Opening a bank account in Paris

If you move to Paris it is wise to open a bank account with a French bank as soon as possible. International transfers take time and sometimes cost extra money. For your daily expenses a local bank account is inevitable. However, choosing a bank can be tricky. There are many options and as a foreigner it is hard to distinguish between these banks. 

Neuflize is a good option for wealthy people. This bank only accepts clients who are willing (and able!) to put at least  € 200.000  in a bank account with Neuflize. The service of this bank is excellent.  

I opened a bank account with Crédit Agricole, because it is the partner bank of my bank in the Netherlands. I am very satisfied with the staff. The employee of Crédit Agricole who assisted me was kind and went out of her way to help me, even though I am a simple student. 

Some people are enthusiastic about BNP Paribas and others regret their choice for this bank, depending on the office that they were involved in. The advantage of a bank account with BNP Paribas is that there are ATM's on every corner of the street (metaphorically speaking). Disappointed clients mention inflexible employees who don't like foreigners.  

There are at least ten other banks present in Paris, so just walk inside an office and see if the staff is welcoming, easy-going and multilingual. If you want to open a bank account right away, make sure you have the following documents: your passport and a proof of residency, including a gas and electricity bill. The rental contract is often asked. If you are a student they might ask for your student card or a document that states that you are enrolled at a French educational institution. I brought a letter of credit from my Dutch bank, but this is usually not an obligation.