France Travel Advice & Safety

Updated:14 October 2025
Still Valid:Yes
Latest update:The new European Entry/Exit System (EES) has started for all non-EU nationals, travelling in or out of the Schengen Area. You’ll need to register at borders and have your fingerprint and photo taken. There may be longer border queues.
 

We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in France due to the threat of terrorism.

Advice Levels

Level 2
Exercise a high degree of caution in France due to the threat of terrorism.

Full Advice

  • France’s national terrorist alert warning (in French) is at the highest level. Expect high-level security nationwide, including at schools, places of worship, shopping centres and landmarks. Terrorists could target transport hubs, tourist areas, music and cultural events, festivals, shopping areas, the LGBTQIA+ community, sporting events and other public areas. Be cautious around locations known to be targets. Attacks could be indiscriminate and could occur anywhere without warning. There have been several attacks in France in recent years.
  • Strikes are frequent across France. When they occur, expect demonstrations and significant disruptions, which usually affect public transport and other public services. Some result in clashes with police, resulting in the use of tear gas and arrests. Avoid demonstrations and areas with significant police activity.
  • Serious crime can occur, particularly in large cities like Paris. This includes violent robberies, muggings, and assaults, including sexual assault. Spiking can happen anywhere, using either a drink or a needle. Stay vigilant about potential risks and avoid leaving your drinks unattended.
  • Crime such as theft, including passport theft, pickpocketing, bag snatching, burglaries and muggings are common, particularly in summer. Groups of thieves also operate on public transport, including busy metro lines and trains to/from the airports. Take care to protect your belongings on public transport, in crowded tourist areas and at landmarks.
  • Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 
  • The standard of medical care is high.
  • Always carry a photo ID, such as your passport. Police conduct random checks, particularly at borders.
  • You must stop to help if you witness an accident or someone asks for help. Report all accidents to emergency services. If you fail to help, you could be charged unless assisting will risk your or others’ safety.
  • Covering your face in public places or forcing someone else to is illegal.
  • Be careful when taking photos. It’s illegal to photograph security forces, including the police.
  • France is a part of the Schengen area which means you can enter France without a visa in some cases. In other situations, you’ll need a visa.
  • The new European Union’s (EU) Entry/Exit System (EES) for registering all non-EU nationals, travelling in or out of the Schengen area, has started.
  • There are increased checks and controls at France’s borders with Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and Spain.
  • The France-Visas website can help determine if you need a visa to enter or transit France. Most visas require you to apply from outside of France.
  • Travellers are responsible for understanding and meeting the entry conditions of their visa. Entry to France may be denied if visa requirements are not met.

Depending on what you need, contact your:

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

Fire and rescue services

Call 112.

Medical emergencies

Call 112.

Police

Call 112.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Call 3919 for victims of domestic violence.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Close
Popular
Trending
Trip Types