Updated June 2026. To open a bank account in France you need a valid ID or passport, a proof of address (justificatif de domicile, under three months old), and proof of status such as a residence permit (titre de séjour) or work contract. A traditional bank, an online bank like BoursoBank or Fortuneo, or Nickel each give you a French IBAN and your bank details (RIB). If a bank refuses you, the right to a basic bank account (droit au compte) through the Banque de France guarantees a basic account.
Key takeaways
- You need ID, a proof of address, and proof of status to open an account.
- A French IBAN (starting FR) is accepted everywhere; some neobanks use a foreign IBAN.
- Your bank details carry your IBAN and BIC for salary and direct debits (prélèvements).
- Deposits are protected by the FGDR up to EUR 100,000 per bank.
- The right to a basic bank account forces a designated bank to open a basic account if you are refused.
What documents do you need to open a French bank account?
You need three things: a valid ID or passport, a proof of address (utility bill, rent receipt, or attestation d'hébergement under three months old), and proof of status. EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens show ID only. Non-EU residents add a residence permit, visa, or work or study document. Banks supervised by the ACPR must verify identity, so expect a short in-branch or video check.
If you do not yet have a permanent address, an attestation d'hébergement from your host plus their ID and a recent bill in their name is widely accepted.
Which type of bank should you choose in France?
French banks come in three types. A traditional bank (BNP Paribas, Société Générale, Crédit Agricole) gives in-branch support but charges account-keeping fees (frais de tenue de compte). An online bank (BoursoBank, Fortuneo, Hello bank!) gives a full French IBAN with low or no fees. A neobank (Revolut, N26, Nickel) opens in minutes, though Revolut and N26 may issue a non-FR IBAN.
Why the IBAN country matters
How do you open a French bank account step by step?
- Step 1: Gather your ID, justificatif de domicile, and proof of status.
- Step 2: Choose a bank type (traditional, online, or neobank) based on whether you need a branch and a French IBAN.
- Step 3: Apply online or in branch and complete the identity check (video or in person).
- Step 4: Make any required opening deposit and activate your bank card (carte bancaire, or CB).
- Step 5: Download your bank details (RIB) and give them to your employer, landlord, and utilities.
What is the droit au compte if you are refused?
The right to a basic bank account (droit au compte) lets anyone legally resident in France who is refused an account ask the Banque de France to designate a bank. That bank must open a basic account with free essential services. Keep the bank's written refusal, then file the droit au compte request with your ID and proof of address.
Deposits in any French-licensed bank are protected by the FGDR up to EUR 100,000 per bank, whether you use a traditional bank, an online bank, or Nickel.
Sources: service-public.fr (droit au compte), ACPR, and the FGDR, June 2026. Verify current requirements with your chosen bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a foreigner open a bank account in France?
Yes. A foreigner can open a bank account in France with a passport, proof of address, and proof of residence or activity. EU citizens face no extra hurdles, and non-EU residents use their residence permit (titre de séjour) or visa.
What documents do you need to open a French bank account?
To open a French bank account you generally need a valid ID or passport, a proof of address (justificatif de domicile, under three months old), and proof of status such as a residence permit (titre de séjour), work contract, or student enrolment.
Can you open a French bank account without proof of address?
It is harder, but possible. Some online banks and Nickel accept alternative documents, and the right to a basic bank account (droit au compte) lets the Banque de France designate a bank that must open a basic account even without the usual paperwork.
What is a RIB in France?
Your bank details (RIB, or relevé d'identité bancaire) is the document showing your French IBAN and BIC. You give your bank details to employers, landlords, and utilities so they can pay you or set up direct debits (prélèvements).
Is a neobank like Revolut or N26 enough to live in France?
A neobank covers daily spending, but some French employers and administrations still prefer a French IBAN. BoursoBank, Fortuneo, or a traditional bank give you a French IBAN that is accepted everywhere.
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