All country guides
Europe

Austria

Free movement for French nationals, with no short-stay visa.

Reviewed by TripminuteFrench passport · tourism · short stayInformation reviewed on August 9, 2026
The 30-second summary
DocumentValid national identity card or passport for each person, including minors.
EntryEuropean free movement

Free movement for French nationals, with no short-stay visa.

DurationUnder 3 months without residence registration; local formalities apply beyond that.
Key warningThe motorway vignette and winter equipment are driving requirements, not entry formalities.

Before you book

This block covers the standard case stated above. If your situation differs, open the consular source directly.

Document

Valid national identity card or passport for each person, including minors.

Entry

Free movement for French nationals, with no short-stay visa.

Duration

Under 3 months without residence registration; local formalities apply beyond that.

Vaccines and health

Recommendations depend on age, health, stopovers, regions and season.

Keep routine vaccinations up to date and request a European Health Insurance Card before travel.
  • Order the EHIC early; it does not replace repatriation insurance.
  • Check measles, diphtheria-tetanus-polio and pertussis coverage.
  • Keep prescriptions and assistance contacts available offline.

Driving locally

An international driving permit is a translation: it never replaces your valid French licence.

A valid French driving licence is sufficient. Local traffic rules still apply.

Service-Public · international permit

Documents to prepare

  • Required identity document and a separate copy
  • Authorisation, visa or QR code available offline
  • Return ticket and first accommodation address
  • Medical insurance and assistance number
  • Prescriptions and medicines in original packaging
  • French licence and any required supporting permit

What can change the answer

Dual nationality or residence permitTransit through border controlMinor travelling alone or with one parentWork, internship, volunteering or a longer stayEmergency, damaged or nearly expired passportControlled medication or specialist equipment

Frequently asked questions

Is a visa or authorisation required?

Free movement for French nationals, with no short-stay visa.

Which vaccines should I consider?

Keep routine vaccinations up to date and request a European Health Insurance Card before travel.

Is a French driving licence sufficient?

A valid French driving licence is sufficient. Local traffic rules still apply.

When should this information be checked again?

Check once before any non-refundable purchase, then again 48 to 72 hours before departure. The destination authorities and carrier retain the final say.