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American visiting France
Visa not required
Max stay: 90 days
- 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area (in Regions of France)
- A bilateral agreement pre-dating the Schengen area may allow 90 days of stay in France regardless of days spent in other Schengen countries.
DISCLAIMER: Visa requirements are subject to change. Please verify with official sources before traveling.
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Entry Checklist
- Valid passport or EU/Schengen ID card
- Proof of onward or return travel
- Proof of accommodation
- Travel insurance covering medical care
Health & Vaccinations
- Vaccinations: Routine vaccinations up to date; COVID-19 vaccination recommended
- Healthcare: Public healthcare is high quality; EU residents can use EHIC; others should have insurance.
- Travel insurance is highly recommended.
Safety & Security
- Crime: Pickpocketing occurs in tourist areas and public transport; stay alert.
- Areas to Avoid: Avoid isolated areas late at night; be cautious in large crowds.
- Emergency Numbers:
- Police: 17
- Ambulance: 15
- Fire: 18
Local Laws & Etiquette
- Important Laws: Smoking banned in enclosed public spaces; drug possession is illegal.
- Cultural Etiquette: Greet with 'Bonjour' before starting a conversation; tipping is optional but appreciated.
Money & Currency
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Exchange Info: Currency exchange at banks, airports, and exchange offices.
- Typical Costs: Coffee €2–€4; meal €12–€25; metro ticket €2.10.
- Payment Methods: Cards widely accepted; contactless common; some small shops prefer cash.
Transportation
- Getting Around: Extensive metro, bus, and train networks; high-speed TGV connects major cities.
- Driving Requirements: Drive on the right; EU licenses accepted; IDP recommended for non-EU licenses.
Communication
- Languages: French, Regional languages (Breton, Occitan, Alsatian)
- Internet & Mobile: 4G/5G widely available; free Wi‑Fi in many public areas.
- Useful Phrases:
- bon-ZHOOR | kom-mohn TAH-ley VOO? — Hello, how are you?
- MER-see | boo-koo — Thank you very much
- sel VOO pleh — Please
- oo AY leh twa-LET? — Where is the bathroom?
- kom-BYAH sa KOOT? — How much does it cost?