Do I Need ETIAS for France: What to Know Before You Travel

France is one of the most visited countries in the world – from its popular cities like Paris and Lyon, to the vineyards in Bordeaux and the Christmas markets of Strasbourg. France has a rich history, fascinating culture, and some of the most highly rated food in the world!

European travel requirements are continuing to evolve, and that can be confusing for anyone who is planning a trip to France, whether it's for work, to visit a friend, a vacation, or something else.

That's why we wrote this guide. This article will tell you everything you need to know about ETIAS and how it applies to your upcoming visit to Paris, Lyon, Nice, or wherever it is you’re off to in France.

Do I need ETIAS to visit France?

Yes, but not quite yet. If you do not have a Schengen visa and/or are not a citizen of an EU/Schengen country, you will need ETIAS to travel to France from the end of 2026 on, even if you didn’t need it before.

For context, the Schengen area (which France is a part of) has a visa waiver agreement with a handful of countries, including the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia (and several others).

That means most citizens from these countries do not need to apply for a visa to visit France (or any of the 29 countries in the Schengen area for that matter).

From 2026 on, all travelers from visa-waiver countries will need to apply for ETIAS in order to enter the Schengen area, without exception. This includes US and UK citizens.

ETIAS isn’t a visa – it’s approval to enter the area.

Do I need an ETIAS to go to Paris?

Yes, from 2026 on, if you do not hold a valid visa or citizenship for France or an EU/Schengen country, you will need to get ETIAS approval to travel to Paris.

Do I need ETIAS if I have a French visa?

No, If you hold a valid France visa (or Schengen visa), you do not need to apply for ETIAS. When it comes to the Schengen area, it’s an “either/or” situation. You need either a Schengen visa/passport OR ETIAS approval.

For US, UK, and Canadian citizens: If you’re planning a trip to France that is longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a visa instead.

ETIAS is only for short trips for leisure or business and is not a substitute for a visa.

How to apply for ETIAS for France

Once it's live, getting an ETIAS for France can be done entirely online in just a few minutes. Make sure you have your passport and debit/credit card ready.

• Start by filling out the form on the official ETIAS website. You’ll need to share a few personal details, like your name, travel details, nationality, and passport number.
• Answer a few questions about your personal history. According to the official European Union website, you’ll be asked to share your parents’ first names, current occupation, and level of education. You’ll also be asked about any past criminal convictions.
• Pay your application fee. There is a small fee that can be paid using a debit or credit card online (expect to pay 7 euros per person; this fee is waived for those under the age of 18 or over the age of 70).
• Keep an eye on your email. Usually, approval is given in just a couple of minutes. However, it can take up to 30 days to receive approval, so it’s best to apply well ahead of time.
• Enjoy France! Once your ETIAS is approved, it will be automatically linked to your passport for authorities to see. No need to print out anything 🙂

You can enjoy your ETIAS approval for up to 3 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

If I get an ETIAS for France, can I travel to other Schengen countries with it?

According to the EU website, a valid ETIAS permits you to travel throughout the Schengen area and Cyprus. With that being said, it does not guarantee entry. Border guards can still deny you entry.

FAQs: France ETIAS