France

France's domestic terror threat is at the medium level – ‘Reinforced security – Threat risk’. There is a heightened level of terrorist threat.

Methods of attack have included knife attacks, shootings, bombings, as well as vehicle attacks.

Attacks can occur at any time.

There's heightened security in public places, including:

• places of worship
• schools
• shopping areas
• tourist sites
• transportation hubs
• major events which attract large crowds

Be cautious around locations known to be possible terrorist targets.

There have been several attacks in France:

• On 29 October 2020, three people were killed in an attack in Notre Dame Basilica in Nice.
• On 29 October 2020, police killed a man threatening people with a knife in Montfavet, Avignon.
• On 16 October 2020, a school teacher was killed outside the school where he worked in Conflans-Sainte-Honorine, a town north west of Paris.
• On 25 September 2020, a knife attack took place in the Richard Lenoir area of the 11th arrondissement, in central Paris. Two people were injured.
• In December 2018, an attack killed three people and injured several at the Christmas markets in Strasbourg.
• In May 2018, an attack killed one person and injured several in the central Paris district of Opera.
• In March 2018, an armed gunman killed four people in the towns of Carcassonne and Trèbes. Police killed the attacker.
• In September 2017, a knife attack killed two people in Marseille's main train station. Police killed the attacker.
• In August 2017, a vehicle struck a group of soldiers in Levallois-Perret in Paris. The attack injured six soldiers.
• In July 2016, a terrorist attack in Nice killed at least 84 people and injured more than 100.

Authorities have additional powers to deal with counter-terrorism security. In some public areas, they may:

• restrict access
• search your bags and vehicle

Expect increased security checks at borders. This includes ID checks, which may cause delays.

To reduce your risks:

• be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
• report anything suspicious to police
• monitor the news for any new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

After an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe to do so.

The French Government has published advice about how to respond in a terrorist attack.

Follow these Twitter accounts for advice  in French during major security incidents:

• @Place_Beauvau
• @Gendarmerie
• @PoliceNationale
• @prefpolice

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorism

Demonstrations and protests

Protests and large demonstrations are common. Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent and become riots.

Strikes are continuing across France. Expect demonstrations and some significant disruptions, which will affect public transport and other public services. Unions continue to call for widespread industrial action and demonstrations across France.

• avoid protests and demonstrations and exercise caution if you are caught up in large gatherings/protests
• monitor local media and other sources for news on possible unrest
• follow the advice of local authorities

Check with your travel provider before travelling.

More information:

• Cross-Channel services – Department for Transport
• SNCF Trains 
• Paris Metro and Buses
• Eurostar

Demonstrations linked to the Yellow Vest movement may continue across France for some time, including in tourist areas. Protests mostly happen on Saturdays.

To reduce your risks:

• avoid protests, demonstrations and political rallies
• avoid outlying Paris suburbs where there have been clashes, particularly at night
• monitor local media and other sources for news on possible unrest
• follow the advice of local authorities

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

French authorities have put in place emergency call numbers for victims of domestic violence during COVID-19-related restrictions. In an emergency, you can call the police (dial 17) or a specialised hotline (dial 3919) to call for help.

Petty crime

Petty crime is common, including:

• bag-snatching
• pickpocketing
• passport theft
• theft from cars

Petty crime is particularly common on the streets of larger cities such as Paris, Marseilles and Nice.

Take care to protect your personal belongings.

Be particularly careful in crowded tourist areas and at landmarks.

Thieves often work in groups to distract and rob victims. Prime targets include:

• airports
• public transport
• tourist areas
• hotel lobbies
• restaurants and cafes
• beaches

Criminals use children to distract tourists or even play an active role in theft.

Violent crime

Violent attacks against tourists by groups of young people have increased. These attacks usually happen late at night around major tourist attractions such as:

• the Champs-Elysées
• the Louvre
• the Palais Royal areas
• the Les Halles district
• the Latin Quarter in central Paris

To protect yourself from crime:

• avoid walking in quiet and poorly lit streets, especially at night
• keep your car doors locked
• keep luggage and valuables out of sight
• use ATMs in secure locations such as banks and shopping centres
• keep your ATM and credit cards in your sight
• monitor local sources for information about possible safety or security risks

Crime on public transport

Violent theft on public transport has significantly increased. This happens especially in Paris and its suburbs.

