After You Arrive

Bank Account and SIM Card in France

To open a French bank account you need three papers: ID, proof of address and proof of enrolment. A French account makes it easier to pay rent and bills and get health refunds.

Example bank

Example: student account

Account #: Example

Recent Transactions

Example: rent

Example: phone plan

Example carrier

Student SIM

Example

Example card. Any foreign student can open a bank account in any French bank.

Banking

Student Banking in France

Any foreign student can open an account in any bank in France. Branches are in most cities.

Good to know

A French account helps you pay bills, receive wages and get health refunds faster.

Step-by-Step

How to Open a Bank Account in France

Opening an account is your right as a student.

Compare banks

Look at card, transfer and withdrawal costs.

Book an appointment

Visit a branch and meet an adviser.

Bring three papers

ID, proof of address and enrolment proof or student card.

Get your card and RIB

You have the right to a bank card and a cheque book (paper cheques). Your RIB is your bank account details slip.

Papers You Need

Three papers are needed.

Essential Documents:

ID - Your passport.
Proof of address - Or your school's international office address if you have no housing yet.
Enrolment proof - An enrolment certificate or student card.

Tips

Make an appointment with an adviser at a branch.

No housing yet? You may be able to use your school's international office address.

If banks refuse you, you can ask for the "right to an account". France's central bank, the Banque de France, then names a bank that must open one for you.

Staying Connected

Mobile SIM Cards and Plans

French mobile plans are often sold without a contract.

Free Mobile (example)

Example of phone plans with no contract.

Best Student Deal:

Plan 1: EUR 2 a month. Plan 2: EUR 19.99 a month (5G internet, 350 GB data).

Visit Website

How to Get a SIM Card

Three simple steps.

Pick a plan

Compare plans online. Many have no contract.

Order a SIM or eSIM

Order online or in a shop.

Activate it

Follow the operator's steps to start your line.

Tips

Plans without a contract let you stop at any time.

Practical Advice

Money and Phone Tips

Simple tips for your first months.

Smart Money Habits

Compare bank costs
Card, international transfer and cash withdrawal costs can differ a lot between banks.
Keep your RIB
Your bank account details slip (RIB) is used to pay rent and bills and to receive wages.
Carry a little cash
Carry about EUR 1,000 (euros) with you for your first expenses. This is not the visa money proof (EUR 877.50 a month).