Do you need travel insurance for France?
Travel insurance for France will help if something goes wrong on your trip. Whether you face a medical emergency and need to be flown back to Ireland, or your things are lost or stolen. We also provide cover for personal liability and legal protection.
Although the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) covers France, it’s important to take both your card and travel insurance for France with you:
- Medical emergencies and repatriation. The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly advises travellers to obtain full travel insurance. That way, you’re fully covered for overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation, repatriation, and legal expenses.
- EHIC has its limits. It gives Irish citizens access to state healthcare in France under the same conditions as locals. But it doesn’t cover private treatment, co-payments (‘ticket modérateur’), or repatriation costs.
- Tourists can be a target for pickpocketing. Especially in places like Paris. Or you could face travel delays. Your EHIC can’t help if these things happen. It’s essential you also take holiday insurance for France with you.
How much does travel insurance for France cost?
The cost of travel insurance for France will depend on you and your trip, as we personalise your quote to your needs and what you’ll be up to while you’re there. European travel insurance tends to cost less than worldwide policies, as some emergency state medical care may be covered by your EHIC.
Factors affecting the cost of France trip insurance include:
- Your age: If you’re a senior traveller, you’re more likely to need to make a claim, so your quote may be higher. We have no upper age limit, unlike many standard providers, meaning more people can go away and enjoy their holiday.
- Any pre-existing medical conditions you have: Again, your quote may be higher as you’re more likely to need to make a claim. We will ask you about your pre-existing medical condition in our medical questionnaire. So if it’s under control and you’re in good health, your quote will reflect this.
- How long you’re away for: Quick weekend away in Paris? Your quote will be lower than a policy for a six-week holiday exploring all the country has to offer.
- Your plans: Our policies already include 100 activities as standard. However, we have optional cover if you’re up to something a little bit different. Get extra cover for winter and extreme sports, golf holidays and cruises.
What does JustCover’s France trip insurance cover?
When looking for the best travel insurance for France, it’s important to know what is and isn’t covered. From having to unexpectedly cancel to needing legal protection. Always read our Policy Wording for full details and exclusions.
What's covered
Emergency medical expenses and repatriation costs – This includes the costs of tests, medications and procedures necessary to treat an illness or injury while abroad. You’ll also be covered for repatriation, making sure you return safely to Ireland.
Cancellation – Cover for flight and accommodation costs if an unexpected event means you have to cancel your trip before you go.
Curtailment – Cover if you need to return home early following an emergency.
Travel delays – If your flight is delayed, we’ll compensate you for the time.
Personal belongings – You’ll be covered if your baggage or its contents are lost or stolen.
Personal liability – Cover for your legal expenses and any liability due if you accidentally injure someone or damage their property while you’re away on holiday.
Legal protection cover – Provides cover for your legal expenses if you have to claim compensation or damages due to something that happened while you were away on holiday.
What's not covered
Claims below the value of the excess – This is dependent on your policy level.
Trips outside the region of cover – If you go somewhere not covered in your policy documents.
Known events or circumstances – Claims related to problems that you knew about before booking the trip or buying the travel insurance are not covered.
Medical conditions you don’t declare – You need to declare all of your pre-existing medical conditions.
Choosing not to travel – We know that sometimes plans change, but you’re only covered for cancellation where the reason falls within the policy terms and conditions.
Travelling against medical advice – We can’t cover you if you’ve been told not to go by a doctor or your medical team. We also can’t cover you if you’re travelling to get treatment.
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Find the best travel insurance for France
One big trip of the year or one of many? If you’re looking for France travel insurance, we have a policy for you. Whether you need single trip cover for your holiday or are looking for an annual policy. Travel knowing you're covered, it's that simple:
If you’re only going away once this year, get single trip travel insurance for France. We’ll tailor your quote to you and your plans, offering extra cover for winter sports, golf and more.
Annual multi-trip travel insurance
You could save time and money with an annual policy³ if you’re going away more than once this year. Get it sorted, then know you’re covered for any trips in the next 12 months.
Why choose JustCover for your France holiday insurance?
