United States to France tourist visa
Complete guide to visiting France as an American. No visa required for stays up to 90 days. Learn about passport rules, entry requirements, and the 90/180-day Schengen rule.
- Visa
- France Visa-Free Entry
- Fee
- Free
- Processing time
- No application required
- Length of stay
- Up to 90 days
Required documents
- Valid US Passport — Your passport must meet specific validity requirements for Schengen entry
- Return or Onward Travel — Proof that you will leave the Schengen Area within the allowed stay period
- Proof of Accommodation — Evidence of where you will stay during your visit
- Sufficient Financial Means — Proof that you can support yourself during your stay
- Travel Medical Insurance — Health insurance covering emergencies during your stay
- 90/180 Day Rule Compliance — Your stay must not exceed 90 days within any 180-day rolling period across all Schengen countries
Common questions
- Do US citizens need a visa to visit France?
- No. American citizens can visit France and all other Schengen Area countries for tourism without a visa for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period. You only need a valid US passport that meets entry requirements.
- How long can Americans stay in France without a visa?
- US citizens can stay in France (and the entire Schengen Area combined) for up to 90 days within any 180-day rolling period. This limit applies across all 29 Schengen countries collectively, not per country.
- What is the 90/180 day Schengen rule?
- The 90/180 rule means you can spend a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area. The 180 days are calculated as a rolling window that looks back from each day. Days spent in any Schengen country count toward your total.
- What documents do I need to enter France as an American?
- You need a valid US passport (valid at least 3 months beyond your exit date, issued within 10 years). Border officers may also ask for proof of accommodation, return travel, travel insurance, and sufficient funds (€65–120 per day).
- Can I travel to other European countries with entry to France?
- Yes! Entry to France allows you to travel freely within all 29 Schengen member states without additional border checks. This includes Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, and 24 other countries. The UK and Ireland are NOT part of Schengen and require separate entry.
- What is ETIAS and when will Americans need it?
- ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is a new travel authorization that US citizens will need starting late 2026. It costs €7, is valid for 3 years, and must be obtained online before traveling. It is not a visa, just pre-travel authorization.