You do not need a bank account to use the ATM in France.

Alternative Money Transfer App

Wise

This is a money transferring account. You receive a debit card and add money into your account via their App. Find out more on their website

Revolut

This is an app that helps you spend money abroad as well as budget with their built in tools. Their Standard Plan is free and does everything you will need for your time at ACL-IAU. Find out more on their website

Opening a French Bank Account

For students who wish to open a bank account, here are the steps and documents to provide: 

For ACM (and some IAU) students (long stays, more than 6 months): You can open a Livret A or a checking account (necessary for those who wish to work and receive a salary from their employer). You must make an appointment with an advisor to open the account. 

To open a checking account, you must provide: 

  • Form of identification (passport) 
  • Long Stay Visa (VLS-TS) 
  • Student ID 
  • Student Social Security Number 
  • Certificate of accommodation (form given by the bank) 
  • Identity document of the host (original) 
  • Proof of address less than 3 months old 

Services:

  • Possibility to have a credit card (and/or checkbook) 
  • Possibility of contactless payment 
  • Overdraft allowed