What You'll Learn on This Page
- • How French banking differs from other countries
- • Types of accounts available and when each applies
- • What documentation banks typically require
- • How experiences differ between Paris and other regions
- • Common problems that delay account opening
How France Differs
French banking has a reputation for being traditional and paperwork-heavy. Unlike countries where you can open an account online in minutes, French banks often require in-person appointments, multiple documents, and a more formal relationship. This is changing with online banks, but traditional banks still dominate.
The justificatif de domicile (proof of address) requirement is particularly strict in France. Banks typically want a utility bill or official document in your name at your French address—creating a chicken-and-egg problem for newcomers who need a bank account to set up utilities.
One protection exists: the droit au compte (right to an account). If a bank refuses to open an account for you, you can request a certificate of refusal and apply to the Banque de France, which will designate a bank to provide you with basic services. This is a fallback, not a first choice, but it means you cannot be left entirely without banking.
What tends to work well
- SEPA transfers within Europe are fast and cheap
- Cards (Carte Bancaire) are widely accepted
- Online banking platforms are generally good
- Droit au compte provides a safety net
What tends to be challenging
- Strict proof of address requirements
- In-person appointments often required
- Staff may not speak English
- Traditional banks can be slow to respond
Account Types
French banks offer several account types. Your residency status and needs determine which options are available.
Compte Courant (Current Account)
The standard account for daily banking. Receives salary deposits, handles direct debits (prélèvements), and comes with a debit card. Most people need this as their primary account.
What it provides
- French IBAN for transactions
- Carte Bancaire (debit card)
- Online and mobile banking
- Checkbook (still used in France)
- Direct debit capability
What to consider
- Monthly fees are common (€2-15/month)
- Card fees may be separate
- Some banks require minimum income
- Overdraft may or may not be included
Compte Non-Résident
An account for people who don't yet have French residency. May be useful before you complete visa processes or if you need an account while still living abroad.
When it may apply
- Property purchase before relocating
- Business dealings in France
- Receiving inheritance or rental income
- Preparatory setup before moving
What to consider
- Higher fees are common
- May require in-person visit to France
- Not all banks offer this
- Will need to update status when you become resident
Online/Neobank Accounts
Digital banks like N26, Revolut, and Wise offer accounts with French or EU IBANs. Opening is typically faster and doesn't require French residency, but they may not be accepted for all purposes.
What works well
- Fast account opening (often same day)
- No French address required initially
- Good for multi-currency needs
- Often lower fees for international transfers
What to consider
- Some landlords prefer French bank IBANs
- May face issues with some direct debits
- No branch access for complex issues
- May not count as "French bank" for some purposes
What Banks Typically Ask For
Documentation requirements vary by bank, but certain documents are commonly requested. Having these ready can speed up the process.
Identity Document
A valid passport is the standard. EU citizens may sometimes use national ID cards. Banks take copies and verify the original.
Justificatif de Domicile (Proof of Address)
This is often the most challenging requirement. Banks typically want:
- Utility bill (EDF, Engie, water) in your name—usually within last 3 months
- Or: rental contract plus utility bill in landlord's name
- Or: attestation d'hébergement if staying with someone (their ID, their proof of address, signed declaration)
The circular problem—needing utilities to get a bank, but needing a bank to set up utilities—is real. Some banks are more flexible than others about accepting rental contracts or attestations.
Proof of Income or Employment
Banks want to understand your financial situation:
- Employment contract (contrat de travail)
- Recent pay slips (bulletins de salaire)
- For self-employed: business registration, tax returns
- For non-workers: proof of income sources (pension, investments)
Residence Permit or Visa
Non-EU citizens will be asked for their visa or titre de séjour (residence permit). EU citizens may be asked for proof of registration or simply their national ID.
What Varies by Region
While major banks operate nationally, experiences can differ by location.
Paris
More competition among banks. More branches experienced with foreign clients. English-speaking staff more likely (though not guaranteed). Higher living costs mean banks may expect higher minimum balances.
Major Provincial Cities (Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux)
Good range of banks available. Staff may be less accustomed to foreign documentation. English ability varies but is generally less common than in Paris.
Smaller Towns and Rural Areas
Fewer bank branches. Staff may rarely see foreign applications. French language ability becomes essential. May need to travel to larger cities for some banking services.
Common Friction Points
These issues frequently cause delays or frustration when opening accounts in France.
The proof of address problem
New arrivals often don't have utility bills in their name. Rental contracts alone may not be accepted. The attestation d'hébergement process requires cooperation from whoever is hosting you. Plan for this before expecting quick account opening.
Appointment availability
Traditional banks typically require in-person appointments, which may not be available for several weeks. Some branches have limited hours. August and December can be particularly difficult due to holidays.
Language barriers
Account contracts are in French. Staff at branches often don't speak English, especially outside Paris. Understanding account terms, fees, and conditions requires either French ability or a translator.
Slow response times
French banks can be slow to respond to applications and inquiries. Follow-up calls may be necessary. What takes days elsewhere may take weeks in France.
Refusals without clear reasons
Banks can refuse accounts and may not explain why. If refused, request a certificate of refusal (attestation de refus) to use for the droit au compte procedure if needed.
Card delivery delays
Even after the account is open, receiving your Carte Bancaire and checkbook can take 1-2 weeks. Some banks require you to pick up the card in person. Plan for a period without full account functionality.
Where to Go Next
Banking connects to other aspects of setting up life in France. Consider these related topics.
Visas in France
Your visa status affects what documentation banks require
Healthcare in France
Healthcare reimbursements go to your bank account
Cost of Living
Understand what expenses your account will handle
France Overview
Return to the country hub for a complete setup checklist
Banking Hub
General banking concepts for expats
Opening Accounts Abroad
General guide to the account opening process
Explore Cities in France
Banking options are similar nationally, but staff experience with foreign clients varies by location. City pages provide local context.
Sources Consulted
Regulatory Bodies
- Banque de France – banque-france.fr – Central bank
- ACPR – acpr.banque-france.fr – Banking supervision
Consumer Information
- Service-Public.fr – service-public.fr – Banking rights and procedures
- INC – inc-conso.fr – Consumer protection