French Polynesia

The Land of Lagoons
and Legends

Flag of French Polynesia

French Polynesia, a collection of 118 islands in the South Pacific, is famed for its turquoise lagoons, lush mountains, and overwater bungalows. Tahiti, the largest island, along with Bora Bora and Moorea, offers breathtaking beaches, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life.

French Polynesian culture blends Polynesian and French influences, celebrated through traditional ori dance, tattoos, and crafts. The cuisine is fresh and tropical, featuring dishes like poisson cru (raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime) and exotic fruits. Known for its warm hospitality, French Polynesia is a paradise for beach lovers and those seeking a tranquil, luxurious escape.

Travel Documents

Documents

Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into French Polynesia.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned stay in French Polynesia.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from nations such as the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and EU/EEA/Swiss countries can enter French Polynesia with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations not on the visa-exempt list must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa (French short-stay visa) prior to entering French Polynesia.
  • Special Entry Provisions:
    • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) can enter French Polynesia without an additional visa.
    • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) can enter without a separate visa.
    • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK can enter without a visa.

ID Card Entry

  • The following citizens can enter French Polynesia using only a valid national ID card:
    • European Union (EU) member states
    • European Economic Area (EEA) countries
    • Switzerland

Visa Types

  • Short-Stay Visa (Schengen Type C): Allows entry and stay for 90 days within 180 days. Can be single, double, or multiple entry, with validity up to 5 years.
  • Long-Stay Visa (Type D): For stays longer than 90 days within 180 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules may apply for work, study, or long-term stays; contact the French consulate.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions at https://pf.ambafrance.org/.
Toll

Driving in French Polynesia

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, there are no toll roads in French Polynesia; roads are publicly funded and free to use.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Not applicable; no tolls exist. For road updates, visit the French Polynesia Public Works site: http://www.equipement.gov.pf/.
  • Payment Methods: Not applicable.

Driving in French Polynesia

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40 km/h
    • Rural roads: 60-80 km/h (varies by island)
    • Highways: Limited highways; typically 80 km/h
  • Road conditions vary; exercise caution on narrow, winding roads and during rainy seasons.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license for non-EU licenses; EU licenses are accepted.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: French Polynesia has no vignette or toll system; check road conditions at http://www.equipement.gov.pf/.
  • Road Safety: Roads are generally safe, but remain vigilant for pedestrians, scooters, and weather-related hazards.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is reliable in Tahiti but less so on smaller islands; keep an updated physical map as a backup.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies (or 18 for fire, 15 for ambulance).

Useful Links

French Polynesia Currency

The official currency of French Polynesia is the Pacific Franc (XPF).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 500, 1000, 5000, 10000 XPF
  • Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 XPF
  • Symbol: ₣ (sometimes written as CFP or F)

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, airports (e.g., Faa’a International), and major hotels.
  • ATMs widely available in urban areas (e.g., Papeete) for direct XPF withdrawals.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas and smaller islands.
  • Credit/debit cards accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and remote islands.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Institut d’Émission d’Outre-Mer website: https://www.ieom.fr/.
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in French Polynesia

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travelers in French Polynesia, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is frowned upon.
    • Smoking banned in indoor public spaces.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect Polynesian customs (e.g., avoid touching someone’s head, dress modestly in villages).
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships and marriage are legal (per French law); public displays of affection are generally accepted in tourist areas.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites (e.g., Papeete naval base); ask permission for portraits of locals.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 2L of spirits or wine | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over €10,000 (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products (e.g., coral, shells).
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

Complaints

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access within 2.5 meters of the shoreline; wheelchair access is improving but not universally mandated.

Key Resources

French Polynesia Travel Safety

French Polynesia is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travelers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in French Polynesia.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like Papeete markets. Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: French Polynesia is considered safe, with locals often welcoming; avoid isolated areas at night.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving can be challenging due to narrow roads and scooter traffic.
    • Avoid night driving on less-developed islands.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Tap water is safe in Papeete; use bottled water on smaller islands.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travelers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, tetanus, COVID-19, typhoid.
    • Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use repellent for dengue and Zika (prevalent in rainy seasons).
  • Altitude Sickness: Not applicable; highest peak (Mount Orohena) is 2,241 meters with minimal risk.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Centre Hospitalier de Polynésie Française in Papeete offers high standards; rural islands lack advanced care.
  • Pharmacies: Available in Papeete; carry essential medications for remote areas.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation, especially for outer islands.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 112 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Ambulance: 15 | Fire: 18 | Police: 17.
  • Tourist Police (Papeete): +689 40 50 52 00.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rugged areas (e.g., Moorea); check insurance coverage.
  • Hiking: Use guides for trails (e.g., Fautaua Valley).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Respect Polynesian traditions; avoid sacred sites unless invited.
  • Air Quality: Generally excellent; monitor cyclone season (Nov-Apr) updates.

Key Links

Flying to French Polynesia

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