French authorities have installed numerous roadside cameras to help enforce traffic regulations. Fines for breaching these regulations are severe. Remain vigilant when renting automobiles, as there is a high frequency of vehicle break-ins.

Drivers are often tricked into stopping their cars by thieves who either obstruct the road or distract the driver (e.g., by flashing their headlights). There has been a significant increase in thefts from cars by thieves travelling on scooters. Be especially vigilant when stopped at traffic lights, as bags are often snatched from the front passenger seat. Keep windows closed and doors locked at all times. Theft of parked cars and/or their contents are particularly common on beach roads in Corsica. There are also reports of theft from vehicles parked at Normandy beaches and war cemeteries. Never leave personal belongings unattended in a vehicle and use secure parking facilities, especially overnight.

Major French cities have extensive and efficient public transportation systems and are served by a comprehensive network of inter-city rail services.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.

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5. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

Extreme weather events have become more frequent in recent years, resulting in widespread flooding and power outages. Forest fires often occur along the Mediterranean coast in the summer months.

Avalanches present a risk and have resulted in fatalities. If you are planning a mountaineering or skiing holiday, you are advised to visit the Web site of the National Association for the Study of Snow and Avalanches (www.anena.org) for information on weather and safety conditions. Advice should be followed carefully. Canadians should know the address and telephone number of the Embassy of Canada in Paris (see section 7 below) in the event of an emergency.

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6. LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons. However, Canada and France are signatories to the European Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons, which enables a Canadian imprisoned in France to request to be transferred to Canada to complete the sentence in a Canadian prison. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and French authorities.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 7 below. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The Department publishes A Guide for Canadians Imprisoned Abroad, specifically targeted at incarcerated Canadians. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian detainees, their families, and friends about available assistance and advice.

Under French law you are required to carry your passport at all times.

The French Government introduced severe penalties for traffic violations, including a prison sentence of up to 10 years and a fine of 150,000 Euros for causing death while above the legal alcohol limit as well as a sentence of up to seven years and a fine of 100,000 Euros for causing death by dangerous driving. Speed limits and other driving regulations may be strictly enforced through heavy, on-the-spot fines and the confiscation of a driver's licence.

Although France recognizes dual nationality, dual nationals are considered French citizens and are subject to French laws. For more information, see our publication entitled Dual Citizenship: What Travellers Should Know.

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7. ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following address:

France - PARIS, Embassy of Canada
Address: 35, avenue Montaigne, 75008 Paris, France
Tel.: 33 (1) 44-43-29-00
Fax: 33 (1) 44-43-29-86
E-mail: paris-consulaire@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.international.gc.ca/paris or www.amb-canada.fr

Emergency consular services can be obtained from the following consulates (please call before going to one of the consulates):

France - LILLE, Consulate of Canada
Address: 30, avenue Émile Zola, 59800 Lille, France.
Tel.: 33 (3) 20-14-05-78
Fax: 33 (3) 20-14-36-96
E-mail: consulatcanadalille@wanadoo.fr

Office hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.

France - LYON, Consulate of Canada
Address: rue Bourgelat, 69002 Lyon, France.
Tel.: 33 (4) 72-77-64-07
Fax: 33 (4) 72-77-65-09
E-mail: consulatcanadalyon@wanadoo.fr

Office hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.

France - MONACO, Consulate of Canada
Address: Palais de la Scala, 1, avenue Henry Dunant, bureau 1178, Monte Carlo, 98000, Monaco.
Tel.: 377 97-70-62-42
Fax: 377 97-70-62-52
E-mail: consul-canada@monte-carlo.mc

Office hours are from 9 a.m. to 12 noon.

France - NICE, Consulate of Canada
Address: 10, rue Lamartine, 06000 Nice, France.
Tel.: 33 (4) 93-92-93-22
Fax: 33 (4) 93-92-55-51
E-mail: cancons.nce@club-internet.fr

Office hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.

