How to open a bank account ?
Having a personal bank account in France is essential for managing your income, expenses and daily life.
In a nutshell
- You must be of legal age and provide proof of identity and address in France.
- A foreign national with legal residency status can open an account.
- The bank may request proof of income and bank statements.
- You can easily switch banks using the current bank account switching service.
Who can open a bank account in France?
Any adult can open a personal bank account in France. A foreign national can also open an account if they are legally resident in France. An account can be opened individually or as a joint account.
What are the procedures to follow?
For any new account opening, the bank requires at least the following:
- A valid official photo ID (identity card or passport).
- A recent proof of address in France.
Depending on the situation, additional documents may be required:
- A residence permit.
- Proof of income (pay slip, full tax assessment).
- The last three bank statements.
- A foreign tax identification number, if applicable.
- If you are staying with someone, a letter of accommodation, the host’s identity card or passport, and proof of address in their name.
Each bank can adapt the list of required documents based on the applicant’s profile.
It is possible to open a bank account at different banks.
If the bank approves the account opening, a bank account agreement must be signed. This document specifies, in particular:
- The account’s operating conditions.
- The associated services (bank card, transfers, direct debits).
- The applicable fees.
It formalizes the rights and obligations of both the customer and the bank.
A bank can refuse to open an account. This refusal must be justified.
If it is impossible to open an account, you can contact the Banque de France to exercise your right to an account. The Banque de France will then designate a bank that is required to open an account with basic banking services.
It is possible to close a bank account at any time.
The request must be sent to the bank where the account is held, preferably by registered mail with return receipt requested, in order to retain proof of the action.
The bank account switching service enables you to change banks without having to complete any administrative procedures.
After opening a new account and requesting a switch:
- The new bank transfers recurring payments.
- It handles the transfer of direct debits.
- The relevant organizations are notified.
This service simplifies switching banks and facilitates competition between institutions. A “Livret A” savings account cannot be automatically closed as part of the bank switching process.
A bank fee comparison tool
An official bank fee comparison tool, covering both traditional and online banks, is available on the website of the Ministry for the Economy. It enables users to compare the fees charged by different institutions.