Well, since I'm french, it was easier. There is a new status called 'autoentrepreneur' and it makes it quite easy for people to start a business (very little tax as long as you don't make more than 80000 euros a year, don't have employees etc).
sounds good! I ran away from france to holland a few years ago because of this. I don't remember exactly but the threshold was much lower than 80000€
Wish you lots of luck!
funny. I moved from france to holland three years ago, but have now started my business in France this month. I'm currently traveling but am still undecided on where to "settle" :-)