France travel advice

Risk level

Disclaimer

The features in this map do not constitute an authoritative source of geographical information. This map is solely intended to assist Canadians by illustrating the risk levels contained in the Travel Advice and Advisories for this destination. The features in this map do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian government on international boundaries, nomenclature or political status. The text under the Risk levels section takes precedence over this map.

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France travel advice

Disclaimer

The features in this map do not constitute an authoritative source of geographical information. This map is solely intended to assist Canadians by illustrating the risk levels contained in the Travel Advice and Advisories for this destination. The features in this map do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian government on international boundaries, nomenclature or political status. The text under the Risk levels section takes precedence over this map.

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities, including in France. Additional attacks can occur.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including police stations
• schools including universities
• places of worship
• cultural venues, including:
• concert halls
• nightclubs
• event centres
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas and tourist attractions, especially in Paris, including:
• restaurants
• bars
• coffee shops
• shopping centres
• markets
• hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Be particularly vigilant during:

• sporting events 
• public celebrations 
• major political events, such as elections 
• religious holidays 

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks. 

Expect heightened security measures, including:

• an increased police presence across the country
• increased caution and scrutiny from security forces
• added security measures in certain places

Vigipirate plan

The Vigipirate plan is a set of security measures established by the French government.

As part of this plan, the government maintains a 3-level public alert system for terrorism. The Vigipirate plan’s security level is currently at level 3, “urgence attentat” (“attack emergency”). Changes in the threat level are communicated online and through local and national media.

Operation Sentinelle

Operation Sentinelle complements the Vigipirate plan. Police and Gendarmes, assisted by military units, are permanently deployed in public areas that could be targeted by terrorists.

Expect an increased police or military presence in public places.

Useful links

• Information on the terrorist threat in France – Ministry of the Interior (French only)
• How to react in case of a terrorist attack – Government of France (French only)
• Social media accounts of the Ministry of the Interior – Ministry of the Interior (French only)
• Vigipirate – Secretary General of defence and national security (French only)

Crime

Petty crime

Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and bag and mobile phone snatching, occur frequently. Thieves often target tourists.

Thieves are very skilled. They often act in groups and regularly work with minors. They may use various techniques to divert your attention and steal your belongings. Be cautious of distraction tactics, including people who:

• spill drinks on you or your belongings
• engage you in lengthy conversations
• persistently offer to assist you
• attempt to distance you from your personal belongings

Thieves are mainly active in large cities and busy places, such as:

• popular tourist sites
• large stores
• restaurants and patios
• hotel lobbies
• parks

Petty crime occurs frequently on public transportation, particularly:

• buses, trains, bus and train stations, and airports
• transport connections to and from airports
• international rail routes such as Paris-Brussels-Amsterdam and Paris-London.

During your trip:

• keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place
• do not carry large sums of cash or valuables unnecessarily
• be aware of your surroundings, especially in busy tourist areas
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs
• keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place in case it's stolen 

Lost or stolen belongings abroad

Violent crime

Although violent crime and assault are rare, tourists are sometimes victims.

These attacks usually occur:

• around major tourist attractions
• near railway stations
• on trains of the Île-de-France regional express network (RER) connecting the capital to its surroundings

Assaults can also occur at night outside bars and clubs and in more isolated areas.

Residential break-ins

Residential break-ins occur, especially in large cities and coastal areas. Burglars sometimes target houses or holiday rental apartments.

Parked vehicles and vehicles on the road

Vehicular theft and theft from parked cars occur. Thieves often target rental vehicles.

Theft of parked cars or their contents is particularly common in tourist areas in the south of France and at highway rest stops throughout the country.

Thieves often try to trick drivers into stopping their cars, either by obstructing the road or by distracting the driver by flashing their headlights. They may also try to convince you that you have a flat tire. Once the vehicle stops, the thieves seize the opportunity to steal bags or other valuable objects.

If you plan on driving during your visit:

• keep windows and doors closed and locked at all times
• keep bags and other valuable objects out of sight
• beware of any person who waves at you to stop on the highway
• be especially vigilant when stopped at traffic lights

Victims of crime

If you're a victim of a crime, go to the nearest police station or gendarme station to report it. Keep a copy of your theft report, as you will need it if you wish to make a claim to your insurer. If the incident takes place in the metro, a metro officer can direct you to the nearest police station.

You can complete an online pre-complaint for certain types of minor crime, such as personal property theft, before going to the police station. This may speed up the process once you get there.

Useful links

• Prevention advice for tourists – Préfecture de police de Paris
• Online pre-complaint – Ministry of the Interior (French only)

Fraud

Credit card, debit card and ATM fraud

Credit and debit card as well as ATM fraud occurs sometimes.

When using your debit or credit card:

• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Cybercrime

Cybercrime, malware attacks and online extortion can occur.

Criminals can compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal personal data or bank information.

