Entry Requirements
Visa requirements for France depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.
Check if you need a visa for FranceEmergency Numbers
- General
- 112
- Police
- 17
- Ambulance
- 15 (SAMU)
- Fire
- 18
Currency
- Name
- Euro
- Code
- EUR
- Symbol
- €
Power Outlets
- Outlet types
- Type C, Type E
- Voltage
- 230V
- Frequency
- 50Hz
Time Zone
CET (UTC+1) — CEST (UTC+2) in summer
Best Time to Visit
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Paris in August: many locals leave, some restaurants close
Tipping Customs
| Venue | Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | Round up / leave €1–2 | Service compris is included by law — extra tip is a gesture, never obligatory |
| Taxis | Round up | — |
| Hotels | €1–2 per bag | — |
| Cafes / Bars | Leave small coins on the table | — |
Dress Code
- Smart casual in cities — avoid sportswear, baseball caps in restaurants
- Modest dress at churches and cathedrals
- Parisians dress well even for casual outings
Social Etiquette
- Always say 'Bonjour' when entering a shop, café or office — greeting first is expected
- Use 'vous' with strangers; switch to 'tu' only when invited
- Two to four cheek kisses (la bise) between acquaintances — varies by region
- Greet every member at a table individually when joining
- Never start eating before everyone has been served
Local Laws
Laws change. Verify current rules with your country's official travel advisory before departure.
- Face-covering garments (full veil) in public spaces are prohibited
- Photography of police operations or military installations is restricted
- Alcohol purchase age is 18
- Smoking banned in enclosed public spaces
- Paris metro: validate your ticket before every journey — inspectors fine without warning
Common Phrases
| English | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello / Good morning | Bonjour | bon-ZHOOR |
| Thank you | Merci | mair-SEE |
| Please | S'il vous plaît | seel voo PLEH |
| Excuse me | Excusez-moi | ex-kew-zay-MWAH |
| You're welcome | De rien / Je vous en prie | duh ree-EN |
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