How to Open an International Banking Account in France?12 min read

How to Open an International Banking Account in France?12 min read

Opening an international banking account in France doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right guidance and documents, you can get set up with an overseas account to access world-class banking services from anywhere in the world. In this article, we’ll break down exactly how to open an international bank account in France step-by-step. 

By the end, you’ll know what documents you need, which banks to consider, and even how to open an account completely online without visiting the country. Keep reading to gain all the insider tips for seamless international banking in France!

How to Do International Banking in France?

There are a few different ways that non-residents can access international banking services in France. The most straightforward option is to open a non-resident account, also known as a “compte non-résident,” directly with a French bank. 

Accounts like these function similarly to regular current accounts but often have some additional restrictions and higher fees for those living outside of France.

Another convenient choice for international banking in France is to use a fully digital and licensed The Kingdom Bank. As an online international bank, The Kingdom Bank makes it simple to set up an account completely remotely without ever having to visit the country. 

We offer all the essential services of a traditional bank, but with increased accessibility from anywhere in the world through our mobile app and website.

For those who need more advanced corporate or investment products, it’s also possible to establish private or business banking relationships with international financial institutions that have a presence in France. Banks like this can provide tailored solutions for high-net-worth clients and multinational corporations.

No matter the option you choose, opening an international bank account in France does require having some key documents in order. Let’s look closer at what it takes to get set up.

How to Open an International Banking Account in France?

The first step is choosing a bank. Be sure to research banks’ requirements ahead of time so you apply to ones that accept non-residents.

Next, you’ll need to gather your documentation. At a minimum, most banks will require:

• A valid photo ID like a passport
• Proof of address, like a utility bill or bank statement from your home country
• Income documentation such as pay stubs or tax returns
• Your occupation and details about where you live currently

It’s also a good idea to have any employment contracts or additional information about the source of your funds on hand.

With your documents in order, you can start the account opening process. Doing this online is usually easiest with institutions like The Kingdom Bank. You’ll provide your personal details, upload scans of your IDs, and answer questions about how you’ll be using the account.

Within just a few days, your new international bank account in France will be ready to use. You’ll receive login credentials for online and mobile banking along with your debit card in the mail. And just like that, you’ll have powerful financial services at your fingertips no matter where in the world you call home.

What Documents are Required to Open an International Banking Account in France?

As mentioned earlier, the key documents needed to open an international bank account in France include:

• Passport – Your valid passport provides photo identification. Make sure it’s not expired.
• Proof of address – A gas, electricity, cable, internet, landline telephone, or mobile phone bill from the last three months with your name and current address on it works. Bank statements also count.
• Income documents – Recent pay stubs or tax returns help verify your employment income. Self-employed individuals may need to provide business registrations or tax filings instead.
• Occupation details – Be prepared to disclose your job title, what you do, and where you currently work or operate your business.
• Questionnaires – Most banks will also have you complete short online forms about expected account activity and how the funds will be used.

Having these core documents on-hand makes the application process much quicker and easier when opening an international banking account in France from abroad. 

Additional information like rental agreements or visas may also come in handy depending on your personal situation.

Can I Open an International Banking Account in France without a French Address?

The good news is yes, it is absolutely possible to open an international bank account in France without having a residential address in the country. One of the most convenient options for doing so is by setting up an account fully online with a digital bank like The Kingdom Bank.

Since The Kingdom Bank operates entirely digitally and internationally, account holders are not required to have any type of local address in France. All that’s needed is having the basic identification and income documents that most banks request.

This provides expatriates, digital nomads, overseas students, and others a simple way to access premier European banking services from anywhere in the world through just an internet connection and mobile app. Not having to establish residency in France first removes a major hurdle for international clients.

Is It Possible to Open an International Banking Account in France Online?

The short answer is yes – due to the rise of digital banking, opening an international account in France completely online has become very straightforward. As we mentioned earlier, using a fully digital bank such as The Kingdom Bank is one of the easiest ways for those living abroad.

Going through the account setup process on The Kingdom Bank’s website or mobile app allows new customers to submit identification documents, provide income details, and complete required security verifications entirely virtually. There’s no need to mail or fax anything.

Within just a few business days, approved applicants receive login credentials to start using their new borderless banking account right away via online and mobile platforms. A premier debit card also ships out for making purchases and ATM withdrawals globally.

The digital experience provided by The Kingdom Bank takes all the stress and complications out of establishing international banking presence in France from overseas. 

Everything from ID verification to funding an account and receiving a card can now be handled with just a few clicks. International users get exactly the same premium services as locals – all without stepping foot in the country.

Opening an international banking account in France opens the door to a world of opportunities. Having a financial gateway into the European market enhances convenience and opportunities no matter where in the world home may be. 

With options like The Kingdom Bank that specialize in digital offshore banking services, signing up is easier than ever before – even for those based outside of France.

If setting up flexible international banking access in one of Europe’s premier markets sounds appealing, consider giving The Kingdom Bank a look. 

Our streamlined account creation process and versatile online/mobile functionality let jetsetting individuals and organizations take advantage of cost-effective European financial services on their own schedule, no matter where business or travels may lead. Start exploring what seamless worldwide banking freedom could unlock at The Kingdom Bank today.