• Use secure public Wi-Fi networks
• Carry your own USB adaptor or carry an extra battery pack instead of using public charging stations
• Be cautious when posting information or photos on social media
• Beware of people who show a keen interest in you online
• Always meet new acquaintances in a secure and familiar location

• Overseas fraud
• Cyber security while travelling
• Don’t take the bait: Recognize and avoid phishing attacks

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur frequently. They are usually planned, because permission from the local authorities is required. However, unauthorized and spontaneous demonstrations also take place.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Radical activists and vandals have a history of using aggressive and violent tactics during demonstrations in order to cause damage and provoke a strong response from the police. They sometimes throw stones, smoke grenades, bottles and other debris at rallies. The police normally respond with tear gas to disperse the crowds.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Strikes

Strikes occur regularly, particularly in key sectors such as transport. These strikes can sometimes complicate travel and disrupt public services.

• Consult local media to be aware of strikes that may affect your stay or travel plans
• In the event of a transport strike, plan extra time to get to your destination and research which transport networks remain in service

Water activities

Swimming

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Always obey warning flags at beaches.

The main warning flags used in France are:

• green: calm waters, swimming is allowed
• yellow: agitated waters, swim with precautions
• red: dangerous waters, swimming is prohibited
• purple: contaminated waters or presence of dangerous aquatic species, swimming is prohibited
• no flag: lifeguard station closed, no lifeguard present

Recreational boating

If you are planning to go boating:

• know and respect the navigation rules
• equip your boat with a VHF marine radio or GPS transmitted to share your location in case of emergency
• be prepared for emergencies

Search and rescue missions in France are carried out by the Regional Operational Surveillance and Rescue Centres (CROSS). In case of emergency, contact the centre on VHF radio channel 16 or by dialling 196.

Useful links

• Surveillance and rescue at sea – Ministry of the Sea (French only)
• Swimming: what is the meaning of the different colors of flags? – Public Service of the French Republic

Adventure travel

Outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, mountaineering, mountain biking and other extreme sports, can be dangerous.

Trails are not always well marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

In winter, heavy snowfall can make it difficult to reach some villages and ski centres. Roads may become impassable.

There is also a risk of avalanches, some of which can be fatal. If you intend to practice skiing or mountaineering, confirm the weather and safety conditions before you depart, and follow the advice that you receive.

If you intend to participate in adventure travel activities:

• share your itinerary with a friend or family member
• stay on marked trails and consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company 
• obtain detailed information on your activity and the environment in which you will be setting out
• buy travel insurance that covers incidents related to these types of recreational activities
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to tackle the challenges of your activity
• know the symptoms of high-altitude illnesses, dehydration and heatstroke, which can be fatal

Useful links

• Adventure travel health and safety
• Information on mountain conditions – Association nationale pour l'étude de la neige et des avalanches (ANENA) (French only)
• Specialized mountain units – Gendarmerie nationale (French only)
• Avalanche forecasts and warnings – European Avalanche Warning Service (EAWS)
• National Union of Mountain Guides

Public transportation

When using public transportation, make sure you validate your ticket and keep it until the end of your journey. The authorities carry out regular random checks and you may be fined if you do not have a validated ticket.

Taxis

Illegal taxis operate at airports and train stations in Paris. Scammers charge much higher rates than the official taxis. At airports, use taxis only from official stations. If you’re not sure whether a taxi is official, ask for help at an airport information kiosk.

• Only use officially marked taxis
• Only use reputable taxi companies through establishments such as hotels or ride-sharing applications
• Never share a taxi with strangers

Air travel

We don't make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

The authorities of a country or territory decide who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the French authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Schengen area

France is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.

Member states may reintroduce temporary controls at internal border crossings within the Schengen area. You may be required to pass through immigration controls when entering France, even if arriving from another Schengen area country. Verify if temporary border controls are in effect before you travel to France.

If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) before your departure.

Useful links

• Schengen area
• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Temporary Reintroduction of Border Control – European Commission

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you're travelling with.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

You should also be aware that current systems used by some countries and travel companies may not recognize the “X” gender identifier. You may still be asked to provide your sex/gender information as either male or female when travelling.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports and other travel documents

Visas

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period
Long-stay or residency visa: required for stays longer than 90 days
Work permit: required
Student visa: required for stays longer than 90 days

Useful links

• More information on Visas – Government of France
• Your arrival in France – France-Visas
• Guide to temporary entry into France under CETA

Other entry requirements

 Customs officials may ask you to show them: 

• a return or onward ticket 
• proof of accommodation 
• proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay 
• proof of health insurance coverage

Children and travel

To leave France, any child under the age of 18 who normally resides in France must be accompanied by at least one parent. Children travelling without at least one parent must carry:

• an authorization to leave the country signed by one of the parents
• a photocopy of the signing parent’s identification

Useful links

• More information on the authorization to leave the country – French administration services
• Children and travel

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine vaccines

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, no matter where you’re going.

These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

When travelling in this destination, you might be at risk for diseases that can be prevented with vaccines or medications. Talk to a travel health care provider about which ones are right for you based on your travel plans.

The highlights below will also tell you if your destination may require that vaccine for entering or exiting.

