All you need to know before travelling to France

What documents must I bring for my trip to France?

    To prepare for your trip to France as much as possible, there are information you need to be aware of. The following article reviews all you need to know from ID documents, expenses to how to communicate once you arrive!

 

Picture by Jacqueline Macou

    Depending on the country you come from, you will need different documents but a valid passport is mandatory. It must have been issued less than 10 years before and be valid at least 3 months after your departure of the country. If you are citizen from the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland, you do not need a visa (as of April 2023). To verify if you need a visa, you can answer a quick questionnaire here. If you do, you can follow the steps to apply here.

To enter the country, a proof of your accommodation, sufficient financial means and return tickets can sometimes be required.

If you have a transit in France during your trip, you might need to provide proof that you fulfil the entry conditions of your country of destination, when required.

 

Picture by Anja

    To cover your expenses during your trip, it is recommended to carry some cash with you. Most touristic areas accept credit card but some stores and certain small fast-foods (like kebab) only accept cash. Before leaving, you might also check the exchange rates between your currency and Euro to estimate your buying power once arrived.

    If you want to bring back souvenirs, verify with your airline company what you can and cannot bring on board. If you are travelling by train or bus, you can also check the website of the company you are travelling with as well as the customs regulation here.

Covid tests are no longer required to enter the French territory. However, an insurance certificate guaranteeing that all your health expenses will be covered during your stay in France, if necessary.

Picture by Oli Lynch

To communicate easily, bring a French dictionary in your bag or download an app, as well as our French basics toolbox. This is even more useful if you are going to discover rural France, as less people will be comfortable talking English.

During your trip, always be careful of your belongings wherever you are, as theft is common in most touristic areas.

You need more information about your upcoming trip? Feel free to leave a comment or click here.

Bon voyage !