Insurance
In order to get an accommodation in France, it is compulsory to take out a home insurance policy and it is advisable to take out a civil liability insurance policy which protects you in case of an accident. There is a wide range of online insurance offered to students.
What you need to know about these 2 insurances during your stay in France:
Home insurance
Home insurance is compulsory in France if you rent a room or an apartment (including a room in a student hall of residence).
It covers risks such as fire or water damage. It can also cover civil liability or theft depending on the contract chosen.
It is usually valid for one year and can be purchased online.
Civil liability insurance
Also called accident insurance. It covers accidents caused to a third party.
However it is often part of the home insurance.
Cancelling insurance
To terminate an insurance contract, you must refer to the contract which will specify the deadline and the means (registered letter, etc.) of termination.
If it is “without tacit renewal” you do not have to take any steps.
Bank
You can bring cash for the first few days, but for more peace of mind, check with your bank that your bank card works in France.
ATMs are plentiful and payment by credit card is very common, even for small amounts.
Opening a bank account in a French bank can be useful during your stay. It will allow you to obtain a RIB (bank account number) which will be required for many administrative procedures, such as applying for benefits.
Opening a bank account in France
You can bring cash for the first few days, but for peace of mind check with your bank that your bank card works in France.
There are many cash dispensers and payment by bank card is very common, even for small amounts.
Opening a bank account in France generally requires 2 weeks and several documents.
Simply follow the steps below:
- Go to a bank of your choice to make an appointment with a bank advisor
- Prepare all required documents prior to your appointment :
- Passport or ID card
- Proof of residence (“Justificatif de domicile”): If you are staying in a student hall of residence, ask the residence staff. If you are not staying in a student hall of residence, ask your landlord.
- Enrolment certificate (“Certificat de scolarité”). This document is generally provided to you when you enrol with your faculty/department. You can also print it from your personal account on the student web portal (ENT Etudiants).
The bank may request that you make a small deposit to the account when opening it.
You will also be given a “Relevé d’identité bancaire” or “RIB” (document showing all your bank details), which is useful for various formalities such as renting a bike or getting a bus pass, being reimbursed for medical expenses, etc.
Once your account is open, according to the bank agency conditions, you will receive a credit card within ten days.
Closing a bank account
Typically, you must send a cancellation letter to your bank by registered mail with acknowledgement of receipt.
Sample cancellation letter: https://www.service-public.fr/simulateur/calcul/FermetureCompteBancaire