OPENING A FRENCH BANK ACCOUNT

When you first arrive in France, you can access cash using your foreign bank card at local ATM machines. However, If you are moving to France to live or work, opening a French bank account is a must.

Having a bank account in France will enable you to be paid by your French employer, facilitate payment for living expenses and bills, and make mortgage repayments. Many essential services, such as gas and electricity, will require your French current account details as a financial guarantee.

Having a bank advisor who speaks English can be a great advantage when it comes to answering your specific questions.

Some French banks offer packages for expatriates that include a checking account, credit card, property insurance, as well as online and telephone banking in English. It is customary in France to pay a monthly fee for your bank account, which can vary according to the package you accept.

It is advisable to take out insurance on your credit card, as this isn't automatically included as it often is in the U.K. or U.S.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

• Valid identification (e.g. passport)
• Proof of address in France (a utilities or telephone bill in your name)

It is worth noting that most banks in France do not offer interest bearing current accounts.