Thinking about visiting Paris, the Riviera or a cozy French countryside village? Great news: if you’re a U.S. citizen planning a short trip to France, navigating visa requirements is simple and so is protecting your health while abroad. While no visa is needed for stays under 90 days, it’s still important to be covered in case of unexpected medical issues. That’s why Mondassur offers affordable travel insurance tailored for U.S. visitors, starting at just €34. Here’s what you need to know before packing your bags.
Do U.S. citizens need a visa for France?
No, Americans don’t need a visa for a short stay in France. U.S. citizens can visit France (and other Schengen countries) without a visa for up to 90 days within any 6-month period.
This includes travel for:
- Tourism
- Business
- Family visits
France is part of the Schengen Area, which allows free movement across 29 European countries. That means once you’re in France, you can also explore Italy, Germany, Spain, and more without any extra paperwork.
Just be sure your U.S. passport:
- Is valid for at least 3 months beyond your departure from the Schengen Area.
- Was issued within the last 10 years.
While no visa is needed, travel medical insurance is strongly recommended. Mondassur offers affordable coverage starting at just €34 : Schengen Visa Health Insurance, including emergency medical care and repatriation.
Upcoming change: ETIAS travel authorization (Starting 2026)
When do Americans need a visa?
While you don’t need a visa now, this will change slightly with two major systems being introduced by the European Union in the coming years.
Entry/Exit system (EES) – Expected October 2025
The EES will replace manual passport stamping with an automated system that records entry and exit data using biometric information (like facial images and fingerprints).
This system is designed to modernize border control, improve security and track overstays more efficiently.
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) – Expected 2026
ETIAS will become mandatory for all non-EU travelers visiting the Schengen Zone. What does this mean for Americans?
- ETIAS is not a visa; it’s a pre-travel security check, similar to the U.S. ESTA.
- You’ll complete a quick online application and pay a €7 fee.
- Most approvals are granted within minutes.
- Once approved, it’s valid for 3 years or until your passport expires.
- You must have ETIAS approval before boarding your flight or cruise to France.
- Travelers without ETIAS will be denied boarding.
Planning ahead will be crucial to ensure smooth entry into France and other Schengen countries under these new rules.
Is travel insurance required for France?
- Short stays (under 90 days): Insurance is not mandatory, but strongly recommended.
- Long-stay visas: Travel medical insurance is mandatory and must meet French government criteria.
- Why should you consider getting insurance even for a short trip?
- U.S. health insurance usually does not cover medical care abroad.
- Emergency treatments in France, even with universal healthcare, can be costly for non-residents.
- Some travelers may need proof of insurance to meet ETIAS eligibility requirements in the near future.
Mondassur offers affordable travel insurance plans for U.S. visitors to France, starting at just €34. All plans include medical coverage, repatriation to help protect you during your stay.
Travel tips for American visitors to France
- Check that your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay.
- Print and save digital copies of your key documents (passport, insurance, bookings).
- Enroll in the U.S. State Department’s STEP program to get travel alerts and safety updates.
- Carry proof of insurance; both digital and printed versions.
- If applying for a long-stay visa, prepare all required documents : insurance certificate, housing proof, financial resources, etc.
