Opening a bank account in France as a foreigner

Residents of France need a bank account to pay government fees, bills and taxes, and to receive their salaries. Having a bank card is also convenient for everyday purchases and travel. Non-residents typically open accounts if they plan to purchase French property, set up a business, or make investments. Foreigners often use French banks to diversify and store assets, both personal and corporate.

Contrary to popular belief, a non-resident without a residence permit can also open an account in France, either in person or with the help of online registration. Some banks even have departments dedicated to non-residents. The idea that French banks have high service costs is also a myth. Opening an account in France is always free, with maintenance costs starting at EUR 34 per year.

To make it easier to open a bank account, many people choose to first obtain a residence permit. After all, the relocation process can take just 15 days, and with a residence permit, you can access the same banking services as citizens, including the ability to get a bank account. Foreigners often move to France as financially independent individuals or for business purposes.

How the French banking system works

Transfers between bank accounts in France and other financial transactions are carried out using the RIB (Relevé d’Identité Bancaire), which contains the relevant bank account details.

The RIB is a physical or electronic document issued by the bank upon account registration. It contains complete information about the account and its owner:

• the owner’s name and residential address;
• the name of the bank;
• the code of the bank and branch where the account was opened;
• the address of the financial institution;
• the account number;
• the RIB key;
• IBAN (International Bank Account Number);
• BIC/SWIFT code (International Bank Identifier).

Living in France without the RIB is practically impossible. It is required for receiving money. This includes salaries, social benefits and transfers to other people.

Many French organisations and services also offer automatic debits via direct debit payments (SEPA). For example, to pay taxes, you need to complete a direct debit authorisation form, after which the tax authority will automatically debit the funds from your account. Payments for mobile phone packages, internet services, public transport, rent and various subscriptions are processed similarly. One-off payments can also be made via SEPA.

Here are some other features of the French banking system that foreigners should be aware of:

• The right to an account. By law, everyone has the right to a bank account. If this right is denied, the Banque de France will assign a financial institution obligated to open an account. Foreigners with a residence permit in France or another EU country are also able to exercise this right.
• Fee-based account maintenance. Although opening an account is free, banks may charge fees for various transactions. France has a special government service that allows you to compare bank fees. The government also regulates fee levels by setting caps. For example, the annual fee for an inactive account cannot exceed EUR 30. Online banks tend to charge the lowest fees. In 2025, 86 out of 101 online banks charged an account maintenance fee, averaging EUR 21.4 per year.
• Overdraft (Découvert). Access to an overdraft in France is subject to a fee and is only available upon request. There is always a limit on the amount of credit you can use with a debit card. The standard amount is up to EUR 200 per month. Larger overdrafts require a credit check.
• Cash limit. The country has shifted heavily to online payments, so cash payments are not always possible. Using foreign cards can be inconvenient due to fees, which is why opening a French bank account is necessary.
• Use of checkbooks. French banks often open accounts that allow check payments, including within the Eurozone and abroad, although a fee may apply. For this purpose, clients are provided with a checkbook.
• Residential address. To open an account, you must confirm your current residential address, even if it is outside of France. Students who are currently looking for permanent housing may use the address of their university’s international relations department.

French banks may strictly verify the identity documents of new clients and request information about their income, assets, tax residency, and profession. Documents proving the origin of funds are requested for large transactions.

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Account types and features

In France, you can open several types of bank accounts (compte bancaire):

• Current account (compte courant). This can be an individual account, an account for a child, or a shared account between family members or roommates. There are 2 types of joint accounts: Compte joint, which allows any co-owner to withdraw funds at any time, and Compte indivis, which requires the consent of all co-owners for transactions. You can open these accounts as early as age 16.
• Savings account (compte d’épargne). There are 4 main types of savings accounts. Anyone can open a Livret A, the rate of which is set by the government and the income of which is tax-free. A similar account is the LDDS, which can be used to finance sustainable development projects. LEP accounts are only available to people with low incomes, so the interest rate is usually higher. A PEL account allows you to obtain a mortgage.
• Corporate account. All entrepreneurs in France, from the self-employed to large corporations, are required to open a current and/or corporate account. In addition to a business account, a corporate account can be used to manage finances.

In France, you can open a bankless account (Compte sans banque), with a card that allows you to make transfers but does not provide access to checkbooks or overdrafts. Online accounts that are fully managed through a mobile app are also available.

Is it possible to live in France without opening a French bank account?

Technically, foreigners can manage without a local account, even if they pay taxes in France. Local tax authorities do not require a French bank account, as tax payments of EUR 300 or more can be made through a direct debit registered in any SEPA country. This includes all EU member states, as well as Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Andorra, the Vatican, the United Kingdom, Monaco, and San Marino. However, having a French account can make everyday financial transactions and administrative procedures more convenient.

However, if you reside permanently in France, you must declare your foreign accounts annually. Exceptions:

• the account is intended for the purchase or sale of goods;
• your annual income did not exceed EUR 10,000;
• the account is linked to your French bank account.

