What is a bank transfer?
A bank transaction
A bank transfer is an operation that allows you to transfer money from one account to another. It connects an issuer, whose account is debited, and a beneficiary, whose account is credited. This transaction can be carried out both between accounts of the same holder and between accounts of different holders or banks.
Internal transfer vs. external transfer
We distinguish between internal transfer and external transfer. The internal transfer is made within the same bank, whether it concerns the accounts of the same user or of a third party (spouse, children, etc.) domiciled with the same bank. The external transfer is made to an account domiciled in another bank.
One-off transfer and permanent transfer
Whether internal or external, the transfer can be one-off (when it involves making a single transaction) or permanent (when it involves the payment of a monthly payment: rent, Internet package, etc.). A standing order is particularly useful for automate recurring paymentsthus reducing the risks of late or forgotten payments.
Domestic transfers and SEPA transfers
Finally, a bank transfer can be made in France or internationally. We speak of “domestic” transfers to refer to money transfers within the same country. For the transfers abroadit all depends on the country of destination:
- We speak of “SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area) transfers” to designate money transfers carried out within the European Union or the European economic area which includes Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Monaco and San Marino.
- We speak of “international” transfers to designate money transfers made outside the SEPA zone.
What is the maximum amount for a transfer?
Different bank transfer limits depending on the bank
Theoretically, there is no limit for a bank transfer. But in practice, banking establishments define a transfer limit around of 6 000 to 7 000 euros in order to combat tax fraud. These ceilings may also vary depending on the period (daily, weekly, monthly) and can be modified at the customer’s request.
Security ceiling and transfer control
In addition to fixed ceilings, banks put in place additional security checks. This often includes measures such as identity confirmation via SMS or mobile app for transfers above a certain amount. These controls are intended to prevent fraud and unauthorized transactions.
Increase transfer limits
Customers may sometimes request a increase in their transfer limit with their bank. This request may require supporting documentation, such as information on the origin of the funds or documents relating to the transaction, especially in the context of international transfers or large commercial transactions.
How to transfer money to a bank account?
The transfer order can be made at a bank counter, by mail, via the PayPal application or even on the Internet. For a transfer order at a bank counter, you must remember to bring an identity document.
Make a transfer from account to account
Account to account bank transfer involves transferring money between its own accounts. The transfer order can be made online, via its customer area, in the “Transfers” section. It is also possible to go to a bank branch with an identity document and account number. The transfer from account to account is instantaneous.
Mandatory information to make a transfer order
To make a SEPA or non-SEPA transfer to a third party, it is necessary to have the IBAN, the international identifier of the bank account, and the BIC, the international identifier of the bank, also called SWIFT, from the name of the international organization managing BICs. Registered on the RIB, IBAN and BIC allow an account to be identified and are necessary in France and abroad.
Make a transfer to another person from an IBAN or RIB
To make a SEPA or non-SEPA transfer, simply indicate:
- the account number to be debited;
- the amount to be transferred;
- the bank details of the account to be credited (IBAN and BIC).
How to make an online bank transfer?
The online transfer is very simple to make. To make an online bank transfer, the user must first log in to your customer area via your bank’s website or mobile application. Once connected, here is the procedure to follow:
- Access the transfers or money transfers section, available in the banking services menu.
- Choose the type of transfer to make.
- Enter the necessary information, such as the beneficiary’s name, amount, and the beneficiary’s bank details.
- Validate the transfer online.
Each banking establishment can then set up reinforced securitysuch as confirmation by SMS, where the user must enter the code received by SMS online to validate the transfer.
What is the new law on bank transfer security?
Since October 9, 2025, banks in the euro zone have implemented a beneficiary verification system for each transfer. The name entered must correspond to the IBAN in order to limit fraud, particularly that linked to identity theft or falsified RIB. In the event of a discrepancy, the customer will be notified and may correct or maintain the operation at their own risk.
