French Polynesia

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:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

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

Petty crime happens, including drink spiking and theft.

Drink spiking can happen anywhere. Be alert to the potential risks, and don't leave food or drinks unattended. Pay attention when your drinks are being mixed. Stick to reputable venues and avoid homemade alcoholic drinks due to the risk of methanol poisoning. Get urgent medical help if you suspect you’ve been a victim.

More information:

• Partying safely while overseas

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations with social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information: 

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorism

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. 

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 anytime. 

French Polynesia experiences severe weather, including:

• cyclones
• tsunamis
• flooding
• mudslides
• high swells

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:

• Weather Bureau in French Polynesia (French)
• Joint Typhoon Warning Center (US Navy)

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:

• know how to evacuate from your hotel or cruise ship
• find your local shelter
• monitor alerts and advice, including on local radio
• go to the Weather Bureau in French Polynesia (French) for weather updates

Once the Safeguard Phase is announced:

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

More information:

• Tropical storms 

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:

• subscribe to tsunami alerts from the Global Disaster Alert and Co-ordination system
• get earthquake updates from the US Geological Service
• get tsunami updates from the U.S. Tsunami Warning System

More information:

• High Commission of France in French Polynesia Tsunami Alert brochure (French)
• High Commission of France in French Polynesia Cyclone Alert brochure (French)
• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation and adequate coverage for any pre-existing conditions. 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 thousands 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.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

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 8 weeks before you leave.

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia) 

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

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

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

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medication
• Agency for the Regulation of Social and Sanitary Actions

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:

• filariasis, particularly in rural areas

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:

• Infectious diseases
• Health Department of French Polynesia (French)

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:

• scabies
• conjunctivitis
• influenza
• gastroenteritis
• whooping cough

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: 

• Health Departments of French Polynesia (French)

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 insurance covers medical evacuation and your planned activities.

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.

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

More information:

• Travel advice for France

Drugs

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

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Proof of identity

By law, you must always carry photo ID.

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

French Polynesia recognises dual nationals.

More information:

• Dual nationals

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:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

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:

• French High Commission - Espace maritime et aérien (French)
• Joint Rescue Coordination Centre – JRCC (English and French)
• Tahiti Tourism / visa and entry formalities (English and French)
• French Government / visa-application-guidelines (English)

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:

• Biosecurity Department of French Polynesia (French)
• High Commission of France in French Polynesia (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. You may 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.

You should report your passport lost or stolen at the nearest police station.

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

More information: 

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

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.

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:

• Road safety and driving
• Department of Transport, French Polynesia

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:

• Transport and getting around safely
• Travelling by boat
• Tahiti Taxi
• Tere Tahiti

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:

• Going on a cruise
• Travelling by boat

Air travel

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

Contact your airline for the latest information.

More information:

• Air travel

• Aviation Safety Network

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

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help 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