France - SAINT-PIERRE ET MIQUELON, Consulate of Canada
Address: 16, rue Jacques Debon, 97500, Saint-Pierre, Saint-Pierre et Miquelon, France.
Postal Address: P.O. Box 4370, Saint-Pierre, France
Tel.: 508 41-55-10
Fax: 508 41-55-10
E-mail: consulat.canada@cheznoo.net

Office hours are from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

France - TOULOUSE, Consulate of Canada
Address: 10, rue Jules de Resseguier, 31000 Toulouse.
Tel.: 33 (5) 61-52-19-06
Fax: 33 (5) 61-55-40-32
E-mail: consulat.canada.toulouse@wanadoo.fr

Office hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Paris and follow the instructions. You may also call the Department in Ottawa toll-free at 00-800-2326-6831 or use the services offered by Canada Direct.

Canada Direct, offered by Canada's major telecommunications companies, provides travellers with toll-free and hassle-free access to the Canadian telephone network. The Canada Direct access number from France is 0 800 99-00-16 or 0 800 99-02-16, where a Canadian operator is always available. For more information, call 1 800 561-8868 or visit the Canada Direct Web site (www.infocanadadirect.com).

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8. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the authorities of France and, to the best of our knowledge, was valid on June 29, 2006. However, entry and exit requirements are subject to change.

It is the sole prerogative of each country to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the country or countries to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

Foreign Affairs Canada’s Office of Protocol provides contact details for the Embassy of France and its consulates, where you can obtain further information on entry and exit requirements.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit France. The passport must be valid for at least the expected duration of your stay in the country.

To stay longer than three months, a "long stay" visa is required before travelling to France. This permit must be obtained from the Embassy or a consulate of France in Canada prior to departure.

Holders of long-term visas must apply for temporary residency permits as soon as possible, preferably within eight days of their arrival in France.

Foreign nationals entering France to study or to engage in a professional activity on a temporary basis must hold temporary residency permits.

Tourist Visa: Not required
Long-Stay or Residency Visa: Required
Student Visa: Required

__________________________________________

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify visa requirements for this and other countries, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

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9. MONEY

The currency is the euro (EUR). Credit cards and traveller's cheques are widely accepted. Visitors should carry only a minimum amount of cash. ATMs are widely available.

 Check with your bank for information on ATM services in other countries. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ATMs around the world. Your bank can advise if you need a new personal identification number (PIN) for overseas access to your account. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ATMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. GENERAL INFORMATION

France (capital: Paris) is located in Western Europe, bordering Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Monaco, Spain, and Andorra. France is a member of the European Union. There is a wide range of tourist facilities. France is divided into 96 administrative departments and several overseas departments and territories including the Caribbean islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique; the Pacific island groups of New Caledonia and French Polynesia; French Guiana in South America; Reunion in the Indian Ocean; and Saint-Pierre et Miquelon in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. French is the official language.

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11. TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Medicine Program Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada continues to closely monitor and report on occurrences of avian influenza A (H5N1), or "bird flu", in humans and in birds. Further information on avian influenza A (H5N1) and recommendations for travellers can be found on the Public Health Agency of Canada's Travel Medicine Web site as well as on the World Health Organization's Web site. For more information, see our Current Issues on Avian Influenza.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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12. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

Good medical care is widely available.

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13. RETURNING TO CANADA

Please consult the Current Issue on returning to Canada.

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14. INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS

Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child from another country, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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15. TRAVEL TIPS

Please consult our Traveller's Checklist.

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16. HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE

Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

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17. FOR MORE INFORMATION

FRENCH GUIANA

French Guiana (capital: Cayenne) is an overseas department of France, bordering Suriname, Brazil, and the Atlantic Ocean. French is the official language. Tourist facilities are available in Cayenne and Kourou, but limited elsewhere. The currency is the euro (EUR).

Demonstrations, protests, marches, and strikes, some violent, may occur at any time in the capital, throughout the country and on main highways. Local transportation services can be disrupted. Roadblocks may occur on main roads at any time and often cause traffic disruptions. Canadians should not attempt to cross blockades, even if they appear unattended. Curfews may also be in effect.

Because of the unpredictable nature of these demonstrations and the potential for violence, Canadians in or travelling to French Guiana should exercise caution, avoid large gatherings and demonstrations, and monitor local news reports.

Petty crime occurs, particularly in urban areas. Ensure personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times. Do not leave valuables unattended in vehicles. Motorcycle theft is common.

