Opening a bank account in France: everything expats need to know

The banking landscape in France is highly developed. However, despite strong competition, the fees charged by traditional banks can be quite high. While online banks are generally more affordable, some still apply significant charges for international transfers.

So, how can you save money on account maintenance and everyday banking services? Which providers are best for low-cost transfers and easy money management? Let’s take a closer look.

One smart alternative is to use a provider outside the traditional banking system, such as Wise.

You can open your Wise account online in just a few minutes and enjoy competitive pricing for both daily banking and international transfers.

Discover the Wise account

Banks in France: which one should you choose?

Here’s a comparison of some major French banks, focusing on account maintenance fees, international card costs, and fees for transfers outside the SEPA zone:

When you make an international transfer, your bank may apply a marked-up exchange rate, increasing the total cost without you realizing it. This is often in addition to fees from intermediary banks.

With Wise, everything is transparent: you always know what you’re paying, and the exchange rate used is the mid-market rate, without hidden markups.

Opening a bank account in France: what to know before choosing

How much does a French bank account cost — and can you get one for free?

In France, opening a bank account is usually free. However, traditional banks charge monthly maintenance fees, and debit or credit cards often come with additional costs.

Some online banks, like BoursoBank, don’t charge for account maintenance or cards. The same goes for Wise, which offers free account management and a debit card with minimal fees.

What are your banking needs?

When choosing a bank, think about your personal situation:

• Local branch access: If you prefer in-person service, a traditional bank may be more suitable. Otherwise, an online bank might be a better fit.
• Online services: Managing your account, transfers, or card from your smartphone is a must today. If you travel frequently, a strong online platform will save time and hassle.
• Customer service quality: The best customer service should be available 24/7. Many leading banks now offer multichannel support by phone or chat.
• International options: If you travel or work abroad, check whether the bank offers favourable terms for overseas payments and withdrawals.

Making or receiving international transfers from France

International transfers can be expensive — even with online banks.

The total cost of a non-SEPA transfer depends on several factors:

• Exchange rate markup: Banks typically apply a marked-up exchange rate, adding hidden costs compared to the mid-market exchange rate.
• Transfer commission: Banks usually charge a commission, either as a fixed fee or a percentage of the amount.
• Correspondent bank fees: If your transfer passes through intermediary banks, extra charges may apply.

How to open a bank account in France as a non-resident

Opening an account as a non-resident in France can be challenging. In theory, you just need to provide proof of identity, proof of address, and a signature.

In practice, some banks require an in-person visit, and others may ask for a RIB (French bank account number) — which can make things difficult if you don’t already have an account in France.

Some online banks are also restricted to EU residents.

Before applying, contact the bank you’re interested in and ask an advisor about their process for non-residents.

How to open a bank account in France as an international student

If you’re an international student living in France, you can open an account at most banks. You’ll simply need to provide:⁶

• Proof of identity
• Proof of address
• Proof of enrolment or a student ID card

For additional guidance, contact your school’s international student office — they can help you choose a suitable bank.

If you’re staying with relatives while studying, you can provide a letter of accommodation as proof of address. You can download a letter of accommodation in PDF or Word format.

Wise: a cost-effective alternative to traditional banks in France

With Wise, opening an account is quick and easy — the entire process takes just a few minutes online. You only need to provide proof of identity and address.

Once open, there are no monthly management fees, and your card is free (a €7 delivery fee applies).

You can hold 40+ currencies in your account and send money to 140+ countries with low transfer fees.

Wise always applies the mid-market rate — with no markups — helping you save compared to most traditional banks.

In short, Wise combines speed, transparency, and cost efficiency — ideal for everyday banking in France and international money management.

Open your Wise account

Last verified on September 2, 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.