French Polynesia Visa Requirements
For 🇺🇸 United States passport holders
Great news! United States 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.
Visa-free. French overseas territory.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Allowed
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
Valid US Passport
Must be valid for at least 3-6 months beyond your planned departure date (varies by country)
Return or Onward Ticket
Proof of departure from the country, such as a return flight or onward travel booking
Proof of Accommodation Recommended
Hotel reservation, Airbnb booking, or address where you will be staying
Proof of Sufficient Funds Recommended
Credit cards, bank statements, or cash to cover expenses during your stay
Travel Insurance Recommended
Recommended for all international travel covering medical emergencies
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.