Traveler Toolkit
France Country Security Report
France Country Security Report
Published: August 12, 2026
This report is intended to supplement the U.S. Department of State France Travel Advisory and France Country Information Page.
Embassy & Consulate Contact Information
U.S. Embassy Paris
2 avenue Gabriel, 75008 Paris
Tel: +33 (1) 43 12 22 22.
Hours: 0900-1800, Monday – Friday except for U.S. and French holidays
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22, enter zero “0” after the automated greeting
Place Varian Fry, 13286 Marseille Cedex 6
Telephone:+(33)(1) 43-12-22-22; ask for the consulate in Marseille
Hours: 0900-1700, Monday – Friday except for U.S. and French holidays
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22
15 Avenue d'Alsace, 67082 Strasbourg
Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-48-80
Hours: 0900-1700, Monday – Friday except for U.S. and French holidays
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22
OSAC Country Chapter(s)
France has an OSAC Chapter, primarily based out of Paris, though it supports all U.S. private-sector organizations operating within country.
Contact OSAC’s Europe team with any questions.
France Travel Advisory
The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses that travelers should exercise increased caution in France due to terrorism and civil unrest.
Review OSAC’s report, Understanding the Consular Travel Advisory System.
Crime
The U.S. Department of State has assessed the cities of Paris and Marseille as being MEDIUM-threat locations, and has assessed Bordeaux, Lyon, Rennes, and Strasbourg as being LOW-threat locations for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Crime “C” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for France.
The crime and emergency response line in France is 112 (the equivalent of dialing “911” in the United States). Review the U.S. Department of State’s Crime Victims Assistance brochure.
Crime: General Threat
France is a popular destination for tourists, students, business travelers, and others. Violent crime in France is relatively uncommon, but according to the French Ministry of the Interior, violent crime rose roughly 5% in 2025. Homicides rose 1% in 2025, with the majority of violent crimes categorized as assaults, armed robberies, or sexual crimes.
The most common form of crime in France is opportunistic crime, including theft, burglaries, pickpocketing, “snatch and grabs” and scams/fraud. Consular officials throughout France report that U.S. travelers are frequently victims of these forms of crime; violence against foreign travelers is limited. Robberies involving physical assault do occur in Paris and other major urban areas. Thieves target wallets, passports, luxury watches, smart phones, bags and purses, and small electronic devices. Smart phones and computers, especially Apple products, cost more in France than in the United States; local thieves and pickpockets target these specifically. Be wary of where you use and store your laptop or smartphone. Do not store your wallet or mobile phone in your back pockets. Keep bags in your line-of-sight and zipped closed. If you must carry valuables, keep them at the bottom of the bag out of easy reach.
Pickpockets can be any sex, race, or age, but it is common for pickpockets in Paris to be under the age of 16, as they are less likely to face arrest/prosecution. The problem is prevalent in crowded venues and public transportation, especially in areas frequented by tourists. There has also been an increase in teens or young adults (early 20s and often male) swarming persons to rob them on the metros, in train stations, or in crowded areas. A common method is for one thief to distract a tourist with questions or a disturbance while an accomplice picks the victim’s pockets, backpack, or purse. Remain aware and attentive to surroundings, particularly in congested areas at train stations, airports, and subways. Pickpockets can be well-dressed and can blend into any environment. In public places, do not leave anything in your coat when placing it on a chair; pickpockets may sit behind you to rob you.
ATMs are relatively safe. However, visitors should use ATMs that are well lit and at reputable banks. Thieves have previously installed magnetic strip readers to capture account information, and small CCTV cameras to capture PINs at some ATMs. If the ATM takes your card and does not give it back, go into the bank to report it immediately. Be careful of people around or behind you, as there have been reports of thieves coming up to the victim and stealing the card or money while they are waiting at the ATM for the transaction to finish.
U.S. citizens have also experienced residential break-ins, bicycle thefts, vehicular break-ins while in public/private city garages, and other forms of property crime with minimal violence. Throughout the end of July and August, when most French residents take summer vacations, and in December, there is a general increase in the number of residential break-ins; most involve residents not using proper security measures. Criminals are also increasingly targeting short-term rentals. Frequently, burglars will make phone calls or ring doorbells before break-ins to see if the resident is home. Often, thieves will gain access to an apartment building in order to knock on apartment doors to see if anyone answers, offering an excuse (e.g., taking a survey or representing a utility company) when someone does answer the door. There have also been instances where thieves break into apartments, sometimes through open windows, even when the occupants are present and asleep.