Get protection for travel delays, curtailment, personal liability and more with travel insurance for France. We’ll keep things simple, no jargon, no waffle:
- 100 activities included as standard, and optional cover available when you need it. Including winter and extreme sports, golf holidays, cruises and gadgets
- Get up to €10,000 cancellation cover⁴
- 98% of our customers would recommend JustCover to family and friends⁵
- 95% of our customers rated their overall experience as ‘Excellent’ or ‘Great’⁶
Understanding healthcare in France
The healthcare in France is of a similar quality to Ireland. There are both private and public facilities available. State medical advice and treatment are often subsidised but aren’t free to residents. Sometimes, they may need to pay in advance to access what they need.
Can I use my EHIC in France?
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) does cover France. It will give you access to some state emergency healthcare at the same price as locals. Treatment probably won’t be free, and your EHIC won’t cover all costs. For instance, it won’t cover medical repatriation back to Ireland. You could face a bill of thousands of euros for this if you don’t have travel insurance for France.
It’s important to take both your EHIC and France travel insurance on your trip. A comprehensive policy will also include protection for cancellation for certain reasons, your belongings being stolen and personal liability. This means you’ll go away knowing you’re covered.
Risks of travelling to France
In general, France is a safe place to visit, and crime is relatively low. However, it’s still important to be prepared for any risks. These include:
- Crime: As with most holiday destinations, tourists can be a target for criminals, such as pickpockets and bag snatchers. Take care of your things, especially in busy areas and crowds. Buy travel insurance for France, which covers your belongings against theft, and consider additional gadget cover.
- Industrial action and protests: These can be common in France. Although they are largely peaceful, you should avoid areas where they take place. Follow any instructions from local authorities.
- Natural disasters: Floods and wildfires can happen, especially in the South, while avalanches can impact mountainous regions. Keep up to date with the latest information on anywhere you plan to visit and follow the instructions of local authorities. We can offer optional natural disaster cover for your trip if needed.
- Terrorism: While rare, there have been isolated terrorist incidents in recent years. The Department of Foreign Affairs says: “We advise all citizens to maintain an awareness of their surroundings, monitor local media for up-to-date information, and follow the instructions of local authorities.” Stay informed on their website.
Do I need a visa for France?
As part of the EU, Irish citizens do not need a visa to enter France. You need an Irish passport or passport card, which is valid for the duration of your stay.
You should also check that your EHIC is still in date and consider comprehensive travel insurance for France. There are no travel insurance requirements to enter the country. It is not mandatory at the time of writing, but it is wise to buy a policy.
Always check the Department of Foreign Affairs website for details and any changes to entry requirements.
When is the best time to buy France trip insurance?
You can buy travel insurance for France as early as 12 months before your trip. From the moment you buy your policy, you’ll be covered for unexpected cancellation for certain reasons detailed in our Policy Wording. For instance, if one of your close family members becomes seriously ill or passes away. All other policy benefits will begin once you start your trip.
If you’ve not planned ahead, don’t worry. You can buy holiday insurance for France right up until the day you travel. As long as you haven’t passed through customs in Ireland yet. We can’t offer you a policy if you’re already in France or another country.
What to do before travelling to France
There are lots of ways you can prepare for your trip to France. Whether you’re having a romantic weekend in Paris or enjoying the food and history of Carcassonne:
- Check your passport: Make sure your passport hasn’t expired and will be valid for the whole of your trip.
- Contact your bank: Some banks no longer need you to do this, but many still ask you to let them know you’re travelling. This helps them detect suspicious activity on your account.
- Get travel insurance for France: Go away knowing you’re covered for medical emergencies, someone stealing your belongings and personal liability.
- If you’re renting a car, get rental car insurance: Renting a car won’t be covered by your France travel insurance. It’s important to make sure you’re covered by a rental car policy.
- Check for travel warnings: The Department of Foreign Affairs has all the latest safety and security information for France online. Read up ahead of your trip.
- Prepare your prescription medicines: Make sure you have plenty of medication for your holiday, including extra if you need to stay longer than expected. Some prescription medications may be banned in other countries. Check you can take your medication into France, and whether you need a doctor's letter or any other details.
Driving in France
Planning on taking your own car over on the ferry? Or renting one while you’re in France? Travelling by car is a fantastic way to see the country. Prepare for your road trip with these tips:
- Drive on the right-hand side: The most obvious difference to Ireland. Read up on other road rules, such as overtaking and speed limits. Many roads in France are toll roads, so make sure you have cash and cards for these. Some may require an electronic toll tag or sticker.
