France Entry Guide 2026

U.S. citizens can still visit France for tourism or business up to 90 days without a traditional visa.

• ETIAS (Starting Q4 2026): American travelers will be required to apply for an ETIAS electronic authorization before departure. It is valid for 3 years or until your passport expires.
• Passport Validity: Your U.S. passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your departure from the Schengen area.
• EES (Entry/Exit System): France has now implemented biometric registration (facial photo and fingerprints) at all ports of entry for non-EU citizens.

Required for any educational program exceeding 90 days.

• Etudes en France (EEF): U.S. students must typically process their application through the **Campus France** portal.
• Financial Capacity (2026): You must prove you have at least **€615 per month** for living expenses (scholarships or bank statements).
• Validation: After arrival, you must validate your VLS-TS visa online within 3 months via the ANEF portal.

France’s premier work route for U.S. professionals, tech talent, and investors.

• Qualified Employee Threshold: From January 2026, the minimum salary has been adjusted to **€39,582** per year.
• EU Blue Card: For highly skilled workers, the 2026 minimum salary threshold is now **€59,373**.
• Duration: This visa is typically valid for up to 4 years and allows you to bring your family without a separate work permit.

France enforces strict limits on tobacco, alcohol, and cash.

• Currency Declaration: Any amount equal to or exceeding **€10,000** (or equivalent) must be declared to customs.
• Duty-Free Limits: Travelers from outside the EU must declare goods exceeding **€175** in value if not for personal use.