Travelling outside Australia?
See our Consular Services page for support we can provide, as well as emergency contact information. We recommend you visit Smartraveller.gov.au as your first destination.
English-speaking professionals in France
- English-Speaking Lawyers and Notaries
- Sworn Translators
- Medical professionals in France (including Hospitals and specialists)
Driving in France
The Australian Embassy cannot renew driving licences. Please contact the relevant road authority in Australia for information regarding the necessary forms required to renew driving licences whilst residing overseas. Depending on the requirements of your relevant state or territory, the Embassy can assist with witnessing your signature to support your licence renewal. For more information, visit our Notarial Services page.
More information can also be found here:
Getting married or entering into a PACS (civil partnership) in France
Marriages are not performed at Australian Embassies or Missions. To be legally married, a marriage in France must take place at a townhall (Mairie). We invite you to make direct contact with your townhall to obtain their requirements.
For more information on marriages and PACS (civil partnership):
Passport and Notarial Services
See Passport Services or Notarial Services for more information on services we can provide.
Visas for travelling or living in France
The France-Visas website can help determine if you need a visa to enter the country. This includes for transits.
Visit the France Diplomatie website for information about coming to France.
For further information please consult the website of the French Embassy in Australia.
Connecting with Australia
Settling down in France and informing Australian authorities
If you plan to remain overseas for an extended period, we recommend that you contact the relevant authorities to let them know. Visit:
- Smartraveller's Voting overseas page which provides information about overseas enrolment and links to the Australian Electoral Commission
- Services Australia for information about how being overseas can affect any payments you receive and your obligations
- The Australian Taxation Office for information about your tax residency status
Returning to Australia
If you intend to return to Australia after living abroad, we recommend that you familiarise yourself with the relevant information below, including citizenship, visas, customs clearance and bringing pets and possessions back to Australia.
Note: An Australian citizen cannot enter Australia on a foreign passport. (A visa will not be issued to an Australian citizen in their foreign passport).
- Returning to Australia provides information about returning as a citizen, foreign national or visitor, and provides links to pages that outline:
- what you can and cannot take into Australia (pets, foods, medicines, other goods)
- customs information and duty free concessions
- Bringing pets to Australia provides information about requirements for your pets, including preparations.
Financial and social services in Australia
- Social Services including retirement, health care and other social services
- Australian Taxation Office for information on tax and superannuation, including applying for a Tax File Number.
Others
Page Updated: 16 October 2026