French Polynesia FAQs

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Written by
Rachel O'Leary, Keith Jarman, Ellie Khoury, Charlie Morris & Leanne Anglo

Published on: January 18th, 2018

Last modified: May 15th, 2023

We've compiled our list of most frequently asked questions to help you get prepared before your big adventure to French Poynesia. Please read through the questions, using the navigation bar on the left hand side of your page to move easily between the different sections.

Please note that requirements and advice can change so we do recommend you check in with your own travel insurer, doctor and relevant local embassies before embarking on your adventure.

Are there any entry requirements for French Polynesia?

 

Visas

Although most nationalities do not require a visa for a vacation stay of up to 3 months it is a requirement to hold a return flight ticket to your resident country or to at least two more continuing destinations. You must also have 6 months validity on your passport from your date of departure.

A reminder that for non-residents of the United States, if you plan to travel onwards to the USA you will have to apply for an approved travel authorization prior to departure, on the following secure website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov

Passports

We will confirm certain elements of your trip such as domestic flights, permits or train tickets using your current passport details. If a member of your party changes their name in their passport after booking (for example, through marriage or adoption) this could mean having to reissue important parts of the trip at an extra cost and subject to availability. 

Please note that requirements can change and we recommend that our guests contact the local embassy in the country where you live for the most recent and up to date information.

Are there any laws, rules or regulations I should be aware of?

 

Yes, French Polynesia does operate bio security at their border. Here is a list of the main restricted items which cannot be brought into the country without the necessary paperwork.

Fresh fruit, dried fruit and nuts
Fresh plant produce (food) and grains 
Plants, seeds, etc
Plant products (wood, grains, fresh or dried flowers, food, medicines, etc) 
Soiled camping or sports equipment
Meat, Eggs and egg products, Dairy products 
Honey and other apiculture products
Products of animal origin (wool, feathers, etc)

Do I need travel insurance?

 

Yes, once your trip is confirmed it is essential that you take out comprehensive travel insurance to cover you in case anything unexpected happens. 

We always recommend that our guests get the maximum level of coverage that you feel comfortable investing in. Read more about travel insurance for US travellers here and for travellers from other countries here.

Do I need to visit a travel doctor before my trip?

 

Yes, you should visit a travel doctor before your trip as they may recommend certain vaccinations or medications before or during travel. 

Some vaccines commonly recommended for travellers to the Oceania region include: Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Rabies and Meningitis [as well as medication for diseases such as malaria.

No vaccines are required to enter except for travellers from high-risk yellow fever countries.

What do I need to know about my regional flights?

 

Domestic flights will typically be on the national carrier, Air Tahiti. Luggage allowance will depend on the ticket you travel with The baggage allowance on domestic flights in economy class is as follows:

Checked baggage in economy class –  23kg (50lb) maximum per traveller 

In business calls – 46kg (100lb) maximum per traveller 

Carry-on baggage for economy and business – 5kg (11lb) maximum carry-on bag per international traveller 

Air Tahiti operates an open-seating policy on its flights. Seats are not allocated at check-in which means travellers can choose between a window or an aisle seat when boarding the aircraft. 

 

What will I receive from Jacada before I depart?

 

Travel pack

Before you head off on your adventure you will be sent a travel pack. The travel pack is full of great information and is also a beautiful keepsake. It is not necessary to travel with vouchers or confirmations on your trip but we do recommend having a printed copy of your travel itinerary to hand when you arrive into French Polynesia.  

Bon Voyage email

Around 2 weeks before you depart we will email you an electronic version of your travel pack including your domestic flight tickets. Once you’ve received this email your Travel Designer will reach out to arrange a time for you to talk on the phone to go over any last minute questions and talk you through the information we’ve sent over.

 

Do I need to bring the local currency?

 

Tahiti’s currency is the French Pacific Franc (XPF), which is linked to the Euro, meaning the exchange rate should remain relatively stable.

Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are generally accepted in the tourist areas throughout the islands and at Tahiti-Faa’a airport you can find an exchange office and ATMs. Most larger hotels provide an exchange service however the rates of exchange are not always as good. There are ATMs on a few islands but this can be very limited on remote islands and it’s important to plan the amount of cash you need before departing the larger hubs. Some atolls and islands in the Austral and Gambier archipelagoes do not have banking facilities.

Can you tell me about tipping and etiquette in French Polynesia?

 

Tipping is not expected by hotel and restaurant staff, but it is still a way to acknowledge good service and show appreciation. There are no rules or customs as to the amount of the tip. In The Islands of Tahiti, a service charge has been included on the bill for accommodation and dining in large hotels. At the end of the year, the collected charges are divided up and distributed between the staff.

What’s the weather like and how should I pack?

 

Overall, French Polynesia is a warm and sunny destination all year round. 

Between April and October, which is the dry season, you can expect some stronger winds and shorter days with the sun setting around 5:30 pm. During this season it’s best to bring a jacket/windbreaker and some appropriate clothing for cooler evenings.

The humid season typically runs from November to April. This season is characterised by longer days, the sun sets at around 06:45 pm, summer showers and warmer temperatures. The rain is generally short-lived. This is a great time of year to enjoy swimming and beach activities, as the water is warm, however it is recommended to bring a raincoat and be prepared for damp conditions.

Most of the larger tourist style hotels will have a laundry service available and it’s best to check the price before sending your items to be cleaned.

Should I make restaurant reservations?

 

Yes, you can make restaurant reservations in advance of your trip. Once your trip is confirmed you will be introduced to your concierge who will be able to assist you in not only making the reservations but also  making  recommendations based on your preferences.

How can I keep connected on my trip?

 

French Polynesia uses a flat 3 or 2 pin plug (same as USA) or 2 pin round plugs (same as Europe), with a mains voltage of 110 or 220 Volts (60 Hz) depending on the island and type of accommodation. Adaptors/converters are often available at hotels for purchase locally however it can be very handy to bring one with you from home.

Most of the larger style tourist hotels will have wifi available for guests and you should check with your provider at home before using your cell phone abroad, in case of extra charges.

 

Please contact your Jacada travel designer or concierge before your trip with any further questions.