by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 11:05 AM ET, Mon October 19, 2026
Ottawa has updated its travel advice for France, continuing to urge Canadians to exercise a high degree of caution due to the threat of terrorism.
The advisory, last updated October 13, 2026, maintains France at the government's second-highest travel risk category, which calls for heightened vigilance but does not advise Canadians to avoid visiting the country.
The latest revision specifically addresses French laws concerning face coverings in public places. The overall terrorism-related risk level remains in place.
Terrorism Concerns Remain
According to Global Affairs Canada, terrorist attacks have occurred in several European cities, and further incidents remain possible.
The government identifies several locations that could be targeted, including airports, transportation hubs, government buildings, places of worship, schools and popular tourist attractions.
In Paris, travellers are advised to remain particularly vigilant in restaurants, cafés, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other public places frequented by visitors.
Canadians are also encouraged to exercise additional caution during sporting events, public celebrations, religious holidays and major political gatherings.
France maintains heightened security measures through its Vigipirate counterterrorism plan. According to Canada's advisory, the French government's three-level public alert system is currently at Level 2, known as vigilance renforcée, or enhanced vigilance.
Travellers may encounter an increased police and military presence in public areas, including transportation facilities and tourist destinations.
Face Coverings
The October 13 update also highlights French legislation prohibiting people from covering their faces in public places, including international airport arrivals areas.
Canada's advisory states that violations can result in fines and that tourists and people wearing face coverings for religious reasons are not exempt from the prohibition.
Crime and Transportation
Beyond terrorism concerns, the advisory warns Canadians about pickpocketing, bag snatching and mobile phone theft, particularly in major cities and heavily visited tourist areas.
Public transportation networks, including buses, trains, railway stations and airport connections, are identified as common locations for theft. International rail routes connecting Paris with Brussels, Amsterdam and London are also mentioned.
Travellers are encouraged to secure their passports, avoid carrying unnecessary valuables and remain alert to distraction techniques used by thieves.
The government also cautions that demonstrations and labour strikes occur regularly throughout France, sometimes affecting transportation and public services.
Even peaceful demonstrations can become violent, while strikes involving transportation workers may result in delays and service interruptions.
Canadians are advised to monitor local news, avoid demonstrations and allow additional travel time when disruptions are expected.
Curfews Following Widespread Unrest
The advisory comes as France faces widespread civil unrest, with Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu calling for localized curfews following a weekend of violent protests, rioting and looting.
According to an October 19 report by The Associated Press, at least 2,400 people were arrested after demonstrations over rising living costs and poor school conditions escalated into violence in Paris, Lyon, Marseille and other cities.
French authorities estimate that at least 3,000 businesses were damaged or looted. Lecornu has instructed regional officials to introduce targeted curfews to prevent further violence, with specific locations to be announced.
The developments add to concerns for travellers, particularly those visiting major urban centres, where demonstrations and heightened security measures could affect sightseeing and local transportation.
What Advisors Should Know
The government's current guidance does not recommend cancelling or avoiding travel to France. Instead, it calls for increased awareness of security risks, particularly in crowded public spaces and major transportation hubs.
Advisors may also wish to remind clients to review their travel insurance coverage, safeguard important documents and stay informed about possible transportation disruptions.
The Government of Canada recommends that travellers regularly consult its official France Travel Advice and Advisories page, as security conditions and travel requirements can change.
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