Army personnel, MOD civilians, veterans and family members planning travel to France or onward travel through Europe should familiarise themselves with the latest GOV.UK travel advice. This information was updated on 11 Aug, and the information for France and Germany can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/france and https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/germany
These recent updates highlight additional documentation that may be required when entering France, the rollout of the EU's new Entry/Exit System (EES), and temporary border controls currently in place at Germany's land borders.
Staying with Family or Friends in France
If you are staying with family, friends or another private host in France, you may be asked to provide a welcome invitation, known as an Attestation d'Accueil.
The document:
- Must be obtained by your French host from their local town hall (Mairie).
- Must be sent to you before travel.
- May be requested by French border officials as proof of your accommodation arrangements.
Travellers staying in private accommodation should ensure this paperwork is in place before departure.
Visiting a Second Home in France