need to know how the IVA works in France

[lessonlearnt]

Hi there, I have been in my IVA for just 4 months and I only have a cash card - no online banking or debit card as I have been declined this from banks. I am wanting to move to France shortly but need to know how the IVA works there. Will I still only be able to have a cash card and not able to pay online or withdraw from other banks? I currently have a pre-paid card with the money shop so I can pay bills online and over the phone... Thanks

[ray_a]

Wow what a question!

Basically you will still need to make contributions into your IVA.

As for banking arrangements the Freench are far more serious about debt and I understand opening a French bank account will be difficult. If you are working then you might have to get your funds paid into your UK bank account.

The French cash machines will accept VISA electron and a prepaid Mastercard. I went over to France for a day trip two years ago and tested my Co Op card and this allowed me to draw money out.

Personally I would stay in the UK until I cleared my IVA.

Hope this helps and I am sure a lot of people will come up with some better ideas!

[MelanieGiles]

It may not be too difficult to open an account in France, as they are unlikely to do much credit checking back to the UK. You will of course need to maintain your IVA contributions, and this is easy to do on-line.

Why not keep your UK bank account which will allow you to make cash withdrawals in Europe, surely? How are you currently paying your IVA? If by standing order then this arrangement can continue.

It might be sensible to keep both bank accounts running - use your French one for everyday expenses, and your English one for commitments back in the UK including the IVA payments.

Regards, Melanie Giles, Insolvency Practitioner for over 20 years.

To appoint me as your IP visit:
http://www.melaniegiles.com/ivaEnquiry.asp

See customer feedback at:
http://www.iva.com/iva_companies/IVA_Advice_Bureau.asp

[ray_a]

This is very interesting as I thought French Banks were tougher on people with debt than UK and I would have thought they would have tougher checks as they do not tolerate debt.

[MelanieGiles]

They probably do in their own country, but are unlikely to cross-border - although this poster may have to demonstrate residency before they will consider an application.

Regards, Melanie Giles, Insolvency Practitioner for over 20 years.

To appoint me as your IP visit:
http://www.melaniegiles.com/ivaEnquiry.asp

See customer feedback at:
http://www.iva.com/iva_companies/IVA_Advice_Bureau.asp