How to Set Up a Company or Branch in the Czech Republic: Legal Basics and Practical Tips for French Businesses

Expanding your French business into the Czech Republic is a strategic move into the heart of Central Europe. This guide provides specific legal answers to help you navigate the process of establishing a company or branch. As a leading Czech law firm in Prague, European Union, ARROWS has extensive experience assisting foreign clients, and our English-speaking lawyers are here to ensure your market entry is both smooth and successful.

Need advice on this topic? Contact the ARROWS law firm by email office@arws.cz or phone +420 245 007 740. Your question will be answered by "Mgr. Vojtěch Sucharda", an expert on the subject.

Your First Strategic Choice: A Czech Subsidiary (s.r.o.) or a Branch Office?

The first decision you will make is foundational: whether to establish an independent Czech subsidiary or register a branch of your French parent company. 

This choice has significant long-term consequences for liability, operations, and your company’s perception in the local market. Each structure serves a different strategic purpose.

Why the s.r.o. is the Preferred Structure for Foreign Investors

For most French businesses, the limited liability company, or společnost s ručením omezeným (s.r.o.), is the most advantageous structure. 

It is the Czech equivalent of a French SARL and is the most common legal form for foreign investors. An s.r.o. is an independent Czech legal entity, legally distinct from its French parent company.

This separation creates a crucial liability shield. Shareholders are only liable for the company's obligations up to the amount of their unpaid capital contributions, effectively protecting the assets of your French parent company from any risks or debts incurred by the Czech operation.

Furthermore, the financial barrier to entry is exceptionally low. 

The minimum required share capital is just CZK 1 (less than €0.05), making this secure legal structure highly accessible. 

An s.r.o. is also perceived by local banks, partners, and public authorities as a more permanent and committed local business, which can be a significant advantage when securing contracts or financing.

When a Branch Office Offers a Tactical Advantage

A branch office, known in Czech as an organizační složka, is not a separate legal entity. Instead, it functions as a direct extension of the French parent company.

This means the French parent company remains fully and directly liable for all debts, obligations, and legal actions of its Czech branch.

The main advantage of a branch is its simplicity in certain respects; for example, no share capital is required, and internal financial transfers between the head office and the branch are informal.

However, a branch must still be registered in the Czech Commercial Register, obtain the necessary trade licenses, and maintain its own set of accounts according to Czech law.

This structure is best suited for limited-scope activities, such as a representative office or an initial market test where direct liability is an acceptable risk.

The strategic landscape has shifted in recent years. Historically, businesses chose a branch to avoid depositing large sums of share capital. Now, with the s.r.o.’s minimum capital requirement at a symbolic CZK 1, this financial advantage of a branch has been neutralized. 

The primary drawback of a branch—the unlimited liability of the parent company—remains, making the s.r.o. the safer and more strategic choice for nearly all long-term business plans.

Risks and penalties	How ARROWS helps
Unlimited Liability Exposure: The assets of your French parent company are directly at risk from any debts or legal disputes arising from your Czech operations if you choose a branch structure.	Legal consultation on corporate structuring to shield parent company assets and limit financial risk. For tailored advice, contact us at office@arws.cz.
Negative Market Perception: A branch may be viewed by local banks, suppliers, and major clients as a less permanent or committed presence, potentially hindering business relationships and access to financing.	Advising on the optimal legal form for building credibility and supporting long-term growth in the Czech market. Need to discuss your business plan? Email us at office@arws.cz.
Complex Cross-Border Compliance: While internal transfers are informal, a branch must still adhere to Czech accounting and tax laws, creating a dual compliance burden that can lead to confusion and errors.	Legal oversight on compliance and connecting clients with our network of trusted accounting partners to ensure seamless operations. For immediate assistance, write to us at office@arws.cz.

Navigating the Legal Landscape: Key Differences from French Corporate Law

Understanding the differences between Czech and French corporate law is essential for a seamless transition. 

French executives and in-house counsel should be aware of key distinctions in corporate governance, director duties, and liability standards to avoid unexpected legal challenges.

From SARL/SAS to s.r.o.: What Changes for Your Business Structure?

The Czech s.r.o. offers a remarkable degree of flexibility in its founding document, the společenská smlouva (Memorandum of Association). 