- Bring the right documents: You’ll need to be over 18 and have your full, valid Irish driving licence and passport to hand. Along with your vehicle log book, car insurance certificate and an EU/Ireland sticker or identifier if you’re driving your own car. Make sure your insurance covers driving in France and check whether you need any additional cover. If you’re renting a car, you may need other documents or insurance.
- Wear your seat belt: Both the driver and any passengers must wear their seatbelts. The driver could be fined if anyone in the car doesn’t. Children under 10 cannot sit in the front seat.
- Know what to do if you break down: Orange emergency phones on motorways and toll roads can help if you break down. Consider whether you want to buy European breakdown cover to protect yourself against costs.
- Know local drink driving laws: These are strict in France, even more so if you’re a new driver, and punishments can be severe. Read about the rules and remember it’s best not to drink any alcohol if you’re driving.
- Prepare for low-emission zones: If you’re visiting Paris or other popular destinations, you may need a low-emission car certificate (a ‘Crit'Air’). These can take a few weeks to receive, so plan in advance. If your car doesn’t qualify for one, you cannot drive in these low-emission zones.
- Carry the right safety equipment: You must have a warning triangle and reflective hi-vis jackets for anyone in the car. You must also have headlamp converters to avoid dazzling other drivers. Read up on any other equipment you might have to carry, such as snow chains and spare bulbs.
Booking water sports and adventure activities
We include 100 activities as standard in our travel insurance for France, including some water sports and adventure activities. Read our Policy Wording for a full list of these activities and any exclusions. If you need it, we have optional extra cover for:
- Extreme sports
- Winter sports
- Golf holidays
Specialist travel insurance for France
Camping trip with the whole family or visiting the vineyards to celebrate your retirement? We offer a whole range of holiday insurance for France:
At JustCover, we have no upper age limit, unlike many standard providers. This is because we think everyone deserves to enjoy a holiday. Get cancellation protection and more.
Travel insurance with medical conditions
Travelling with diabetes, asthma or arthritis? We will consider more than 1,300 pre-existing conditions for France travel health insurance. Just answer our simple medical questionnaire.
France is the perfect place for a getaway with the whole family. From enjoying the great outdoors to taking in the cultural sights. Get everyone insured on the same policy.
Cruising around Europe and stopping off in France? Get protection for the problems you might experience on a cruise. From sickness onboard to cabin confinement.
France travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions
If you have a pre-existing medical condition, you might not be able to get travel health insurance for France from a standard provider. We will consider more than 1,300 medical conditions, even if you have more than one.
Simply declare your pre-existing conditions and answer our medical questionnaire. If you don’t, you may invalidate your policy and won’t be covered for any claims you make. Even those that aren’t related to your pre-existing condition.
Conditions we will consider include:
- Asthma
- Stroke
- Arthritis
- Diabetes
- Disabilities
- Cancer
- Epilepsy
- Heart conditions
- COPD
- High cholesterol
A simple 3-step process to book your France travel insurance
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You will only need to tell us some information about yourself and your holiday plans
Select and tailor your cover
Now all you need to do is to choose the level of cover that best suits your needs
Buy your cover and relax
Purchase your cover and you’re ready to go – we’ll take care of the rest!
Expert travel insurance recommendations from our team
"From visiting the castles in the Loire Valley to the sights in Normandy. France is a fantastic holiday destination from Ireland. You may think that you don’t need travel insurance for France as you have your EHIC. However, your European Health Insurance Card will only give you access to some emergency state medical care at the same price as locals. This probably won’t be free and won’t include all costs, such as medical repatriation. It’s essential that you take France travel insurance as well."
Peter Clark - JustCover Director
What our customers say
“I spoke to a lovely gentleman during the week. He was so helpful and answered any questions I asked. Got a good travel insurance policy and it gave us all the cover we needed. We will definitely purchase insurance for future trips from JustCover.”
see full reviewFrance travel insurance tips and recommendations
There are many ways you can prepare for your trip to France. Take a look at our tips and download our ultimate travel checklist for free.