There have been reported cases of smash-and-grab robberies from vehicles in economically depressed areas and on heavily traveled roads. Thieves on motorbikes will approach a vehicle stopped in traffic, smash a window, reach in to grab valuables, and flee. Rental vehicles are also targeted by criminals for break-ins and theft. Keep vehicle doors locked and valuables out of sight. When in a car, lock the doors and trunk, close the windows of your vehicle and do not leave your valuables in sight.
Crime: Areas of Concern
Crime occurs throughout France, but it tends to be more prevalent in train/metro stations, airports, port common areas, and shopping centers/outdoor markets; be vigilant in these areas and avoid them after dark. Drug dealers and other criminal elements frequent these areas, increasing the risk of assault. The historical areas or “old towns” of all the major cities, along with major tourist locations, are crime targets.
Bars/Nightclubs: Take particular care at night in adult entertainment districts, such as the South Pigalle area (So-Pi) of Paris. Besides petty crime, many nightclubs engage in aggressive marketing and charge exorbitant rates for drinks. Hidden charges of €500-600 for drinks are not uncommon; there have been reports of threats to coerce customers into paying these charges by physically preventing customers from leaving until the tab is settled. Be aware of “date-rape” drugs, which are present in France. Be cautious in bars and clubs, and do not leave your drink unattended or accept a drink from strangers.
Paris Metro: In Paris, pickpockets are active on the rail link (RER B) from Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to the city center. Pickpockets often target passengers on Metro line 1, which traverses the city center from east to west and services many major tourist sites. Thieves time their pickpocket attempts to coincide with the closing of the automatic doors on the Metro, leaving the victim on the departing train while the thief makes his/her escape through the Metro station.
The Paris Police Prefecture maintains a website for foreign visitors that provides practical advice and useful contact information for all visitors.
French Riviera: The French Riviera (southeastern coastline) in the summer experiences an influx in organized crime. The more expensive clubs and restaurants usually have well-trained security staff. Criminal elements start tracking people at the airports in Nice, La Môle (airport next to St. Tropez), or Toulon. It is possible that travelers are followed from the airport on the way to the villa or hotel, then onward to restaurants, clubs, or walks in town. Criminals will work together to “visit” the villas once the occupants leave, especially if doors and windows are open/unlocked and items are left out in the open. Remain vigilant of drinks being spiked in clubs. Pickpockets are professionals in the wealthy neighborhoods, tight spaces (e.g., squares, cafes, clubs), and main tourist areas all over France.
Corsica: Throughout Corsica, pay attention to crime like you would in beach areas or other main tourist environments elsewhere, as crimes of opportunity remain common.
Review OSAC’s reports, All That You Should Leave Behind, Hotels: The Inns and Outs, Considerations for Hotel Security, Taking Credit, and Our Two Cents: Petty Crime Basics and How to Minimize the Risk.
Kidnapping Threat
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Kidnapping “K” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for France.
Review OSAC’s reports, Kidnapping: The Basics and Active Shooter and Kidnapping Response Tips.
Terrorism
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Paris, Bordeaux, Lyon, Marseille, Rennes, and Strasbourg as being MEDIUM-threat locations for terrorism directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
The U.S. Department of State has included a Terrorism “T” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for France, indicating that terrorist attacks have occurred and/or specific threats against civilians, groups, or other targets may exist.
Terrorist groups and self-radicalized lone-actor attackers pose a general risk to travelers in Paris, and France more broadly. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas. International borders are relatively open within the Schengen Zone, and there are a substantial number of supporters/sympathizers of terrorist organizations residing in or transiting through the country. A counterterrorism law enacted in 2017 allows the government to prevent the circulation of individuals and to create zones of protection and security. The French government has temporarily re-established border controls at its borders with its Schengen neighbors and movement may be restricted in some areas. Border controls with the United Kingdom, including the Channel Tunnel crossing, have also been re-established following Brexit.
French law enforcement remains concerned with the threat of domestic terrorism inspired by or affiliated with ISIS. The French government elevated its Vigipirate security alert system in March 2024 to the highest level, “Emergency Attack” (Urgence Attentat), and authorities have maintained this security level. As a result, residents and visitors throughout France may see heightened security – to include the French military - in public areas, including airports, public transport, places of worship, tourist sites, schools, major sports venues, and large commercial centers.
