France is a beautiful place to visit and a good destination with romantic views, gourmet food and handy location near to UK.Flying from London to Paris takes about 1 hour 30 minutes.If you want to visit France, before visiting consider how you’ll manage your money there. People visit France for different purpose such as study, live or work there or with more. Whatever it may be,you’ll need to know how French banking works and more importantly, which French banks and accounts will best suit your needs.
This write up gives information about top banks in France, it will help you to make an informed decision on bank related matters there.
Three main types of bank accounts provided by banks in France are very familiar to visitors from the UK. These are:
Current Account (compte courant)
It is a basic bank account for everyday use
General savings account (Livret)
It is a savings account that allows customers for easy money transfers.
Long-term savings account (Compte à Terme or Compte d’Epargne Logement)
It is a savings account offering higher interest rates for those saving for a large purchase.
Documents required
Certain documents to prove your identity are required to open your French bank account. Your Passport can be used for this purpose.
You’ll also need to submit proof of address, such as a utility bill or rental certificate. And if you’re an expat, you’ll need proof of residential status, such as your visa.
The majority of the traditional banking offers provided with a fee for using them. This includes high fees for sending money abroad, or for using your debit card in other countries.Therefore If you transact or manage your money internationally and want to save money, check out the Wise Account.
Major banks operational in France
BNP paribas,Societe Generale,Credit AgricoPopulaire,Banque Populaire,Caisse d’Epargne,La Banque Postale,HSBC France,LCL( Le Credit Lyonnais) ,AXA Banque,CIC(Credit Industriel et Commercial).