French accounting firms: your partner for managing your subsidiary

Our key services designed for international subsidiaries

Vachon offers a comprehensive suite of services specifically tailored for foreign-owned businesses.

Accounting and financial reporting

We ensure that your French accounting operations meet both local legal requirements and international reporting expectations, by providing:

• the complete recording of financial transactions in accordance with the French General Chart of Accounts (Plan Comptable Général), ensuring compliance with all local regulations;

• the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual closings, including the production of mandatory financial statements (balance sheet, income statement, and notes to accounts);

• the creation of management reporting packages tailored to reconcile French statutory accounts with group reporting under IFRS, US GAAP, or other standards;

• the handling of fixed asset management, including asset capitalization, amortization schedules, and disposals tracking;

• the implementation of monthly account reconciliations to maintain data consistency and reliability throughout the year;

• the maintenance of mandatory accounting books and registers required under French law, including the Journal, Ledger, and Inventory Book;

• the support during internal and external audits by preparing audit files, providing requested documentation, and answering auditors' questions efficiently.

Tax compliance and advisory

We help your business meet its tax obligations in France while identifying opportunities for fiscal optimization, through:

• the preparation and submission of all necessary tax filings, including VAT returns (monthly or quarterly), corporate income tax returns (annual), and local taxes such as CVAE and CFE;

• the calculation of tax provisions and deferred taxes for accurate financial reporting and tax planning;

• the application of international tax treaties to reduce withholding taxes on dividends, royalties, and service payments, thereby preventing double taxation;

• the representation of your company before French tax authorities during routine filings, tax audits, or reassessments, ensuring your interests are fully defended;

• the assistance in identifying and securing tax credits and incentives, such as the Research Tax Credit (CIR) or the Young Innovative Company status (JEI);

• the advisory on transfer pricing documentation requirements and the preparation of the appropriate reports to comply with French transfer pricing rules;

• the strategic tax planning for restructurings, mergers, or cross-border operations to minimize tax risks and optimize global tax positions.

Payroll and HR management

Managing human resources in France involves complying with complex labor and social security regulations. Our services include:

• the complete payroll processing, including monthly payslips, annual income summaries (DSN - Déclaration Sociale Nominative), and payroll journals;

• the calculation and payment of all social security contributions, retirement fund contributions, unemployment insurance, and other mandatory charges;

• the drafting, review, and management of employment contracts, ensuring compliance with French labor laws and sector-specific collective agreements;

• the management of employee benefits and welfare schemes, such as health insurance, life insurance, and pension plans, adapted to your sector and company size;

• the administration of expatriate and impatriate employee payrolls, including the application of specific social security exemptions or treaties when applicable;

• the guidance in managing employee onboarding and offboarding processes, including declarations to French labor authorities and preparation of required documents (DPAE, work certificates, unemployment certificates);

• the support in setting up employee incentive schemes, such as profit-sharing agreements (intéressement) or stock option plans, aligned with French tax advantages.

Corporate advisory and business optimization

Beyond traditional accounting and tax services, we provide strategic advice to strengthen your business presence in France:

• the assistance with company formation and registration processes, including drafting Articles of Association, obtaining company numbers (SIREN, SIRET), and opening bank accounts;

• the advisory on optimal legal structures for your French entity, such as subsidiary, branch, or liaison office, depending on your operational and tax needs;

• the management of corporate secretarial duties, including holding mandatory general meetings, preparing annual reports, and maintaining statutory records;

• the support during corporate reorganizations, mergers, demergers, or business transfers, ensuring compliance with legal, tax, and accounting requirements;

• the assistance in financial due diligence processes for acquisitions or investments, providing full audit and risk assessment reports;

• the optimization of cash management structures, including cash pooling arrangements and intercompany financing, within the regulatory framework in France;

• the strategic advisory on operational cost optimization, compliance risk reduction, and market entry strategy to support your long-term growth objectives in France.

Real-world success stories: helping companies thrive in France

Our experience is reflected in the successes we help create. Here are two examples:

Case study: US manufacturing company

A leading US-based manufacturer opened a subsidiary in France to serve European customers. Vachon provided:

• setup of an accounting system compliant with French standards and convertible into US GAAP for group reporting;

• design of efficient VAT management procedures;

• support in securing significant R&D tax credits;

• optimization of cash flow processes in line with French regulations.

Case study: UK services company

When a British services firm expanded through the acquisition of a French competitor, Vachon:

• conducted financial due diligence before acquisition;

• harmonized accounting policies post-integration;

• managed payroll and social obligations during the transition;

• provided continuous accounting and tax support, ensuring smooth operations.

In both cases, the companies gained financial clarity, compliance assurance, and operational confidence—allowing them to focus on business growth.

Why Vachon is the right choice as your french accounting firms?

Choosing the right chartered accountant can be the difference between operational success and regulatory headaches. Here is why foreign subsidiaries trust Vachon:

• specialized focus on supporting foreign-owned companies;

• fully bilingual team able to navigate both French and international environments;

• comprehensive service offering covering accounting, tax, payroll, and advisory;

• personalized, high-touch support ensuring responsiveness and understanding;

• commitment to technological excellence for efficient financial management.

At Vachon, we view every client not just as an account, but as a partner in long-term success.

Ready to strengthen your French operations?

Operating a subsidiary in France should be an opportunity to expand, not a burden to manage.
With Vachon as your french accounting firms, you gain a strategic partner who ensures compliance, optimizes your financial management, and supports your long-term growth.

Contact us today to discover how Vachon can help your business thrive in the French market.