French Polynesia

The Land of Lagoons
and Legends

Flag of French Polynesia
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