France and Monaco
Country Specific Information
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July 27, 2012

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: France is a developed and stable democracy with a modern economy. Tourist facilities are widely available. Read the Department of State Background Notes on France for additional information.

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SMART TRAVELER ENROLLMENT PROGRAM (STEP) / EMBASSY LOCATION: If you are going to live in or visit France, please take the time to tell us about your trip. By enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, you can keep up to date with important safety and security announcements. It will also help your friends and family get in touch with you in an emergency.

Local embassy information is available below and at the Department of State’s list of embassies and consulates. Please check the individual webpage for the embassy or consulate you will be visiting to verify public hours and security regulations. Generally, you won’t be allowed to bring electronic devices such as cell phones and laptops with you inside our facilities.

There are two Consulates General, four American Presence Posts and one Consular Agency in France, in addition to the Embassy in Paris. Only the consular sections in Paris and Marseille are authorized to issue passports. The other offices provide limited services to American citizens. Appointments are required for most services. Appointments can be scheduled online for Embassy Paris and Consulate General Marseille. Call or email posts in other locations to schedule an appointment. Please note that the emergency after-hours telephone number for all U.S. posts in France is: (33) 1 43 12 22 22. Ask to speak to the duty officer if you need emergency assistance after business hours.

All of our telephone numbers below are written the way you would dial them from the United States. When calling from within France, drop the country code and add a zero. For example: (33) 1 43 12 22 becomes 01 43 12 22 22.

 

Embassies, Consulates and Agencies

U.S. Embassy Paris

4, avenue Gabriel
75008 Paris
Tel. (33) 1 43 12 22 22 (routine and emergency services)
Fax (33) 1 42 96 28 39 (Passport Services)
Fax (33) 1 42 61 61 40 (Special Consular Services)
American Citizen Services Email: Citizeninfo@state.gov
Passport Services Email: PassportsParis@state.gov
Website: U.S. Embassy Paris

U.S. Consulate General Marseille

Place Varian Fry
13006 Marseille
Tel. (33) 4 91 54 92 00 (routine services)
Tel. (33) 4 91 54 90 84 (American Citizen Services)
Fax (33) 4 91 55 56 95 (American Citizen Services)
American Citizen Services Email: Citizeninfomarseille@state.gov
Website:   U.S. Consulate General Marseille

U.S. Consulate General Strasbourg

15, Avenue d'Alsace
67082 Strasbourg
Tel. (33) 3 88 35 31 04
Fax (33) 3 88 24 06 95
American Citizen Services Email: Citizeninfo@state.gov
Website: U.S. Consulate General Strasbourg

American Presence Post Bordeaux

89, Quai des Chartrons
33300 Bordeaux
Tel. (33) 5 56 48 63 80
Fax (33) 5 56 51 61 97
American Citizen Services Email: usabordeaux@state.gov
Website: American Presence Post Bordeaux

American Presence Post Lyon

1, quai Jules Courmont
69002 Lyon
Tel. (33) 4 78 38 36 88
Tel. (33) 4 78 38 33 03 (consular information and appointments)
Fax (33) 4 72 41 71 81
American Citizen Services Email: usalyon@state.gov
Website: American Presence Post Lyon

American Presence Post Rennes

30, quai Duguay Trouin
35000 Rennes
Tel. (33) 2 23 44 09 60
Fax (33) 2 99 35 00 92
American Citizen Services Email: usarennes@state.gov
Website: American Presence Post Rennes

American Presence Post Toulouse

25, Allée Jean Jaures
31000 Toulouse
Tel. (33) 5 34 41 36 50
Fax 05 34 41 16 19
American Citizen Services Email: usatoulouse@state.gov
Website: American Presence Post Lyon

Consular Agency Nice

7, Avenue Gustave V
3rd floor
06000 Nice
Tel. (33) 4 93 88 89 55
Fax (33) 4 93 87 07 38
American Citizen Services Email: usanice@state.gov
Website (part of U.S. Consulate General Marseille site): U.S. Consular Agency Nice

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ENTRY / EXIT REQUIREMENTS FOR U.S. CITIZENS: U.S. citizens may enter France for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa.   France is a party to the Schengen Agreement, which allows for visa-free travel between member countries. For further details about travel into and within Schengen countries, please see our Schengen fact sheet.  U.S. citizens traveling with either an official or diplomatic passport do require a valid Schengen visa. If you are traveling for reasons other than business or tourism – such as employment, study, or internship – you must obtain a French visa for that purpose before you leave the United States. You should be aware that it is nearly impossible to obtain or change visa status while in France.

