France has raised its level Vigipirate, or national security alert system, to “Attack emergency level”, the highest possible, because possible terrorist attacks.
Since March 24, local police have increased their powers to patrol and search all types of tourist, religious and sporting venues.
Always be aware of your surroundings, especially if you are among too many people.
The Olympic and Paralympic Games to be held in the country this summer are expected to increase the risk of possible terrorist attacks.
Since no trip to France is currently considered completely safe, here are all the considerations you should take into account if you decide to visit this country at this time.
LATEST NEWS from France:
April 3, 2024: France has raised its terror alert to the highest level
After the terrorist attacks committed in Moscow by the “Islamic State” on March 22, France had to upgrade its domestic security system.Attack emergency level.”
As a result, the country can allocate funds more efficiently and police are allowed to search airports, public transport, churches, tourist locations, education centers, sports venues and shopping centers.
The U.S. government is urging Americans to keep a low profile, stay away from crowded or touristy areas, and leave areas where too many police officers patrol.
It also advises citizens to register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to stay informed of the domestic situation and help locate you in case of emergency.
Crime statistics in France
According to Numbeo, the world’s largest database of cities and countries, crime in France is “Moderate,” with 58.64 points.
| Crime level | 58.64 | Moderate |
| Increase in crime in the last three years | 72.54 | High |
| Getting your belongings stolen | 50.46 | Moderate |
| Worrying about being mugged or robbed | 56.84 | Moderate |
| Getting your car stolen | 46.69 | Moderate |
| Getting your belongings stolen from your car |
55:30 | Moderate |
| Worrying about being attacked | 56.37 | Moderate |
| Afraid of being offended | 60.79 | High |
| Concern about physical attacks due to your skin color, ethnicity, gender or religion |
43.71 | Moderate |
| Problems with drug addicts or drug dealers | 63.63 | High |
| Vandalism and theft | 62.98 | High |
| Violent crimes such as assault and armed robbery | 53.51 | Moderate |
Areas to avoid
Given the current ‘Emergency Emergency Level’, visitors to France should exercise greater caution across the country, especially in ‘airports, public transport, churches, tourist locations, educational centres, sporting venues and shopping centres’.
We don’t advise you not to visit them, but if you are in Paris, be sure to pay attention to your surroundings.18th arrondissement” (neighborhood 18), and 19th arrondissement (neighborhood 19), especially at night.
Violent attacks have been reported Gare du Nord train station and metro lines 1, 2 and 6 in Paris and the metro as a whole.
Official travel advice
US travel advice
The US government’s biggest concern has to do with terrorism. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, terrorist organizations are actively planning possible attacks on the territory.
Attacks can occur with little or no warning on all modes of public transportation, shopping centers, government locations, churches, outdoor parks, sporting and cultural events, educational centers and similar areas.
Also read: US Embassy: France takes its security alert system to the highest level
Travel advice for Canada
According to the Canadian government, visitors must “exercises a great degree of caution” when visiting France. This means that the country is not considered completely safe.
France is currently under a ‘State of Attack Emergency’. So the government requires citizens to be on high alert when in public places or surrounded by crowds because “attacks are likely.”
Safety tips for France
As of today, no trip to France is considered risk-free. We recommend that you follow these safety tips to reduce potential risks.
- Avoid visiting or spending too much time in educational institutions, places of worship, shopping centers and popular tourist sites.
- Pickpocketing is a big problem, especially on public transport, such as metro lines.
- Make sure you have your travel documents protected, or better yet, keep them back at your accommodation.
- Strikes are common throughout France. Given the current situation, you should avoid crowded areas at all costs.
- Monitor local media and social media platforms for possible threats.
- If you see anything suspicious, report it to the police immediately.
- Follow police instructions and take official warnings seriously.
