Business France: how to finance and organise a V.I.E mission to grow internationally?

Business France's role

Business France is the public body responsible for the internationalisation of French companies, their export development and France's attractiveness. Within Team France Export, the agency works with the regions, the chambers of commerce and industry and Bpifrance to direct companies towards advice, prospecting missions, introductions and suitable funding solutions.

The referenced scheme: Volontariat International en Entreprise (V.I.E)

The V.I.E allows a company under French law to entrust a professional assignment abroad to an eligible young talent. Assignments can cover market research and prospecting, the search for partners or distributors, strengthening a local team, or preparing for a market entry. Business France handles part of the scheme's administrative and contractual management.

What are the costs and benefits for the company?

The V.I.E is based on a public status and a dedicated management framework, which allows the company to outsource several administrative, contractual and social formalities. The cost of the assignment depends in particular on the country, the applicable allowances, management fees and any costs related to the assignment. The reference framework mentions an exemption from social security contributions, which should be distinguished from additional financial support.

Who can use the V.I.E?

The scheme is open to legal entities under French law wishing to develop their international business, whether or not they already have a subsidiary or representation abroad. The company must obtain the required approval from Business France before entrusting its first assignment. The volunteer's profile and the content of the assignment must also comply with the scheme's rules.

How to prepare a V.I.E project?

Start by defining the target market, the assignment's measurable objectives, the tasks assigned and the resources required. Check the eligibility of the company and the candidate, obtain the required approval, estimate the cost per country and, in parallel, identify possible regional or sector-specific support. Within Team France Export, an advisor can help structure the export action plan and identify the relevant contacts.

FAQ

Is the V.I.E a grant? No, it is an international mobility scheme run by Business France; additional support may exist. Must a company already have a subsidiary abroad? No, the reference framework states this is not mandatory. Can regional support be requested after the assignment has started? The reference framework states that the request must be made before the assignment starts; check the rule with the managing body. Does Business France manage the volunteer? Yes, the agency handles in particular administrative and contractual aspects, allowances and social protection according to the programme's framework.

Official sources

• Volontariat International en Entreprise (V.I.E) — Business France
• Exporting worldwide — Business France
• France 2030 Export — Business France
• Growing your export business: available support — Ministry of the Economy
• 2026 export financing policy — Directorate General of the Treasury