Open a bank account in France
A French bank account (and its RIB) is needed for health insurance, CAF and Navigo instalments. Here is how opening one usually works and what to do if a bank refuses.
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Before you start
Several steps in this checklist ask for your RIB (the document that shows your IBAN). Health insurance asks for bank details. CAF asks for a French RIB. Navigo instalments are paid by direct debit. So it helps to open an account early.
Official pages say a foreign national who legally lives in France can open a bank account. Opening an account is free. Banks may charge for running it, so read the price list.
Documents banks usually ask for
- A valid passport, with your visa or residence permit.
- Proof of address. A rental contract, a utility bill or a housing certificate from the person hosting you can work. Ask the bank which one it accepts.
- Your student certificate. Not every bank asks, but many do for student offers.
Steps
- Compare two or three banks. Look at monthly fees, card fees, and whether the bank works in English.
- Choose between a branch bank (you meet an adviser) and an online bank (you apply in an app). Both exist in France.
- Gather your documents and apply. A branch may ask for an appointment.
- Sign the contract and deposit your signature.
- Download your RIB from the app or ask the branch for it. Keep it as a PDF.
- Wait for your card. It often arrives by post, so use an address where you can receive mail.
Well-known options
Students often look at BNP Paribas, Société Générale, LCL, Crédit Mutuel, Boursorama Banque and others. This is not a recommendation. Compare fees and conditions yourself.
If a bank refuses
If a bank does not answer within 15 days, that counts as a refusal. You can then ask the Banque de France to name a bank that must open a basic account for you. This is called “droit au compte”. You need a refusal letter, your ID and proof of residence under 3 months old. You cannot use it if you already have an account in France.
Common problems
- No proof of address yet. Ask the bank what else it accepts, or ask your landlord or host for a certificate.
- A foreign IBAN is not accepted. CAF’s slide asks for a French RIB. Check before you rely on a foreign account.
- Fees you did not expect. Ask for the price list (“tarifs”) before signing.