Not having a French bank account can create difficulties, such as when trying to rent a home or connect to the internet. Despite this, foreigners often still register their accounts here due to the availability of this option. If you need help with this issue, it is worth contacting experienced lawyers.

Who can open a bank account in France?

The following people can open a bank account in France:

• Foreigners who are legally residing in the country. Holders of a French residence permit or permanent residence permit have full access to banking services, just like citizens;
• Holders of a residence permit from another EU country. EU residency facilitates access to banking services throughout the EU. If their application is denied, they can exercise their right to open an account by contacting the Banque de France;
• EU citizens living abroad. They can use all the same services in France as other citizens with an EU passport;
• Non-residents, or foreigners who do not have a residence permit. In this case, it’s easiest to open an account with an online bank or a neo-bank. However, if you’re looking to invest in real estate or the French stock market, a traditional bank will open an account for you;
• Asylum seekers. It’s often easy for these clients to open savings accounts.

How to open a bank account in France

You can open a bank account online or in person at a branch.

You can apply online through a bank’s website or mobile app. For example, BoursoBank offers this option, and an account can be opened in just a few minutes. However, applicants must provide a residence permit and RIB, meaning they must already be French residents with existing account information from a traditional bank, which can make it difficult to open an account.

It’s easier and faster to open an account with a French neobank—the process is completely online and takes 10–20 minutes. Often, new clients only need to verify their identity by providing a scanned copy of their passport and calling a manager to confirm that the photo on the document matches them. Nickel, Revolut, and N26 offer this option.

In France, you can also open a prepaid payment card (cartes de paiement prépayées) offered by PCS, Payoneer, La Banque Postale, and others. These cards can be purchased at newsstands and tobacconists. These cards are issued using a foreign passport and do not require proof of address or a residence permit. The card can be used to pay for goods and transfer money to accounts in France. Funds can be deposited onto the card in advance, or they can be purchased with a fixed balance. Although this payment card is not a full-fledged account, a RIB is issued with it.

Opening an account at a traditional bank takes about 15 days. The application must usually be submitted in person.

The process for opening a traditional bank account typically involves the following steps:

1. Select a bank. Your choice of bank depends on your goals (the type of account you want to open), your EU residency status, and your citizenship status. To have full access to banking services, it’s best to obtain a French residence permit in advance.
2. Make an appointment. Appointments must be made in advance through the bank’s website or by phone.
3. Prepare the required documents. The required documents may vary by bank, so check the website or speak with a representative for more information. Please note that, after reviewing your personal situation, the consultant may request additional information, such as proof of income, tax residency, or business status.
4. Submit the application. On the scheduled date and time, visit the bank branch with the necessary documents. You will be asked to complete an account opening application, and a manager will assist you. If you do not speak the language, it is advisable to hire a translator to ensure you understand the consultant’s instructions and the account details.
5. Fund the account. Sometimes, a minimum transfer of EUR 10–50 is required to activate the account. However, Societe Generale and Nickel do not require a minimum deposit.
6. Receive the RIB and card. After opening the account, you will need to visit the bank again. You will then receive the RIB, login information for your online account, and payment methods, such as cards and a checkbook.

The procedure for opening a corporate account is similar. However, when submitting the application, you will also need to provide information about the company’s registration. If you want to become a resident in France through business ownership or a startup, it’s best to enlist the help of immigration specialists who can assist with company registration, opening a bank account, and obtaining a residence permit.

Required documents

The following is the basic list of documents required to open an account at any bank in France:

• Identification: passport or residence permit card (a driver’s license is not acceptable).
• Proof of residency issued less than a year ago (sometimes up to three months old is required), such as a water, electricity, or gas bill or rent payment receipt.
• Signature specimen.

The bank may also request additional documents. For example, as part of the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing, they may request proof of the source of funds. Non-residents may be asked to provide a letter of recommendation from the bank where they have an account in their home country or abroad.

What to do in the case of refusal

The bank may refuse to open an account but must provide a notice stating the reason. If the financial institution does not respond to your request within 15 days, this is also considered a refusal.

Reasons the bank may cite for refusal include:

• The client’s identity has not been established. This can happen if the applicant submits a driver’s license instead of a passport. If you apply online, you must undergo identity verification. This involves a video call with a bank manager during which you will be asked questions.
• Requested documents were not provided. In addition to the standard documents, the bank may request additional documents on a case-by-case basis. The specific documents requested depend on your reason for residing in France, your employment status, the amount you wish to deposit, and your citizenship. If you are unable to provide any documents, please explain why.
• Use of forged documents. This suspicion may arise if the spelling of your first and last name or date of birth does not match across different documents. If such a discrepancy exists, it is important to provide an explanation immediately. You should also carefully check the translations of various documents to ensure they are free of errors.
• Failure to meet residency requirements. Traditional banks often refuse to open accounts for non-residents. In this case, you will need to obtain a residence permit or apply to another financial institution.
• Having an account with another bank: In this case, it’s important to justify why you need another account or close all active accounts.

