French Polynesia
The practical basics before you go: plugs, emergency numbers, money, tipping and the time.
The country in brief
About 282 thousand people live in French Polynesia, on 4,167 km². The capital is Papeete.
- Capital
- Papeete
- Population
- 282,465
- Area
- 4,167 km²
- Official languages
- French
No land borders
Facts change, so check the important things before you travel.
Population: World Bank, 2025 (CC BY 4.0). Capital, area and languages: Wikidata. Facts fetched October 30, 2026.
Before you go
Which plugs are used in French Polynesia?
Sockets take plug type A/B/E, at 220 V and 60 Hz.
What is the emergency number in French Polynesia?
Call 17 for the police, 15 for an ambulance and 18 for the fire brigade.
Do you tip in French Polynesia?
Not expected.
Which side of the road do they drive on in French Polynesia?
Traffic drives on the right.
What currency is used in French Polynesia?
Prices are in CFP Franc (XPF).
What language do they speak in French Polynesia?
Official languages: French.
How do I call a number in French Polynesia from abroad?
To call a number there from abroad, start with +689.
Entry rules and travel advice
Visa rules depend on your passport and can change at short notice. Your own government keeps them up to date, so check its advice before you book.
Links checked October 30, 2026.
