French Polynesia

Overall: Exercise normal safety precautions

Latest update

Still current at:06 January 2026
Updated:18 December 2025
Latest update:Beaches in French Polynesia are not patrolled. There may be strong currents, even in the lagoons, ask locals before going swimming, obey warning signs and follow the advice of local authorities (see 'Safety').

We advise: 

Exercise normal safety precautions in French Polynesia. 

French Polynesia-map18June2025
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Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services

Call 18.

Medical emergencies

Call 15 or go to a hospital.

Police

Call 17 or go to the nearest police station or gendarmerie station (outside of Papeete).

Advice levels

What does this mean?

Exercise normal safety cautions in French Polynesia

Exercise normal safety precautions in French Polynesia

Overview

Safety

  • The rate of serious crime is low. But petty crime, including theft, does occur. Take arranged transport and avoid walking after dark. Keep your belongings close, especially in crowded places or on the beach. Don't leave food or drink unattended.
  • French Polynesia has natural disasters, including cyclones and tsunamis. Check with the High Commission of France in French Polynesia (French) for updates. They also run a phone hotline during major emergencies. Your tour operator or accommodation provider may also be able to provide timely advice.
  • Strikes and industrial disputes can lead to unrest and disrupt essential services, including transport links. Protests can turn violent. Avoid large public gatherings.
  • The cyclone season is between November and April. However, tropical storms and cyclones are likely to occur at any time. Understand and follow French Polynesia's cyclone alert system.
  • Tsunamis may occur and can arrive within minutes of a tremor or earthquake. Know the warning signs and move immediately to high ground.

Full travel advice: Safety

Health

  • Dengue-type epidemics are common in French Polynesia. Other insect-borne diseases include chikungunya and filariasis. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent.
  • Leptospirosis occurs in French Polynesia. Wear closed-toed shoes when walking and avoid contact with rivers or muddy water. Store food in sealed containers.
  • Other infectious diseases include scabies, influenza, conjunctivitis and whooping cough. Attend to symptoms such as fever, itchiness and skin wounds. Tap water in Tahiti is usually safe to drink. Avoid raw and undercooked food. Outside Tahiti, drink boiled or bottled water.
  • Ciguatera can be caught by consuming contaminated lagoon fish, which can cause gastrointestinal symptoms.
  • Beware of stonefish in swimming areas. Their sting can cause serious health issues and should be treated immediately.
  • Yellow fever is not present. However, there are steps to prevent the introduction of the virus into French Polynesia. Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country where yellow fever occurs. Health authorities may request proof of vaccination dating back more than 10 days from any traveller identified as having stayed in a risk zone.
  • Medical facilities in Papeete are good, but those on other islands and outlying areas are basic. Ensure your travel insurance covers your condition and medical evacuation.

Full travel advice: Health

Local laws

  • Understand the local laws. French Polynesia is an overseas territory of France. A mix of French and local laws apply.
  • Don't use or carry illegal drugs. You could face fines or imprisonment for having even small amounts.
  • By law, you must always have photo identification with you.
  • Same-sex marriage is legal. However, outside the main tourist islands, you may encounter more conservative attitudes.
  • Outside of tourist areas, standards of dress and behaviour are conservative. Take care not to offend.

Full travel advice: Local laws

Travel

  • You likely won't need a visa for a tourist visit of up to 3 months. However, the total length of your stay must not exceed a total of 90 days over a period of 180 days (6 months). Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the Consulate-General of France in Sydney or the Embassy of France for the latest details.
  • Travel insurance is highly advised in French Polynesia and is often mandatory for tour groups and cruise ships.
  • If you're flying to French Polynesia with a stopover or transit in the United States, you must comply with the entry requirements of US authorities.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

  • The Consular Services Charter details what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help you overseas.
  • Australia has a Consulate-General in Papeete, on the island of Tahiti. They can provide consular assistance and passport services. They can't notarise documents.
  • To stay up to date with local information, follow the Consulate-General’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Safety

Civil unrest and political tension

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

Strikes and industrial disputes can lead to social unrest. They may disrupt essential services, including:

  • local transport
  • domestic and international flights

Avoid demonstrations and crowds.

