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Whether you're off to one of the sun-baked wine regions, the gardens of Giverny or Versailles, the warm beaches of the French Riviera or the exciting streets of Paris, France is an exceptionally rich experience. The country is full of rich experiences that you are sure to remember for the rest of your life.
Is travel insurance mandatory in France?
While travel health insurance may not be mandatory for all stays in the country, it is required for those applying for a longer-stay visa. However, most non-U.S. citizens require a visa for France. In order for the French government to provide this visa, they require proof of France travel insurance (also known as Schengen travel insurance).
COVID-19 in France
For the most up-to-date information on travel entry requirements for France, please visit this tourism page. If you're traveling to France, here are some Covid safety precautions to take. For the most up-to-date information on Covid restrictions for traveling, please follow CDC guidelines.
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Health & safety
France is known for having a high rate of petty theft, particularly on the Paris Subway. If you are taking public transportation, be sure to keep your purse, backpack or bag closed and in your hands at all times. If you are wearing a backpack, take it off and hold it in front of you to avoid bumping other passengers and not being aware if someone attempts to open your bag. Phones, wallets and cameras are particularly at risk of being stolen.
Also be wary of people offering to take a picture of you with your camera or phone (particularly in front of famous landmarks) as they may plan to run off with your device as soon as you hand it over.
Necessary vaccinations
Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before your trip. Here are some common vaccination recommendations for France.
- Chickenpox (Varicella)
- Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
- Flu (influenza)
- Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
- Polio
- Pneumonia
- Hepatitis A
- Meningitis
- Rabies
- Hepatitis B
- Shingles
For the most up-to-date information on required vaccinations and other health requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website.
Visas & documentation
If you are planning on visiting France (or any country in the Schengen area) for 90 days or less for holiday or leisure, you can either enter with just your passport or with a Schengen Visa, depending on your home country. Most countries in North and South America, including Canada, Mexico and the United States, can enter the Schengen area without a visa. Citizens of most African and Asian countries, however, will need this visa and are therefore required to carry travel medical insurance for the duration of their stay. For more information and to see if you need a visa for your trip to Europe, check the Schengen Visa's official site.
To receive a Schengen Visa, you must prove that you have designed to satisfy specific requirements. You may need additional documentation if you plan to work or study while in the Schengen region.
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