French Polynesia Visa Requirements
For 🇪🇸 Spain passport holders
Great news! Spain passport holders can enter French Polynesia without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Spanish citizens can enter French Polynesia without a visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period as it is a French overseas territory. As an EU citizen visiting a French territory, Schengen rules apply.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
At least 1 page required
Multiple Entry
Allowed
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Valid passport or EU national ID card, return ticket. For stays over 90 days, a long-stay visa is required.
Subject to French immigration penalties.
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid
Tap Water
Safe to drink
Safety Tips
French Polynesia is extremely safe with very low crime rates. The main concerns are typical tropical issues: sun protection, water safety, and mosquito-borne diseases. Healthcare is good in Tahiti, more limited on outer islands.
Money & Costs
Currency
₣ CFP Franc (XPF)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $150 · Mid: $350 · Luxury: $1,000+
Tipping
Tipping is not expected or part of Polynesian culture, though appreciated for exceptional service.
Practical Info
Power
Type A, B, C, E, 220V 60Hz
Driving
Right side
Emergency
17 (Police), 18 (Fire), 15 (Medical)
Getting There
Main Airports
Bora Bora (BOB) · Papeete (PPT) · Moorea (MOZ)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October. July-August is peak season with whale watching opportunities. The wet season (November-April) is warmer and more humid with occasional cyclones but also fewer tourists.
Cultural Notes
Polynesian culture is vibrant with traditional dance, music, and navigation heritage. Tahitian dance (ori Tahiti) is world-famous. The vanilla industry in Tahaa is significant. Paul Gauguin famously painted here. The heiva festival in July celebrates Polynesian culture. Pearl farming produces renowned black pearls.
Insider Tips
French and Tahitian are official languages. The CFP Franc (XPF) is the currency, tied to the Euro. French Polynesia is expensive - one of the Pacific's luxury destinations. Bora Bora is famous for overwater bungalows. Each archipelago has different character. Book well in advance for popular properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Spanish citizens need a visa for French Polynesia?
No, as Spanish citizens are EU nationals, they can visit French Polynesia (a French overseas territory) for up to 90 days within 180 days without a visa. You can enter with a valid passport or EU national ID card. The same rules as Schengen apply, though French Polynesia is not in the Schengen area.
Is Bora Bora worth the cost?
Bora Bora is undeniably expensive but offers a unique experience. The iconic overwater bungalows, stunning lagoon, and Mount Otemanu views are bucket-list worthy. For budget-conscious travelers, consider guesthouses on the main island or visiting other islands like Moorea or Huahine which offer similar beauty at lower cost.
Which islands should I visit in French Polynesia?
The five archipelagos offer different experiences: Society Islands (Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora) are most accessible with luxury resorts. The Tuamotus offer world-class diving and pristine atolls. Marquesas are rugged and culturally rich. Gambier and Austral islands are remote and less visited. Most visitors focus on Society Islands.
What are Tahitian black pearls?
French Polynesia is the world's primary source of black pearls, cultivated in the warm lagoons, particularly in the Tuamotu and Gambier islands. The pearls range from dark gray to peacock green and are produced by the black-lipped oyster. Pearl farms can be visited and pearls purchased directly. They're a signature Polynesian product.
When can I see humpback whales in French Polynesia?
Humpback whales visit French Polynesia from July to November to breed and give birth in the warm waters. The peak season is August to October. Moorea and Tahiti are excellent for whale watching. Swimming with whales is possible with authorized operators. This is one of the world's best whale encounters.