Major roads are paved and well maintained. Emergency call boxes can be found alongside main highways, but few are functional due to vandalism. Drivers should carry a cellular phone. Coverage is available in the Cayenne-Kourou area. Local cellular phone coverage is also available in Sinnamary, Mana, and St-Laurent. Driving after dark can be dangerous, especially in the remote interior regions or on less developed rural roads.

Public taxis and vans are relatively safe. Rental cars and motorcycles are available in Cayenne, Kourou, and St-Laurent. A Canadian driver's licence is required to drive a four-wheeled vehicle. Canadian tourists can drive for a period of three months with their provincial driver's license. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.

The rainy season occurs from January to June. Flooding can occur during this period. Travellers should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

Although France recognizes dual nationality, dual nationals are considered French citizens and are subject to French laws. Penalties for the possession, use, or sale of illegal drugs can be severe.

There is no resident Canadian government office in French Guiana. You can obtain consular assistance and further information at the following address:

France - PARIS, Embassy of Canada
Address: 35, avenue Montaigne, 75008 Paris, France
Postal Address: Paris, France
Tel.: 33 (1) 44-43-29-00
Fax: 33 (1) 44-43-29-86
E-mail: consulaire@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.international.gc.ca/paris or www.amb-canada.fr

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Paris, France, and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Department in Ottawa at 613-996-8885 or use the services offered by Canada Direct.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit French Guiana. The passport must be valid for at least the expected duration of your stay in the country. Proof of yellow fever immunization is required for those arriving from infected areas.

Tourist Visa: Not required (for stays up to 90 days)
Business Visa: Not required (for stays up to 90 days)
Student Visa: Not required (for stays up to 90 days)

There is an airport departure tax of 5.40 euros.

Medical care is limited. In case of emergencies dial 15. Hospital facilities are available only in major centres.

There are no serious safety and security concerns. Exercise normal safety precautions and ensure personal belongings and passports are secure. Petty crime such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occurs. Canadians should avoid demonstrations and other large gatherings.

Roads are narrow. Many secondary roads are not paved. Drivers and pedestrians should exercise caution, particularly after dark.  An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.

French Polynesia is located in an active seismic zone. Canadians should know the address and telephone number of the High Commission of Canada in Wellington, New Zealand (see below), in the event of an emergency.

The cyclone season extends from November to April. Heavy rains may cause flooding.  Typhoons can also occur. Travellers should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

You can obtain consular assistance and further information at the following address:

French Polynesia - Papeete (Tahiti), Consulate of Australia
Address: Service Mobil, Motu Uta
Postal Address: P.O. Box 9068, Papeete (Tahiti), 98715, French Polynesia
Tel.: 689 46 88 06
Fax: 689 43 39 26

New Zealand - WELLINGTON, High Commission of Canada
Address: 125 The Terrace, Wellington, New Zealand
Postal Address: P.O. Box 8047, Wellington, New Zealand
Tel.: 64 (4) 473-9577
Fax: 64 (4) 471-2082
E-mail: wlgtn@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.international.gc.ca/newzealand

For emergency assistance after hours, call the High Commission of Canada in Wellington, New Zealand, and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Department in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit French Polynesia. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from the country. Canadians must also be in possession of an onward or return ticket.

Tourist Visa: Required (for stays over 30 days)

Medical facilities are good on the major islands, but limited in remote or less populated areas. Medical evacuation to Tahiti is necessary for serious illness cases.

GUADELOUPE

Guadeloupe (capital: Basse-Terre) is an overseas department of France in the eastern Caribbean Sea, southeast of Puerto Rico. The official language is French, and most people speak Creole. English is understood in major tourist centers and in the northern islands (Saint-Martin, Saint-Barthélemy). The currency is the euro (EUR).

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: Foreign Affairs Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Canadians are encouraged to register with the responsible Canadian government office during the hurricane season which runs from June 1^st to November 30th. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form.Petty crime occurs. You should avoid unpatrolled beaches and unpopulated areas after dark. Check with local authorities to determine which beaches are safe. Ensure personal valuables are secure at all times. Strikes may occasionally interfere with services.

Roads in Guadeloupe are among the best in the Caribbean. The island has six-lane highways. Roads are paved and maintained, and traffic safety is enforced by the police. The use of seatbelts is mandatory. Children under 12 are not legally allowed in the front seat.

