France
3 governments, 3 different opinions
Japan (MOFA)
Level 1
Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
Exercise normal precautions when traveling to France. Be aware of pickpocketing and bag snatching in major tourist areas, particularly in Paris around the Eiffel Tower, Champs-Elysees, and on the Metro.
United States (State Dept)
Level 2
Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
Exercise increased caution in France due to terrorism and civil unrest. Terrorist attacks have occurred in France, including at popular tourist destinations. Strikes and demonstrations regularly occur and can disrupt transportation and daily activities.
United Kingdom (FCDO)
FCDO notes that there is a high threat of terrorism in France. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals. Be vigilant in public places, especially around major tourist attractions and transport hubs. Pickpocketing and street crime are common in Paris and other major cities. Strikes and demonstrations occur frequently.
Japan and the US assess this country one level apart. Review both perspectives below.
Japan rates France as Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions), while the US rates it Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution) citing terrorism and civil unrest. This gap is notable because France is a top tourist destination that most travelers perceive as very safe. The US and UK both emphasize terrorism risks that Japan's advisory does not prominently feature — The terrorism threat in France remains ongoing. Additionally, the US and UK provide detailed warnings about pickpocketing, street crime, and frequent strikes/demonstrations that can disrupt travel plans. Japan's advisory focuses more on basic safety awareness.
What Each Government Says
Japan (MOFA)
Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
“Exercise normal precautions when traveling to France. Be aware of pickpocketing and bag snatching in major tourist areas, particularly in Paris around the Eiffel Tower, Champs-Elysees, and on the Metro.”
United States (State Dept)
Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
“Exercise increased caution in France due to terrorism and civil unrest. Terrorist attacks have occurred in France, including at popular tourist destinations. Strikes and demonstrations regularly occur and can disrupt transportation and daily activities.”United Kingdom (FCDO)
See our advice before travelling
“FCDO notes that there is a high threat of terrorism in France. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals. Be vigilant in public places, especially around major tourist attractions and transport hubs. Pickpocketing and street crime are common in Paris and other major cities. Strikes and demonstrations occur frequently.”Destination Customs
Prohibited / Restricted Imports
Narcotics and drugs — strictly prohibited. Penalties include heavy fines and imprisonment.
More than 200 cigarettes or 250g of tobacco from non-EU countries — subject to customs duties.
More than 1 liter of spirits or 4 liters of wine from non-EU countries — subject to customs duties.
Cash exceeding 10,000 EUR — must be declared at customs upon entry to the EU.
Counterfeit luxury goods — confiscation and potential fines. France is strict about counterfeits.
Export Restrictions
Works of art, antiques, or cultural goods exceeding certain value thresholds — require an export license from the Ministry of Culture.
Protected plant and animal species or products — export prohibited under CITES regulations.
Certain food products (raw milk cheeses, charcuterie) — may face import restrictions at your destination country. Check before purchasing.
Customs rules can change. Always verify with the local customs authority or embassy before travelling. See Japan return customs guide
SAFE-SENTINEL Tips
💡 Based on all 3 sources:
- 1.Be extremely vigilant against pickpockets on the Paris Metro and around tourist attractions — use a money belt or front-pocket wallet and keep bags zipped and in front of you
- 2.Check for strikes (greves) before travel. French transport strikes are common and can shut down trains, metros, and flights with little notice
- 3.Stay aware of your surroundings at major tourist sites. The US and UK highlight ongoing terrorism risks that Japan does not emphasize
- 4.Avoid signing petitions or engaging with people offering friendship bracelets near Sacre-Coeur and the Eiffel Tower — these are common scam tactics
- 5.Keep photocopies of your passport. French police may ask for ID, and losing your passport can be very disruptive
- 6.Get travel insurance — while France has excellent healthcare, costs for non-EU visitors without insurance can be significant
- 7.Download the RATP app for real-time Paris Metro updates. Consider purchasing a Navigo Easy card instead of paper tickets to reduce time in stations
Pre-Trip Checklist
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Emergency Contacts
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Sources & Freshness
⚠️ This information may not reflect the latest situation. Always check official sources before travelling.