Muggings and robberies are common on the trains from Roissy-Charles-de-Gaulle (CDG) and Orly airports. Consider using a bus or taxi to get from the airports to Paris, particularly late at night and early in the morning.

Violent attacks have occurred on or around:

• the Gare du Nord train station
• main train stations in the provinces
• the RER (regional) train lines linking Paris and its suburbs

Vehicle break-ins

Vehicle crime includes bag-snatching from cars stopped in traffic and theft from unattended vehicles.

This is particularly common:

• in the south of France near the Spanish and Italian borders
• on the Remembrance Trail around the Somme and in Normandy

Rental vehicles are often targets, even in small villages.

To protect yourself:

• never leave valuables in your car
• lock your car when you leave it
• use secure parking facilities, especially overnight
• be alert at isolated automated service stations
• avoid sleeping in rest areas beside autoroutes (motorways) and major roads
• avoid sleeping in makeshift or unauthorised campgrounds on the outskirts of cities

Scams and fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud involving 'skimming' machines that can store card data is increasing. Automated service stations and tourist areas are often targets for this.

Be wary of strangers who invite you for a free drink or show at a private club. Foreigners have had large amounts of money stolen from their credit cards before being allowed to leave.

Be cautious when booking travel. Use reputable travel providers only. Avoid giving your personal details to unknown sources. Identity theft through accommodation scams has been reported.

Avoid common scams around tourist areas. These are often groups of petty criminals and they target foreigners and tourists.

More information:

• Scams

The beaches along the French Atlantic coast can be dangerous, especially on the south-western coast. Several people drown every year.

Swim at supervised beaches, and follow the colour-coded flags that warn against dangerous swimming conditions.

If in doubt, seek local advice.

France experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including:

• avalanches
• mudslides
• forest fires
• flooding

If you're in an area affected by a natural disaster or severe weather:

• follow the advice of local authorities
• keep in touch with friends and family
• monitor local media

Avalanches and mudslides

Avalanches and mudslides can happen in some mountain areas. Several people have died in recent years.

If you're skiing or mountaineering:

• monitor advice on weather and safety conditions
• don't move off marked slopes or trails

In some areas, if you ski or mountaineer off marked trails, authorities may arrest or prosecute you.

Forest fires

Forest and grass fires occur often during the summer months. They often happen along the Mediterranean coast and Corsica.

Flooding

Flash flooding can make road travel extremely difficult. People have lost their lives due to flooding.

Disruptions to communication infrastructure may occur.

More information:

• Floods and fires

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. A ban on overseas travel from Australia remains in place. You can’t leave Australia unless you get an exemption from the Department of Home Affairs. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Consider whether you may be in a vulnerable category for COVID-19.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least eight weeks before you leave.

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)
• COVID-19 vaccines (Department of Health)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in France. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating the name of the medication and why you take it.

More information:

• Consulate-General of France in Sydney
• Medication

COVID-19

COVID-19 remains a risk in France. Outbreaks continue to occur throughout the country including in major cities and tourist destinations. Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, medical services and hospitals across France (ICU in particular) are severely stretched and over capacity.

If you display signs of a fever, cough or breathing difficulties, or for COVID-19 emergency medical assistance, contact French emergency services (SAMU) on number 115 (and 112 for all other emergencies). Do not attend GP offices or hospital emergency rooms.

Telemedicine is widely available across France and it's possible to request an English-speaking doctor.

For information on France's COVID-19 vaccination program refer to the French Government’s vaccination website (in French). You should consult your local health professional for advice on vaccine options, including assistance that may be available locally. The Australian Government cannot provide advice on the safety, quality and efficacy of vaccines that have been approved for use outside of Australia's regulatory process.

