On Friday 13 November, a number of terrorist incidents took place in Paris resulting in widespread casualties. British nationals are advised to exercise caution in public places and follow the advice of the local authorities. French authorities have heightened security measures due to the risk of further attacks. The advice of the Paris Police is currently to keep movement around town to a minimum. Systematic border control checks have been implemented at all entry points into France.
If you are considering returning to the UK, please contact your travel company for information on availability.
There is ongoing disruption to cross channel services due to migrant activity in and around Calais. Check online with your chosen operator and plan your journey to avoid disruption. See this information on the situation. Information about alternative routes and operators is available via this interactive map.
Industrial action by farmers may cause road blockades and closures. See the Bison Futé website for the latest traffic news.
There are large numbers of illegal migrants in and around Calais, who may seek to enter the UK illegally. You should keep vehicle doors locked in slow moving traffic and secure your vehicle when it is left unattended.
Robust border security means that anyone who attempts to transport an illegal migrant across the border faces a considerable jail term.
The 21st session of the conference of the parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate change (COP21) will be held in Paris from 30 November to 11 December 2015. A large march in central Paris is planned for 29 November and further protests are expected at the end of the conference on 12 December. If you see groups of protestors or security forces gathering, you should take extra care, leave the area and follow the advice of the local authorities. Traffic may also be heavier in Paris and between Paris airports and central Paris. Access to real-time information on traffic conditions is available at Sytadin.
There is a high threat from terrorism. Due to ongoing threats to France by Islamist terrorist groups, and recent French military intervention against ISIL, the French government has warned the public to be especially vigilant and has reinforced its security measures. See Terrorism
Around 17 million British nationals visit France every year. Most visits are trouble-free. The most common problem reported is pick-pocketing. See Safety and security
The Emergency phone number in France is 112.
You should apply for a free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before you travel. If you already have an EHIC, make sure it hasn’t expired. Some medical costs aren’t covered by the EHIC so you should also take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel. See Health
The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.
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