We all want to enjoy our holidays without any worries, and your safety is our top priority! France has implemented several safety measures to ensure a peaceful experience for all visitors. Let’s take a look at what you need to know:
Enhanced Security Measures: Keeping You Safe
The French government has declared a State of Emergency to enhance safety for residents and visitors. This involves increased police presence and powers, stricter security checks, and more officers on patrol.
- Police: You’ll see more police officers throughout the country, particularly in public areas like tourist attractions.
- Public Transport: Security checks and staffing have been boosted on public transport, including trains and airports.
- Tourist Sites: Security staff at popular tourist attractions have been increased.
- Tourism Industry: Businesses in the tourism sector have hired additional security personnel to maintain safety.
Remember: If you encounter any emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance.
Identification Requirements: A Simple Reminder
All visitors, including EU citizens, must carry valid identification, like a passport or national identity card. The French police can ask you to show your identification at any time, such as when entering or leaving the country. While extra security checks are in place, these have minimal impact on wait times at airports or international train stations.
Visa Regulations: No Changes
Visa issuance requirements remain unchanged for non-EU citizens, and processing times have actually been reduced in certain countries. You can rest assured that the validity periods for visas also remain unchanged.
Safety on Public Transport: Staying Vigilant
While there are extra security checks before boarding flights and international trains, thanks to increased staffing, wait times haven’t been significantly impacted.
- Surveillance: Heightened surveillance is in place on all public transport.
- Checks: Police officers may conduct checks on passengers and baggage.
- Dangerous Items: The French authorities can restrict passengers from carrying potentially dangerous items.
Security Measures in Hotels, Restaurants, and Nightlife: Enjoying Your Stay
- Hotels: Hotels are required to collect personal information from all foreign guests.
- Security Checks: Every establishment has the right to implement security checks, such as bag inspections.
- Restaurants, Bars, and Clubs: These establishments are operating normally, but security checks might be conducted to ensure everyone’s safety.
Safety at Museums, Shopping Centres, and Tourist Attractions: Enjoying Cultural Gems
- Enhanced Security: Museums, shopping centers, and other tourist attractions have implemented enhanced security measures. This might include bag checks, frisking, and restrictions on large bags.
- Exceptional Measures: Authorities may impose additional security measures at certain attractions if they deem it necessary.
Public Events: Staying Safe and Having Fun
- No Changes: The public events calendar remains unchanged.
- Enhanced Security: Organizers have worked with authorities to tighten security at events like exhibitions, conferences, and trade fairs.
France is committed to ensuring your safety while you enjoy your visit. By being aware of the security measures in place, you can contribute to a peaceful and memorable experience.
