Setting up a bank account in France is usually one of the first steps for anyone looking to settle down or do business here. Whether you’re moving for a fresh start, joining a job, or expanding your business, having a local bank account makes managing your finances a lot easier. So, let’s walk through the essentials—how to get started, what you’ll need, and a few tips to open bank account in France online.
Types of bank accounts in France
In France, bank accounts generally fall into two main types:
- Personal Account (Compte Courant): This is your everyday current account, great for handling daily expenses, paying bills, and saving a little on the side. Most personal accounts are available to both residents and non-residents, though each bank might have its own criteria.
- Business Account (Compte Professionnel): If you’re setting up shop or running a business in France, a business account is a must. It helps you keep track of corporate finances, pay suppliers, receive payments, and access various business banking services.
Documents needed to open a bank account
Here’s a quick list of the documents you’ll most definitely need:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Passport or National ID | Proof of identity |
| Proof of Address | Recent utility bill or rental agreement |
| Residence Permit (if applicable) | Proof of legal status in France |
| Proof of Income/Employment | For assessing eligibility and financial status |
| Business Registration (for business accounts) | Proof of business activity |
Steps to open a bank account in France
- Choose a Bank: You’ll have a range of options, from big names like BNP Paribas and Société Générale to digital-friendly neobanks. The advantage with some neobanks is the option for EU and even non-EU residents to open an account remotely—handy if you’d rather skip the in-person visit.
- Submit Your Application: Traditional banks may require you to visit a branch, while online banks often streamline this with a digital application. Just fill in the online forms and upload your documents.
- Verify Your Identity: For in-person verification, traditional banks have you covered, but online banks may verify through a quick video call or third-party service.
- Receive Your Account Details: Once everything’s approved, you’ll get your account details (IBAN) and access to online banking. This can take a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the bank.
Considerations for expats and non-residents
Opening a bank account as a non-resident can have extra steps, but it’s entirely doable. Some traditional banks might have stricter requirements for non-residents, but online banks can offer a more flexible, remote-friendly approach—ideal if you’re not planning to be in France for every small detail.
Using your French bank account
With your account set up, you’re ready to start managing your finances. Most banks have online platforms and apps that make it easy to pay bills, send money, and keep track of spending. If you choose a multi-currency account, you can even hold and exchange different currencies, which is an enormous help for international transactions.
Summing up
Setting up a bank account in France might sound daunting, especially with a new banking system to navigate. But with the right documents and a clear idea of the process, it’s quite manageable. Plus, with more online options available, you might find it’s simpler than you thought—no need to step foot in a branch if you don’t want to!