This allows shareholders to create a highly customized governance structure that defines voting rights, profit distribution, and director responsibilities.

This flexibility is comparable to the French SAS, but within a simpler and more cost-effective framework than the more rigidly regulated French SARL.

An s.r.o. is managed by one or more executive directors, known as a jednatel. Unlike some corporate structures in France or Germany, there is no mandatory supervisory board for an s.r.o., which simplifies its governance.

This allows French businesses to design an efficient management structure, but it also underscores the importance of precisely drafting the founding documents to clearly define powers and protect shareholder interests.

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Director Liability: Understanding "Due Managerial Care" (Péče Řádného Hospodáře)

One of the most critical legal differences for a French director to understand is the Czech standard of director liability. Czech law imposes a broad and proactive duty of "due managerial care" (péče řádného hospodáře) on every jednatel.

This standard requires directors to act with loyalty, the necessary knowledge, and diligence in all their decisions.

This differs from the French concept of faute de gestion (management fault), which is often identified retroactively during insolvency proceedings as a specific error that contributed to the company's financial downfall.

The Czech standard is continuous; it is not just about avoiding specific faults but about consistently maintaining a high standard of informed and prudent management.

A director who breaches this duty can be held personally liable for any resulting damages to the company.

In cases of insolvency, a director who fails to file an insolvency petition in a timely manner can be held personally liable to the company's creditors for their losses.

This proactive duty creates a clear imperative for directors to document their decision-making processes, seek expert advice when needed, and maintain meticulous records to demonstrate that they have acted in the company's best interests.

FAQ – Legal Tips on Director Responsibilities in the Czech Republic

1. Can a French citizen be a director of a Czech s.r.o. without living there?
Yes, a French national can serve as a director without holding a Czech residency permit, provided they manage the company from abroad and do not reside in the country. Our lawyers can clarify the specific requirements for your situation – email us at office@arws.cz. 

2. What is the biggest liability risk for a new director?
Failing to file for insolvency in a timely manner. Czech law requires directors to act without undue delay upon learning of the company's insolvency, and failure to do so can result in personal liability for the company's debts. Get tailored legal solutions by writing to office@arws.cz. 

3. How can I prove I acted with "due managerial care"?
By maintaining thorough records of decisions, seeking expert advice when necessary, and always acting in the company's best interests. ARROWS provides professional training for management to ensure compliance. For details, contact us at office@arws.cz. 

The Step-by-Step Guide to Establishing Your Czech Company

The administrative process for setting up a company in the Czech Republic is straightforward and efficient, provided you have prepared all the necessary documentation correctly. 

Delays almost always stem from incorrect or incomplete paperwork from the home country.

What Documents Will You Need from France? (The Role of the Apostille)

To establish a Czech company, you will need to provide several official documents from France. These documents must be properly authenticated for use in the Czech Republic.

• For Individuals (Directors/Shareholders): You will need a valid passport and an extract from the French criminal register (Bulletin n°3 du casier judiciaire) that is no more than three months old.
• For a Corporate Shareholder: You must provide a recent extract from the French Trade and Companies Register (extrait Kbis) to prove the legal existence and current representatives of the French parent company.
• The Apostille Requirement: Because both France and the Czech Republic are signatories to the 1961 Hague Convention, all public documents issued by French authorities must be authenticated with an Apostille. This is a critical step that validates the document for international use. The Apostille must be obtained in France before the documents are brought to the Czech Republic.
• Official Translation: After being apostilled, all documents must be officially translated into Czech by a sworn translator who is registered with a Czech court.

The critical path to a fast market entry does not begin in Prague, but in the relevant administrative office in France. 

The process of obtaining the criminal record, the Kbis, and then securing the Apostille from the competent French authority (such as a Court of Appeal) can take several weeks if not managed efficiently. 

ARROWS provides expert guidance on these preliminary steps to prevent costly delays.

From Notary to Commercial Register: The Official Process

Once your apostilled and translated documents are ready, the Czech registration process can proceed quickly.

1. Obtain a Trade License (živnostenský list): This is typically the first official step. The license authorizes the company to conduct its intended business activities and is obtained from the Trade Licensing Office.

