France travel advice
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- Safety and security
- Entry and exit requirements
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Risk level
France - Exercise a high degree of caution
Exercise a high degree of caution in France due to the elevated threat of terrorism.
Safety and security
Olympic and Paralympic Games
The Olympic Games will take place in Paris from July 26 to August 11, followed by the Paralympic Games from August 28 to September 8, 2024.
Public events for the Olympics will take place across France starting on May 8 and will continue until the opening ceremony.
If you plan to travel to France during this time, plan your travel accordingly.
During the Olympic Games, especially in Paris, you should expect:
- an increased presence of security forces
- major disruptions to traffic and movement, including transportation networks
- large crowds and public gatherings
- restrictions on flying drones over Paris
- an increase of petty crime, including theft and pickpocketing
Useful links
- Games-related information and advice for Canadians
- Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024 – Official website
- Temporary drone use restriction – Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024 (in French)
Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities.
Over the past few years in France, several opportunistic and premeditated attacks have occurred. These have resulted in many deaths and injuries. Further attacks are likely.
Vigipirate plan
The Vigipirate plan is a set of measures established by the French government to prepare and protect the French population, infrastructure and institutions in the event of an attack. The aim is also to allow rapid deployment of intervention measures if necessary.
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.
Vigipirate plan – Government of France (in French)
Operation sentinelle
Operation Sentinelle allows the deployment of military brigades in public places to patrol and deter terrorist acts. Enhanced security measures have been deployed in various strategic locations, including:
- transport hubs
- public places
- tourist locations, especially in Paris
Expect an increased police or military presence in public places, including some tourist locations, particularly in Paris.
Attacks can occur anywhere. Terrorists may target:
- government buildings and those of local authorities
- schools/universities
- places of worship
- places dedicated to culture, such as exhibition galleries, museums, concert halls and theatres
- airports, railway stations and other transportation hubs and networks
- public areas such as tourist attractions, monuments, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
While in France:
- always be aware of your surroundings when in public places
- be particularly vigilant if attending large gatherings such as sporting events and religious celebrations or other public celebrations
Useful links
- Information on the terrorist threat in France - Ministry of the Interior (in French)
- How to react in case of a terrorist attack - Government of France (in French)
- Social media accounts of the Ministry of the Interior - Ministry of the Interior (in French)
- Vigipirate – General secretary of defense and national security (in French)
Crime
Petty crime
Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and purse and mobile phone snatching are common. 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.
Thieves are mainly active in large cities and busy places, such as:
- public transport, particularly the Paris metro and the Île-de-France regional express network (RER) lines linking the capital to its surroundings
- popular tourist sites
- department stores
- restaurants and patios
- hotel lobbies
- parks
- transport hubs
During your trip:
- keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place
- don’t carry large sums of cash or valuables unnecessarily
- avoid walking alone after dark
- 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
Violent crimes
Violent crimes are rarer, but still occur.
Tourists are sometimes victims of violent attacks by groups of young people who want to rob them. 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 outside night-time establishments and in more isolated areas at night.
Residential break-ins
Residential break-ins occur, especially in large cities and coastal areas. Burglars sometimes target houses or holiday rental apartments.
While in France:
- be vigilant, particularly when approached by strangers
- ensure that your belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times
- avoid showing signs of affluence and carrying large sums of cash
- limit the use of mobile phones on public transportation and in crowded areas to ensure you remain aware of your surroundings and to avoid attracting attention
- don’t keep your credit, debit cards and cash in the same place
- never leave your bags unsupervised
- choose well-secured accommodation and make sure you lock doors and windows at night and when you’re away
Parked vehicles and vehicles on the road
Vehicle break-ins are frequent. Theft of parked cars or their contents is particularly common on beach roads in the south of France and at highway rest stops throughout the country, especially during the summer, when there is a high number of travellers.
- Leave nothing in view in the vehicle
- Use secure parking facilities
- Be particularly vigilant when renting automobiles, as rented vehicles are a target of choice
Drivers are often tricked into stopping their cars by thieves who either obstruct the road or distract the driver by flashing their headlights. They may also pretend that you have a flat tire or even puncture a tire themselves. Once the vehicle is stopped, the thieves seize the opportunity to steal a bag or other valuable objects.
- Beware of any person who waves at you to stop on the highway
- Be especially vigilant when stopped at traffic lights, as bags are often snatched from the front passenger seat by thieves travelling on scooters
- Keep windows closed and doors locked at all times
Victims of crime
If you’re a victim of theft, go to the nearest police station to report the crime. 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 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 (in French)
Bomb threats
Since October 2023, there have been a number of bomb threats sent to public places across France.
Bomb threats and hoaxes can target any location, including:
- tourist areas
- shopping centres
- transportation hubs
- government facilities
- schools
- religious institutions
If you are in an area targeted by a bomb threat, follow the instructions of local authorities including evacuation orders.
Fraud
Credit card and ATM fraud
Credit card and ATM fraud occurs.
When using debit or credit cards:
- pay careful attention if other people are handling your cards
- use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
- avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
- cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
- check for any unauthorized transaction on your account statements
Cybercrime
Cybercrime and online extortion, including phishing scams, occur.
Cybercriminals can compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal personal data or credit information. They may try to trick you with communications that seem legitimate but are fraudulent. These could include promises of discounted merchandise or accommodations, or free event tickets.
- Use secure public Wi-Fi networks
- Carry your own USB adaptor or carry an extra battery pack instead of using public charging stations
- Make online purchases only from secure and official websites
- 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
Useful links
- Overseas fraud
- Cyber security while travelling
- Don’t take the bait : Recognize and avoid phishing attacks
Demonstrations
Demonstrations occur frequently. They are usually planned as 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 and pressure tactics 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
Swimming, boating and water safety
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
In autumn and winter, be cautious when walking on the shore, as waves can be unpredictable, breaking further than expected and causing strong undertows.
