Switching Bank Accounts in Europe as an Expat: Avoid Freezes and Hidden Fees

Moving country, hidden FX fees, or lack of English support are common triggers. Plan at least a one‑month overlap between old and new accounts so nothing breaks (salary, utilities, subscriptions).

EU rules let you open a basic payment account anywhere and transfer direct debits and standing orders via SEPA switching services. You can keep the old IBAN active while the new account takes over.

• Closing the old account too early; refunds or salaries may still land there.

• Not informing tax/social bodies (e.g., CAF/Ameli in France) or energy/insurance providers.

• Forgetting foreign subscriptions that reject a different IBAN.

Best practice: keep both accounts open for 60 days, then close the old one in writing.

If an employer or website refuses your foreign IBAN, that’s illegal in the EU (SEPA regulation 260/2012).

1) Cite the law in writing.

2) Keep evidence (email/screenshot).

3) Report at https://www.iban-discrimination.eu.

Wise — real rates, multi‑currency; Revolut — strong mobile experience and local IBANs; N26 — simple EU account in multiple languages; BNP Paribas International — stable network for larger transfers. Choose based on residency, salary needs, and cash deposit requirements.

Maria from Spain moved to Germany. She opened Revolut to avoid FX fees when travelling and used SEPA account‑switch tools to migrate rent and utilities. After one month of overlap, every payment ran smoothly.

• Passport or residence permit

• Proof of address (< 3 months)

• Proof of income/employment

• Tax residence statement if changing country

Prefer SEPA Instant for everyday transfers. For > €10,000, use SWIFT with 2FA and confirm recipient details by a known channel. Never share login codes over the phone.

See also: How to open a European bank account and France–Switzerland cross‑border guide.

Bank mobility is your right. Use SEPA tools, double‑check all subscriptions, and don’t rush closures. Freedom starts with a smooth transfer.