If you have a French residence permit and your application has been rejected, you can contact the Banque de France to reclaim your right to a bank account. To do so, submit an application with the refusal notice (immigrants recommend attaching at least three notices from different banks), proof of identity, and proof of address. You can specify which bank you would like to open an account with.

Within 24 hours, the Banque de France will assign a financial institution obligated to open an account for you and notify you of where to apply. You have 6 months to exercise this right.

The best banks in France for foreigners

These are the best banks in France where foreigners can easily open an account:

• Traditional banks. Many foreigners choose banks such as BNP Paribas, Société Générale, Crédit Agricole, La Banque Postale, and Banque Populaire. These banks offer extensive branch networks, making them a convenient choice for both personal and business banking, not only within France but also when traveling or operating internationally.
• Online banks. The most popular among foreigners are BoursoBank, Hello Bank!, Monabanq, Fortuneo, and Orange Bank. Some online banks are branches of traditional banks. For example, Hello Bank! is part of BNP Paribas. The advantage of online banks is that you can open an account in just a few minutes.
• Neobanks. Popular European banks Revolut, Wise, and N26, as well as Nickel, operate in France. Neobanks are generally more welcoming to foreigners and will open accounts regardless of citizenship, place of residence, or French residency status.

The type of bank also affects service costs and client requirements:

Bank cards in France

Several standard types of bank cards are available in France:

• Debit. These cards provide instant access to funds, usually within two days of the transaction, and the word «DÉBIT» appears on the front. There are also cards with deferred debits, which are debited monthly, for example, on the 25th or the 1st of the following month. These cards are designated as «crédit», though they are not strictly credit cards.
• Credit. These cards allow you to pay for purchases with your available credit limit or your own funds. The limit is determined after a credit check and is set individually. Retail stores can also issue credit cards, which allow you to take advantage of discounts and accumulate bonuses. You can use these cards anywhere, not just at a specific store chain.

Banks can issue debit and credit cards linked to a checking account, with various service tiers ranging from classic to premium and prestige. The higher the card level, the greater the range of benefits available to clients, including partner discounts, travel insurance, and other exclusive perks.

France has its own payment system, Carte Bleue, but Visa and Mastercard are also accepted.

Card blocking is rare but can occur for several reasons:

• exceeding limits: reaching your overdraft limit;
• risky transactions: too many payments or cash withdrawals in a short period of time or many payments abroad;
• a government agency’s decision. Accounts can be blocked for nonpayment of taxes or alimony until the debt is repaid;
• a creditor’s decision: when property is seized.

There’s no need to fear card blocking. If this happens, contact the bank online, by phone, or in person to find out why and how to resolve the issue. For instance, if your card was blocked due to exceeding your credit or overdraft limit, you could apply for an increase to your credit limit or pay off the debt.

You can also block your card yourself if it’s lost or stolen via the bank’s website or mobile app. Then, you’ll need to get a new card.

Payment details abroad vary depending on the country you’re visiting. For example, there are no fees in the Eurozone. In other countries, you’ll need to use an international card. Currency conversion will occur during payment, and a fee will be charged. In 2025, an average fee of EUR 42.60 was charged for spending EUR 1,000.

However, BNP Paribas offers its clients a special «Travel» option that waives fees when traveling abroad. Withdrawing cash is also free at ATMs at the bank’s foreign branches.

Bank accounts and taxes in France

You can open a bank account in France even if you are not a tax resident. Likewise, having an account does not automatically grant you this status.

You can only become a tax resident after residing in France for 183 days over the course of a year. After that, you’ll need to file an annual tax return on all your worldwide income and declare your foreign accounts.

Being a French tax resident does not mean that you have to pay taxes in multiple countries simultaneously. If France and your home country have a double taxation agreement, taxes paid will be deductible. For example, an immigrant earned EUR 26,500 in income in their home country in one year. As an individual, they paid EUR 3,445 in personal income tax at a rate of 13%. Since France applies a rate of 11% to this income level, the tax resident will not owe any additional taxes.

If you have only a bank account in France but are not a tax resident, you will only be taxed on income earned in France. This includes income from bank deposits or real estate.

France participates in the Common Reporting Standard (CRS), which requires countries to exchange tax information about their residents with their home countries. This means that French banks will automatically share information about your accounts and savings with the tax authorities of your home country. Similarly, France participates in the FATCA exchange with the United States.

Therefore, a bank account in France is not a tool for maintaining financial privacy. However, it can serve many other purposes, including holding assets, making investments in real estate or businesses, facilitating international transfers, and supporting everyday life within the European Economic Area. To choose the most suitable banking solution, it is advisable to consult a legal professional. A specialist can help you identify a reliable bank that matches your needs, assist with account opening, business registration, or immigration planning for your entire family.

Sign up for a free legal consultation to explore the opportunities currently available to foreign nationals in France.