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An eTA is required when arriving by air; it is not required when arriving by land or sea.

Reviewed by TripminuteFrench passport · tourism · short stayInformation reviewed on August 9, 2026
The 30-second summary
DocumentPassport valid for the entire stay.
EntryOnline authorisation

An eTA is required when arriving by air; it is not required when arriving by land or sea.

DurationTourist stays are generally admitted for up to 6 months, subject to the border officer’s decision.
Key warningFrench-Canadian dual nationals must travel with a valid Canadian passport.

Before you book

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

Document

Passport valid for the entire stay.

Entry

An eTA is required when arriving by air; it is not required when arriving by land or sea.

Duration

Tourist stays are generally admitted for up to 6 months, subject to the border officer’s decision.

Vaccines and health

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

Keep routine vaccinations up to date and obtain strong medical cover: healthcare can be costly or require payment in advance.
  • Check French routine vaccinations, especially measles and boosters.
  • Obtain adequate cover for hospital care and repatriation.
  • Check that every prescribed medicine may be imported.

Driving locally

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

Rules vary by province or stay length. Check the official summary before renting a vehicle.

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?

An eTA is required when arriving by air; it is not required when arriving by land or sea.

Which vaccines should I consider?

Keep routine vaccinations up to date and obtain strong medical cover: healthcare can be costly or require payment in advance.

Is a French driving licence sufficient?

Rules vary by province or stay length. Check the official summary before renting a vehicle.

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.