Open a bank account online quickly in France: a complete guide
Everything you need to know about opening an online bank account in France: Which providers offer this service? How do you sign up? What supporting documents are required?
Wise offers 100% paperless registration. Accounts can be opened from your computer or mobile phone, and you can make payments, withdrawals, and transfers at low fees.
Opening an online bank account easily: where is it possible?
In France, it is possible to open an online account with most providers:
- Traditional banks: Crédit Agricole, Banque Populaire, etc.
- Online banks: Hello bank!, BoursoBank (formerly Boursorama Banque), Fortuneo, etc.
- Other financial institutions: Wise, Revolut, N26, etc.
Note: Online registration was not previously available with traditional banks, but this has changed in recent years.
Many institutions now offer the option to quickly open an account online and sign the contract electronically. However, conditions may apply.
How to open an online bank account quickly in France?
Go to the bank or payment provider's website
You have two options to open your account:
- On the online bank's website: Choose the type of account you're interested in and begin the process. In some cases, you'll receive a text message with a link to download the app. Signing up will then be completed on your mobile device.
- On the mobile app: Download it from the App Store or Google Play and create your profile. You can then begin opening an account.
Complete the registration form
You will need to provide several pieces of information to sign up: first name, last name, address, etc.
Note that online banks require you to have an address in France. The same applies to traditional retail banks.
For international payment providers like Wise, the requirements could be less restrictive. You must live in one of the countries where the service provider is available.
Once you've completed the form, you'll be asked to upload certain documents (see below), make an initial deposit, and even sometimes pay the fee for your card.
After that, you just need to confirm: your account is open.
Order your card
The bank card will be sent to your home address after the account is opened. You can configure it in your online account, including choosing your PIN.
In the meantime, you'll be able to make transfers and pay online using a virtual card.
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What documents are required to open an online bank account?
The exact list of documents depends on the service provider.
You will be asked for at least one proof of identity. For example:
- National identity card: copy of both sides
- Passport: the page with your photo and name
- Residence permit: copy of both sides
Some online banks, such as BoursoBank, will also ask you to upload the bank details of an account in your name. This account must be domiciled in the European Economic Area or in a third country (e.g., the United Kingdom or Switzerland).
This condition means that you cannot choose BoursoBank as your sole bank. You will need to have an account with another institution to make the transfer.
What supporting documents do you need to provide if you're opening an account with a retail bank?
You'll be sent a list of documents to provide when you register. This depends on the bank, your personal situation, and the type of account you're applying for.
Required documents include: proof of identity (ID card, passport, residence permit) and address. Acceptable documents to prove your address are:
- Tax notice
- Housing tax notice
- Rent receipt
- Property title
- Electricity/gas/water bill, etc.
In some cases, you will also be asked for proof of income, such as:
- Bank statement
- Proof of social security payments
- Pay slips
- Tax notice (or non-tax notice)
What type of bank should you choose to open an account quickly?
If you need an account quickly, we recommend choosing a payment service provider or an online bank.
You'll have access to your account within minutes. However, some features may be limited while your documents are being validated.
Some traditional banks also offer the option to open an account online and sign your contract electronically. But not all.
In recent years, the difference between retail banks and online banks has become less pronounced. For example, there is little difference between Crédit Agricole and its online subsidiary Fortuneo.
Online banks offer a very wide range of products, and rates are generally lower than those at retail banks.
Payment service providers are a good option if you want to open an account without too much hassle. Some of them (like Wise) offer access to the mid-market exchange rate, which allows you to save money on foreign currency transactions.
Opening a bank account online for non-residents: is it possible?
In France, non-residents generally cannot open a bank account online. You'll have to go to a branch to apply.
Be aware, though, as many banks will refuse your application on the grounds that you don't have a local address.
Some countries, such as New Zealand, allow non-residents to open an account remotely. This saves time once they arrive.
Non-residents can register online with any payment provider, or even an online bank.
To join Wise, you simply need an address in a European country. Since you’re in France, that shouldn’t be a problem. The card is then sent directly to your home.
Sign up for a Wise account online for local or international use
The Wise account allows you to hold 40+ different currencies (including the euro) and convert them at the mid-market rate.
Signing up is seamless and done entirely online. Opening the account is free, and you don’t have to pay any monthly fees or card contributions to keep it active. Only the shipping fee for the Wise card will be charged.
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.