More information:

• Coronavirus (French Ministry of Health, in French)
• Coronavirus (COVID-19) (Department of Health)
• Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Insect-borne diseases

West Nile virus (WNV) (World Health Organization) has occurred throughout France. There's no vaccine for it.

To reduce your risk of disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Measles

Measles cases can routinely occur in France, with the country currently experiencing an increase in measles activity.  Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel.

More information:

• Measles Outbreaks 2019 (Department of Health)
• Measles immunisation service (Department of Health)

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Medical facilities

The standard of medical facilities is similar to Australia.

There's no reciprocal healthcare agreement between Australia and France.

Before they will treat you, hospitals usually need:

• a guarantee of payment
• a copy of your medical insurance
• an up-front deposit

Costs for public hospital stays can reach thousands of dollars, depending on the treatment you need.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences are severe. If you're convicted, you can get a long jail sentence.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Other laws

You must always carry photo ID, such as your passport or driver's licence. Police conduct random checks, particularly at borders.

It's illegal not to offer help to 'a person in danger'. Authorities may charge you if you:

• don't stop after you witness a motor accident
• don't report an accident to emergency services
• ignore pleas for help or urgent assistance

Penalties include suspended prison sentences and fines. The law doesn't apply if helping might risk your safety or the safety of others.

A maximum fine of 150 euros applies. Under this law, forcing someone to hide their face is also a crime. It's punishable by a year in prison and a fine of up to 30,000 euros. If the person forced to hide their face is a minor, the sentence doubles. Tourists aren't exempt.

It's illegal to photograph security forces, including police. Penalties may include authorities detaining you and taking your film or camera.

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

France recognises dual nationality.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Visitor visas

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of France for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

France is part of the Schengen area. This means you can enter France without a visa in some cases. In other situations, you need a visa.

Get a visa from French authorities in Australia if you're travelling for either:

• reasons other than tourism, or
• more than 90 days

You can't apply for a visa or change your visa status once you're inside French territory. For example, you can't change from a tourist visa to a student or resident visa.

Entry into France

France has introduced a traffic light-based border control system. Countries are categorised according to their COVID-19 epidemiological situation in Green, Amber and Red lists. These lists may change at short notice. Consult the French government website for up-to-date lists.

Travel restrictions depend on your COVID-19 vaccination status. France recognises vaccinations approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and considers the vaccination schedule is complete 28 days after the administration of one dose for Johnson & Johnson vaccine and 14 days after the administration of a second dose for other vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca).

Green list countries (including Australia)

Are considered to be low risk with no active circulation of the virus and no variants of concern identified. 

If you travel from any green list country and are vaccinated against COVID-19 with one of the approved vaccines, you can enter without any restrictions. You must present the following:

• proof of your vaccination status
• a sworn statement (déclaration sur l’honneur) certifying that:
  • you confirm that you haven't been suffering from a set of listed symptoms associated with COVID-19; and
  • you have not been in contact with confirmed cases in the 14 days prior to travel.

However, if you're not vaccinated against COVID-19, you must present the following:

• proof of a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test or antigenic test (for travellers over 11 years of age only), taken within 72 hours before you depart, regardless of the mode of transport (e.g. air, car, ferry and train). In the case of connecting flights, the requirement is within 72 hours of the first flight.
• a sworn statement (déclaration sur l’honneur) certifying that:
  • you confirm that you haven't been suffering from a set of listed symptoms associated with COVID-19; and
  • you have not been in contact with confirmed cases in the 14 days prior to travel.

Amber list countries

Are all other countries not defined on the green or red lists. These countries are considered to be medium risk with active circulation of the virus at moderate levels and without widespread variants of concern.

All travellers arriving from amber list countries, regardless of nationality, must present the following:

• proof of a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test taken within 72 hours before you depart or a negative antigenic test taken within 48 hours before you depart. In the case of connecting flights, the testing window is prior to the first departing flight. This applies to travellers over 11 years of age only.