- Respect the culture and read up on etiquette: Learn some key French phrases and always say “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir” as you enter a business. Meal times are important, and many places will be closed for lunch breaks, so plan ahead. It’s also often frowned upon to eat on the go in public.
- Speak to your doctor: Check whether you’re fit to travel, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition. Find out whether you need any travel vaccinations using the HSE website or by speaking to your local travel clinic.
- Take your EHIC and holiday insurance for France: Remember, your EHIC will only cover some costs and emergency medical care probably won’t be free. It’s essential that you also buy travel insurance for France. Make sure you’re covered and don’t face any high bills from your own pocket.
- Know whether to tip: There is a standard service charge added to all restaurant and bar bills in France. Tipping a little extra for very good service is always welcome, but not mandatory.
Frequently asked questions about travel insurance for France
Can I take out insurance for someone who wants to visit me in France?
No, the person visiting you must buy travel insurance for France. Anyone buying a policy from us must be a resident of Ireland and physically be in Ireland at the time of purchase. We make getting a quote as quick and easy as possible. They can get their quote online or call us for free.
Do I need travel insurance if I’m driving to France?
Yes, it’s recommended that you buy travel insurance for France, as well as making sure you have any car insurance you require. You should also take your EHIC with you, but this will only give you access to some state emergency medical care at the same price as locals. It is not an alternative to France travel insurance as it won’t cover all costs.
Do I need travel insurance for a day trip to France?
It’s smart to buy travel insurance for a day trip to France. If you face a medical emergency, your bag is stolen, or you need personal liability protection, it’s important to know that you’re covered. You should also take your EHIC card. We can offer France travel insurance for trips as short as one day.
Is healthcare free in France for Irish citizens?
State healthcare is subsidised for French citizens, but it’s not normally free. Sometimes treatment must be paid for in advance. If you’re an Irish citizen, you can access some emergency state medical care at the same price as locals using your EHIC. However, this is unlikely to be free and won’t cover all costs. The only way to make sure you’re covered is by taking both your EHIC and travel insurance for France.
What happens if I don't have an EHIC card?
If you travel to France without an EHIC, you won’t be able to access state-funded healthcare at the same ‘local’ rate as French residents. That means if you need medical treatment, you’ll usually have to pay the full cost up front. This can be expensive, even for routine care.
France doesn’t offer ‘free’ healthcare in the way the Irish public system does, so even with an EHIC, you often have to pay part of the bill and claim it back. Without the card, you don’t have that entitlement at all.
For Irish holidaymakers, this makes travel insurance even more important. Without an EHIC, your insurer may be the only way to recover those costs or cover emergency treatment. Travel insurance ensures you’re protected for both medical expenses and repatriation.
What documents do I need for travelling to France?
As an Irish passport holder, you do not need a visa to enter France. You must hold a valid, in-date Irish passport or passport card.
You should also take a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and valid travel insurance. While neither is mandatory, it’s important to travel knowing you’re covered if something goes wrong.
The Department of Foreign Affairs offers information on entry requirements to France.
Do I need additional cover to go skiing in France?
Skiing carries unique risks: from accidents and equipment damage to rescue and medical evacuation from remote slopes.
Standard travel insurance (including JustCovers single or annual multi-trip policies) covers medical emergencies, cancellations, lost baggage, and repatriation. However, you won't be covered for ski-specific issues unless you’ve added winter sports cover.
This will make sure you’re covered for skiing, sledging, sleigh rides, snowboarding and other activities detailed in our Policy Wording.
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2. Covers cancellation for certain reasons outside of your control and detailed in our Policy Wording. Amount of cover depends on the policy level you have purchased. Read our Policy Wording for full exclusions and T&Cs.
3. Up to a maximum of 183 days of travel per year.
4. Covers cancellation for certain reasons outside of your control and detailed in our Policy Wording. Amount of cover depends on the policy level you have purchased. Read our Policy Wording for full exclusions and T&Cs.
5. Based on 128 responses, correct as of 27/08/2025.
6. Based on 128 responses, correct as of 27/08/2025.
* Discount applies to the base price only and does not apply to any premium generated to cover medical conditions or optional extras. This discount is automatically applied and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Discount tiers of 5% for premiums between €0-49, 10% for €50-249, & 20% for €250+ apply. Offer ends at 23:59 on 30/09/25. T&C's apply.