It is compulsory for artisans to get listed on the Chambre de Metiers directory since 1st April 2010. This registration on the Registre des Metiers normally costs about 200€, but auto-entrepreneurs will not be charged until they switch to a different regime - such as entreprise individuelle or SARL under regime reel simplifie.
As I mentioned before on this blog, Chambres de Metiers are not very keen on the auto-entrepreneur regime, as they see it as a way to legalise the black market. One of their major criticism was the lack of control on artisans’ qualifications. Many activities such as carpenter, builder, electrician, plumber, hairdresser or beauctician, relating to Chambre de Metier need a professional qualification (CAP-BEP) or at least 3 years of experience. Until recently Chambre de Metiers had to way of controlling this basic requirement.
Adding all auto-entrepreneurs on the Registre de la Chambre de Metiers will enable them to double check the entrepreneur’s qualification. So what do you need to do? Wait for the Chambre de Metiers to contact you. Some forum members have already received a letter requesting business details such as siret number, activity code, NAF code and their address. If your activity is regulated, get ready by having your diploma translated. If you have no qualifications but have an experience of at least 3 years in this field, as self employed or employee, get some proof at the ready, e.g. pay slips, accounts.