ETIAS requirements for Canadian citizens entering France

France’s entry requirements for Canadian citizens and permanent residents are changing. From 2026, you’ll need an ETIAS travel authorisation to visit France, in addition to the current entry requirements.

In this guide, you can get the latest advice on:

What is ETIAS France for Canadian citizens?

The ETIAS France will be an entry requirement for Canadians visiting France from 2026 onwards.

It’s a type of travel authorisation: you’ll still be able to visit France without a visa, but you must register for ETIAS.

The process is 100% online. Canadians will be able to get an ETIAS travel authorisation on this site by completing a short form.

ETIAS France requirements for Canadians

To complete the ETIAS form, you’ll need:

Will all Canadians require the ETIAS form to travel to France?

Almost all travellers visiting France from Canada will require an ETIAS travel authorisation once the system is in force.

The only exceptions are:

If you’re travelling for work as an air or sea crew members, you’ll need an ETIAS for France.

How can I get my ETIAS from Canada?

In the near future, you’ll have to apply for your ETIAS before you visit France. You can make your application from Canada with your phone, tablet or computer.

The ETIAS system is planned to be effective as of 2026. Once active, you’ll need ETIAS linked to your passport when travelling to France or any other Schengen country.

Do Canadians need a visa for France?

Canadian passport holders do not need a visa to visit France for up to 90 days. You can travel for business, to see friends and family, or for tourism without a visa in this period.

This will not change once the ETIAS system is in effect. Though a visa will not be required, you’ll have to complete an ETIAS travel form.

Visa-free travel for Canadians in France

France is part of the Schengen Area and is subject to the zone’s travel restrictions.

If you visit multiple times in a 180-day period, all of your visits are counted cumulatively. Your visits to France, or any other Schengen country, cannot exceed 90 days in this time period.

Canadians who want to stay in France for more than 90 days need to apply for a visa.

Long-term visa options for Canadians in France

You can apply for some types of visas in advance from Canada at your nearest embassy or consulate.

If you’re in France and want to extend your stay, visit a prefecture to make your application.

Residency and long-stay visas for France

A long-stay national visa for France will allow you to stay for 3 months to 1 year. Residency visas are required for Canadians who wish to stay in France for more than 12 months.

Work permits for Canadians in France

If you’re travelling to France for a short business trip, you will not need a work visa. Your ETIAS for France is valid for travel for conferences, meetings and other business activities.

To do paid or contractual work for a French company, you’ll need to apply for a work permit.

The type of work permit you’ll need will depend on your profession.

French student visas for Canadian citizens

To do a short course or language exchange, you can visit France with your ETIAS authorisation.

Canadians visiting France for exchange or study programmes which last more than 90 days need a student visa. You’ll have to provide some paperwork which shows your enrolment at a school or educational institution.

France-Canada Youth Mobility Agreement

You can apply for a visa under the Youth Mobility Agreement if you’re a Canadian passport holder aged 18–35.

Your visa will be valid for up 24 months, and will allow you to take part in a working holiday programme, or inter-university exchange, or to take up a job or internship offer.

Other entry requirements for Canadians visiting France

Currently, you only need a valid Canadian passport to travel to France, or any other Schengen Area country, for up to 90 days.

The expiry date on your passport must be at least 3 months after you want to leave France.

When you arrive, you might be asked to show onward travel tickets or proof of funds to cover your stay.

Once the ETIAS system is active, you’ll also have to bring your ETIAS for France to enter the country.

Travelling to France from Canada

Several Canadian airports offer direct flight routes to France, including:

Health and safety travel advice for Canadians visiting France

There are no required vaccines for visitors from Canada arriving in France. However, it’s advisable to make sure you’re up-to-date on all routine vaccinations before travelling.

Canadian citizens can access healthcare in France at a cost. You’re recommended to take out health insurance for your trip to France to avoid any charges.