France for visitors

Red tape and visas
France > Basics > Formalities

Citizens of European Union (EU) countries can travel freely in France, while those from Australia, Canada, the United States and New Zealand do not need a visa, and can stay for up to ninety days. However, the situation can change and it's advisable to check with your nearest French embassy or consulate before departure.

EU citizens (or other non-visa citizens) who stay longer than three months are officially supposed to apply for a carte de séjour (residence permit), for which you'll have to show proof of – among other things – a regular income or sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay. EU passports are rarely stamped, however, so there is no evidence of how long you've been in the country. If your passport does get stamped, you can cross the border – to Belgium or Germany, for example – and re-enter for another ninety days legitimately.


Pages in section ‘Formalities’: French embassies and consulates.

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