- Avoid visiting beaches or coastal areas during periods of severe weather warnings
- Look out for signs warning of cliff erosion and falling rocks
- Don’t dive into unknown waters, as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death
- Exercise caution and follow the advice of the local authorities
Recreational boating
If you are planning to go boating:
- know the capacity of your boat (people and weight) and don’t exceed it
- know the navigation rules
- follow safe practices for all activities on the water: personal watercraft, water-skiing and towed devices, diving or swimming, fishing, etc.
- equip your boat with a VHF marine radio that will generate your position 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 (in French)
- Water safety abroad
Mountain activities
Mountain activities, such as hiking, can be dangerous, especially if they are not well prepared. Trails are not always 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 go hiking, mountaineering or skiing:
- never do so alone and do not part with your hiking companions
- buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
- ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
- do not venture off marked trails or slopes
- ensure that you’re adequately equipped
- stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
- inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
- know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
- obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be doing it before setting out
Useful links
- Information on mountain conditions - Association nationale pour l'étude de la neige et des avalanches (ANENA) (in French)
- Specialised mountain units - Gendarmerie nationale (in French)
- Avalanche forecasts and warnings - European Avalanche Warning Service (EAWS)
Road safety
French roads are well maintained.
Drive carefully and respect the Highway Code.
Public transportation
Urban and intercity public transportation is reliable. When using these types of transport, 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
There is a problem of illegal taxis in Paris airports and train stations. These scammers charge much higher rates than the official ones.
- Ignore direct solicitations when leaving the airport or train station
- Use only official taxis or a trusted ride-sharing app
- Don’t share a taxi with strangers
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
Entry and exit requirements
Every country or territory decides 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.
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) prior to travel.
Useful links
Temporary border controls
The French government has reintroduced internal border controls at certain ports of entry. You may be required to pass through immigration controls when entering France, even if arriving from another Schengen area country.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
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.
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, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
Tourist visa: not required for stays 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
More information on Visas - Government of France
Other entry requirements
Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
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 be in possession of:
- 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
- More about travelling with children
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Health
Relevant Travel Health Notices
- Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
- Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
- COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
- 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympics – France - 6 June, 2024
This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.
Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.
Routine vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccinations, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.
Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Pre-travel vaccines and medications
You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary.
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Tick-borne encephalitis
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.
Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.
Protect yourself from tick bites. The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.
Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.
COVID-19
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.
Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.
Influenza
The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.
The flu occurs worldwide.
- In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to April.
- In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and October.
- In the tropics, there is flu activity year round.
The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.
The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.
Rabies
In this destination, rabies may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal.
If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional.
Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife.
Safe food and water precautions
Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.
- Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
- Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
- Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs.
Insect bite prevention
Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:
- Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
- Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
- Minimize exposure to insects
- Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed
To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.
Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.
Dengue
- In this country, risk of dengue is sporadic. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
- Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
- The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
- Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.
Zika virus
Zika virus is a risk in this country.
Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.
During your trip:
- Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
- Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.
If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel.
For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
Animal precautions
Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.
Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.
Person-to-person infections
Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:
- washing your hands often
- avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
- avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.
Medical services and facilities
Health care is excellent and 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.
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
In France, it’s illegal to cover your face in public places, including international airport arrivals areas.
Offenders risk a very high 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.
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 to use it across the European Union. If you don’t comply, you may be fined and your drone confiscated.
Useful links
- Civil drones - European Union Aviation Safety Agency
- General Directorate of Civil Aviation – Government of France (in French)
- Drones: piloting rules to follow– Government of France (in French)
Driving
You must be at least 18 years old to drive a car in France.
You should carry an International Driving Permit. You can drive with your Canadian licence for up to 1 year. If you stay in France, you will have to exchange your Canadian licence for a French licence.
Numerous roadside cameras have been installed to help enforce traffic regulations. You could receive heavy fines if you do not obey the speed limit or the Highway Code. Local authorities may also confiscate your driver’s 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.
In general, traffic in a roundabout has priority over vehicles trying to enter it. Priority switches to vehicles from the left.
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
- Obligations to equip vehicles in winter - French administration services (in French)
- Air quality certificates: Crit'Air - Ministry of Ecological Transition (in French)
Money
The currency of France is the euro (EUR).
If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:
- banknotes and coins
- bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
- bonds, shares
- gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
- gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
- any other convertible asset
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
Avalanches
There is a risk of avalanches in mountainous areas, which can cause fatal accidents. If you intend to ski or climb, find out about the weather and safety conditions and follow the advice given.
Useful links
- Familiarise yourself with the avalanche risk levels - French administration services
- Information on mountain conditions - Association nationale pour l'étude de la neige et des avalanches (ANENA) (in French)
- Avalanche forecasts and warnings - European Avalanche Warning Service (EAWS)
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.
The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.
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
- follow the advice of local authorities
- monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation
Forest weather – Météo France (in French)
Need help?
Local services
Emergency services
Dial 112 for emergency assistance.
Dial 17 to connect to the police.
Paris - Embassy of Canada
French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Mayotte, Monaco, La Réunion, Saint-Barthélemy, Saint-Martin, Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon
Appointment Book your appointment onlineNice - Honorary consul of Canada
South Region.
Lyon - Honorary consul of Canada
Rhône-Alpes Region
Wellington - High Commission of Canada
American Samoa, Cook Islands, Fiji, French Polynesia, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Wallis and Futuna
Consular assistance - France
Please call the consulates before visiting them.
For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to France, in Paris, and follow the instructions
Consular assistance - Wallis and Futuna
For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada to New Zealand, in Wellington, and follow the instructions.
At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
Disclaimer
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.
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