French

Roman Catholic 83%-88%, Protestant 2%, Jewish 1%, Muslim 5%-10%, unaffiliated 4%

France is in the midst of transition from a well-to-do modern economy that has featured extensive government ownership and intervention to one that relies more on market mechanisms. The government has partially or fully privatized many large companies, banks, and insurers, and has ceded stakes in such leading firms as Air France, France Telecom, Renault, and Thales. It maintains a strong presence in some sectors, particularly power, public transport, and defense industries. The telecommunications sector is gradually being opened to competition. France's leaders remain committed to a capitalism in which they maintain social equity by means of laws, tax policies, and social spending that reduce income disparity and the impact of free markets on public health and welfare. Widespread opposition to labor reform has in recent years hampered the government's ability to revitalize the economy. 
France's tax burden remains one of the highest in Europe - at nearly 50% of GDP in 2005. With at least 75 million foreign tourists per year, France is the most visited country in the world and maintains the third largest income in the world from tourism.

France is party to the Schengen agreement.  As such, U.S. citizens may enter France for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa.  A passport is required and should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.  Anyone intending to stay more than 90 days must obtain the appropriate visa issued by one of the French Consulates in the U.S., prior to departure for France.  This also applies to anyone considering marriage in France.  For further information about travel into and within Schengen countries, please see our fact sheet . 
A passport is required to enter Monaco. A visa is not required for tourist/business stays up to 90 days in Monaco.
For further information concerning entry requirements for France, travelers may contact the Embassy of France at 4101 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC  20007, tel. (202) 944-6000, email: info@ambafrance-us.org, or the French Consulates General in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, or San Francisco.

The Government of France maintains a threat rating system known locally as “Vigipirate”; it is similar to the U.S. Homeland Security Advisory System. Over the last year, there have been numerous arrests of suspected Islamic militants involved in various terrorist plots. In the past, political assassinations and bombings have occurred in France. Americans are advised to avoid street demonstrations particularly if riot police are on the scene.

Infant MR total: 4.31 deaths/1,000 live births

Life expectancy at birth: TOTAL 79.44 (male 75.8/female 83.27)

Required : none

Recommended: Hep A & B, tetanus-diptheria booster

No significant risks

Medical care comparable to that found in the United States is widely available.

Country calling Code: +33 
Internet Country Code: fr