivered per email. Do I have to register a business in France? How will I declare the income for tax purposes? Do I need any authorisation before I can start doing this?
Already Tried: I spoke to a French accountant who did not have any idea. My experience is that civil servants, especially in more remote areas also do not understand similar situations.
Yes, since you are a French resident, you will need to register at least as an entrepreneur individuel, (i.e. obtain a SIRET number and register both with Social Security and tax authorities). Should you plan on a yearly turnover below 32600 euros, you should consider the auto entrepreneur status which is very flexible. You will have to declare your income online quarterly and pay you social security contributions. Depending on your other income and tax status in France, you may also pay your income tax along with social security contributions. Otherwise you will have to file a yearly income tax return.http://www.lautoentrepreneur.fr/ is the official website for registration.
Thank you for this answer. Maybe my situation is a bit more complicated. I have a residence permit (carte de sejour) with a declaration that I will not work in France. As far as I am concerned , my work will not be "in France" at all, allthough I will be physically at my address in France when I do the translations, nor does one find many people in France able to do English><Afrikaans translation!
Can I expect any problems registering as an entrepeneur individuel? The accountant in our village is willing to do the registration for me, but did not know if it will be allowed?
Additional info - I am a South African citizen.
Thank you
Theresa
Yes you cannot register as entrepreneur individuel with such a carte de séjour. If you want to operate legally , you will need to change your immigration status first, I am afraid.
Experience: 8 years as a Senior judge at Paris Conseil de Prud'hommes (Paris Industrial Tribunal)
Many thanks for your advice .