If you are transiting France en route to other countries, make sure you know all of the entry and exit requirements for your trip and final destination. If you don’t have the right documentation, you might be denied boarding to your connecting flight. Some countries require a certain number of blank visa pages or more than six months remaining validity on your passport.

The Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to, or foreign residents of, France.

Contact the French Embassy in Washington at 4101 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007, tel. (202) 944 6000, or one of the French Consulates General in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, or San Francisco for the most current visa information.

Our website can provide you with information about dual nationality or the prevention of international child abduction. For further information about customs regulations, please read our Customs Information Sheet.



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THREATS TO SAFETY AND SECURITY:

Please refer to the United States Department of State website for the most updated threat warning.

Political violence in Paris and throughout France is still relatively uncommon, although there are occasional instances of extremely large demonstrations occurring in many French cities simultaneously. Large demonstrations in Paris are generally managed by a strong police presence, but even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. U.S. citizens are therefore urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations if possible, and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations. In addition, the congestion caused by large demonstrations can cause serious inconveniences for a visitor on a tight schedule. Likewise, some sporting events, such as soccer matches, have occasionally degenerated into violence that continued into the streets.

Political unrest has developed in some Francophone countries with historic ties to France (e.g., Algeria, Cote d’Ivoire, and Tunisia). Some French citizens and residents with ties to such countries have protested in front of those countries’ embassies or consulates located in France in response to the unrest. Although these protests are infrequent and do not target Americans, visitors should avoid such demonstrations.

The Government of France maintains a threat rating system, known locally as “Vigipirate,” similar to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Advisory System. Under this plan, the government routinely augments police with armed forces and increases visibility at airports, train and metro stations, and other high-profile locations such as schools, major tourist attractions, and government installations. Over the last few years, there have been arrests of suspected Islamic militants involved in terrorist plots. French authorities have periodically spoken publicly about the heightened threat conditions for terrorist attacks in Europe. Information is routinely shared between the United States and France in order to disrupt terrorist plotting, identify and take action against potential operatives, and strengthen defenses against potential threats.

Although U.S. citizens have not been specifically targeted in terrorist attacks in France within the past few years, travelers should remain vigilant. Immediately report unattended packages observed in public places or any other suspicious activities to French law enforcement authorities. French law enforcement authorities are proactive and will respond immediately. If there is a security incident or suspicious package, do not linger in the area to observe.

Public safety and security in France are maintained by three different forces: Municipal Police, National Police, and the military Gendarmerie. These services are professional, competent, and pro-active in fighting crime and violence and maintaining overall state security.

In an emergency, dialing 17 will connect the caller to the Police. You can also dial the Europe-wide emergency response number 112 to reach an operator for all kinds of emergency services (similar to the U.S. 911 system). Non-French speakers may experience a delay while an English speaker is located.

For non-emergency assistance, visitors should go to the nearest police station (commissariat) in order to file an official report.

Stay up to date:



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CRIME: Prior to travel to France, the United States State Department recommends that all visitors check the Department’s website for updated security advisories.

Overall Crime Situation
France is a relatively safe country. Most crimes are non-violent, but pick-pocketing is a significant problem.   See section below entitled Tips on How to Avoid Becoming a Victim.

