We make moving to France
feel exciting, not overwhelming.
Ibanista is a family-run business founded by Ben and his French wife, two people who know first-hand what it means to build a new life abroad. We combine financial expertise with real, human support to make your move to France calm, clear, and genuinely supported.
A family business,
built from lived experience
Ibanista is founded by Ben and his French wife, two people who know first-hand what it means to start a new life abroad.
Ben first moved to France at just eight years old, when his parents bought a ruined barn and rebuilt it from the ground up. Years later, after moving back to the UK, he built his professional career as a currency broker in London, helping clients move their money across borders.
But over time, he saw that what people really needed went beyond exchange rates. They needed clarity, connection, and genuine support. That's how Ibanista began.
Too many services treat moving
as a transaction.
We see it as a life transition.
We started Ibanista to bring real empathy and clarity into what can be one of the biggest decisions of your life. From currency transfers to finding a rental, our role is to make your move to France simpler, safer, and genuinely supported.
Because behind every transfer or form is a person, with a story, a dream, and a new beginning.
Real Support from Real People
You'll speak with humans who have deep knowledge of living in France, not a bot, not a script, not a call centre. Just honest advice from people who care.
Built for Life in France
Our tools and services, currency transfers, rental dossiers, utility setup, are purpose-built for expats in France. Nothing generic, nothing templated.
Tailored to You
Every move is different. Whether you're retiring, relocating full-time, or managing a second home, we create a clear plan that fits your goals and grows with you.
The people behind
every conversation
Benjamin Small
With over 8 years in the international payments industry, leading major sales desks at two renowned London brokerages, Ben has helped hundreds of clients move money safely and strategically across borders.
But Ben's connection to France goes far deeper than currency. He first moved there at just eight years old, and has spent his career bridging the gap between financial expertise and the human reality of starting a new life abroad.
He founded Ibanista to create a service he felt was missing: one that combined competitive rates and real knowledge with genuine, personal support, not just for the transaction, but for the whole move.
Ben is available for free consultations, Power Hour sessions, and FX strategy calls. Wherever you are in your journey to France, he's happy to help.
Alexandra Lhomond
Originally from the south of France, Alexandra brings a deep understanding of French culture and expat life. She moved to the UK in 2017 and has a strong background in e-commerce and digital marketing.
Since joining Ibanista in 2023, she has led our content and marketing strategy, helping expats navigate their move with clarity and confidence. Alexandra combines her expertise with first-hand experience of life abroad to genuinely connect with our community.
Everything you need
to settle in France.
We work alongside you,
not just for the paperwork
We regularly work alongside banks, notaires, wealth managers, and advisors to ensure everything joins up seamlessly. We work with FCA-regulated e-money partners and are rooted in real expat community stories.
By listening closely and collaborating, we anticipate issues before they arise, helping you move with ease and certainty.
Real people. Real moves.
Real results.
I cannot recommend Ben Small highly enough. He worked tirelessly for me to get me the best possible rate, and he felt more like a friend than someone doing a financial transaction.
Ben at Ibanista was simply wonderful. He is so knowledgeable and efficient and held our hands throughout our purchase of a small second home in the South West of France.
Ibanista's Power Hour reinvigorated me. My call with Ben helped bring calm back. He artfully guided me to zoom out, look at the big picture and let it unfold naturally.
What truly sets Ben apart is how he combines professional expertise with genuine kindness. For anyone serious about moving to France, Ben Small isn't just helpful — he's essential.
France is waiting.
Let's make sure your move goes smoothly.
From the first question to the last utility bill, Ibanista is with you every step of the way. Book a free 15-minute call and let's talk about your move to France.
Call us on +44 203 376 5117 · Back to Ibanista.com