Why start with the administrative tasks?
Administrative matters… it’s not the most exciting part when planning a trip, but it’s a necessary step to leave with peace of mind. If not anticipated properly, it can turn your adventure into a headache.
That's why once completed, the trip preparation can truly begin! Moreover, once 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 formalities vary greatly from one country to another:
Biometric passport required (often with a validity of 6 months minimum after the date of entry).
Visa required in some 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 website of France Diplomacy.
Health and insurance
It is necessary to consult a specialist doctor in tropical diseases three months before departure. This will allow you to get all the necessary vaccine doses and their boosters so that your trip goes smoothly!
Regarding travel insurance:
Less than 3 months : travel insurance is highly recommended. Some banks offer it automatically.
More than 3 months : it becomes mandatory. The French social security no longer covers your costs, and these can be very expensive (hospitalization, repatriation).
In Chapter 2 of the preparation, we give you advice on which insurances to choose!
Permit
An international driving permit is often required. The processing times can be very long (sometimes over 6 months), so anticipate as much as possible.
Tip: if you are pressed for time, have your permit translated by a certified translator such as a lawyer.
Traveling in the European Union
The identity papers
If you are a resident of the EU, a valid national identity card is sufficient in most EU countries and the Schengen area.
Also, make sure that it will be valid until your return date from your trip, and not just the 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 allows for the coverage of urgent medical care according to local rules.
Before leaving, contact your bank to check the benefits included with your credit card (Visa Premier, Mastercard Gold, etc.):
Liability 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 Bread Crumb, established by the Ministry of 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.
Facilitate contact with 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!