Bus services are available in most major towns. Buses are inexpensive but operate only during certain hours. Schedules are unreliable. Ferry services provide transportation to associated islands. Taxis are safe but expensive. Fares are regulated by the government but increase 40 percent between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. Rented vehicles are available. Fees may be slightly higher compared with nearby islands. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.

French customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from the French West Indies of items such as firearms, medications, and animals. You should contact the Embassy of France in Ottawa or a French consulate (see below) for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Canadians interested in purchasing property or making other investments should seek legal advice from appropriate professionals in Canada and in this country before making commitments. Disputes arising from such activities could be prolonged and costly to resolve.Although France recognizes dual nationality, dual nationals are considered French citizens and are subject to French laws.

Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.There is no resident Canadian government office in Guadeloupe. Although the Embassy of Canada in Paris, France, has consular responsibility for Guadeloupe, Canadians can obtain consular assistance and further information from the High Commission of Canada in Bridgetown, Barbados.

Barbados - Bridgetown, High Commission of Canada
Address: Bishop's Court Hill, St Michael, Bridgetown, Barbados
Postal Address: P.O. Box 404, Bridgetown, Barbados
Tel.: (246) 429-3550
Fax: (246) 429-3780
E-mail: bdgtn@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.bridgetown.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the High Commission of Canada in Bridgetown, Barbados, and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Department in Ottawa at 613-996-8885 or use the services offered by Canada Direct.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Guadeloupe. The passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the date of your expected departure from the country.

Visitors must apply for a visa if their stay is longer than three months. All travellers must also be in possession of an onward or return ticket. Travellers are required to carry evidence of a yellow fever vaccination if they are arriving in Guadeloupe from infected areas.Tourist Visa: Not Required (for a stay less than three months)
Business Visa: Required
Student Visa: Required

If planning to marry in Guadeloupe, ensure you meet all requirements before leaving Canada. Most countries require you to produce a certificate stating that there are no Canadian impediments to your marriage. You should arrange to obtain the certificate in Canada before your departure.

Good-quality medical services are available. Not all doctors speak or understand English. Payment in advance is often expected. Hyperbaric chambers are available at the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire in Abymes.

MARTINIQUE

Martinique (capital: Fort-de-France) is an overseas department of France in the eastern Caribbean Sea, north of Trinidad and Tobago. It is a port of call for several international cruise ship lines. The official language is French. Creole patois is widely spoken. The currency is the euro (EUR).OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: Foreign Affairs Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Canadians are encouraged to register with the responsible Canadian government office during the hurricane season which runs from June 1^st to November 30th. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form.Petty crime occurs. Ensure personal belongings and travel documents are secure at all times. Avoid unpatrolled beaches and unpopulated areas after dark. Check with local authorities to determine which beaches are safe.Roads are paved and well maintained. Traffic safety is enforced by police. Night driving can be dangerous, especially in the mountains and on winding rural roads. Drive defensively at all times. Public transportation by van and taxi is relatively safe. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended. French customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from the French West Indies of items such as firearms, medications, and animals. It is advisable to contact the Embassy of France in Ottawa or a French consulate for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Canadians interested in purchasing property or making other investments should seek legal advice from appropriate professionals in Canada and in the Caribbean before making commitments. Disputes arising from such activities could be prolonged and costly to resolve.

There is no resident Canadian government office in Martinique. Although the Embassy of Canada in Paris, France, has consular responsibility for Martinique, Canadians can obtain consular assistance and further information from the High Commission of Canada in Bridgetown, Barbados.

Barbados - BRIDGETOWN, High Commission of Canada
Address: Bishop's Court Hill, St Michael, Bridgetown, Barbados
Postal Address: P.O. Box 404, Bridgetown, Barbados
Tel.: (246) 429-3550
Fax: (246) 437-7436
E-mail: bdgtn@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.international.gc.ca/bridgetown

For emergency assistance after hours, call the High Commission of Canada in Bridgetown, Barbados, and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Department in Ottawa at 613-996-8885 or use the services offered by Canada Direct.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Martinique. The passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the date of your departure.

Visitors must apply for a visa if their stay is longer than three months. All travellers must also be in possession of an onward or return ticket.

