France ETIAS Requirements

France is the world’s top tourist destination. Millions of American citizens visit the country every year. That’s why it’s essential to know France’s entry requirements for Americans.

With the introduction of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) by the European Union, US passport holders planning to visit France need to be aware of the new requirements.

This guide outlines everything you need to know about ETIAS, from application to entry, including the ETIAS requirements for US citizens.

What documents do I need to travel to France from the USA?

The only document you currently need is a valid US passport.

The United States has an agreement with the European Union (EU), which allows visa-free entry. France is one of the 27 members of the EU. This makes it easy for Americans to meet the France travel requirements.

US passport holders can visit with no other travel documents for vacations or business trips.

Starting in 2026, you will also need to register online with the new ETIAS travel system. This will allow you to continue having access to visa-free travel.

It’s also advisable to carry:

  • Any travel insurance documents
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Proof of funds for the duration of your stay

Do US citizens need a visa for France?

No, US citizens do not need a traditional visa for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) in France or other Schengen Area countries for the following purposes:

  • Tourism, holidays, etc.
  • Business
  • Transit through France to another destination

However, in the near future, Americans will need to obtain an ETIAS authorisation before travelling to France.

The ETIAS is not a France visa for US citizens. It is a travel authorisation, which will allow you to visit France without a visa. It will be one of the new France entry requirements for US citizens.

France visa requirements for US citizens

If you plan to stay in France permanently or engage in other activities, such as work, you will need to apply for the relevant type of French visa for US citizens at one of the diplomatic missions in the US:

  • French Embassy in Washington DC
  • French Consulate in Atlanta
  • French Consulate in Boston
  • French Consulate in Chicago
  • French Consulate in Houston
  • French Consulate in Los Angeles
  • French Consulate in Miami
  • French Consulate in New Orleans
  • French Consulate in New York City
  • French Consulate in San Francisco

How do I get the ETIAS for France as an American?

The ETIAS application process will be entirely online, making it convenient and straightforward.

Americans looking to apply will need to fill out a short online form. You can do this through our site. It is expected to only take about 10 minutes.

Learn more about the ETIAS application for France.

Documents required by American applicants

To apply for the ETIAS, Americans will need:

  • A valid U.S. passport with at least 3 months' validity beyond the period of intended stay
  • A credit or debit card to pay the application fee
  • An email address to receive the ETIAS and updates on your application’s progress

Travelling to France from the US

When planning your trip to France, it's important to ensure all travel documents are in order. From 2026, this will include your ETIAS authorisation for Americans. It is advisable to get this well in advance of your departure date.

The easiest way to travel to France from the US is by plane. There are regular flights from major US airports, such as New York/Newark (EWR), Dallas (DFW), Chicago (ORD), and Los Angeles (LAX) to Paris Charles-de-Gaulle International Airport (CDG), Nice (NCE), and other French destinations.

US passport requirements for France

For entry into France under the ETIAS program, American citizens must have a passport that meets the following requirements:

  • Issued by the United States of America
  • Valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended date of departure from the Schengen Area

When will Americans need the ETIAS?

The ETIAS system is planned to come into effect in 2026.

Americans planning to travel to France or any other Schengen country will need to obtain this travel authorisation after it is launched.

Nationalities that need to request an ETIAS authorization

The list of countries which meet the ETIAS France requirements and will need to apply for the France ETIAS to visit the Schengen Area are: