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Guide • Banking

Opening a French bank account

Traditional vs online banks, documents and step-by-step.

Reading time: 7 min Last updated: 2026-05-08Difficulty: Easy
This guide is in beta. Always confirm details on official websites.

Some content is shown in the original language.

Why a French bank account?

Rent direct debit, salary, CAF/tax transfers, subscriptions: a French IBAN/RIB is required almost everywhere.

Traditional vs online

Traditional banks (BNP, SG, LCL) require an appointment but offer an advisor. Online banks (Boursorama, Revolut, N26) open quickly but some operations may be limited.

Required documents

  • Passport
  • Residence permit or visa
  • Proof of address
  • Income proof or student certificate

Step-by-step

  1. 1Compare and choose a bank
  2. 2Book online or in branch
  3. 3Submit documents and sign
  4. 4Receive RIB and card (1–2 weeks)
Document example
Sample RIB

Things to watch out for

  • If refused, the "droit au compte" lets you open via Banque de France.
  • Check monthly account-keeping fees.

FAQ

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Questions and comments (1)

  • Alex M.• 1d

    Question rapide : est-ce encore disponible ?

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