How to Open a Bank Account in France
If you plan on spending a considerable amount of time in France, it is a good idea to set up your own savings account. This prevents you from constantly using your foreign ATM card to withdraw money, which forces you to pay international ATM fees. Although it is easier to obtain a French bank account if you are a member if the European Union, it is possible to do so if you are from the United States, too.
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Instructions
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Obtain a letter of recommendation from your current bank. This letter simply states that you are not a credit risk, and you have avoided overdraft fees during your time with the bank or credit union.
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Take your letter of recommendation, passport, proof of residence (such as a utility bill) and a recent pay stub to a local bank in France. You need all of these documents to open an account within the country.
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Request to open an account and then fill out the required paperwork. These forms are typically in French, but there are English-speaking interpreters in the bank to help you with the form. The information requested includes your current residence, other bank accounts open and the kind of account you want to open (such as a savings or a checking account).
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Submit your information, and you will be informed on the spot if you are granted a bank account. Typically the only reason you will not be given an account is if your letter of recommendation is poor.
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