2. Draft Founding Documents: Our lawyers will draft the company's founding document—either a Deed of Foundation (Zakladatelská listina) for a single founder or a Memorandum of Association (Společenská smlouva) for multiple founders.

3. Secure a Registered Office: You must provide proof of a legal address (sídlo) in the Czech Republic. This is usually done with a signed consent form from the property owner, whose signature must be officially verified.

4. Notary Appointment: The founding documents are executed in the form of a notarial deed before a Czech notary. A key advantage of the Czech system is that the notary can often perform a direct registration of the company into the Commercial Register, which is the fastest method available.

5. Register in the Commercial Register (Obchodní rejstřík): This is the final step that officially establishes the company as a legal entity.1 The official proof of registration, equivalent to the French Kbis, is an extract from the Commercial Register (výpis z obchodního rejstříku).

6. Post-Registration Formalities: After registration, the new company must register with the Financial Office for taxes and with the relevant social security and health insurance authorities.

ARROWS can manage this entire process on your behalf through a power of attorney, minimizing the need for you to be physically present and ensuring every step is completed correctly and efficiently.

Risks and penalties	How ARROWS helps
Incorrect or Missing Apostille: Submitting French documents without the required Apostille will lead to their immediate rejection by the Czech notary, halting the entire registration process and causing significant delays.	Drafting documentation and providing clear, step-by-step checklists for all foreign document requirements, including the Apostille process. Need help with your documents? Contact us at office@arws.cz.
Failure to Register Beneficial Owners: Czech law requires all companies to identify and list their Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBOs) in a central register. Failure to comply can result in substantial fines and operational restrictions.	Legal analysis of your ownership structure and handling the complete registration in the Register of Beneficial Owners to ensure full transparency and compliance. Do not hesitate to contact our firm – office@arws.cz.
Invalid Registered Address Consent: Using an improper address or failing to obtain a properly verified written consent from the property owner is a common mistake that will block the company's registration in the Commercial Register.	Review of lease agreements and preparation of all legally required documentation for your registered office. Our lawyers are ready to assist you – email us at office@arws.cz.

The Czech Business Environment: Tax, Employment, and Compliance

Operating successfully in the Czech Republic requires a clear understanding of the local tax and employment regulations, which differ in important ways from the French system.

The Tax Advantage: A Favourable Corporate Tax System

The Czech Republic offers a competitive tax environment for businesses. The corporate income tax (CIT) rate is 21%, a notable advantage compared to France's standard rate of 25.8%.

This lower rate allows for greater profit retention, which can be used to fuel growth and reinvestment in your Czech operations.

Furthermore, the Czech Republic and France have a comprehensive Double Taxation Treaty. 

This agreement is crucial for international businesses as it prevents the same income from being taxed in both countries and provides clarity on taxing rights.

The treaty significantly reduces or eliminates withholding taxes on cross-border payments of dividends, interest, and royalties, ensuring an efficient repatriation of profits to the French parent company.

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Hiring Your Team: Critical Employment Law Considerations

French HR managers must adapt their practices to comply with Czech labour law. A key operational difference is the standard work week, which is 40 hours in the Czech Republic, compared to the statutory 35 hours in France.

Terminating an employment contract is also highly regulated. An employer in the Czech Republic must provide a legally valid reason for dismissal, chosen from a specific list of grounds defined in the Labour Code.

This is a strict requirement, and failure to adhere to the correct procedure can lead to the dismissal being declared invalid by a court. While French law also requires a "real and serious cause," the specific legal grounds and procedural steps differ.

Finally, companies must be careful to correctly classify their workers. Using self-employed contractors to perform work that legally constitutes dependent employment (a practice known as the "Švarc system") is illegal and subject to severe financial penalties.

FAQ – Legal Tips on Czech Employment Contracts

1. Can we use our standard French employment contract?
No. Employment contracts are strictly governed by the Czech Labour Code, and using a French template presents a significant legal risk. ARROWS specializes in drafting compliant Czech employment contracts for foreign companies. For immediate assistance, write to us at office@arws.cz.

2. What is the standard notice period for termination?
The statutory notice period is two months for both the employer and the employee and begins on the first day of the month following the delivery of the notice. Need legal help with a termination? Contact us at office@arws.cz. 

