# Can you set up a company before turning 18?

Updated : 2026-10-24 · Source : https://legalrapide.fr/en/reponses/creer-societe-mineur/

Yes, from **16**. A non-emancipated minor can set up and run **a SASU or an EURL**, and only these two forms, with **their parents' authorisation** (or the guardian's) to carry out acts of administration alone. They cannot create a sole proprietorship, micro-entreprise included, or carry on an activity that requires trader status.

## The three conditions
1. Be at least 16.
2. Have the authorisation of the parents, the guardian or the family council, as a **written declaration signed by the parents and the minor**, or as a **notarial deed**.
3. Create a single-shareholder company: SASU or EURL.

## What the minor can do alone, and what they cannot
| Alone, with the authorisation | Reserved to the parents, with the guardianship judge's approval |
|---|---|
| Acts of administration: opening the bank account, signing an insurance contract… | Acts of disposal: bank loan, buying or selling a business… |

## Possible activities
Those that require no diploma or specific qualification: internet businesses, training, IT repair… Regulated activities keep their conditions, which rules many of them out for a minor. See [regulated activity](/en/reponses/activite-reglementee-objet-social/).

## The emancipated minor
Emancipation, possible from age 16 by decision of the guardianship judge, opens up sole proprietorship and the other company forms. To be a **trader** (commerçant), an emancipated minor also needs a court authorisation to carry on trade.

## Before you start
Prepare the written authorisation before depositing the capital and signing the articles: it is what allows the minor to open the account and sign alone.

## FAQ
**Can a minor set up a SAS with friends?**
Not if they are not emancipated: only a single-shareholder company (SASU or EURL) is open to them. Once emancipated, they can be a shareholder in a SAS or a SARL.


## Sources
- [Service-public: from what age can you set up a business?](https://entreprendre.service-public.gouv.fr/vosdroits/F31627)