ISBN by country

How to get an ISBN in France

How to get an ISBN in France: ISBNs are issued by AFNIL (free of charge). Steps, costs, barcodes and how many you need.

Step by step

  1. Decide the formats you will publish (paperback, hardcover, ebook, audiobook) — each needs its own ISBN.
  2. Create an account with AFNIL and register your publisher or imprint name.
  3. Request your ISBNs.
  4. Assign each ISBN to a title and format, and enter the metadata (title, contributors, format, publication date, price).
  5. Print the ISBN on the copyright page and as an EAN-13 barcode on the back cover.
  6. Fulfil legal deposit with your national library if required.

Frequently asked questions

Are ISBNs free in France?
Yes — AFNIL: free.
Who issues ISBNs in France?
AFNIL. Buy only from the official agency or its authorised resellers.