United States · 🇫🇷 France
Visa & entry formalities for United States passport holders travelling to France.
No visa requiredVisas / authorisation
Visa-free (Schengen short stay)
Max stay
90 days within any 180-day period
Fees
None for short stays today. An ETIAS fee of €20 will apply when it launches (2027).
Processing
No application required for short stays.
Entry conditions
A passport valid 3+ months beyond your stay. Proof of accommodation, funds and a return ticket may be requested. An ETIAS travel authorisation will be required from 2027.
Required documents
- Passport valid at least 3 months after your return date
- Proof of accommodation (hotel or host invitation)
- Return or onward travel ticket
- Travel insurance covering medical costs
- Proof of sufficient funds
Step-by-step procedure
- 1 Check your passport is valid for the whole trip plus 3 months.
- 2 Book flights and accommodation.
- 3 Take out travel insurance covering the Schengen Area.
- 4 At passport control, get your passport stamped (entry + exit).
- 5 If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, apply for a long-stay visa.
Verify with the official source
Rules change — always confirm the latest requirements with the consulate or official portal before booking.
Common questions
Do US citizens need a visa for France?
No. US citizens can enter the Schengen Area visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
Is an ETIAS needed?
Not yet — ETIAS is planned for 2027. Until then, US passport holders travel visa-free.
What if I want to stay longer than 90 days?
You must apply for a long-stay visa (e.g. student, work or family) before travelling.