Right to bank account

Historically banks have had differing policies with regard to this. However a recent European directive, operative in France, states that residents of EU countries have a right to open a ‘basic’ bank account in other EU countries. A compte de base is not a savings account with interest but must have essential facilities including a payment card and, if possible, access to online banking.

Banks may refuse for certain reasons, such as if you already have a French account or they suspect you of not respecting rules on money laundering. They should do so in writing and explaining the right to appeal to the Banque de France via a process called droit au compte. The BdF is able to oblige the bank, or an alternative bank, to open an account for you.

Société Générale told us it follows the directive but that the specialist staff it has to open accounts for non-residents are not present in all branches.