Let’s face it: nothing is more discouraging than dealing with administrative formalities before a trip. Between forms to fill out, supporting documents to provide, and waiting times, sometimes you might have to give up on a dream destination simply because of a visa. But the good news is: there are many countries that no longer require this precious document. Several destinations across all continents, from the European Union to Oceania, are opening their doors wide to French travelers, without any paperwork hassles. Following our selection of destinations accessible without a passport , we’ve prepared a top 10 list of countries you can visit without a visa. Let yourself be inspired by this list and pack your bags with peace of mind: all you’ll have to do is enjoy your adventure!
1. China
Yes indeed! From 2024 until December 31, 2025, French citizens can travel to China without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. Take advantage of this opportunity to explore the architectural splendors of Beijing or sip a cocktail on the Bund in Shanghai. Prefer nature? The choice is vast, as the country is so large! We recommend gliding along the Li River at sunrise, surrounded by verdant peaks, or getting lost in the wide-open spaces of Yunnan… A complete change of scenery is guaranteed, and you’ll encounter far fewer tourists than elsewhere in Asia.
2. South Korea
After China, it’s time for South Korea! Why not take your teens to visit this country they love? In Seoul or Busan, stroll among skyscrapers, arty neighborhoods, and hanok villages (traditional wooden and paper houses), before indulging in the enticing street food markets that fill the air with their aromas day and night! No visa is required for stays of less than three months—just enough time to get a feel for this small country with international appeal. Until the end of December 2025, all tourists are also exempt from the electronic travel authorization called K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization).
3. The Philippines
My third favorite destination in Asia, the Philippines, is actually made up of a myriad of islands and islets, each more idyllic than the last. Karst cliffs, crystal-clear lagoons, sublime beaches, and inland, rainforests and steep rice paddies… It’s enough to leave you speechless. These magnificent landscapes are accessible without a visa for French citizens, who can admire them for 30 days without restriction. Be warned, though, because it can be very difficult to leave this picture-perfect paradise… Travelers are advised to fill out a form called an “eTravel Card” 3 days before departure.
4. Canada
If you prefer the Far North to dreamy beaches, bundle up and head to Canada! Travelers don’t need a visa to cross the country from Quebec to Vancouver Island. However, they will need to complete an online form called an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) well in advance. The destination can be explored in summer, for the festivals that enliven Montreal, as well as in winter, when the Rocky Mountain peaks are blanketed in snow and the lakes freeze over enough for skating.
5. Brazil
Brazil has something for everyone! Partygoers can hit the bars of São Paulo or join the Rio Carnival. Safari enthusiasts can choose the legendary Amazon rainforest or the Pantanal wetlands teeming with jaguars and capybaras. Sports lovers can try surfing or trekking in the Northeast… with a stopover at Iguazu Falls to round off the trip. Here too, as a French citizen, you have up to 90 days to soak up the incredible joie de vivre of the Brazilians, without needing to apply for a visa.
6. Mexico
Let’s stay in Latin America to explore another equally fascinating and captivating country: Mexico! Good news for French travelers: no visa is required to visit Mexico for a tourist stay of less than six months. A land of contrasts, the country is incredibly diverse. Our hearts are torn between the Mayan cities of Chichen Itza, the colorful energy of Mexico City, and the turquoise waters of the Riviera Maya. And if for you, vacation means relaxation, the cenotes of the Yucatan Peninsula or the desert landscapes of Baja California will leave you starry-eyed. All this, without any administrative hassles!
7. South Africa
Now, let’s head to the continent of adventurers: Africa! And more specifically, South Africa, an ideal destination for a first family safari . In Kruger National Park, you can even drive your own vehicle to cross the savanna and encounter the Big Five… But this country steeped in history has so much to offer, from colorful cities like Cape Town to the wild beaches of the west coast. Food lovers will delight in the fusion cuisine and, above all, the carefully curated selection of wines available almost everywhere!
8. Botswana
Still relatively untouched by mass tourism, Botswana is an ideal choice for immersing yourself in the heart of African nature. It’s also the safest country on the continent! Here, wildlife reigns supreme. In Chobe National Park, watch herds of elephants go about their business, while hippos roam the Okavango Delta. In the evening, gather around the campfire under the stars to share safari stories… A remarkable stroke of luck: French travelers are not required to present a visa upon arrival in this exceptional land. However, the permitted length of stay can vary, as it is at the discretion of the immigration officer.
9. New Zealand
Even for traveling to the other side of the world, you won’t need a visa! Your passport, along with an electronic travel authorization (NZeTA), will be all you need to explore the landscapes of Lord of the Rings. Or perhaps you’d prefer to marvel at the fjords of Milford Sound? Lovers of wide-open spaces will find their paradise here: lush forests, wild beaches, snow-capped mountains, and dramatic glaciers will be your playground on this journey to the antipodes.
10. Mauritius
Sublime beaches, luxury hotels, attentive service, refined cuisine… All this, without a visa! Mauritius first attracts visitors with its lagoons and fine sand, but the interior is well worth exploring. To see for yourself, hike through the Black River Gorges or admire the multicolored landscapes of Chamarel! Surrounded by an almost uninterrupted coral reef, the island also boasts abundant marine life. Multicolored fish, turtles, moray eels, and dolphins coexist harmoniously. Beginners can marvel at the turquoise lagoon of Blue Bay, while experienced divers can explore the spectacular drop-offs of the north coast.
Destinations with a visa on arrival
While a visa is technically required in some countries, it’s simply a stamp in your passport upon arrival. In other words, no prior arrangements are necessary: ​​all you have to do is pack your suitcase. This is the case, for example, in Egypt, Tanzania, Cambodia, Indonesia, Oman, Sri Lanka, and Bolivia. Let’s not forget that within the Schengen Area, French citizens can also travel freely. Furthermore, many countries do require a visa, but… a free one. It’s no wonder the French passport is considered one of the most advantageous in the world. Indeed, by 2025, it will offer easy access to over 190 countries without a visa! Before embarking on your trip and booking your tickets, however, be sure to check the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This is where you’ll find all the latest information from the relevant authorities.