If there's a strike:

  • check on your flights before going to the airport
  • ask your tour operator if it affects tourist services
  • follow the instructions of local authorities

More information:

Crime

The rate of serious crime is low in French Polynesia, however assaults can occur. 

Petty crime happens, including drink spiking and theft.

Drink spiking

Drink spiking can happen anywhere. Be alert, don’t leave your food or drinks alone. Watch when your drink is being mixed. If you feel unwell, tell your friends immediately and get to a safe place. Keep an eye on your friends - if they feel unwell, stay with them. Get medical help if needed.

Methanol poisoning

People have died or become very sick from poisoned drinks overseas. This includes Australians. Methanol is highly toxic. As little as one shot can be fatal. Methanol can be added or accidentally created during poor quality alcohol production. Only drink branded, sealed drinks. Get urgent medical help if you think you’ve been poisoned.

More information:

Cyber security

You could face cyber threats in any country, anyone is a target. Your devices and data can be stolen, especially when using public Wi-Fi, computers, or Bluetooth. Criminals can use stolen information to conduct scams or to resell your personal information.

The Australian Cyber Security Centre has advice on how to protect yourself online.

Social media can also be risky in places with social or political tensions or strict laws. People have been arrested for what they posted online. Check the laws of the destination you’re travelling to and think about what you post on social media. The Australian Government can’t get you out of trouble if you’re accused of breaking the law.

More information:  

Terrorism

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. 

More information:

Swimming safely

No beaches in French Polynesia are patrolled. 

There may be strong currents, even in the lagoons, ask local people on the beach area before going swimming. 

Most accommodation offers kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, always wear a life jacket, especially if you go alone.

Many boats sail in the lagoon, never swim close to a navigation area or across a channel.

Obey warning signs and follow the advice of local authorities. 

Shark attacks have occurred, including in the lagoons. Beware of stonefish, moray eels and medusa jellyfish. 

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes adventure activities, such as scuba diving.

If you plan to do a tour or adventure activity:

  • check if your travel insurance policy covers it
  • ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
  • always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

If you’re hiking in the mountains: 

  • monitor advice on weather and safety conditions
  • never go alone
  • be prepared with appropriate equipment and supplies

Stick to marked trails. In many mountain areas telephone signals are not available. Heavy rains and flash flooding may occur at any time. 

Extreme weather and natural disasters

French Polynesia experiences severe weather, including:

The High Commission of France in French Polynesia has procedures for natural disasters.

Check the High Commission of France in French Polynesia (French) for news and weather updates.

Check weather reports regularly during your stay. Be prepared to change your plans if you need to.

Monitor:

If there's a natural disaster:

  • secure your passport in a safe, waterproof place
  • monitor local media
  • monitor sources such as the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
  • follow the advice of local authorities
  • keep in touch with your friends and family
  • ask your tour operator if tourist services at your destination are affected

Cyclones

Cyclone season is from November to April. However, tropical storms and cyclones occur at any time of year.

Severe weather can bring:

  • flooding
  • high swells
  • landslides
  • disruptions to infrastructure
  • breaks in essential services

The direction and strength of tropical cyclones can change with little warning.

If there's a cyclone or severe tropical storm:

  • you may get stuck in the area
  • flights could be delayed or suspended
  • available flights may fill quickly
  • ports may close
  • adequate shelter may not be available

French Polynesia has a cyclone alert system with 6 levels:

  • Yellow: potential cyclone activity in the next 72 hours - follow weather forecasts and bulletins
  • Orange: potential cyclone activity in the next 48 hours - prepare for a cyclone
  • Red: the cyclone is imminent — in the next 12 to 18 hours - protect yourself and stay indoors
  • Red: during the cyclone - protect yourself and stay indoors
  • Purple: safeguard phase - damage and risks (electrical cables, etc.) are being assessed - remain alert
  • Green: end of cyclone alert

Learn about the alert system and recommended responses on the High Commission of France website (French) and from their Cyclone Alert brochure (French).

