Initial Formalities
Although you are not required to open a bank account in France, it is a necessary tool for everyday life. Most employers will ask you to open an account so that they can pay your salary directly, and it is common for utility bills and other payments to be made via bank transfer.
In compliance with article L312-1 of the Financial and Monetary Law / Code, any French resident, whatever their nationality, can open an account if they meet the legal requirements. Before agreeing to open an account, a bank is entitled to check whether a prospective customer meets the legal requirements: if not, the bank can determine a suitable person to act on behalf of the customer.
Minors
non-emancipated minors / minors under parental control - do not have the legal capacity to open an account. Their parents or legal guardian can open an account in the minor's name. The bank account contracts are the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian in question.
emancipated minors / minors no longer under parental control - a minor may be emancipated if they get married or are released from parental control by a judge. If emancipated, a minor has the same legal rights as an adult: they can open their own bank account and make their own decisions regarding its operation.
Adults
adults with a legal guardian - do not have the legal capacity to open an account. They have the same legal standing as a non-emancipated minor. Adults with a legal guardian can open a bank account only when their legal guardian agrees. The type of guardianship applicable will determine which operations the adult can oversee without the consent of their guardian: this information is sent to their bank. Some operations will require a double signature: one from the adult and one from their guardian.
married couples - there is no need to have permission from your spouse in order to open a bank account.
