Expanding Internationally? Here’s How to Start a Business in Europe

Starting a business in Europe has become a top strategic move for companies looking to access new markets, diversify operations, and build global credibility. Whether you're an Indian entrepreneur, a tech founder, or a manufacturing business owner, Europe offers a stable and lucrative environment for international expansion.

In this article, we’ll break down the essential steps, benefits, and considerations for launching your venture in Europe — and how expert consultants like Exportis can help simplify the process.

Why Start a Business in Europe?

Europe is not just a collection of developed economies; it's a unified marketplace with strong legal protections, advanced infrastructure, and a skilled workforce. When you set up your business in Europe, you gain:

• Access to a market of over 450 million consumers (EU zone)

• World-class infrastructure and logistics

• Legal certainty and intellectual property protection

• Credibility with international customers and partners

• Supportive governments with grants, R&D tax relief, and innovation funding

Countries like France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Ireland are particularly attractive for foreign businesses due to their startup ecosystems, tax incentives, and global connectivity.

Key Steps to Start a Business in Europe

1. Choose the Right Country
Your choice depends on several factors: industry focus, target audience, tax regimes, and ease of doing business. For instance:

• France is ideal for innovation, fashion, luxury, and tech

• Germany is strong in engineering and manufacturing

• The Netherlands is known for logistics and e-commerce

• Ireland is attractive for tech and finance due to low corporate tax

Each country has its own set of regulations, business structures, and registration processes.

2. Decide on the Legal Structure
Europe offers various business forms like:

• SAS (Simplified Joint Stock Company) in France

• GmbH (Private Limited Company) in Germany

• BV (Private Limited Liability Company) in the Netherlands

• LTD (Limited Company) in Ireland and the UK

Choosing the right structure affects your tax, liability, and regulatory obligations.

3. Register the Business Locally
You’ll typically need to:

• Reserve a company name

• Open a local business bank account

• Submit legal documents and a business plan

• Register for VAT and other applicable taxes

• Get a trade license, if required

The process can vary from a few days to several weeks depending on the country.

4. Understand Local Tax and Compliance Requirements
Each European country has specific tax rates, accounting rules, and filing procedures. Hiring a local accountant or consultant helps avoid penalties and keeps your business compliant.

For example, France offers a reduced corporate tax rate (25%), while also providing R&D tax credits and subsidies for green and digital startups.

5. Hire Talent and Understand Labor Laws
Europe has strict labor laws designed to protect workers. Before hiring, you should understand:

• Minimum wage and employee benefits

• Employment contracts and probation periods

• Termination rules and social security contributions

Countries like France and Germany offer streamlined visa programs for skilled foreign workers and company founders.

Why Work with a Business Consultant?

Expanding internationally involves navigating new legal, cultural, and administrative systems. This is where an experienced consultant can make all the difference.

Exportis is a specialized business consultancy that helps Indian and international entrepreneurs start and scale their businesses in Europe — especially in France. Their services include:

• Market research and entry strategy

• Company registration and legal compliance

• Visa and residency permit assistance

• Tax and accounting setup

• Ongoing business support and local networking

Exportis ensures a seamless expansion process, helping you avoid costly mistakes and focus on growing your brand.

Final Thoughts

Starting a business in Europe in 2025 is a smart move for entrepreneurs who want global reach, legal stability, and market diversity. Whether you're targeting France for innovation or Germany for manufacturing, Europe provides the ecosystem, talent, and infrastructure you need.

With the right strategy — and support from partners like Exportis — you can expand internationally with confidence and clarity.