The majority of crimes directed against foreign visitors, including U.S. citizens, involve pick-pocketing, residential break-ins, bicycle theft, and other forms of theft with minimal violence. However, as in any big city, robberies involving physical assault do occur in Paris and other major urban areas. Visitors to congested areas and known tourist sites (e.g., museums, monuments, train stations, airports, and subways) should be particularly attentive to their surroundings. Crimes against visitors are generally crimes of opportunity, though these crimes are more likely to involve violence on the street late at night or when the victim detects the theft and resists the criminal.   As in any major city, women should exercise extra caution when out alone at night and/or consider traveling out at night with companions. In general, Paris taxis are safe and professionally operated, but we have noted an increase in reported harassment and assaults on women by taxi drivers.

Caution is required throughout France when driving through economically depressed areas, where there is a high incidence of “smash and grab” robberies. Thieves will approach a vehicle that is stopped in traffic, smash a window, reach into the vehicle to grab a purse or other valuable item, and then flee. Keep doors locked and valuables out of sight.

Throughout August, the month when most French residents take summer vacations, and in December, there is generally an increase in the number of residential break-ins. The majority are attributed to residents not using security measures already in place, including double locking doors and locking windows. Home invasions are often preceded by phone calls to see if the resident is at home. Often thieves who manage to gain access to the apartment building will knock on apartment doors to see if anyone answers, offering the excuse they are taking a survey or representing a utility company.

Paris:  Crime in Paris is similar to that in most large cities. Violent crime is relatively uncommon in the city center, but women should exercise extra caution when out alone at night and/or consider traveling out at night with companions.  There has been an increase recently in reported sexual harassment, and sometimes assault, by taxi drivers.   Pickpockets are by far the most significant problem. In addition to purses and wallets, smart phones and small electronic devices are particular targets. In Paris, pickpockets can be any gender, race, or age and are commonly children under the age of 16 because they are difficult to prosecute. Pickpockets are very active on the rail link (RER B) from Charles de Gaulle Airport to the city center. Travelers may want to consider using a shuttle service or one of the express buses to central Paris rather than the RER.  In addition, passengers on the Metro line 1, which traverses the city center from east to west and services many major tourist sites, are often targeted. A common method is for one thief to distract the tourist with questions or disturbances, while an accomplice picks pockets, a backpack, or a purse. Schemes in Paris include asking if you would sign a petition or take a survey and presenting a ring and asking if you dropped it. Thieves often time their pickpocket attempts to coincide with the closing of the automatic doors on the Metro, leaving the victim secured on the departing train. Many thefts also occur at the major department stores (e.g., Galeries Lafayette, Printemps, and Le Bon Marché), where tourists may leave wallets, passports, and credit cards on cashier counters during transactions. Popular tourist sites are also popular with thieves, who favor congested areas to mask their activities. The crowded elevators at the Eiffel Tower, escalators at museums, and the area surrounding Sacré Coeur Basilica in Montmartre are all favored by pickpockets and snatch-and-grab thieves. There have been some instances of tourists being robbed and assaulted near less utilized Metro stations. The area around the Moulin Rouge, known as Pigalle, requires extra security precautions to avoid becoming a victim. Pigalle is an adult entertainment area known for prostitution, sex shows, and illegal drugs. Unsuspecting tourists have run up exorbitant bar bills and been forced to pay before being permitted to leave. Other areas in Paris where extra security precautions are warranted after dark are Les Halles and the Bois de Boulogne.

PROVENCE ALPES MARITIMES (PACA) / LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON (Marseille, Montpellier, Perpignan, Carcassonne Avignon, Aix en Provence, Arles, Cannes, Nice)

The PACA/Languedoc-Roussillon region enjoys a fairly low rate of violent crime directed at tourists. The most common problems in the region are thefts from cars (both stopped in traffic and parked) and from luggage trolleys at the major transportation hubs (e.g., Nice Airport, and the railway stations at Marseille, Avignon, and Aix en Provence). U.S. citizen victims reported to the U.S. Consulate General in Marseille fifty cases of theft from cars and twenty purse snatchings in transportation hubs during the May-June 2011 period. The U.S. Consulate General in Marseille has also noted an increase in holiday rental-home burglaries and in necklace snatching. Keep your car doors locked and windows rolled up at all times. Valuables should be hidden out of site to prevent snatch-and-grab attempts. Maintain visual contact with your car when visiting tourist sites, when using rest facilities at gas stations, or stopping to enjoy panoramic views, even for a short period, as thieves will break windows to access items left in cars. Victims are reporting car break-ins within minutes of leaving a car unattended. Passports should be kept separate from other valuables.

