What's a RIB in France? How Can I Get One?

“RIB” is the abbreviation for Relevé d’Identité Bancaire, which means “Bank Account Details” in English. You need these details when you open a bank account with a French bank or buy property in France.

You can find more information on this and other terms and expressions in our complete buyer’s guide.

What’s a Relevé d’Identité Bancaire in France?

A RIB, short for Relevé d’Identité Bancaire, is a document that serves as a statement of your banking identity. Your bank provides it and includes detailed information about your bank account.

The RIB includes your bank and branch name and address, your personal details, and your unique BIC (bank code) and IBAN. 

These numbers are essential for conducting banking transactions such as international money transfers and direct deposits.

With a RIB, you can easily share your banking information with others, verify your identity, and keep track of your financial transactions.

How to Get a RIB from a French Bank?

If you need to set up direct debits or money transfers with your bank account, your bank may ask for a copy of your RIB (Relevé d’Identité Bancaire). It contains all the necessary details of your bank account, including your account number, routing number, and the name of your bank. You can easily locate your RIB at the beginning or end of your chequebook. 

Your RIB is a vital document you can use in various situations. For instance, it helps when setting up direct debits with utility companies or service providers, as it ensures you provide the correct bank account information.

You can also share your RIB with your new employer if you are starting a new job. This lets them transfer your salary directly into your bank account. 

Furthermore, your RIB can be used to open a Livret A savings account at the post office. This account is popular in France and can be opened only by providing your RIB and other required documents. Having your RIB ready saves time and effort when completing these steps.

Send a copy of your RIB to your currency transfer provider to ensure your deposit is placed on time, and create an account to settle the balance with the Notaire’s office on completion day, at the signature of the acte authentique.

Get a RIB Online

If you do online banking, you can ask your bank for an RIB or download it directly from your account. You can receive it electronically, such as by SMS or email. It is advisable to keep a few hard copies of the RIB for future reference.

We recommend keeping them with your other important “paper” documents, such as passport copies or birth/wedding certificates, as they may be useful later.

Looking for a Property?

If you are looking for a place to live and planning visits, we suggest you review our guide to banking in France and learn how to plan your viewing trip. We hope this is helpful, please contact us if you’re interested in arranging property visits.

Not yet ready? No problem. Why not start with our beginners’ guide and learn about the various aspects of living in France?

Finally, tell us what you’re looking for so you can stay up to date with the latest offers as they come to market.