During your stay in France, you will probably need to open a bank account in order to receive or deposit your salary or grant, receive family benefits or the reimbursement of medical expenses, etc.
Please note that French banks do not open current accounts for individuals staying in France for less than three months. If you need to receive a salary during a short stay, it will be paid into your bank account in another country.
A French bank account cannot be opened from abroad.
Bank fees vary (10-20€ monthly) depending on the branch and offers. These fees can include:
- monthly management fees;
- bank card fees;
- overdraft charges.
Before signing anything, carefully read the fees and terms and conditions, and find out what insurance banks offer for your bank card (theft, fradulent use, etc.).
Remember to close your bank account in your branch before leaving France and make sure that there are no outstanding transactions (invoices, cheques, salary payments, direct debits, etc.)
Necessary documents
- an identity document (your passport and visa)
- proof of address in France
- a document showing your income (employment contract, employer certificate, grant certificate, etc.).
In some cases, further documents may be requested: payslips, bills, identity documents...
Traditional banks usually have physical branches and personalised advisors for their customers. Banking range such as accounts, cards and products is extensive.
Online banks are considered cheaper as they have lower bank fees than traditional banks. Most common transactions in an online bank are free. Sometimes customers have to pay for their bank card. Bank fees with an online bank are an estimated 50% cheaper than with a traditional bank.
Necessary documents
- an identity document (your passport and visa)
- proof of address in France
- a document showing your income (employment contract, employer certificate, grant certificate, etc.).
In some cases, further documents may be requested: payslips, bills, identity documents...
Most common online banks
- Revolut: simplified procedures and account opening within 24 to 48 hours.
- N26: the residence permit is mandatory.
- Nickel: only an identity document is required. Charges apply but this banking service can be convenient in case of difficulties in opening a bank account in France, or as a transitional measure.
And also Sumeria, BoursoBank, Hello bank, Fortuneo …
Holders of a visa with the reference “Dispense temporaire de titre de séjour” (temporary waiver of residence permit) will not be able to open this type of account.
Useful websites
- Monito: foreign currency exchange fees comparison website.
- Panorabanks: information on prepaid bank cards, fees and functionalities, with which it is possible to pay for a purchase, online or into a store. This type of card also allows you to withdraw cash from ATMs or even at the counter of some banks. Unlike classic bank cards, prepaid bank cards are not necessarily associated with a bank account.
Support from amU Euraxess Centre
The amU Euraxess Services Centre has a partnership with a local bank and can support you in these procedures. Contact us to schedule an appointment.