Events occurring elsewhere in the world have been used by Islamist extremists to try to galvanize individuals across Europe, including in France. For instance, in response to the 2023 Israel-Gaza conflict, al-Qa'ida called for Muslims around the world to target Jewish people as well as U.S. military bases, airports, and embassies in Muslim countries and recommended targeting any other nations extending support to Israel, which includes France. The threat of Islamist extremists’ retaliatory violence against the West extends to Europe. France has recorded a documented increase in antisemitic attacks across the country.
Following the start of U.S. and Israeli military operations in Iran, France saw an increase in the frequency of terror plotting. While there is evidence to support that this increase was linked to pro-Iran groups, it remains unclear whether those involved were directly supported by foreign terror organizations, or if they were ideologically aligned by materially independent. Incidents in 2026 include:
- On March 15, 2026 two Moroccan men were arrested for planning an antisemetic terror attack on a Synagogue in Normandy .
- On March 28, 2026 French authorities foiled a bombing plot targeting a U.S. financial institution in Paris.
Terrorist organizations continue to aspire to attack U.S. interests worldwide.
Political Violence and Civil Unrest
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Paris, Bordeaux, Lyon, Marseille, Rennes, and Strasbourg as being MEDIUM-threat locations for political violence directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
The U.S. Department of State has included a Civil Unrest “U” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for France, indicating that demonstrations, protests, and/or strikes occur frequently, and/or that local law enforcement may have limited ability to respond adequately. Civil unrest can develop quickly without prior notice, often interrupting logistics and services. Avoid demonstration activity, as even those planned to remain peaceful have the potential to turn violent.
Elections/Political Stability
France is a stable, multiparty, constitutional democracy. France held municipal elections in March 2026, will hold Senate elections in September 2026, and will hold a Presidential election in April 2027.
Protests & Demonstrations
Protests, demonstrations, and strikes occur on a regular basis across France.
In June 2023, France witnessed its most intense urban violence in nearly two decades during seven consecutive nights of rioting following a police killing of a 17-year-old French minor of North African descent, who refused to stop at a traffic check in the western Paris suburb of Nanterre. Riots affected hundreds of towns and cities across the country, as well as in the French overseas departments and territories. French authorities deployed 45,000 security forces across the country, leading to 3,915 arrests. Public and private buildings, law enforcement premises, town halls, schools, tobacco shops, bank branches, shopping centers, fast-food outlets, and post offices were damaged or destroyed.
Since 2023, France has not experienced this level of unrest. However, in 2025, France experienced significant social unrest characterized by massive anti-austerity demonstrations and targeted political protests. The most prominent movement, Bloquons tout ("Block Everything"), emerged on social media in May 2025 to oppose proposed 2026 budget cuts aimed at reducing the national deficit. These protests peaked in September 2025, with a nationwide "shutdown" on September 10 that saw road blockades in cities like Paris, Bordeaux, and Rennes. This was followed on September 18 by a massive wave of strikes involving nearly one million participants from over a dozen trade unions. These demonstrations severely disrupted public transport, schools, and health services.
Protestors often focus on economic conditions, foreign policy, and action against climate change. In some instances, black-clad violent protesters known as “Black Blocs” have infiltrated the demonstrations, seeking clashes with the police, damaging property, shooting fireworks, and setting fires. They have also hurled rocks, smoke grenades, bottles, and other debris at police. Black Bloc elements first came on the scene during the 2018 Gilets Jaunes (Yellow Vests) demonstrations, distinguishing themselves by wearing all black garb and black ski masks that cover their faces. Police in riot gear have responded with tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, and other targeted police actions to deter further violence.
Individuals and groups looking to capitalize on any disorder can drive additional chaotic events, which cannot be predicted accurately. Property damage, including looting and arson, in populated tourist areas have occurred with reckless disregard for public safety. Also, French security force actions, including staging locations, route closures, and other enforcement activity, can occur anywhere and at any time.
Social media "calls to action" have also resulted in violence or "disruptions" in various protests throughout the country for a variety of political, economic, security, health, or other social issues.
Avoid crowds and demonstrations as well as areas of significant police activity, exercise caution if in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests and depart immediately if demonstrators are clashing with police or destroying property. Maintain awareness of your surroundings, monitor local news, and be cognizant of any impacts to routes, public transportation, and your neighborhood.
Review OSAC’s report, Surviving a Protest.
