Payments with Lydia in France: how to make them and how much do they cost?
Payments with Lydia are made by card or via bank transfer. Here are the prices and procedures for the different transactions.
Sending money abroad with Hello bank is possible and relatively straightforward. However, as with most banks, international transfers can involve intermediaries and may lead to additional costs. So what are the fees for an international transfer with Hello bank? How does the process work? And what alternative options are available for expats in France who want a simpler or more cost-effective solution?
If you need to send money abroad without paying high fees, you might consider a Wise account. Wise lets you transfer money to 140+ countries using the mid-market exchange rate — with no hidden fees.
Here’s an example of fees for sending €1,000 to a USD account:
| Provider | Commission | Exchange rate | Total cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hello bank¹ | 0.50% of amount if < €75,000 (min. €18) + extra fees depending on options | Includes Hello bank’s exchange margin | Min. €18 + options + exchange margin |
| Wise | 0.62% | Mid-market exchange rate (no markup) | €6.21 |
Figures are based on Hello bank’s 2025 fee schedule¹ and Wise’s calculator (checked May 12, 2025).
You can transfer money abroad either online from your Hello bank account or by phone with an advisor.
You can also call a Hello bank advisor, who will process the transfer securely. You’ll need to provide the same information (recipient’s IBAN, BIC, amount, and currency).
To send money:
To receive money into Hello bank:
Hello bank does not publish clear limits for international transfers. Contact an advisor for details.
| Channel | Cost |
|---|---|
| Online | Free |
| Via advisor | €5¹ |
Additional commission:
| Amount | Fees |
|---|---|
| Up to €75,000 | 0.50% (min. €18) |
| Above €75,000 | 0.25% |
For transfers outside SEPA, Hello bank applies:
Urgent transfers abroad: + €7¹ (only possible by phone with an advisor).
Transfers to BNP Paribas subsidiaries may benefit from preferential conditions — check with Hello bank.
Hello bank, as BNP Paribas’ online branch, is a popular option in France. Like with many traditional banks, however, international transfers may involve higher costs and added complexity.
For expats looking for a more transparent solution, Wise could be an alternative, offering:
Sources:
1 – Hello bank pricing brochure
2 – Hello bank transfer times
Last verified on May 12, 2025
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.
*Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.
This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.
We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.
Payments with Lydia are made by card or via bank transfer. Here are the prices and procedures for the different transactions.
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