Strasbourg: Strasbourg's historic center enjoys a fairly low rate of violent crime. Pickpockets and snatch-and-grab thieves tend to concentrate their efforts in the Petite France historic district popular with visitors.

Bordeaux: This large city is considered   fairly safe; general crimes and offenses have been on the decline since 2005. As with any big city, you should be watchful of pickpockets and other tourist-aimed crimes, especially around public transportation. However, local police are considered professional and responsive to persons who are victims of crime. Stolen purses, ID cards, and passports left in cars – particularly around renowned landmarks– routinely lead to requests for emergency issuance of passports.

Lyon: Although levels of violent crime are low, Lyon has a fair amount of petty crime and vandalism. Late-night weekend rowdiness is common in the center of town and in areas with night clubs. But the public transportation system is safe at night (generally a concern for U.S. citizens), and there is extensive police video surveillance utilized on the streets. To combat reckless and drunk drivers and prevent them from fleeing accident scenes, Lyon initiated 30 KPH zones in commercial districts, and the local police have increased controls for drunken driving. They have also installed speed and red-light radar systems. Despite these efforts, in 2010 six pedestrians were killed by moving vehicles. The number of stolen passports and personal items in the district remains relatively low, and attacks are rare. Home break-ins have increased recently; according to the local news, there are 30 per day, which represents a 16% increase over 2010. A recent wave of armed robberies in luxury goods stores and cash exchange businesses ended with the arrest of an organized gang of delinquents. Bicycle thefts are also a risk, as Lyon becomes increasingly bicycle-friendly and more people cycle around town.

Normandy: Break-ins and thefts from cars in the parking lots at the Normandy beaches and American cemeteries are common. Do not leave valuables unattended in a car. Locking valuables in the trunk is not an adequate safeguard as thieves often pry open car trunks to steal bags.

Rennes: In general, the city of Rennes is a relatively safe and secure environment, and crime rates throughout the consular district tend to be lower than in larger cities elsewhere. There are occasional crimes in the center of Rennes related to drunkenness and rowdy behavior, with the largest and most boisterous crowds tending to gather on Thursday nights in the area around Rue Saint Michel (a.k.a. “Rue de la Soif” or “Thirst Street”) and the adjacent Place Sainte Anne. The local authorities, both police and political, make security a priority. The Rennes police are well informed about potential threats and respond quickly to any criminal issues occurring in the city. Tourists do occasionally encounter theft of valuables and/or passports. Valuables left unattended in rental cars overnight, or for extended amounts of time, are particularly susceptible to theft. In particular, tourist sites around Brittany warn travelers against leaving expensive items in plain view in parked cars, due to frequent vehicle break-ins. Do not leave luggage unattended on trains.

Toulouse and the Midi-Pyrenees: Toulouse and the Midi-Pyrenees region are considered generally safe. Car theft, vehicle break-ins, petty theft and burglary are the most common crimes, and they are relatively more frequent in areas near the railway station. Car-jackings and home invasions may occur, particularly in wealthier areas surrounding Toulouse. Home invasions, although usually targeting valuables and cars, may include violence. Police are usually very helpful to travelers who are victims of crime. Itinerant street people, often in groups accompanied by dogs, are increasingly prevalent in downtown Toulouse, particularly in warmer weather. While alcohol and drug abuse can make them unpredictable, incidents of crime are relatively rare.

Tips on How to Avoid Becoming a Victim: Common-sense security precautions will help you enjoy a trouble-free stay. Most problems can be avoided by being aware of one's surroundings and avoiding high-risk areas.