Anti-U.S./Anti-Western Sentiment
Though not generally directed at U.S. citizens, multiple developments have fueled anti-Western sentiment and protests in France: French military involvement in some countries, a state ban against women wearing the veil in public buildings and state schools, as well as the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. In recent years, some domestic developments have served as propaganda for Islamists seeking to inspire terrorist acts in France. Al-Qai’da and ISIS view France as the bridgehead in the war between the West and Islam and have called for lone actors to act against French and other Western interests on their behalf.
There remains a clear distinction between sentiment of the U.S. Government and sentiment of U.S. peoples; anti-U.S. sentiment in France, and in Europe more broadly, is focused on the government of the United States, as well as on U.S. organizations that maintain a cultural or reputational connection to the U.S. government. American travelers have not reported a significant increase in harassment or negative sentiment directed toward them as individuals.
Law Enforcement
Under the direction of the Interior Ministry, the civilian national police force and gendarmerie units maintain internal security. In conjunction with specific gendarmerie units used for military operations, the army is responsible for external security under the Defense Ministry. Municipal Police, National Police, and the military Gendarmerie services are professional, competent, and proactive in fighting crime and violence, and maintaining security. Civilian authorities maintain effective control over the security forces.
Following the terrorist attacks in 2015, the government enacted a state of emergency, renewing it five times before allowing it to expire in 2017. The state of emergency allowed the government to prevent the movement of certain individuals, and to create zones of protection and security. There were reinforced security measures throughout the communes in the Île de France region. The state of emergency allowed for house arrest of any person whose activities authorities deemed dangerous, the closure of theaters and meeting places, the surrender of weapons, and the possibility of administrative house searches. On the eve of expiration of the state of emergency, France instituted a counterterrorism law codifying certain aspects of the emergency law that gave the police additional tools and authorities to fight violent extremism.
Operation Sentinel remains in effect, with approximately 10,000 soldiers and police deployed throughout France. Of the total, 6,500 personnel are within Paris to augment police, increasing the visible security presence at airports, train/metro stations, schools, major tourist attractions, religious facilities/ places of worship (especially during special religious holidays), and government installations. It is common to see army patrols in Paris.
Police Response
For non-emergency assistance, go to the nearest police station (commissariat) to file an official report. Non-French speakers may experience a delay while an English speaker is located. In general, the police are professional, well equipped, and reliable. They maintain a robust presence, especially at high-profile government installations and tourist attractions. French police (as well as military personnel) routinely patrol public spaces.
The police emergency line in France is 17. Dial the Europe-wide emergency response number 112 to reach an operator for all types of emergency services.
Transportation Security
Road Safety
Road conditions are generally good. However, traffic congestion can be heavy, particularly in major cities. Traffic engineering differences and driving habits pose special dangers. Lane markings and sign placements may not be clear; prepare to make last-minute maneuvers. Driving is typically faster and more aggressive than in the United States.
Right-of-way rules differ from those in the United States: unless specifically indicated otherwise, drivers entering intersections from the right have priority over those on the left, even when entering relatively large boulevards from small side streets. Drivers entering the major roadways via ramp have priority coming from the right. On major highways, there are service stations at least every 25 miles; they are not as common on secondary roads in France as they are in the United States.
Some rural highway toll stations and gas stations may not accept U.S. credit cards. For non-residents, the simplest way to pay is with cash in euros at the toll lane marked for that purpose. Do not attempt to use a credit card if it is the only one you have in your possession in case the machine does not return your card.
While French cities actively encourage bicycle rentals through widely available city-sponsored systems, travelers should be cautious, especially in a busy and unfamiliar urban environment. Helmets are neither required nor readily available near rental stations. If you plan to ride a bicycle, bring your own helmet.
Pedestrian accidents are common and occur when a pedestrian steps into the street, often when a car or motorcycle is making a turn through a pedestrian crosswalk. In addition, accidents involving pedestrians and scooters or bicycles occur not only when crossing the street but also on sidewalks. Pedestrians should be cautious and aware of traffic even when they have a green walking signal, since this is no guarantee against aggressive drivers. Do not assume cars or cyclists will stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk.
In the tunnel connecting Charles de Gaulle airport and Paris near Saint-Denis, there have been reports of criminal activities during heavy traffic where motorcycles will pull up close to a vehicle, swing a hammer at the windshield, and steal purses, bags, or other visible valuables.
In France, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol could land you immediately in jail.
Review OSAC’s reports, Road Safety Abroad, Driving Overseas: Best Practices, and Evasive Driving Techniques; and read the U.S. Department of State’s webpage on driving and road safety abroad.