If a cyclone is approaching:

Once the Safeguard Phase is announced:

  • take care leaving your shelter
  • look out for debris
  • avoid fallen electrical wires

More information:

Tsunamis

Tsunamis may occur, so stay alert for warnings.

A tsunami can arrive within minutes of a tremor or earthquake. Get updates from the U.S. Tsunami Warning System.

French Polynesia has 2 types of evacuation:

  • immediate — for a tsunami from Tonga which could arrive within two hours
  • staged — for a tsunami from South America or Alaska that could arrive within 8 hours

If you're near the coast, move immediately to high ground if advised by local authorities or if you:

  • feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
  • feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
  • see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
  • hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings such as alarms or sirens.

Once on high ground, monitor local media.

To prepare yourself for earthquakes and tsunamis, you can:

More information:

Health

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.

It must cover all medical costs overseas, including evacuation. The Australian Government will not pay for these costs.

If you can’t afford travel insurance, you shouldn’t travel. This is true for everyone, even if you are healthy and fit.

If you don’t have insurance, you might have to pay thousands of dollars up front for medical care.

Before you travel, check your policy, make sure:

  • you know what activities and medical care your insurance covers, including evacuations
  • your insurance covers you for your whole trip, including any stopovers
  • you know any exclusions – for example, you might need to pay extra for activities like motorcycling, snow sports or bungee jumping.

More information:

Physical and mental health

Think about your health before you travel, especially if you have any medical conditions.

See your doctor or a travel clinic to:

  • get a basic check-up
  • ask if your travel plans might affect your health
  • find out what vaccinations you need.

If you're concerned about your mental wellbeing, or someone else's, read more about mental health support overseas.

More information:

Medication

Not all medications available in Australia are accessible in other countries. Some medicines may be illegal, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

Ensure your medication is legal overseas. Take enough for your whole trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating:

  • medication names
  • your required dosage
  • that the medications are for your personal use.

More information:

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases

Dengue-type epidemics are common in French Polynesia, including dengue type 2 epidemics.

Outbreaks of other insect-borne diseases can also happen, mostly in warmer and wetter months.

These include:

If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health recommends you:

  • discuss travel plans with your doctor

To protect yourself from illness:

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

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pains, a rash or a bad headache.

More information:

Leptospirosis

To protect yourself against leptospirosis:

  • wear closed-toed shoes when walking
  • avoid contact with muddy water or local rivers, especially after heavy rains
  • store food in sealed containers
  • use a straw if you drink from a can
  • remove rubbish from around your buildings

Other health risks

You're also at risk of waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases, including:

Tap water in Tahiti is usually safe to drink.

To protect yourself from illness:

  • attend to symptoms such as itchiness and skin wounds
  • avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads and eggs
  • drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids in rural or remote areas
  • avoid ice cubes

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, a rash, diarrhoea or a severe headache.

More information: 

Medical care

The standard of medical facilities in French Polynesia varies. Medical standards are high in Papeete. Medical standards in rural areas and remote islands are basic.

Most doctors don't speak English.

You may need to be evacuated if you become seriously ill or injured. Medical evacuation can be expensive. 

The standard of rescue and emergency services is high, but the travel time between Papeete and the outer islands may delay emergency responses.

The Central Hospital of French Polynesia in Papeete has a decompression facility. Reaching it from popular dive sites on other islands may take several hours.

There's no shared healthcare agreement between Australia and French Polynesia.

Make sure your travel insurance covers you for activities you will undertake while overseas, and includes medical evacuation.

Local laws

Local law

When you travel to another country, you must follow their laws. Even if they seem strict compared to Australia's. Before you go, learn about the local laws in that country.

The Australian Government is limited in how and when we can help if you're arrested overseas. We can't get you out of trouble or out of jail. Understand our limits. Read the Consular Services Charter.

