France
3 governments, 3 different opinions
Japan (MOFA)
Japan's MOFA currently issues no advisory for this country.
No advisory issued
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's MOFA issues no advisory for France at all. The US, meanwhile, asks travellers to exercise increased caution nationwide, citing terrorism and civil unrest. That is a notable split for a country Japanese travellers tend to approach with the least caution of anywhere. Both the US and the UK state that the terrorist threat remains ongoing — something Japan's advisory does not foreground — and both go further with specific warnings about pickpocketing, street crime, and the frequent strikes and demonstrations that disrupt travel plans.
What Each Government Says
Japan (MOFA)
No advisory issued
“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.