Vaccinated travellers must also provide:

• proof of your vaccination status
• a sworn statement (déclaration sur l’honneur) certifying that:
  • you confirm that you haven't been suffering from a set of listed symptoms associated with COVID-19; and
  • you haven't been in contact with confirmed cases in the 14 days prior to travel.

Unvaccinated travellers must also provide:

• a sworn statement (déclaration sur l’honneur) certifying that:
  • you confirm that you haven't been suffering from a set of listed symptoms associated with COVID-19;
  • you haven't been in contact with confirmed cases in the 14 days prior to travel;
  • a sworn undertaking to take an antigen test or biological examination on arrival in France; and
  • a sworn undertaking to self-isolate for seven days, and another sworn undertaking to take a biological virological screening test (PCR) at the end of the isolation period.

Red list countries

Are considered to be high risk with active circulation of the virus and variants of concern are present. Travel is subject to stringent restrictions.

Travellers arriving from red list countries, both vaccinated and unvaccinated, can only enter France with an essential reason and must present a government certificate outlining your compassionate or compelling reason to travel. Travellers from red list countries must present proof of a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test or antigenic test taken within 48 hours of their departure(for travellers over 11 years of age only).

Vaccinated travellers must also provide:

• proof of your vaccination status
• a sworn statement (déclaration sur l’honneur) certifying that:
  • you confirm that you haven't been suffering from a set of listed symptoms associated with COVID-19;
  • you haven't been in contact with confirmed cases in the 14 days prior to travel;
  • a sworn undertaking to take an antigen test or biological examination on arrival in France; and
  • a sworn undertaking to self-isolate for seven days, and another sworn undertaking to take a biological virological screening test (PCR) at the end of the isolation period

Unvaccinated travellers will be systematically quarantined or isolated by prefectural order on arrival in France, for a period of ten days with restrictions on the time they can leave the isolation facility (except in case of transit in an international zone). Unvaccinated travellers must also provide:

• a sworn statement (déclaration sur l’honneur) certifying that:
  • you confirm that you haven't been suffering from a set of listed symptoms associated with COVID-19;
  • you haven't been in contact with confirmed cases in the 14 days prior to travel;
  • a sworn undertaking to take an antigen test or biological examination on arrival in France;
• Proof of home address or proper accommodation (hotel or equivalent), specifying, where applicable, how control officers can gain access to confirm compliance with the quarantine or isolation measures, except in cases of isolation in an accommodation facility provided by the administration (territorial isolation support units have been set up to assist isolated persons) or of transit in an international zone.

Consult the French government website for detailed information and requirements depending on the country of departure. Government certificates can be found on the website of the French Interior Ministry.

Transit in France

Transit in France is possible if you’re transiting for less than 24 hours, remaining in the international transit zone at the airport and if you satisfy the other requirements (COVID-19 PCR testing and documentation) for travel to France.

For transit in France, all travellers over the age of 11 must provide:

• a negative COVID PCR test, taken within 72 hours before you depart
• a sworn statement (déclaration sur l’honneur) confirming that you haven't been suffering from symptoms associated with COVID-19 or been in contact with confirmed cases within 14 days prior to travel.
• a completed International Government Certificate (attestation de déplacement)

Departure from France

Travel from France to a country outside the European space is also only allowed in certain circumstances, including for foreign nationals. You can return to your country of residence or origin. You must present a completed Government Certificate to Exit the country (attestation de sortie du territoire). There's no guarantee you'll be able to return to France.

More information:

• If you are thinking of going to or leaving France you should consult your closest embassy or consulate of France for further details and monitor French government’s COVID-19 pages. 
• All these forms and further information are available on the website for the French Ministry of the Interior.

Staying in France

COVID-19-related restrictions are in force across France. 

The French government has announced a plan to progressively ease restrictions from 3 May to 30 June. Check the French Government website for more information on each stage of the plan. The French government has advised that this plan is subject to change according to the health situation in each area across France.

COVID-19 measures and restrictions may change in your local area at short notice in response to the severe COVID-19 situation.

