France has officially published its updated visa policy for 2026, listing all European countries whose citizens can travel to France without a visa and stay for up to 90 days. The announcement, made via the official French government website, confirms that eligible travelers must still meet standard entry requirements, including presenting a valid passport and other supporting documents upon request.
List of European Countries Eligible for Visa-Free Entry to France in 2026
The following European countries are included in the visa-free list for stays of up to 90 days:
- Germany
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Cyprus
- Croatia
- Denmark
- Spain (including the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands)
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Greece
- Hungary
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- The Netherlands
- Poland
- Portugal (including the Madeira and Azores Archipelagos)
- Czech Republic
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Sweden
- Switzerland (non-EU)
According to the French authorities, citizens of these countries do not need to apply for a visa before traveling to France for short stays. However, they may still be required to show valid travel documents, such as a passport, and comply with other entry conditions.
Visa-Free Travel Beyond Europe
In addition to the European countries listed, France also permits visa-free entry for citizens of several countries from Africa, Asia, the Americas, and other continents. The official French government website provides the complete list of all visa-exempt nations worldwide.
Comparison with South Africa's Visa-Free Policy
In a related development, the Republic of South Africa recently released its own list of 25 European countries whose citizens can visit South Africa without a visa for stays of up to 90 days in 2026. According to the South African government, eligible travelers from those countries do not need to apply for a visa before visiting.
This report is based on information from the official French government website and Legit.ng.
