Frankrike

Översikt

France remains a stable and generally safe country. The main risks that foreign nationals and expatriate employees are likely to encounter are micro-risk factors such as petty and street crime, and issues associated with protest activity. Protests occur with frequency and do attract a significant attendance, particularly when associated with economic and/or political reform. The country has been subjected to a series of terrorist attacks linked to the islamist group IS in 2015-2016.

Hälsa, sjukdomar och vaccination

Although the risk is low, vaccinations are recommended for influenza, chickenpox, polio, MMR, and diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus (DPT) in order to avoid any potential dangers of infection.

It is advisable for travellers to carry sufficient medicines with clear labels and description of those medicines, if they are unable to access them within France. A letter from their health practitioner is useful if the contents are checked at border control. In addition, bringing a medical or first aid kit will be helpful.

The French health care system is excellent in comparison with other developed countries. The emergency contact number for medical and ambulance assistance in France is '15'. Medical care services are covered throughout the country. Travellers can buy medicines from pharmacies.

Generally travellers who are residents of the European Union holding European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) need only pay 30% co-payment of health expenses. Free emergency care is also available. Thus, it is advisable for those coming from non-EU countries to acquire a full travel insurance covering medical costs, otherwise full price will be charged.

Pass

Generally, most foreign visitors, but not EU nationals, require a passport with three months validity beyond the length of stay for entry into France. Travellers from Schengen agreement countries do not need to present a passport. However, those arriving from non-Schengen countries will need their passport. 

Visum

Foreign visitors generally require a visa for entry into France. Certain nationalities do not require a visa for up to three months.

In addition, people holding a Schengen Agreement country’s residence or travel document also do not require a visa. If the stay will be more than 90 days, most people require a visa except those from member states of the European Union and the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, Monaco and Andorra. 

For additional information visit TLCS at http://www.tlcsvisas.com/tlcs/   

Travellers can find information regarding which nationalities require a Schengen visa for entry into France at the European Commission Visa Policy website.