COVID-19-related measures and restrictions in France include but are not limited to:

• bars and restaurants are open with outdoor seating areas only, with a maximum of six people per table. Indoor seating is permitted, however patrons must be seated and the restaurant's capacity must not exceed 50%.
• most other venues (including cultural institutions, shops, libraries, cinemas, gyms, other sporting venues and businesses) are open but must adhere to specific rules and capacity limits.
• masks are compulsory (including for children above the age of 6) in enclosed spaces nationwide, including shopping centres, libraries, post offices, banks, public service buildings, hotels (in common areas) and shops/stores. You no longer need to wear a mask outdoors.
• outdoor gatherings are restricted to no more than ten adults.
• major events are restricted.
• anyone who can work from home is recommended to continue to do so.

Restrictions are under regular review and could change at short notice.

More information:

• COVID-19 (French Government)
• Border restrictions, including Government certificates (French Government)
• Travel to and from France (French Government)
• FAQ - Advice for Foreign Nationals in France (French Government)
• Information on Entry and Settling in France (French Government)
• The Local

Get a legible entry stamp in your passport when you enter the Schengen area for the first time.

Unaccompanied minors (under 18 years of age) who normally live in France and want to leave French territory need:

• their own identity document
• a copy of a parent or guardian's identification
• a completed form issued by the French Ministry of Interior (PDF) (French)

Find out more from the French Ministry of the Interior (French).

Validity

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

Also go to the nearest Commissariat de Police (police station) to:

• report the crime
• get a declaration of theft

This may be useful for any insurance claims.

The currency in France is the Euro.

France is a member of the European Union (EU). If you travel between France and any non-EU country, you must declare cash of over 10,000 euros (or equivalent). This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

If you don't declare or give the wrong information on entry or exit, you'll need to pay a fine.

You don't need to declare cash if you're travelling to or from another EU country.

Since 2015, asylum-seeker movements have put significant pressure on border controls in Europe.

Make sure you:

• carry your passport when you cross borders, including within the Schengen area
• check border conditions with local sources and transport providers

Driving permit

To drive in France, you'll need a valid Australian driver's licence.

Car rental companies may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

If you live in France, you can swap your Australian driver's licence for a French licence. You must do this within your first 12 months.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Road travel

Unless otherwise signposted, drivers must give way to vehicles approaching from:

• the right at intersections
• side roads

This is the 'priority of the right' system. Understand this system so you avoid road accidents.

Be cautious when you drive or travel as a passenger. Keep your doors locked in slow-moving traffic. Lock your vehicle when you leave it.

There are severe penalties for breaking traffic rules. These may include:

• immediate loss of your licence and vehicle
• on-the-spot fines

Authorities have cleared the migrant camp in Calais. However there are still disturbances in the area. Be alert when you drive between France and the UK.

All vehicles must carry a reflective vest and warning triangle to use if you break down.

The minimum driving age is 18 years.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check if your insurance policy covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Only use licensed official taxis.

Assaults and robberies have happened in unlicensed taxis. These taxis often target high-traffic destinations such as:

• airports
• train stations
• theatres
• nightclubs

In Paris, licensed taxis have the sign 'Taxi Parisien' on the top of the car.

Private car companies are legal, but you need to pre-book them.

Public transport

Organised strikes happen often. These may affect transport systems, including trains and airline traffic. Monitor the media and contact your travel provider for the latest details. See Safety

If you use public transport, keep your ticket until you exit the system. Inspectors conduct random checks. If you don't have a valid ticket, you'll get an on-the-spot fine.

If you don't cooperate with inspectors, they can arrest you.

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Air travel

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check France's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 112.

Medical emergencies

Call 112.

Call 15 for COVID-19-related assistance.

Police

Call 112.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in France.

Australian Embassy, France

4 Rue Jean Rey,

75015 Paris, France

Telephone: (+33 1) 4059 3300

E-mail: consular.paris@dfat.gov.au

Website: france.embassy.gov.au

Facebook: L'Australie en France

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia