OPENING A BANK ACCOUNT and tax

One can open a bank account whether one is resident or not in France, although any bank can (as in the UK) refuse to accept you as a customer. However, if you've been refused by two, the third (if written refusal from the other banks is shown and proved) must open an account for you. An account holder for a French bank account must be over 18 years of age and provide proof on identity. (Passport, birth certificate for example and an address with an EDF bill). If one wishes to open an account from abroad, one must first obtain an application form (from overseas branches of French banks) and choose a branch from the list provided nearest to where one will be living in France. If one opens an account by correspondence, a reference from your current bank must be provided, including a certificate of signature or a signature witnessed by a lawyer. A photocopy of the relevant pages one's passport and a Euro draft to open the account will be needed.

Non-resident accounts (compte non-resident) are available on request from one's chosen bank. Terms of these types of account may vary and it is recommended to ask the Bank in question for their paricular terms.

Cheque and current accounts are thenorm. When opening a cheque account, is is recommended that a Carte Bleue is askd for as it will be the easiest way to pay for almost all bills in France. As with all matters relating to financial affairs, ask questions and think twice. As in the UK, there is little problem with the major banks and 99% of all transactions go smoothly. However, be aware of the small differences by asking about the differnces with a professional advisor.

Mortages are awidelyy available from French banks, UK banks and other UK lenders.

Personal tax affairs should be advised by one's own financial advisor and there are many UK based specialists in French/English tax requirements.

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