Safe food and water precautions

Eating or drinking unsafe food or water, or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick while travelling. Take precautions by following these tips:

• Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it (only eat food that is prepared safely)
• Avoid, if possible, getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (like streams, lakes, or canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding - the water might look clean but can still be contaminated 
• Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, swimming in pools, or using hot tubs 

Eat and drink safely abroad

Tick and insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by bites from infected ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or flies. Before you travel, find out what types of ticks or insects are in the area, when they’re most active, and what diseases they can spread.

To protect yourself from bites:

• use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin
• wear light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester
• wear socks and closed-toe shoes
• sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed
• do a full body tick check on yourself, your children, your gear, and any pets you’re travelling with when you return from outdoor activities

Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

Animal precautions

Some infections can spread directly from animals to people, like rabies or bird flu (avian influenza). Others don’t spread directly from animals but can infect people who visit areas animals have contaminated with their droppings or body fluids.

Certain activities can increase your chances of coming into contact with animals, their droppings, or their body fluids, like:

• travelling in rural or forested areas
• camping, hiking, or visiting caves
• visiting places where live animals are sold or killed for food, like wet markets

To reduce your risk of getting sick:

• avoid contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock (such as pigs and cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats.
• stay away from places where animal waste can build up, such as caves
• avoid eating undercooked meat

Make sure to closely watch children; they are more likely to try to touch animals.

Person-to-person infections

When travelling, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, by:

• staying at your accommodation and limiting contact with others if you’re sick
• wearing a well-fitting mask, especially: 
  
  • if you’re sick and need to be around others 
  • when you’re at large indoor events or in crowded settings, like sporting events, concerts, and airports
• cleaning your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
• covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases
Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures

To lower your risk of getting sexually transmissible infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox, you can:

• get vaccinated against mpox if you’re eligible
• practise safer sex methods
  • use barrier protection during sexual activity, like condoms and dental dams.

Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice

Medical services and facilities

Quality health care is available throughout the country. Up-front payment may be required.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and France are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in France to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and France authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences or heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identity checks

You may be subject to identity checks during your stay in France.

Always carry valid identification such as a driver's licence, passport or a copy of it.

Keep photocopies or digital copies of the following documents, in case of loss or seizure:

• the identification page of your passport
• your birth certificate
• your Canadian citizenship card
• your driver's licence

Keep originals and copies in separate safe locations.

Concealing your face in public places

It's illegal to cover your face in public places, including international airport arrivals areas.

Offenders risk a fine. There is no exemption for tourists or for religious reasons.

Useful links

• Identity checks – French administration services
• Concealment of the face in public places – French administration services

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in France.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of France, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and France.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in France, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the French court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in France to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Drones

Recreational and commercial flying of drones is regulated. You must register your drone before you fly it in France.

Operators found guilty of breaking drone piloting rules risk a fine or imprisonment.

Useful links

• Registration of a drone – Government of France Public Service
• Drones: Pilotage rules to be respected – Government of France Public Service
• Civil drones – European Union Aviation Safety Agency
• General Directorate of Civil Aviation – Government of France (French only)

Driving

You must be at least 18 years old to drive a car in France.

You can drive with your valid Canadian driver’s licence for the first year of your stay in France. If you stay in France for more than one year, you will have to exchange your Canadian licence for a French licence.

Fines must generally be paid within 3 days. They may be increased in case of delay of payment.

A reflective vest and warning triangle are mandatory in all vehicles.

From November 1 to March 31, winter tires or chains are compulsory in some cities and regions in mountainous areas.

Priority to the right

The "priority to the right" system is in effect in France. Drivers must give way to vehicles approaching from the right at intersections, even on secondary roads. This is often a surprise to foreign drivers and results in accidents.

Low-emission zones

Some cities and territories have put in place low emission zones to reduce air pollution.

Access to these zones is restricted to vehicles that meet certain environmental standards. You may need to get a permit to drive in these areas.

Useful links

• More information about road travel in France – European Commission
• Compulsory car equipment: safety vest, triangle… – Government of France Public Service
• Winter equipment: map of required areas – Government of France Road Safety (French only)
• Air quality certificates: Crit'Air – Ministry of Ecological Transition (French only)

Money

The currency of France is the euro (EUR).

If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies or monetary instruments, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union.

This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

EU Cash Controls – European Commission

Natural disasters and climate

Climate change

Climate change is affecting France. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information. 

Flooding

There is a risk of seasonal flooding, particularly in areas along major rivers and streams. Flooding can hamper overland travel and the provision of essential services.

The French government has a flood forecasting service called Vigicrues.

• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts

Flooding risk - Vigicrues

Forest and maquis fires

Forest and maquis fires often occur in summer, particularly on the Mediterranean coast and in Corsica.

Heavy smoke may deteriorate the air quality in areas near active fires.

There is a ban on smoking in woods and forests during high forest fire risk periods as defined by the prefecture. This ban applies equally to areas situated within 200m of wooded areas.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• monitor local media for the latest information
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders 

 Forest weather – Météo France (French only)