How to open a bank account abroad from France as a non-resident

Opening a bank account in another country can be a good idea if you travel frequently or want to diversify your assets. But is it really possible without being a resident there? As we’ll see, it is possible—but the process can be cumbersome. And most traditional banks charge fees and commissions on foreign currency transactions.

If you’re looking for a convenient solution to obtain foreign account details without leaving France or becoming a resident elsewhere, consider the Wise account. It lets you hold more than 40 foreign currencies and receive payments in 8+ different currencies (EUR, USD, GBP, etc.) as if you were a local resident.

Plus, all currency conversions are done at the mid-market exchange rate, without hidden markups. That makes it an efficient way to save on transfers, payments, and withdrawals abroad.

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Why is it worth opening an account abroad?

The advantages of opening a bank account outside France

Having a foreign account offers several advantages:

• Frequent travel: you can withdraw and pay abroad without additional foreign transaction fees.
• Investment: large transfers won’t be subject to extra bank charges from your French or foreign bank.
• Expatriation: you can receive your salary locally without going through currency exchange.
• Higher interest: some foreign savings plans may offer more competitive rates than French banks.
• Cross-border work: some foreign institutions offer benefits for residents of France who work abroad (e.g., in Switzerland, Luxembourg, Belgium).

The disadvantages of opening an account abroad

Opening an account outside France can be complicated. If you don’t speak the local language and the bank advisor doesn’t speak English, administrative steps can be difficult. Even signing minor paperwork can be problematic if you’re not there in person.

Another key risk is double taxation. If the country where you opened the account does not have a tax treaty with France, you may have to pay taxes in both countries, with two separate declarations.

Can you really open an account abroad without living there?

In theory, yes. In practice, each bank decides whether to accept your request.

In some countries with strict currency controls, the bank may freeze part of your balance or limit transfers.

And don’t forget: if you’re a tax resident in France, any foreign account must be declared to the French tax authorities.

Closing all your accounts in France is risky. If you return to France, or need to pay bills or subscriptions by direct debit, not having a local account can cause problems.

Open a Wise account online for free and get 8+ foreign account details.

Opening an account abroad from France: how to proceed?

Key questions to ask yourself

Before choosing a foreign bank, consider:

• What type of bank details will I get (IBAN/BIC or SWIFT)?
• How does the account work compared to a French account?
• Which payment methods are available (bank card, e-card for online purchases, checks)?
• Are incoming and outgoing transfers available online?
• What extra services exist (insurance, savings)?
• What are the management fees?

Learn about the country’s banking system

If the bank doesn’t cater to expats, research the national system before applying.

Some countries restrict person-to-person transfers. You may also need to prove the origin of your funds, which could require documents from your French bank, sometimes translated.

Check whether your French bank has international partners—this can simplify transfers.

Expat forums can also provide useful first-hand experiences.

Documents you may need

Typical requirements include:

• Proof of identity and address (passport, utility bill).
• French bank details (to check you’re not blacklisted).
• Letter of recommendation, employment contract, birth certificate, residence permit.

Some banks may ask for documents you don’t have, such as a local employment contract. Even if you meet all requirements, the bank can refuse your application without explanation.

Opening an online account abroad

New digital banks make it possible to open an account abroad without leaving France. Procedures are simpler than with traditional banks, though fees aren’t always lower.

Be aware: if you are a French tax resident, you must still declare the account to the French tax authorities.

With Wise, get foreign account details without leaving France

For competitive rates on international payments and withdrawals, a multi-currency account with a debit card can be a good option. Wise lets you open such an account easily.

Here are some of the advantages of a Wise account:

• Free to open online, with no account maintenance fees.
• Hold and convert more than 40 currencies at the mid-market exchange rate.
• Send money to over 160 countries with low, transparent fees.
• Get local account details in 8+ currencies to receive money like a resident, without extra fees.

Interested? Check Wise’s multi-currency account pricing for details, or create your account online in just a few minutes.

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This article is a translation of the original article published in French and was translated within 365 days of publication. While the content has been translated for accessibility, the data and sources referenced have not been updated since the original publication date.