Public Transportation Safety
Paris has an extensive and efficient public transportation system. The interconnecting system of buses, subways, and commuter rails is better than that found in most major U.S. cities. Similar transportation systems are available in all major French cities.
The Paris Metro is generally reliable and safe. However, it is in wide use and can become very crowded; criminals and pickpockets target riders in crowds and individuals who appear lost or disoriented. Phones and other handheld electronics are the most widely stolen, with thieves waiting until the very last minute to steal (for example) your phone out of your hand or bag, then exiting the metro. Keep all belongings in front of you and bury your electronics, wallet, and travel documents deep within the bag. Do not give money to beggars or musicians on the trains themselves - this is often a way to spot how much money a rider has for robbery targeting later.
If using France’s public transportation services, make sure to retain your used or “validated” ticket until you exit the bus, subway, or train station completely. Anyone over four years of age must have a ticket. Inspectors conduct intermittent, random checks; passengers who fail to present the correct validated ticket are subject to stiff and immediate fines. Inspectors may show no interest in explanations and no sympathy for an honest mistake. Failure to cooperate with inspectors may result in arrest.
Local authorities are quick to close Metro stops and suspend certain lines for security reasons, particularly in the event of an abandoned package or a suspicious device. During large demonstrations or planned events, authorities may restrict access to and egress from certain Metro stops even if the line itself is running.
Inter-City Rail Service: France has extensive rail service between cities, which is safe and reliable. High-speed rail links connect major cities, as does frequent air service. Traveling by train is normally safer than driving. Keep all smaller bags on your person or visible above your head. Do not put travel documents, wallet, etc. in easy to reach pockets in your smaller bags. Thieves often wait for a stop to grab a bag and exit, or use getting in their own bag as a distraction to then steal from yours. Victims of a non-violent theft committed by one or more unidentified perpetrators can file a complaint directly with the RATP network, if their losses do not exceed 1,000 euros.
Taxis and Rideshares: Use only authorized taxis, which in Paris include ride-share services and traditional livery services. Be aware that there is an increase of fake cabs at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), charging exorbitant fares to move around Paris or for lone female travelers, increasing the risk of sexual assault. Authorized livery services will have the following equipment: an illuminated “Taxi Parisien” sign on the roof; a meter showing the cost of the trip; and a plate fixed to the front fender bearing the license number. Rideshares are available in major cities and are considered safe and reliable.
Aviation Concerns
Security at all three of Paris’s airports (and those in the rest of the country) is commensurate with airport security at most major European cities. Authorities have heightened airport security due to recent terrorist attacks throughout Europe. It is common to see armed French soldiers patrolling terminals.
Review OSAC’s Report, Security in Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, and Overnights.
Maritime Security
French ports remain attractive to international organized crime and drug trafficking groups, which bring in estimated 10-15 million euros per month of income in drug trafficking.
Consult with the Stable Seas Maritime Security Index for detailed information and ratings regarding rule of law, law enforcement, piracy, and other maritime security indicators.
Travelers with Special Considerations
For specific traveler concerns in France, review the local laws and circumstances on the U.S. Department of State’s Country Information Page.
Rule of Law, Arbitrary Detention, Official Harassment, Corruption, & Transparency
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Risk of Wrongful Detention “D” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for France.
The constitution and law prohibit arbitrary arrest and detention. It also ensures that individuals have the right to challenge the lawfulness of their arrest or detention in court. The government generally observes these requirements, but lengthy pretrial detention remains a problem.
If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. French authorities will not routinely notify the Embassy unless you request them to do so.
France’s “Transparency, Anti-corruption, and Economic Modernization Law,” also known as the “Loi Sapin II,” came into effect in June 2017. It brought France’s legislation in line with European and international standards. Key aspects of the law include creating a new anti-corruption agency; establishing “deferred prosecution” for defendants in corruption cases and prosecuting companies (French or foreign) suspected of bribing foreign public officials within France and abroad; requiring lobbyists to register with national institutions; and expanding legal protections for whistleblowers.
Health Concerns
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Health “H” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for France. Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) country-specific Travel Health Notices for current health issues that impact traveler health, like disease outbreaks, special events or gatherings, and natural disasters.
Medical care in France is comparable to that found in the United States. In an emergency, dialing 15 will connect the caller to emergency medical services; dialing +33 (0)1 47 07 77 77 will connect the caller with SOS Médecins for house calls. Non-French speakers may experience a delay while an English speaker is located. Find contact information for available medical services and available air ambulance services on the U.S. Embassy website.
