Transferring or Closing an Account

Both customers and banks can initiate a bank account closure. There are different terms and conditions for these procedures: essentially, you are able to close your account without giving notice, but the bank must give you sufficient time to find an alternative arrangement, unless they have good reason to close your account without notice.


Closure initiated by the bank

The bank may choose to close your account if you do not respect the terms and conditions of your contract. However before closing your bank account, the bank must give you notice: usually thirty days. Nonetheless, if your behaviour has been particularly poor, the account can be closed immediately once the customer has been informed.


Closure initiated by the customer

If you are unsatisfied with the service you receive from your bank, or you no longer require a French bank account, you may wish to close your account. To close your account you will usually need to go in person to a branch of your bank with proof of your identity, and formally request the closure of the account. The bank will transfer your money to another account, or provide you with cash or a cheque equal to the balance of your account if you prefer. If you have an overdraft, you will first have to repay the bank the money owed.


Transferring your bank account

You may wish to transfer your account to another branch or another bank, perhaps because their opening hours are more convenient, or because you move house. The transfer may take several days: longer if your bank is independent with no centralised system. Most French banks however offer a simple 'money mobility' service to facilitate easy transfers.