To open a bank account in France, you will need the following documents
- ID card/passport
- Proof of residence: utility bill or rent receipt or contract.
If you are hosted by someone, you will need: a declaration signed by your host saying that you are hosted, your host’s ID and a utility bill (less than 3 months)
- Student card or proof of enrolment
- Birth certificate translated into French (only if place of birth does not appear on your passport)
Note: If students are coming from the US they will need to bring a tax statement document with them to the bank.
Once you have opened an account, you will receive a RIB (Relevé d’Identité Bancaire) which shows your account details. You can ask for a cheque book (un chéquier), as this means of payment is very common in France.
To guide you through this process, a Campus France video tutorial is available here
IMPORTANT: Having a French bank account is required for obtaining a mobile phone contract and paying bills such as rent and electricity. You will also need to provide your RIB when applying for APL (Personalized accommodation aid from la CAF).
In Rennes : consult the student guideline designed by the CMI.