Except for emergency services, individuals and insurance companies may need to pay for service prior to receiving treatment in France. Under local law, medical providers may refuse service to individuals lacking the ability to pay for service. Providers may deny treatment to foreigners with terminal illnesses if treatment is available in their home country. It is not uncommon to find that health care providers do not know English and foreigners often have difficulties in communicating with them.
Find contact information for available medical services and available air ambulance services on the U.S. Embassy website. The U.S. Department of State strongly recommends purchasing international health insurance before traveling internationally. Review the U.S. Department of State’s webpage on health insurance overseas.
See OSAC’s Guide to U.S. Government-Assisted Evacuations; review OSAC’s reports, The Healthy Way, Shaken: The Don’ts of Alcohol Abroad, Health 101: How to Prepare for Travel, and Fire Safety Abroad; and visit the U.S. Department of State’s webpage on Your Health Abroad for more information.
Vaccinations
Review the CDC Travelers’ Health site for country-specific vaccine recommendations.
Issues Traveling with Medications
If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Government of France to ensure the medication is legal in France. Always, carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. It is generally safest to carry prescription medicine in carry-on luggage rather than checked luggage
Review OSAC’s report, Traveling with Medication.
Water Quality
France prides itself on its potable drinking water and availability of safe, public drinking fountains. Apps are available for download to find public water fountains, even ones in Paris that distribute sparkling water.
Review OSAC’s report, I’m Drinking What in My Water?
Natural Disasters
The U.S. Department of State has/not included a Natural Disaster “N” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for France, indicating that a natural disaster, or its aftermath, poses danger.
During the summer of 2025, France suffered its largest wildfires in decades, with a massive blaze in the Aude department in August 2025 burning over 16,000 hectares. These fires were driven by an extreme heatwave that saw temperatures reach 42°C in France and up to 45°C in neighboring Spain. In early 2026, France faced over 35 consecutive days of precipitation. This resulted in record flooding across western and southwestern France, particularly during Storm Nils in February 2026, which left two people dead and up to 900,000 households without power. These rains led to major river overflows on the Garonne and Loire, with total estimated damages from the floods reaching approximately €1.2 billion
The summer of 2026 has recorded the highest temperatures on record causing extensive wildfires throughout the country, as well as thousands of heat related casualties and deaths.
Air conditioning is not common throughout the country, except for the southern coastal area. Take appropriate measures during heat waves to protect yourself.
Cybersecurity
Do not trust Wi-Fi hot spots, especially in common areas in train stations and airports. Criminals can configure “man-in-the-middle” access points that appear free so that they can intercept communications from anyone who connects. This allows hackers to access sensitive information appearing on the user’s screen. It also provides a mechanism by which a hacker can gain control of the connecting device.
Owners of public Internet cafes may install key-logging software that enables theft of sensitive information.
Transnational organized crime operatives reside in France. Syndicates are technically competent and conduct many of their schemes via cyber platforms.
Review OSAC’s reports, Cybersecurity Basics, Best Practices for Maximizing Security on Public Wi-Fi, Traveling Abroad with Mobile Devices, and Guide for Overseas Satellite Phone Usage.
Counterintelligence Issues
As with all countries with a major international diplomatic and business presence, the potential for counterintelligence issues in Paris and throughout France is ever-present. The U.S. private sector continues to be a prime target of economic espionage, and a large number of international visitors can provide an opportune environment for these activities.
Individuals should practice good operational security, especially in hotels. This includes not leaving important or sensitive documents in hotel rooms or safes. The same is true for personal and company-owned electronics. Refrain from or be wary of sensitive transactions or communications over unfamiliar or potentially unsecure networks, such as Internet cafes, hotel Internet services, public hotspots in lobbies or airports, or leased equipment. Using a virtual private network (VPN) connection to access business information, and limiting logins of personal email, social media, and financial accounts can reduce the risk of information theft over public access points.
Import/Export Restrictions
There are strict regulations concerning temporary importation or exportation from France of items such as firearms, antiquities, medications, business equipment, merchandise samples, and other items.
If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Government of France to ensure the medication is legal in France. Always, carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. It is generally safest to carry prescription medicine in carry-on luggage rather than checked luggage.
A country-specific listing of items/goods prohibited from being exported to the country or that are otherwise restricted is available from the U.S. International Trade Agency website.