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For access to your online account please contact your personal account manager, alternatively email team@regencyfx.com.
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For access to your online account please contact your personal account manager, alternatively email team@regencyfx.com.
If you’re moving to France, understanding your banking documents is essential. Here is our French RIB explained guide, showing exactly what a RIB is and why it’s important for managing your finances.
Short for Relevé d’Identité Bancaire, a RIB acts like your bank account’s passport, holding all the details someone needs to send money to your account or set up authorised payments.
A RIB might look like a simple piece of paper but it’s packed with crucial details:
Note: The RIB is the full document while the RIB number is just one part of it.
Almost every financial transaction in France relies on a RIB. Employers, landlords, insurers and government bodies use it to ensure payments go to the right account.
You’ll need a RIB to:
Even small everyday transactions, like school fees or local services, often require a RIB.
Getting a RIB is straightforward. Most French banks provide one automatically when you open an account. You can also access it in your chequebook, download it through your bank’s online portal or mobile app, or even print it at a branch or some ATMs.
Digital banks including Revolut and N26 also issue French RIBs. This can be useful for expats who do not have access to a physical branch.
A RIB is generally safe to share. By itself, it cannot be used to withdraw money without your authorisation (mandat de prélèvement). Still, take these precautions:
Even if someone gets hold of your RIB, they cannot debit your account without permission.
Can I get a RIB before moving to France? Yes. Some banks such as N26 or Revolut allow you to open an account online and receive a RIB in advance.
Can I have multiple RIBs at the same bank? Yes. Each account has its own RIB, letting you separate salary, rent and personal payments.
Do I need a RIB for international payments? No, the IBAN is sufficient for international transfers. A RIB is mainly for local transactions in France.
What happens if I give the wrong RIB? Payments are usually rejected or returned. Double-check numbers to avoid delays.
How long until my employer or landlord can use my RIB? Usually within a few days, but some organisations may take 1–2 weeks to process it.
Can I close my account if someone has my RIB? Yes, but notify anyone using it first. Once the account is closed, the RIB becomes invalid.
A RIB is more than a piece of paper - it’s your financial identity in France. Understanding your French RIB makes receiving payments, paying bills and managing everyday transactions far easier.
If you’re moving to France, getting a RIB early on can make life a lot easier and help you avoid unnecessary expenses.
At Regency FX, we are a UK-based independent currency broker specialising in high-volume transfers. Every client is assigned a personal account manager and all transfers are made using client-segregated accounts in line with FCA guidelines.
Why choose us?
We pride ourselves on helping expats and international clients navigate their finances with confidence. Even if you’re just researching property or planning your move to France, we can monitor the market on your behalf and ensure you get the most competitive exchange rates.
Get a free quote today and see how we can help you manage your money in France.
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