Open an international bank account online for free from France: a complete guide

How do I open an international account online at a traditional bank, an online bank, or a payment provider? What supporting documents are required? Here's our complete guide for expats in France.

For your payments, withdrawals, and transfers abroad, consider the Wise account. It's free to open, with no maintenance fees, and allows you to make foreign currency transactions at the mid-market exchange rate.

Discover the Wise account

How to open an international bank account online for free in France?

Open an online account at a traditional bank

First of all, check that the bank you've chosen offers online registration. Many banks have this type of procedure, but not all. Next:

1. Create a profile on the bank's website.
2. Click the "Open an Account" button.
3. Enter the requested information.
4. Complete the identity verification process.
5. Upload your proof of address, a photo of yourself, and your signature.
6. Sign your contract electronically.
7. You will then receive the card at home.

Note: This procedure is general. It may vary depending on the bank. Likewise, the list of documents required depends on your personal and professional situation.

Open an international account with an online bank

To open an account with an online bank, go to the provider's website or download the mobile app.

The procedure is then similar to that of a traditional institution:

1. Create your personal login details.
2. Complete the registration form with the requested information.
3. Upload the requested supporting documents: copy of your ID card, invoice, pay slips (the list varies depending on the bank).
4. Choose your card and additional options.
5. Make your first deposit (if applicable).
6. The card will be sent to the address you provided on the form.

Opening a bank account with a payment provider

Opening an account with a payment provider is straightforward:

1. Go to the provider's website or download the mobile app.
2. Complete the registration form.
3. Validate your identity by uploading a copy of your passport or ID card.
4. Select your subscription plan (if applicable).
5. Confirm the account opening.
6. Receive the card at home.

Some providers like Revolut offer a free plan, with no maintenance fees. However, you may face limits: the mid-market rate and free withdrawals often apply only up to a certain amount.

Other providers like Wise offer an account without a subscription and with full access to all features. Opening an account is free (you only pay for the card delivery). Billing is based only on usage.

More information
on the Wise account

Opening a free international bank account: what are my options in France?

Traditional banks

This is the solution that comes to mind first. But it's not always the simplest to set up.

If you're already a customer, you'll usually have no trouble opening a new account.

If not, there's no guarantee you'll be able to apply online, even though more and more banks are offering this service. You may need to go to a branch to apply.

Another point to consider: opening an account may be free, but there are still likely to be fees — for insurance, international packages, or cards.

Online banks

As their name suggests, online banks have a 100% digital application process, via the provider's website or app.

Among the online banks available in France, there are Fortuneo, BoursoBank (formerly Boursorama Banque), and Hello bank!.

The contract is signed electronically. You don't need to send any documents by mail.

Online banks tend to have more attractive rates than traditional banks, but there are still fees to be expected, including for cards.

Payment providers

These providers allow you to open an account online quickly, with fewer constraints than with an online bank. All you need is a postal address in one of the countries where the service is available to register.

Some operators, such as Wise, don't charge for opening an account. You only pay for the services you use.

Others have subscription systems that give access to more features as you upgrade.

Traditional bank vs. online bank vs. payment provider: how to choose?

Here's a comparison table to help you:

Why consider an account with Wise in France?

The Wise account could be a good option for anyone who makes transactions in different currencies.

It offers several advantages:

• Online registration: Download the mobile app or visit the website to open an account.

• Free to open: There's no subscription or ongoing card fee. Only card delivery is charged.

• Mid-market exchange rate: Wise uses the mid-market rate without hidden markups, which may help lower the cost of transfers, payments, and withdrawals in foreign currencies.

• Multi-currency: Hold 40+ different currencies and spend them directly with the Wise debit card.

• Investment option: You can also choose to put your money into an investment plan (note: this involves risk).

Open your Wise account

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.