Why start with the administrative tasks?
The paperwork… it’s not the most exciting part when preparing a trip, but it’s a necessary step to leave with peace of mind. If poorly planned, it can turn your adventure into a headache.
That’s why, once it’s done, trip preparation can truly begin! All the more so because, once it’s done, it doesn’t need to be redone.
What does the administration involve before a trip?
It is good to know that many banks already include travel insurance in their contracts (especially with high-end cards like Visa Premier or Mastercard Gold). However, the maximum coverage period is only 90 days, sometimes less. So for a trip that is meant to last longer, you will need to take out additional insurance!
The identity papers
Insurance
The permit
The security
Vaccines and others
How to prepare administratively?
A good basis to make sure you don't forget anything to have and/or do before a trip!
Traveling outside the European Union
The identity papers
The requirements vary greatly from one country to another:
Biometric passport required (often with a validity of minimum 6 months after the date of entry).
Visa required in certain countries (tourist, work, long-stay…).
Electronic authorization (e.g. ESTA for the United States, eTA for Canada).
For reliable and up-to-date information, always refer to the official France Diplomatie website
Health and insurance
It is necessary to consult a doctor specializing in tropical diseases three months before departure. This will allow you to get all the necessary vaccine doses and boosters so that your trip goes smoothly!
Regarding travel insurance:
Less than 3 months: travel insurance is strongly recommended. Some banks offer it automatically.
More than 3 months: it becomes mandatory. French Social Security no longer covers your expenses, and these can be very costly (hospitalization, repatriation).
In Chapter 2 of the preparation, we give you advice on which insurance to choose!
Permit
An international driving permit is often required. Since the processing times are very long (sometimes more than 6 months), plan as far ahead as possible.
Tip: if you are short on time, have your license translated by a sworn translator, such as a lawyer.
Traveling in the European Union
The identity papers
If you are an EU resident, a valid national ID card is sufficient in most EU and Schengen area countries.
Also, make sure to check that it will still be valid until your return date from your trip, and not just on departure.
Health and insurance
European residents carry a vaccination booklet that allows them to move freely within the European area without being bothered by anything. However, remember to still be cautious, for example with tap water in certain countries.
If you are traveling to the EU or Switzerland, request the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) at least 15 days before your departure. It covers urgent medical care according to local rules.
Before you leave, contact your bank to check the coverage included with your bank card (Visa Premier, Mastercard Gold, etc.):
Liability insurance abroad
Trip cancellation / modification
Medical assistance and repatriation
Loss/theft of luggage
Legal assistance
Permit
If you have your French or European driving license, that's more than sufficient, of course!
Safety: registering for the Ariadne Thread
The Ariadne’s Thread, set up by the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, is a free service that allows you to:
Receive security alerts by SMS or email if the situation in the country changes.
Make it easier to contact you or your loved ones in the event of a crisis.
Do you want to continue to learn about the best way to prepare for your trip?
We offer you three other articles related to preparing for a long trip. You know that you need to equip yourself properly for a journey of such duration, but you must also plan the administrative aspects, take care of your health, and anticipate potential problems. After all, it is better to be prepared for everything to fully enjoy your trip!