French Polynesia is an overseas territory of France. A mix of French and local laws apply.

More information:

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences, even small amounts, include fines and imprisonment.

More information:

Proof of identity

By law, you must always carry photo ID.

Australian laws

Some Australian laws still apply even if you’re in another country. You could be charged in Australia if you break these laws overseas.

More information:

Dual nationality

French Polynesia recognises dual nationals.

More information:

Local customs

Dress and behaviour standards are conservative outside the tourist areas of Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora.

Take care not to offend, especially outside tourist resorts. Dress appropriately when visiting shops and cities.

Visits to certain sacred sites (marae) may require prior authorisation. Check with local authorities before visiting any natural or historical site.

LGBTQIA+ laws

Under French law, same-sex marriage is legal. However, outside of the main tourist areas of Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora, you may encounter more conservative attitudes.

More information:

Travel

Visas and border measures

 

Each country or territory decides its own entry and exit rules. To find out what you need to enter a destination, ask their embassy, consulate or immigration office. 

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact your airline, the Embassy of France in Canberra, or the Consulate of France in Sydney for details about the latest visa and entry requirements.

Visa conditions

French Polynesia is an overseas territory of France.

You likely won't need a visa for a tourist visit of up to 3 months. However, the total length of your stay must not exceed a total of 90 days over a period of 180 days (6 months). 

You may need to show proof of the following:

  • sufficient money for your stay
  • accommodation
  • means to return home or onward travel ticket
  • adequate travel or health insurance
  • the purpose of your visit

In other situations, you may need a visa.

Border Measures for by Air

Travellers flying to French Polynesia with a stopover or transit in the United States, such as from Europe, must comply with the entry requirements of the US authorities (see the Smartraveller advice for the United States of America).

Check with your airline or travel agent for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit regulations that apply to you prior to planning your trip.

Measures may change at short notice.

Border Measures by Sea

Recreational vessels must send their maritime health declaration to the Health Surveillance Office BVS 48 hours before arrival in French Polynesia.

Maritime entry points in French Polynesia are: 

  • Tahiti (Papeete)
  • Moorea (Afareaitu)
  • Huahine (Fare)
  • Raiatea (Uturoa)
  • Bora Bora (Vaitape)
  • Nuku Hiva (Taiohae)
  • Hiva Oa (Atuona)
  • Ua Pou (Hakahau)
  • Rangiroa (Tiputa)
  • Mangareva (Rikitea)
  • Tubuai (Mataura)
  • Rurutu (Moerai)
  • Raivavae (Raima)

For better management of maritime stopovers in French Polynesia, recreational vessels should provide the Polynesian Department of Maritime Affairs with the following information:

  • final arrival/departure island
  • final arrival/departure date
  • vessel name / vessel flag
  • identity of the skipper
  • number of people on board

You should check with the cruise operator and local authorities on additional requirements before booking a ticket, boarding and after boarding.

More information:

Other formalities

Travel insurance is highly advised in French Polynesia and often mandatory for tour groups and cruise ships. 

Some goods aren't allowed in French Polynesia. Other goods require specific approvals or other formalities.

More information:

Passport

Validity

Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months before entering or departing. This includes for transit.

If your passport expires too soon, you might not be able to travel.

The Australian Government doesn’t make these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you go. If you’re not sure, it’s a good idea to get a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is valuable and can be used by others to commit crimes. 

Don’t let anyone trick you into giving it to them. Always keep it in a safe place.

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

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender. If your passport has an 'X' in the sex field, we can’t guarantee your entry or transit to other countries. Ask the embassy or consulate of your destinations if they’ll accept your passport with an 'X' gender marker. Check all transit destinations too.

More information:

Money

The local currency is the Pacific Franc (XPF — Franc Pacifique).

You can change Australian dollars at the Tahiti-Faa'a International Airport, which is only open for international arrivals and departures. ATMs are located throughout Tahiti and on the main islands.

Credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, boutiques and supermarkets on the main islands. However, you may only be able to use cash:

  • at smaller shops
  • on remote islands and atolls
  • in taxis

Take enough cash if you are travelling to remote islands.

Local travel

Tahiti Tourism provides information on getting around French Polynesia by road, air and sea.

Industrial and political disputes as well as strikes can cause disruptions to essential services including transport. Monitor developments and plan as required.

To learn more about strikes and civil disputes see 'Safety'.

The road network is not developed, and traffic jams occur frequently. It can take a long time to drive a short distance. Seek local advice about road conditions when planning your travel to the airport or marina.

Driving permit

You can drive in French Polynesia on a valid Australian driver's licence for up to one year after arrival.  

If you plan on staying in French Polynesia longer than one year, you can exchange your Australian licence for a Polynesian licence. 

Contact the Department of Transport in French Polynesia for more details.

Road travel

In French Polynesia, as in France mainland, cars drive on the right side of the road, and rental cars are left-side driver. Pay attention if you rent a car.

Take care driving, particularly at night. Many roads are narrow and unpaved.

Many traffic accidents are linked to driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

If you plan to drive:

  • check your insurance cover
  • learn local traffic laws and practices
  • keep your car windows up and doors locked
  • don't drink and drive
  • follow the advice of local authorities

More information:

Motorcycles

Make sure your insurance policy covers you before riding a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Only use licenced official metered taxis. 

You can find taxis at the Faa'a international airport, as well as in Papeete at the:

  • Station de Vaima
  • Station du Marché (Market)
  • Station des ferries

Drivers often charge extra for luggage as well as journeys into the hills of Tahiti.

An increasing number of taxis accept credit cards in Tahiti; however, most only take cash, especially on the outer islands.

Many outer islands don't have taxis.

Public transport

Major centres have a limited network of buses. Be aware scheduling varies and they can be unreliable.

Bus services:

  • operate weekdays until 6pm
  • have a limited weekend service

Ferries (navettes) operate between Tahiti and smaller islands.

More information:

Sea travel

International cruise ships visit French Polynesia.

Medical facilities on cruise ships may not meet Australian standards.

Treatment may also cost more.

If you plan to go on a cruise:

  • check the on-board medical facilities meet your needs
  • ask about the costs of medical treatment onboard
  • get the right cover for your medical conditions
  • buy cover that includes medical evacuation
  • be aware Medicare benefits may not apply during your journey

If you plan to travel by sea:

  • make sure any ferry or boat has appropriate safety equipment
  • wear a life jacket at all times
  • take enough life jackets for all the children travelling with you
  • ask your tour operator or crew about safety standards
  • check sea and weather conditions before embarking on boat or ferry travel, and delay travel if conditions are not safe
  • if appropriate safety equipment isn't available, use another provider

More information:

Air travel

DFAT doesn’t give advice about how safe different airlines or flight paths are.

Safety risks and weather events may cause flight delays and cancellations. Contact your travel agent or airline to confirm your plans.

Domestic flights departing from or arriving at the Tahiti-Faa’a International Airport (from/to other French Polynesian islands) have the same on-board security restrictions as international flights. There are limitations on what you can take on board. Check with your airline if you are unsure. 

More information:

Local contacts

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

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

Fire and rescue services

Call 18.

Medical emergencies

Call 15 or go to a hospital.

Police

Call 17 or go to the nearest police station (in Papeete) or gendarmerie station (outside of Papeete).

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

JRCC (sea emergency)

Call 16

Consular contacts

The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.

Australian Consulate-General Papeete

Level 2, CCISM Building
41 rue du Docteur Cassiau
Papeete, Tahiti
French Polynesia 

Phone: +689 40 57 69 00
Website: papeete.consulate.gov.au
Email: consular.papeete@dfat.gov.au
Facebook: L’Australie en Polynésie Française

Check the Consulate-General's website for further information, including details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't reach the Australian Consulate-General in Papeete, contact the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

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