When going out, carry only essential items: ONE credit/ATM card, ONE piece of identification, and no more than €40-50. Avoid carrying high-value jewelry and large amounts of cash. Valuables should be kept out of sight and in places difficult for thieves to reach, such as internal coat pockets or in pouches hung around the neck or inside clothes. Shoulder bags and wallets in back pockets are an invitation to a thief.

Keep photocopies of travel documents and credit cards separate from the originals, along with key telephone numbers to contact banks for credit card replacement.

Crowded elevators and escalators at tourist sites and crowded metro cars should raise awareness levels. When possible, take a seat or stand against a wall to deter pickpockets and try to maintain a 360-degree awareness of the surrounding area.

Carry only a purse that zips closed and ensure that it is carried under the arm and slightly in front of the body.  For a backpack-type purse, swing it around so that it is slightly in front of the body.  Wallets that are carried on the body should be in a front pocket. While on foot, remain aware of your surroundings at all times and keep bags slung across the body, with the bag hanging away from the street.

Many U.S. citizens have had purses or bags stolen from the back of a chair or from under the table while in cafes, restaurants and nightclubs/bars, including higher end establishments. Again, keep your valuables with you and never leave them unattended or out of your sight.

Do not leave valuables in hotel rooms. If you must leave valuables in the hotel, consider using the hotel safe.

Be aware that thieves often operate in groups and will come to each other's aid if confronted. If a thief is caught in the act, a simple pick-pocketing could turn into an assault (or worse) if an attempt is made to capture the thief. You can shout out  for police assistance to attract attention, but do not pursue whomever you think stole your wallet or bag.

Do not use ATMs in isolated, poorly lighted areas or where loiterers are present. Be especially aware of persons standing close enough to see the Personal Identification Number (PIN) being entered into the machine. Thieves often conduct successful scams by simply watching the PIN as it is entered and then stealing the card from the user in some other location. If the card gets stuck in the machine, you should immediately report it to the bank where the machine is located as well as to your bank back home.

Many theft and assault victims are targeted when making their way home from a late night out after drinking alcohol. If you go out late at night, do so with a group of friends. There is safety in numbers.

Use only authorized taxis. Authorized taxis in Paris have the following equipment:

  • An illuminated “Taxi Parisien” sign on the roof,
  • A display meter showing the cost of the trip,
  • A display at the rear of the vehicle and visible from the exterior which enables the monitoring of the daily duration of use of the vehicle,
  • A plate fixed to the front fender bearing the license number.

Over the past year, there has been an increase in reports by women of  sexual harassment and assault by the driver.  Women may want to consider having another individual walk them to a taxi and, in plain view of the driver, note the license number of the vehicle, or call a friend while in the taxi and communicate the license number. Letting the driver know that others are aware of your trip and the license number of the taxi may reduce the chances of becoming a victim.

Public parks should be avoided after dark as they are often frequented by drug dealers and prostitutes.

The Paris Police Prefecture publishes a pamphlet entitled “Paris in Complete Safety ” that provides practical advice and useful telephone numbers for visitors.

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VICTIMS OF CRIME: If you or someone you know becomes the victim of a crime abroad, you should contact the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. We can:

  • Replace a lost or stolen passport.
  • Provide information on the most rapid means for money transfer.
  • Assist with contacting family members or friends.
  • Help you find appropriate medical care following violent crimes such as assault or rape.
  • Put you in contact with the appropriate police authorities.
  • Although the local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime, consular officers can help you understand the local criminal justice process and can direct you to local attorneys.

If you have been the victim of a pick-pocket and would like to report your items lost or stolen please see our Guide for Reporting Lost or Stolen Items.

For more serious crimes, compensation is available under French law to victims of crime committed on French soil under certain circumstances. We recommend that you read our information on victims of crime, including possible victim-compensation programs in the United States. The European equivalent to the U.S. 911 emergency line is 112. Non-French speakers may experience a delay while an English speaker is located. Alternatively, one can call French emergency numbers specific to the type of incident: 17 (police emergency); 18 (fire department/paramedics); and 15 (medical emergency/paramedic team/ambulance). 