Tourist Visa: Not Required
Business Visa: Required
Student Visa: Required

If planning to marry in Martinique, ensure you meet all requirements before leaving Canada. Most countries require you to produce a certificate stating that there are no Canadian impediments to your marriage. You should arrange to obtain the certificate in Canada before your departure.

Medical care is available throughout the French West Indies. Martinique has the best medical care in the eastern Caribbean. Not all doctors speak or understand English. Payment in advance is often expected.

NEW CALEDONIA

New Caledonia (capital: Noumea) is an overseas territory of France located in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Australia. Tourist facilities and services are widely available. The official language is French.  The currency is the Comptoirs français du Pacifique franc. Credit cards are accepted. Most banks have ATMs. Currency and traveller's cheques can be exchanged at major banks or in most hotels. 

There are no serious safety or security concerns for visitors to New Caledonia. Exercise normal safety precautions and ensure personal belongings, passports, and other travel documents are secure. Petty crime is prevalent.  In the event of an emergency, dial 17 for the police and 15 for an ambulance.

Demonstrations and public protests, which may turn violent, should be avoided. Roadblocks and marches may occur on main roads at any time and with little or no notice.

All main roads on Grande Terre are paved.  Buses connect all major towns and villages.  There is a ferry service between Noumea and other islands.

The cyclone season extends from November to April. Travellers should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

There is no resident Canadian government office in New Caledonia. Canadians in New Caledonia can obtain consular assistance and further information from the Australian Consulate General in Noumea (under the Canada-Australia Consular Services Sharing Agreement) at the following address:

New Caledonia - NOUMEA, Australian Consulate General
Address: Immeuble Foch, 7th Floor, 19 Avenue du Maréchal Foch, Noumea, New Caledonia
Tel.: 687 272-414
Fax: 687 278-001

The High Commission of Canada in Canberra, Australia, has consular responsibility for New Caledonia. The address is as follows:

Australia - CANBERRA, High Commission of Canada
Address: Commonwealth Avenue, Canberra ACT 2600, Australia
Tel.: 61 (2) 6270-4000
Fax: 61 (2) 6270-4081
E-mail: cnbra@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.international.gc.ca/australia

For emergency assistance after hours, call the High Commission of Canada in Canberra, Australia, and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Department in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit New Caledonia. Canadians must also be in possession of an onward or return ticket.

Tourist Visa: Not required (for stays up to 30 days)
Business Visa: Required
Student Visa: Required

Medical facilities are generally good on the main island, but limited on the other islands. There is one decompression chamber in Noumea.

SAINT MARTIN

Saint Martin, a French dependency, and Sint Maarten, a Dutch dependency (consisting also of the islands of Saba and St. Eustatius), share one of the Windward Islands, located in the northeastern Caribbean. There are no customs checkpoints between the two dependencies. There are no customs checkpoints between the two dependencies. The capital of Saint Martin is Marigot and French is the official language.  The capital of Sint Maarten is Philipsburg and the official language is Dutch. English is widely spoken of both sides.  The currency in Saint Martin is the euro (EUR).

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: Foreign Affairs Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Canadians are encouraged to register with the responsible Canadian government office during the hurricane season which runs from June 1^st to November 30th. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form.Petty crime occurs. Ensure personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times. Avoid unpopulated areas and unpatrolled beaches after dark. Check with local authorities to determine which beaches are safe.

A valid Canadian driver's license is sufficient for driving in Saint Martin/Sint Maarten. Right-hand turns on red lights are prohibited. Particular care should be taken when renting vehicles, especially when arranging for insurance and liability. Ask questions and obtain detailed written information regarding your personal responsibilities before finalizing any rental arrangements. Taxis are plentiful and are a convenient way to get around during short stays. Juliana Airport, the international airport serving both sides of the island, is located in Sint Maarten (Dutch side).

Canadians interested in purchasing property or making other investments should seek legal advice from appropriate professionals in Canada and in the Caribbean before making commitments. Disputes arising from such activities could be prolonged and costly to resolve.

