Entry and stay in the country
French nationals can stay in French Polynesia with their national identity card. However, if you are transiting through the United States, you will need a passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of return. Visas are not required, as French Polynesia is an Overseas Territory.
Driving in the country
Driving on the right side of the road with a national driver’s license is sufficient
Compulsory vaccinations
No vaccinations are required to enter French Polynesia. For more information, consult the Institut Pasteur Website.
Recommended vaccines
No vaccine is mandatory to enter French Polynesia, but it is recommended to update the DT polio vaccine and to be vaccinated againts typoid fever and hepatitis A and B.
Health risks and advice
Medical facilities are modern and tap water is safe to drink. It is recommended to protect yourself against mosquitoes. Medical assistance services are available in Papeete, Mamao, Taravao and Vaiami.
Banking
Banks are generally open Monday through Friday, and major credit cards are accepted in Tahiti and the Society Islands. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash in the other archipelagos.
Climate
Polynesia enjoys a tropical climate, with a hot season from late November to late March, with the best time to travel being between mid-April and mid-October. Cyclones are relatively rare, but can occur between November and March.
Shopping
Stores are generally open Monday through Friday, and some large shopping centers have extended hours.
Communications
Polynesian-specific phone cards are required to use phone booths. Domestic calls are inexpensive, and the price of international calls is falling.
Time difference
Paris is 11 hours ahead of Papeete in winter and 12 hours ahead in summer. Thus, when it is noon in Tahiti, it is 11 p.m. in Paris in December and midnight in July
Language
French is the official language, but Tahitian and other Polynesian languages are also spoken.
Currency
The currency used is the CFP. Franc and currency can be exchanged at the airport, banks and hotels. Traveller’s checks denominated in euros or U.S. dollars are also accepted.
Voltage
The electrical standard is 220 volts and the smaller islands are powered by generators.