We also maintain information on our website on where to get help in child abuse situations.

For private legal matters, commercial disputes, tourist, trade, or property complaints, you may refer to the website of the Department of State concerning retaining a foreign attorney. Consular staff is prohibited from providing legal representation or guidance, but we can refer inquiries to French law directories, bar associations or other organizations in order to assist you. You may also refer to our list of attorneys for legal assistance in France.

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CRIMINAL PENALTIES:

: While you are traveling in France, you are subject to its laws even if you are a U.S. citizen. Criminal penalties vary from country to country and there are some things that might be legal in the country you visit, but are still illegal in the United States. For example, you can be prosecuted under U.S. law if you buy pirated goods in another country. Engaging in sexual conduct with children or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is also a crime prosecutable in the United States. If you do something illegal in another country, your U.S. passport won’t help you avoid arrest or prosecution. It’s very important to know what’s legal and what’s not where you are going.

Persons violating French laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in France are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. For legal assistance in France, you may refer to this list of attorneys.

If you use any of France’s excellent public transportation services, take particular care to retain your used or “validated” ticket. Inspectors conduct periodic, random checks, and passengers who fail to present the correct validated ticket for their journey are subject to stiff and immediate fines. Inspectors may show no interest in explanations and no sympathy for an honest mistake. Failure to cooperate with these inspectors can result in a visit to the police station.

While some countries will automatically notify the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate if a U.S. citizen is detained or arrested in a foreign country, that might not always be the case. To ensure that the United States is aware of your circumstances, request that the police and prison officials notify the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate as soon as you are arrested or detained.



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SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES:

There are strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from France of items such as firearms, antiquities, medications, business equipment, sales samples, and other items. You should contact the Embassy of France in Washington, D.C. or one of France's consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements. Please see our Customs Information.

Accessibility: In France, accessibility and accommodation for individuals with disabilities are very different from what you find in the United States. French law requires that any new building with public or community space and any existing public building be accessible for persons with disabilities. However, many existing buildings, as well as transportation systems, do not yet meet these requirements.

Getting around in French cities may be difficult at times since many sidewalks are narrow and uneven, and cobblestone streets make access difficult, but the major tourist areas have better facilities. Although the Paris métro is a very efficient method for traveling throughout central Paris, most métro stations are not readily accessible for people with disabilities. Very few stations have elevators, and most have stairways and long corridors for changing trains or exiting to the street. However many Parisian buses and tramways are equipped with lowering platforms for travelers with limited-mobility, or who are sight- or hearing-disabled. Taxis are also a good means of transportation.

The English language website of the Paris Visitors Bureau and the French language, government-sponsored internet site contain additional information and include links to a downloadable local transportation map specifically designed for travelers with special mobility needs. There are many other resources available on the internet for disabled persons traveling to, or living in, France. You may also contact any of our consular offices by e-mail for further information on this topic.

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MEDICAL FACILITIES AND HEALTH INFORMATION: Medical care is comparable to that found in the United States. In an emergency, dialing 15 will connect the caller to emergency medical services. You can also dial the Europe-wide emergency response number 112 to reach an operator for all kinds of emergency services (similar to the U.S. 911 system). Non-French speakers may experience a delay while an English speaker is located. For non-emergency medical assistance in France, you may refer to this list of medical professionals.

You can find good information on vaccinations and other health precautions on the Centers for Disease Control ( CDC) website. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad, consult the World Health Organization (WHO) website, which also contains additional health information for travelers, including detailed country-specific health information.



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MEDICAL INSURANCE: You cannot assume that your insurance will go with you when you travel. It’s very important to find out BEFORE you leave. You need to ask your insurance company two questions:

  • Does my policy apply when I’m out of the United States?
  • Will it cover emergencies like a trip to a foreign hospital or an evacuation?

In many places, doctors and hospitals still expect payment in cash at the time of service. Your regular U.S. health insurance may not cover doctor and hospital visits in other countries. If your policy doesn’t cover you when you travel, it’s a very good idea to take out another one for your trip. For more information, please see our medical insurance overseas page.

