I’m often asked, “How did you register your therapy business in France?” or “How did you get your SIRET number?”So here’s the story — plus an update on how the rules have evolved since I first applied.
🇫🇷 My Journey: Setting Up as a Therapist in France
When I registered my business over 10 years ago, I did so under the auto-entrepreneur scheme — now called micro-entrepreneur. It was a streamlined way for self-employed professionals to set up legally and start working, especially in the wellness, creative, and service-based fields.
To get my SIRET number (which is the unique identifier for any business in France), I submitted all of my therapy and professional qualifications to the local Chamber of Commerce (Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie).
They reviewed my credentials to verify that:
- I had the right qualifications to practice therapy,
- I met the required standards,
- And they could classify my business correctly in the French system.
Once approved, I was issued a SIRET number — and within that number was a code that identified my work as part of the medical and paramedical sector.
That classification is important because it affects how your business is regulated, what taxes and contributions you pay, and how clients can potentially get reimbursed depending on your services.
🧾 But Here’s What’s Changed…
Fast forward to today, and the process is more formal — especially for those wanting to work in regulated fields or offer therapy services.
Now, in most cases, you will need to:
- Register under the micro-entrepreneur system via urssaf.fr
- Submit your diplomas and qualifications (often officially translated into French)
- Be classified under a specific business activity code (code APE/NAF)
- And for certain professions — especially those linked to health, well-being, and personal development — you may be required to take a formal exam or proficiency test in French to ensure you understand French law, ethics, and can practice safely
This is part of France’s effort to professionalize and regulate alternative and complementary health fields, ensuring quality and safety for clients and fair recognition for practitioners.
💡 So What’s the Difference Between a SIRET and a SIREN?
This comes up a lot, too!
- SIREN is your main business number — 9 digits long, unique to your business.
- SIRET includes the SIREN + 5 digits that specify your location or establishment.
So, if you move cities or open a second practice, your SIRET may change, but your SIREN stays the same.
🙏 Why I’m Sharing This
I know how confusing setting up a practice in France can be, especially if you’re from abroad or navigating the process in a second language.
So if you’re dreaming of starting your own therapy, coaching, or wellness business here in France — I see you, and I’ve been there.
It’s completely possible, but it’s important to know the current rules, required qualifications, and language expectations. Be prepared to show documentation, demonstrate your expertise, and, in many cases, pass a basic exam in French if you’re applying under certain categories.
💬 Final Thoughts
I hope this clears things up. My experience was a little different because of when and how I applied, but the essential message is:
Do your homework, get your qualifications in order, and ask questions at your local Chamber of Commerce.They are there to guide you.
And always remember — just because the process has changed, doesn’t mean it’s impossible. It just means you’re building something legitimate, strong, and sustainable.
Bonne chance on your journey! 💼✨
