Banking in France
France has a mix of traditional banks and modern digital options, making it accessible for expats with various documentation situations.
Account Types
Compte courant (Current account): Standard checking account for daily transactions.
Compte non-résident: For those not tax-resident in France—some restrictions apply.
Required Documents
For traditional banks:
- Valid passport or EU ID card
- Proof of French address (lease, utility bill, attestation d'hébergement)
- Proof of income or employment (sometimes)
- Initial deposit (€50-200 typically)
For online banks (N26, Revolut):
- Valid passport or ID
- Phone number
- Sometimes video verification
- No French address required
Recommended Banks
| Bank | Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| BNP Paribas | Traditional | Largest network, English app | Monthly fees €5-15 |
| Société Générale | Traditional | Good expat services | Fees, bureaucratic |
| Crédit Agricole/Britline | Traditional | English service for UK/expats | Limited to some profiles |
| N26 | Digital | No fees, no address needed | Customer service issues |
| Revolut | Digital | Multi-currency, no address needed | Not full French bank |
| Boursorama | Digital French | No fees, full French bank | French required for support |
Opening Process
Traditional banks:
- Schedule appointment at branch
- Bring all documents (physical copies!)
- Sign account agreement
- Receive RIB (bank details) immediately
- Card arrives by mail in 5-10 days
Online banks:
- Download app
- Submit documents digitally
- Video verification (sometimes)
- Account active in 1-3 days
- Card shipped to any address
French Banking Specifics
RIB (Relevé d'Identité Bancaire): Your bank details document—needed for salary, subscriptions, utilities. Keep copies handy.
IBAN: French IBANs start with "FR" followed by 25 digits.
Chèques: Checks still used in France, especially for deposits and some bills. You'll receive a checkbook.
Carte Bancaire: Debit cards are standard; credit cards (with actual credit) less common.
Important Notes
- Many landlords require French bank account for rent payments
- Employers typically require French IBAN for salary
- Tax residents must declare all foreign accounts to French authorities
- ATM withdrawals from French banks are usually free at any French ATM
- Contactless (sans contact) payments standard up to €50
Pro Tips
- •N26 or Revolut can provide French IBAN without residence proof
- •Traditional banks require appointment and physical documents
- •Keep RIB copies handy—you'll need them for everything
- •Boursorama is best free option if you have French residence
- •Declare all foreign accounts to French tax authorities if tax resident
Have questions about banking in France?