NOTE: The U.S. Social Security Medicare Program does not provide coverage for hospital or medical costs outside the United States.



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TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS:

While in France, you may encounter road conditions that are very different from those in the United States.

Roads in France are generally comparable to those in the United States, but traffic engineering and driving habits pose special dangers. Lane markings and sign placements may not be clear. Drivers should be prepared to make last-minute maneuvers, as most French drivers do. The French typically drive more aggressively and faster than Americans, and tend to exceed posted speed limits. Right-of-way rules in France may differ from those in the United States. Drivers entering intersections from the right have priority over those on the left (unless specifically indicated otherwise), even when entering relatively large boulevards from small side streets. Many intersections in France are traffic circles, where the right-of-way belongs to drivers in the circle.

On major highways, there are service stations at least every 25 miles. Service stations are not as common on secondary roads in France as they are in the United States. Paris, the capital and largest city in France, has an extensive and efficient public transportation system. The interconnecting system of buses, subways, and commuter rails serves more than four million people a day with a safety record comparable to, or better than, the systems of major American cities. Similar transportation systems are found in all major French cities. Between cities, France is served by an equally extensive rail service, which is safe and reliable. High-speed rail links connect the major cities in France. Many cities are also served by frequent air service.  Traveling by train is safer than driving.

Pedestrians make up 13 percent of the deaths in motor vehicle accidents in France (roughly the same as in the United States), but this percentage is increasing. Most of these accidents occur when a pedestrian steps out onto the street, often when a car or motorcycle is making a turn onto a pedestrian crosswalk. Pedestrians should be cautious even when they have a green walking signal since this is no guarantee against aggressive drivers.

While Paris, Marseille, Lyon, and other French cities actively encourage the renting of bicycles through widely available city-sponsored systems, you should be cautious about this means of transportation, especially in a busy and unfamiliar urban environment. Helmets are neither required nor readily available near these rental stations. If you choose to ride a bicycle in France, you should bring your own helmet.

Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of the French National Tourist Office, which contains specific information concerning French driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance. The Embassy page on Driving in France provides information on the use of U.S. licenses in France. Note that as of July 1 2012, road safety equipment in all private vehicles in France must include a breathalyzer kit.



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AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT:

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of France's Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of France's air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA's safety assessment page.

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CHILDREN’S ISSUES: For information see our Office of Children’s Issues web pages on intercountry adoption and international parental child abduction .

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SPECIFIC INFORMATION ON MONACO: While the general information above is relevant to Monaco as well as France, this section contains information specific to Monaco.

The local point of contact for American citizens in Monaco is the U.S. Consular Agency in Nice. Additional services are available from Consulate General Marseille and the U.S. Embassy in Paris.

Consular Agency Nice
7, Avenue Gustave V
3rd floor
06000 Nice
Tel. (33) 4 93 88 89 55
Fax (33) 4 93 87 07 38
American Citizen Services Email: usanice@state.gov
Website (part of U.S. Consulate General Marseille site): U.S. Consular Agency Nice

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: Monaco is a developed constitutional monarchy. Read the Department of State Background Notes on Monaco for additional information. A passport is required to enter Monaco but a visa is not necessary for tourist/business stays up to 90 days in Monaco.

ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS: For further information on entry requirements to Monaco, travelers may contact the Embassy of the Principality of Monaco, 3400 International Drive, NW, Suite 2K-100, Washington D.C. 20008, Tel: (202) 234-1530, Email: Embassy Monaco, or the Consulate General of Monaco, 565 Fifth Avenue – 23rd floor, New York, NY 10017, Tel: (212) 286-0500, Email: Monaco Consulate. For the most current visa information, visit the Embassy of France website or the Embassy of the Principality of Monaco website. For more information please visit the official site of the Monaco Government, or the Government Tourist Office.

There are strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export of items such as firearms, antiquities, medications, business equipment, sales samples, and other items. Contact the Consulate General of Monaco in New York for specific information regarding customs requirements.

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