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Banking

Banking in France

You need a bank before you can register, because share capital has to be deposited first. Online business banks have made this much faster.

Quick answer

Open an account with a traditional bank or an online business bank such as Qonto, deposit share capital and get the certificate needed to register. Deposits are guaranteed up to €100,000.

Verified Oct 2026 · FGDR
Deposit guarantee
€100,000
Capital certificate
Required
Timeline
Days to weeks
IBAN
FR

Choosing a bank

Typical options for a new company.

OptionOnboardingGood for
Traditional bankIn branchLoans and long-term banking
Online business bankOnlineFast setup and capital deposit
NotaryIn personCapital deposit only
Payment providerOnlineCard payments and subscriptions
Example

Many founders deposit capital with an online business bank, register the company, then add a traditional bank later when they need credit.

How it works in practice

Capital deposit

The bank blocks the capital until it receives the Kbis, then releases it to the company account.

What banks ask for

Draft statuts, ID, proof of address and a description of the business.

Payments

SEPA transfers, cards and direct debits work across the eurozone.

Editor's note

Start the bank step first. It is the one that holds up registration, and online banks can issue the capital certificate within days.

Before you start
  • Bank or online bank chosen
  • Draft statuts ready
  • Capital deposited
  • Certificate received
  • Payment provider chosen

What to watch

Foreign shareholdersExpect extra due diligence.
Loan accessOnline banks rarely lend; keep a traditional bank in mind.
FeesCompare monthly fees and card limits.

Common questions

Can I open an account remotely?

Online business banks often allow it.

Is the deposit guarantee automatic?

Yes, through the FGDR.

Do I need a French bank?

Capital is usually deposited with a French institution.

Local terms

Certificat de dépôt
Capital deposit certificate.
RIB
Bank account details.
FGDR
Deposit guarantee fund.

Primary sources

FGDR deposit guarantee↗entreprendre.service-public.fr↗