There is no resident Canadian government office in Saint Martin. Although the Embassy of Canada in Paris, France, has consular responsibility for Martinique, Canadians can obtain consular assistance at the following address in Sint Maarten:

Sint Maarten - DAWN BEACH, Consulate of Canada
Address: 11A Green Star Shell Road, Dawn Beach, Sint Maarten
Postal Address: Dawn Beach, Sint Maarten
Tel.: (599) 543-6261
After hours tel.: (599) 520-5202
Fax: (599) 543-6291
E-mail: canadacon@caribserve.net

The High Commission of Canada in Bridgetown, Barbados, has consular responsibility for Saint Martin.

Barbados - BRIDGETOWN, High Comission of Canada
Address: Bishop's Court Hill, St. Michael, Bridgetown, Barbados
Postal Address: P.O. Box 404, Bridgetown, Barbados
Tel.: (246) 429-3550
Fax: (246) 437-7436
E-mail: bdgtn@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.bridgetown.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Consulate of Canada in Dawn Beach, Sint Maartin, and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Department in Ottawa at 613-996-8885 or use the services offered by Canada Direct.

Most Canadians travelling to Saint Martin/Sint Maarten, however, will arrive by plane on the Dutch portion of the island (Sint Maarten). A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Sint Maarten. The passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the date of your expected departure from Sint Maarten. If you are going to Sint Maarten for one week or less, Canadian citizens are only required to be in possession of valid photo identification and proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate).

A Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to arrive on the French portion of the island (Saint Martin). There are no customs checkpoints between the two dependencies. Visitors are free to travel from one territory to another without problems.

Tourist Visa: Not required
Business Visa: Not required
Student Visa: Required

A departure tax of US$20 is charged for all international departures from Juliana Airport (Sint Maarten) and by sea. There are no depature taxes from Espérance Airport.

Good-quality medical services are available. Two hospitals are found on the island, one in Saint Martin and one in Sint Maarten. Not all doctors speak or understand English. Payment in advance is often expected.

SAINT-PIERRE-ET-MIQUELON

Saint-Pierre et Miquelon (capital: Saint-Pierre) is an overseas department of France, located 25 kilometres off the south coast of Newfoundland and Labrador. It consists of two small groups of islands. The main islands are Saint-Pierre and Miquelon-Langlade. Tourist facilities and services are widespread. French is the official language.  The currency is the euro (EUR).

Most Canadian visitors to Saint-Pierre et Miquelon do not experience problems. There are no serious safety and security concerns. Exercise normal safety precautions and ensure personal belongings and passports are secure.

Dense fog may pose a nautical hazard year round.

Limited consular services are available from the Consulate of Canada in Saint-Pierre at the following address:

Saint-Pierre et Miquelon - SAINT-PIERRE, Consulate of Canada
Address: 16, rue Jacques Debon, 97500, Saint-Pierre, Saint-Pierre et Miquelon
Postal Address: P.O. Box 4370, Saint-Pierre, Saint-Pierre et Miquelon
Tel.: 508 41-55-10
Fax: 508 41-55-10
E-mail: consulat.canada@cheznoo.com

Office hours are from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., or by appointment in the morning.

Consular services can also be obtained from the Embassy of Canada in Paris at the following address:

France - PARIS, Embassy of Canada
Address: 35, avenue Montaigne, 75008 Paris, France
Tel.: 33 1-44-43-29-00
Fax: 33 1-44-43-29-86
E-mail: paris@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.amb-canada.fr

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Paris and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Department in Ottawa at 613-996-8885 or use the services offered by Canada Direct.

A valid Canadian passport should be carried for all visits outside Canada. However, Canadians are only required to be in possession of valid official photo identification (such as a driver's licence) and proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate) for travel to Saint-Pierre et Miquelon.

For more information on new entry requirements to the United States as of January 23, 2007, please see our Current Issues page.

Tourist Visa: Not required
Working Visa: Required
Student Visa: Required

THE SCHENGEN AREA

The member states of the European Union (not including the United Kingdom and Ireland), plus Norway and Iceland, make up the Schengen area, which aims to abolish border controls between those countries and create a single external frontier. However, controls are still in place at the borders of the newer Schengen countries.

Canadians do not need visas for short-term visits to Schengen countries, but some member states require you to register with local authorities within three working days of your arrival. It is important to get your passport stamped when entering the Schengen area. The absence of an entry stamp from the initial Schengen port of entry could create difficulties during subsequent encounters with local police or other authorities.

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18. ANNEX

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