How long can United States citizens stay in France?

United States passport holders can stay in France for 90 days under visa free access.

What passport validity is required for United States citizens visiting France?

Most countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay. United States citizens should ensure their passport meets this requirement before traveling to France.

What are the main international airports in France?

The main international airports in France are Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), Orly Airport (ORY). These airports have regular international flights and immigration facilities.

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Visa Free

Up to 90 days

United States to France: Visa Requirements

United States passport holders can enter France without a visa for up to 90 days. No embassy appointment or advance application is required — travel directly and present your passport at the border. The primary international gateway is Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) in Paris.

Local currency: EUR (Euro) · Official language: French · Timezone: UTC+1

Duration

90 days

Type

Visa Free

Visa Fee

Free

Currency

EUR (Euro)

Language

French

Getting to France

CDGMain

Paris

ORYMain

Paris

NCE

Nice

Discover France

Eiffel Tower

The iron lattice icon that defines the Paris skyline

Paris

Photo: Anthony DELANOIX

Mont Saint-Michel

A medieval abbey rising from tidal flats like a dream

Normandy

Photo: Fab Lentz

Palace of Versailles

Opulent royal gardens and gilded halls of unrivaled grandeur

Versailles

Photo: Louis Paulin

French Riviera

Sun-soaked coastline where turquoise seas meet glamorous villages

Nice

Photo: Arno Smit

Entry Checklist — France

Before You Fly

Check your passport's expiration date. It must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in France.
Confirm your flight and accommodation bookings.optional
Inform your bank of your travel dates to avoid any issues using your credit or debit cards.optional
Purchase travel insurance that covers medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation.optional

Documents Needed

Valid US Passport
Proof of sufficient fundsoptional
Round-trip flight ticket or proof of onward traveloptional
Hotel reservation or proof of accommodationoptional
Travel Itineraryoptional

At the Border

Be prepared to answer questions from the border control officer about the purpose of your visit, your intended length of stay, and your financial resources.
Present your passport and any supporting documents requested by the border control officer.
Ensure your passport is stamped upon entry and exit.

Fees & Payment

There are no visa fees for US citizens entering France for tourism for stays under 90 days.

Important Considerations

As a US citizen, you can stay in France and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
Overstaying the 90-day limit can result in fines, deportation, and a ban from re-entering the Schengen Area.
Familiarize yourself with French laws and customs.optional
Register your trip with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at step.state.gov to receive security updates and make it easier for the US embassy to contact you in case of an emergency.optional