Bank account

Opening a bank account in France is not mandatory but will ease your daily life.
Thus, you will be able to pay your rent, bills and subscriptions, receive your salaries and refunds of your medical expenses.
If you don't have a european bank account (€ zone), this account is also mandatory for the French Health Insurance and/or to obtain the housing benefit from the CAF.

Student with a visa "Underage student" ("Mineur scolarisé"): one of your parents / legal guardian (official document necessary) must be present to open a bank account on your name.

Which bank to choose?

We advise you to compare the offers of the different banks and to choose the one matching your needs. Indeed, the costs related to various operations (international transfers, money withdrawals abroad, use of a credit card...) can vary from one organization to another. In addition, most banks offer attractive rates for both French and international students.

Ask for information from UCLy's banking partners:
Crédit Agricole Centre Est
Caisse d’Epargne Rhône-Alpes
Banque Populaire Loire et Lyonnais

Offers for French and international students from UCLy

Caisse d'Epargne

Click here to consult their offer in English

Banque Populaire

Click here to consult their offer (PDF only available in French)

Requested documents:

1) Identity:

European student: ID card
Non-European stuednt: passport + "Student" visa + visa validation

2) Proof of residence:

CROUS residences: proof of residence (Attestation de résidence) and lease contract
Non-CROUS residences / private accommodation: last rent receipt or last water/electricity/gas bill or home insurance
You are staying with a private individual (family, friend etc.): dated and signed certificate of accomodation from your host + his/her ID card + his/her last electricity bill

3) School certificate at the UCLy

Pre-enrolment certificate / admission letter are not valid

Once your account is opened, you will have bank account details (RIB/IBAN) which will be asked when you register for the French health insurance or when you apply for the housing benefit from the CAF.