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How to Stress-Test Your French Business Plan Before You Submit It

There’s nothing quite like the nerves that hit when you finish your French business plan!

You’ve spent hours pulling together numbers, research and details, but how do you know it’s actually strong enough to support your Profession Libérale visa application?

It’s completely normal to feel a wave of second-guessing at this stage. In fact, most applicants I’ve worked with say this is when the real “what ifs” kick in.

Here’s how to do a final review before you submit,  so you can send your plan off with confidence that you’ve covered every angle.

1. Read it like an outsider

Imagine you know nothing about your own business. Would you understand what you’re offering, why it matters, and how it will work in France

Tip: Print it out or read it aloud – clunky sentences or confusing logic will jump out. Pass it to a friend or family member to check too.

2. Is it all accurate?

Do your numbers add up? Are your sales targets achievable for someone new in France? Did you factor in realistic expenses (taxes, insurance, living costs)?

French officials aren’t looking for wild growth plans; they want to see if you can support yourself and hit the SMIC (French minimum wage).

3. Is your market research specific?

Generic statements like “France is a great market for coaching” or “people in a Facebook group said it was a good idea” won’t cut it. Show you’ve checked the numbers, identified your niche, and know who your competitors are.

4. Is your plan structured and easy to follow?

Long, rambling paragraphs or missing sections make it harder for the reviewer. Use clear headings, bullet points, and keep each section focused.

5. Have you answered the “so what?”

For every section, ask: “Why does this matter to the reviewer?” You’re not just proving your idea is viable, but that you’ll be able to support yourself without being a burden.


If you’re using my French Business Plan Template, you’ll find review prompts built in for each section, so you can double-check you’ve covered what matters. The template isn’t just for writing, it’s there to help you submit a plan you can feel confident about.

Ready to finish your plan and send it off without the “what if I missed something” feeling?

Get the French Business Plan Template here.