As of July 2023, the French passport is positioned 17th in the global ranking according to the VisaGuide Passport Index. This implies that French nationals have the privilege of visa-free access to 160 countries across the globe. However, it's worth noting that for some countries, it's necessary for French passport holders to secure a visa before they travel.

Global Accessibility for French Passport Holders

The list below presents the countries and territories, 160 in total, which as of July 2023, allow French passport holders to enter their borders without necessitating a visa:

Remember, even for visa-free travels, your passport must remain valid, typically for six months following your planned departure date. Also, you might need to procure travel health insurance as per the requirements for France Citizens of your destination country.

Countries Accessible Without a Passport for French Citizens

Interestingly, French nationals can travel to certain countries using only their ID cards, without the need for a passport. The list includes Albania, Andorra, Anguilla, Aruba, Austria, Belgium, Caribbean, Netherlands, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Curaçao, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Dominica, Estonia, Faroe, Islands Finland, French, Guiana, French, Polynesia, French, West, Indies, Georgia, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Greenland, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Kosovo, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Mayotte, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Montserrat, Netherlands, New Caledonia, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Réunion, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Saint, Martin, Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia, Türkiye, Vatican City.

Countries Offering eVisa Services for French Citizens

Several countries offer electronic visa (eVisa) services for French passport holders. This digital process eliminates the need to physically visit a visa application center. You simply complete and submit your visa application online, including the associated payment. Once approved, you'll receive an email containing your visa status and a document that you must print out and present at the border.

Countries that issue eVisas to French citizens include: 

Countries Offering Visa on Arrival for French Citizens

Certain countries extend the option of a visa on arrival (VOA) to French citizens. This service enables you to apply for and receive a visa once you've entered the country. Typically, a designated section at the airport is assigned for this process. Countries providing VOA for French passport holders include Bahrain, Bangladesh ,Burkina Faso ,Burundi ,Cambodia, Comoros ,Egypt ,Guinea-Bissau ,Iran, Jordan ,Kuwait Laos ,Lebanon ,Madagascar ,Malawi ,Maldives, Mauritania ,Nepal ,Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia ,Sierra Leone, Somalia ,Saint Helena ,Tanzania ,Gambia ,Togo Zimbabwe.

Countries with Visa Requirements for French Citizens

Certain countries stipulate that French passport holders must obtain a valid visa before entering their territories. These countries include:

Visa Application Process for French Citizens

The process of securing apply for e-Visa generally follows these steps:

• Book an Appointment: Schedule a meeting at the visa center in France. This may require reaching out to a local visa application center in your country and arranging an appointment to submit your application. This process could take several months.
• Prepare Necessary Documents: Assemble all the necessary documents for your visa application, such as passport, application form, health insurance, etc. It's possible that you'll need to verify some of these documents with an apostille stamp or have them certified by a foreign office.
• Submit Your Application: Upon completion of the above steps, you can proceed to submit your application and possibly attend a visa interview. You may also need to submit biometrics. Ensure your documents are translated as necessary and verified with an apostille stamp if applicable.

Do note that if you already possess a valid multi-entry visa, there's no need for a new application.

Document Requirements for Visa Application

To apply for a visa, French citizens will need to provide the following documentation, although specific requirements may vary based on the destination country:

• Valid French passport (and a photocopy)
• Completed visa application form
• Recent passport photographs (less than six months old)
• Travel health insurance for the duration of your stay
• Receipt of paid visa fee
• Detailed travel itinerary
• Letter of invitation (if applicable)
• Evidence of a booked return flight
• Proof of booked accommodation
• Proof of adequate funds to cover your visit
• Civil status documents (such as marriage papers, birth certificates, etc.)

Remember, any prior criminal history may likely result in the rejection of your visa application.

Essential Tips for French Citizens Traveling Abroad

Stay Informed

Before planning your trip, it's essential to stay updated on the latest travel advisories and entry requirements of the destination country. This information can be found on the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or the embassy website of the respective country.

Travel Insurance

Investing in comprehensive travel insurance is crucial. It provides protection against unforeseen circumstances, such as medical emergencies, flight cancellations, or loss of personal belongings. Ensure your insurance policy covers all the activities you plan to engage in during your trip.

Maintain Copies of Important Documents

Always maintain copies of essential documents, including your passport, ID, travel insurance, and visa if applicable. It's also a good idea to leave a copy of these documents with someone trustworthy back home.

Register with the French Embassy

When traveling to a foreign country, it's advisable to register with the local French embassy or consulate. This will facilitate communication and assistance in case of emergencies.

Respect Local Laws and Customs

Before you travel, research the local customs and laws of your destination country. Being respectful towards these can prevent misunderstandings and ensure a more enjoyable travel experience.

Health Precautions

Check with your doctor about any vaccinations or health precautions you might need to take before traveling. If you're taking prescribed medication, make sure you have enough to last your trip, and it's legal in your destination country.

By being well-prepared and staying informed, French citizens can ensure a safe, enjoyable journey to their visa-free destinations.

FAQ

1. How many countries can French citizens visit without a visa?

As of July 2023, French citizens can travel to 160 countries without needing a visa.

2. Do French citizens need a visa to travel to the United States?

No, French citizens can travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program, which allows a stay of up to 90 days without a visa.

3. Can French citizens travel to Canada without a visa?

Yes, French citizens can travel to Canada for up to six months without a visa.

4. Are there any countries that French citizens can enter with just an ID card?

Yes, there are several countries that French citizens can visit with only an ID card, such as Belgium, Germany, Italy, and Spain, among others.

5. How can French citizens apply for a visa?

French citizens can apply for a visa by making an appointment at a local visa application center in France, preparing the necessary documents, and submitting the visa application.

6. What documents do French citizens need when applying for a visa?

Typically, French citizens will need their valid French passport, a filled visa application form, passport pictures, travel health insurance, proof of paid visa fee, a detailed travel itinerary, a letter of invitation (if applicable), proof of a booked return flight, proof of booked accommodation, and proof of sufficient funds to cover their visit, among other possible requirements.