3. Are French citizens required to get a work permit?
No. As EU citizens, French nationals have the right to live and work in the Czech Republic without needing a work permit or visa, enjoying the same rights as Czech citizens. For assistance with any registration formalities, email us at office@arws.cz. 

Risks and penalties	How ARROWS helps
Incorrect Application of Withholding Tax: Failing to apply the correct tax rates under the Double Taxation Treaty or domestic law can lead to tax arrears and significant penalties from the Czech tax authorities.	Providing legal opinions on tax matters and ensuring your cross-border transactions comply with international treaties and EU directives. Get tailored legal solutions by writing to office@arws.cz.
Wrongful Termination Lawsuits: Dismissing an employee without a legally recognized reason or without following the strict procedural requirements can result in costly litigation, damages, and even court-ordered reinstatement.	Representation in court and drafting all necessary HR documentation, including termination notices, to prevent fines and legal disputes. Need legal representation? Write to office@arws.cz.
Penalties for "Švarc System": Misclassifying employees as independent contractors to avoid social security contributions can lead to fines of up to CZK 10,000,000 (approx. €400,000) for the company.	Contract drafting and review to ensure your worker classifications are legally sound and compliant with the Czech Labour Code. Do you need a contract prepared? Contact us at office@arws.cz.

How ARROWS Secures Your Successful Market Entry

Expanding into a new country presents challenges, from navigating a new corporate structure and understanding different liability standards to managing cross-border documentation and complying with unfamiliar tax and employment laws.

ARROWS is here to turn these challenges into opportunities. We have a proven track record of supporting over 150 joint-stock companies and 250 limited liability companies in their operations.

As an international law firm operating from Prague, European Union, we are perfectly positioned to act as your local legal partner, combining deep knowledge of Czech law with an understanding of the needs of international business. 

Through our ARROWS International network, built over more than 10 years, we provide clients with trusted legal support in over 90 countries, making us an ideal partner for French companies with broader European or global ambitions.

Our legal team is ready to assist you with every aspect of your expansion, including the preparation of internal company policies, drafting all required legal documentation for company formation, contract review, representation before public authorities, and providing professional training for your management team.

Let us handle the legal complexities so you can focus on what you do best: growing your business. For a consultation on your expansion into the Czech Republic, contact our team today by writing to office@arws.cz.

FAQ – Most Common Legal Questions About Entering the Czech Market

1. How long does the entire process of setting up an s.r.o. typically take?
If all necessary documents from France are correctly prepared with an Apostille, the process can be remarkably fast. With a notary handling the direct registration into the Commercial Register, the company can be officially established in just a few business days. To ensure an efficient process, get in touch with our legal team at office@arws.cz. 

2. What is the Czech equivalent of an extrait Kbis and how do I get it for my new company?
The equivalent is the "extract from the Commercial Register" (výpis z obchodního rejstříku). It is a public document available online for informational purposes. For official use, a certified copy can be obtained instantly at any "Czech POINT" office, often located at post offices. Our firm can obtain official extracts on your behalf. For assistance, please contact office@arws.cz. 

3. Can I manage my Czech company entirely from France?
Yes, it is legally possible to manage the company's operations remotely. However, you must maintain a registered office address in the Czech Republic and ensure full compliance with all Czech accounting, tax, and corporate reporting obligations. For assistance with ongoing compliance, write to us at office@arws.cz. 

4. After the company is registered, how do we open a business bank account?
You will need the company's founding documents, a fresh extract from the Commercial Register, and the personal identification of the directors. Due to strict anti-money laundering (AML) regulations, most Czech banks require at least one director to visit a branch in person to finalize the process. Our lawyers can assist with this process; for support, email us at office@arws.cz. 

5. What are the main annual compliance duties for a Czech s.r.o.?
The key annual duties include holding a general meeting to approve the financial statements, filing the approved statements in the Commercial Register's Collection of Deeds, and filing the annual corporate income tax return with the Financial Office. Our team can manage your corporate compliance agenda. Do not hesitate to contact our firm – office@arws.cz. 

6. Does ARROWS have experience working with French companies?
Absolutely. As a leading Czech law firm in Prague, EU, we regularly represent foreign clients, including many from France. Our team understands the legal and cultural differences and is equipped to provide seamless, expert legal support in English and often in French. To discuss your project, please write to office@arws.cz.

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