Moving to France as an expat? One of your first challenges will be opening a French bank account. BoursoBank (formerly Boursorama Banque) is France's largest online bank and offers the best deal for expats: completely free banking with up to €200 sign-up bonus using referral code ANDE8234.
Get €200 with Referral Code ANDE8234
Free account • Free Visa card • No income requirement
Open My Free Account →🎯 Why BoursoBank Is the Best Bank for Expats in France
BoursoBank has been ranked the cheapest bank in France for 18 consecutive years. It's particularly well-suited for expats because of its digital-first approach and zero fees policy. With over 6 million customers, it's France's leading online bank.
✅ Key Benefits for Expats
- 100% online application – No French required
- No income requirement
- Free Visa debit card (Welcome or Ultim)
- No foreign transaction fees worldwide
- No monthly account fees
- English mobile app available
- Backed by Société Générale (major French bank)
- Up to €200 sign-up bonus with referral
⚠️ Things to Know
- Must be a French tax resident
- Need existing EU/UK/Swiss bank account (RIB)
- US citizens not accepted (FATCA regulations)
- No physical branches
- Customer service mainly in French
- Must keep account 24 months for bonus
📋 Eligibility Requirements for Expats
BoursoBank is available to expats and foreigners living in France, but there are specific requirements you need to meet before applying.
Basic Requirements
- Tax residency: You must be a tax resident in France
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old
- Existing bank account: You need a RIB from a bank in EEA, UK, or Switzerland
- Valid ID: Passport or national ID from an eligible country
Accepted Nationalities
BoursoBank accepts applications from citizens of:
- All 30 European Economic Area (EEA) countries
- United Kingdom
- Switzerland
- Some other countries on a case-by-case basis (Morocco, Algeria, etc.)
⚠️ Important: US Citizens
Due to FATCA regulations, BoursoBank does not accept applications from US citizens or US tax residents. If you're American, consider alternatives like N26, Revolut, or Wise first, then use that account's RIB to apply elsewhere.
📄 Documents Required
📋 Required Documents for Application
- Valid ID – Passport or national ID card (must be current)
- RIB – Bank account details from a bank in EEA, UK, or Switzerland
- Selfie verification – Taken via the BoursoBank app during application
- French address – Proof of residence (utility bill, rental contract, etc.)
✅ Good News: No Income Proof Required
Unlike traditional French banks, BoursoBank does not require proof of income, payslips, employment contract, or minimum monthly deposits. This makes it perfect for students, freelancers, and newcomers to France.
🚀 How to Open Your Account (Step-by-Step)
📊 BoursoBank vs Other Banks for Expats
| Feature | BoursoBank | N26 | Revolut | Traditional Bank |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sign-up Bonus | Up to €200 | €0-30 | €0 | €0-80 |
| Monthly Fee | Free | Free | Free | €5-15 |
| Card Fee | Free | Free | Free | €30-50/yr |
| Foreign Transaction Fees | 0% | 0% | 0-2% | 2-3% |
| French IBAN | Yes (FR) | No (DE) | No (LT) | Yes |
| Savings Accounts | Yes (Livret A) | Limited | Limited | Yes |
| Accept US Citizens | No | Yes | Yes | Varies |
Why Choose BoursoBank Over Neobanks?
While N26 and Revolut are popular among expats, BoursoBank offers several key advantages:
- Full banking services: Access to savings accounts (Livret A, LDDS), investment products, and loans
- French IBAN: Essential for some French services that don't accept foreign IBANs (rent, utilities, taxes)
- Backed by Société Générale: One of France's largest banks, offering stability and security
- Higher sign-up bonus: €200 vs. typically €0-30 with neobanks
- Deposit protection: €100,000 guarantee under French FGDR scheme
💳 BoursoBank Card Options
Welcome Card (Free)
- No income requirement
- Free payments worldwide
- Free ATM withdrawals in Eurozone
- Systematic authorization (checks balance before each transaction)
Ultim Card (Free)
- All Welcome features plus:
- Free ATM withdrawals worldwide
- Higher payment limits
- Travel insurance included
- Deferred debit option available
Metal Card (€9.90/month)
- Premium metal card design
- 1% cashback on card purchases
- Unlimited ATM withdrawals globally
- Premium insurance package
- Concierge service
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a BoursoBank account if I don't speak French?
Yes, the application process is straightforward and can be completed even with limited French. The mobile app has English support, and many expats successfully open and manage their accounts without fluent French. Use Google Translate for the website if needed.
Do I need a French address to open an account?
Yes, you need to be a French tax resident with a French address. You'll need to provide proof of address such as a utility bill, rental contract, or official document showing your French residence.
What if I don't have a European bank account yet?
BoursoBank requires a RIB from an existing bank in the EEA, UK, or Switzerland. If you don't have one, consider opening a Wise or Revolut account first (they accept more nationalities), then use that RIB to apply for BoursoBank.
How long does it take to get my card?
After your application is approved (usually 2-5 business days), your card is sent by post and typically arrives within 5-7 business days. In the meantime, you can use Apple Pay or Google Pay with your virtual card.
What is EasyMove and should I activate it?
EasyMove is BoursoBank's free bank switching service. It automatically transfers your direct debits and standing orders from your old bank. It's free to use and earns you an extra €70 bonus. You must maintain the service for 24 months to keep the bonus.
Can I close my account if I leave France?
Yes, you can close your account at any time with no fees. However, if you close within 24 months of opening, BoursoBank may reclaim the welcome bonuses. If you're leaving France temporarily, you can keep the account active.
Is BoursoBank safe for my money?
Yes, BoursoBank is a subsidiary of Société Générale, one of France's largest banks. Your deposits are protected up to €100,000 by the French deposit guarantee scheme (FGDR), the same as any traditional French bank.
🎯 Final Recommendation
For expats living in France, BoursoBank is the best choice for everyday banking. The combination of zero fees, excellent digital services, French IBAN, and a generous sign-up bonus makes it unbeatable in the French market.
The current €200 bonus offer is the 2nd highest in BoursoBank's history – don't miss it!
Get €200 with Referral Code ANDE8234
Free account • Free Visa card • No commitments • Offer ends January 5, 2026
Claim My €200 Bonus →⚠️ Important Disclaimer
The information on this page is provided for informational purposes only and may contain errors or become outdated. This website is not affiliated with BoursoBank and has no official connection to the bank.
BoursoBank is solely responsible for its referral program and reserves the right to modify or cancel offers at any time. Before opening an account, please review the official terms on BoursoBank.com.
Last updated: January 6, 2026