The French Banking Federation therefore recommendsindicate the full and exact name recipients.
How to make an instant transfer?
The procedure is practically identical to that of a classic transfer. The user must connect to their online space, enter the information, then validate the transaction with a security code. The major difference lies in the fact that, for an instant transfer, option must be selected before validationand the transfer will be processed in seconds.
How long does a transfer take?
Here again, it all depends on the type of bank transfer :
- It takes 24 hours to make a SEPA transfer in France.
- It takes approximately 48 hours to complete a transfer if the beneficiary’s account is domiciled abroad.
- Non-SEPA transfers take longer: they depend on the banks and currencies concerned. On average, the creditor has to wait three to five days for the money to be transferred to their account (according to the value date).
Attention ! When the transfer concerns a new beneficiarythe operation can take up to three days, time required to verify the recipient’s bank details.
Account to account transfer: how much does it cost?
For domestic and external transfers
Domestic transfers are included in the banking package paid by the user and do not generate no additional costs. For external transfers, if the accounts are domiciled in the same bank, the operation is free. Otherwise, fees may be charged. The price varies depending on the bank, between one and three euros.
For online transfers
Online bank transfers are freewhile those made in a bank or agency are chargeable, especially for international transfers or transactions requiring manual processing. It is therefore advisable to favor online transfers if you want to avoid additional costs.
For permanent transfers
The permanent transfer can cause two types of fees, which cannot be combined: set-up costs or transfer fees taken during each operation. These fees vary from bank to bank, and it is recommended to check your bank’s conditions before setting up a standing transfer. These fees are small, but they can add up over time.
For SEPA bank transfers
A SEPA transfer is made in euros, even if it is intended for a bank account denominated in another currency. It is up to the beneficiary’s bank to make the conversion into the currency concerned. This operation may cause exchange feesvariable depending on the establishment.
For a transfer to an international bank
Non-SEPA transfer fees are expressed in percentage of amounts transferred or taxed flat rate. These costs may be higher. In addition, receiving fees and a foreign exchange commission may be added, which increases the overall cost of the transaction. It is therefore advisable to compare bank fees before making an international transfer.
For an instant transfer
Since January 9, 2025, instant transfer is free in all French banks. This measure follows a regulation by the European Parliament, stipulating that the fees for sending and receiving instant transfers must not exceed those charged for traditional transfers. Until then, it was billed at one euro.
How do I know if I have a transfer coming?
Checking the account statement
By regularly consulting your bank account statement online or via your bank’s mobile application, it is possible to spot a planned transfer, it quickly appears in the list of incoming transactions. Most banks also display transfer forecasts in the transaction history section.
Bank notifications
Many banks send SMS or email notifications as soon as a transfer is credited to an account. It is therefore important to check that this option is activated in your customer area to be alerted immediately as soon as a transfer is made to your account.
Transfer tracking
Some banks allow online monitoring of current transfersparticularly for international or SEPA transfers. If the transfer was made from another bank account, it is sometimes possible to follow its status in your banking area, although the information may be limited depending on the bank.
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What are the disadvantages of bank transfer?
Processing times
Bank transfers can take time to be processed, particularly in the case of external or international transfers. In this case, faster payment options, such as bank cards, mobile payments or instant money transfer services, may be preferable.
Associated costs
Although many banks offer free internal transfers, there are fees for external, international and SEPA transfersdepending on the banking institution. If the transfer involves a currency change, conversion fees may be added, which can significantly increase the total cost of the transfer.
The complexity of international transfers
BIC/SWIFT and IBAN are required for international transfers, which may make the procedure more complex for less experienced users. International transfers may also incur additional delays due to security checks, anti-money laundering laws, or time zone differences.
Tracking and tracing
Although bank transfers are well documented and traceable, it can be difficult for an individual to track the status of a transfer once it has been initiatedespecially for international transfers. Tracking a transaction may require contacting the bank’s customer service or requesting manual confirmation, which can take time.
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