Travelling in France: an identity card is all you need
If you’re taking a domestic flight between two French cities (for example, from Limoges to Lyon or from Pau to Brest), a valid national identity card is more than enough.
The national identity card remains the most reliable document for proving your identity in the event of a check.
Travelling in Europe: identity card or passport?
Within the European Union and the Schengen Area, a French identity card is sufficient for crossing borders. This applies, for example, to flights to Italy, Switzerland or Greece.
However, it is important to check that your identity card is still valid. Some destinations, such as Belgium or Norway, do not accept an identity card that has been automatically extended for five years if it appears to have expired.
If in doubt, a passport remains the universally recognised document.
Travelling outside Europe: passport required
For destinations outside the Schengen Area, a passport is compulsory. Some countries even require it to be valid for at least six months after your planned return date.
Furthermore, a visa may be required, as is the case for certain destinations in Africa or Asia.
Before you set off, always check the entry requirements directly on the website of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs or with the consulate of the country concerned.
Special cases: minors, business travellers, specific situations
- Travelling with a minor: since 2012, children must have their own identity document (national identity card or passport). Authorisation to leave the country may be required if the child is travelling without their parents.
- Business travel: certain trips require additional documents (a corporate invitation, a letter of assignment). Planning well in advance helps to avoid any hold-ups.
- International connections: if you have a stopover in a third country, a passport is generally required, even if your final destination is within the EU.
What should you do if your documents are lost or have expired?
Last-minute problems can arise. If you have lost your documents before your flight, you must report the loss to the police station or gendarmerie and request an official receipt. This does not replace an identity document but may help with your arrangements.
If your card or passport has expired, the airline cannot accept an invalid document. Remember to renew it several weeks before your departure, especially during the summer months.
Travel with peace of mind
At Chalair, we know that preparing for a trip can raise questions. That’s why we urge you to always check your documents before arriving at the airport. Whether you’re travelling within France, across Europe or further afield, there’s just one rule: it’s better to be over-prepared than under-prepared.
Whether it’s an identity card or a passport, the documents you need for your flight depend mainly on your destination. For a domestic or European flight, an identity card is sufficient, but for an international flight, a passport is essential. If in doubt, a passport remains the universal document to opt for. Plan ahead, check your documents and travel with peace of mind: that’s the key to a smooth departure.