Touring Fundamentals

For European citizens, especially if they are in the Schengen zone, there is no special visa required to tour France.

Nevertheless, it is recommended to have a European Health Insurance Card, to be renewed with one’s home country’s authorities every two years, and personal insurance.

It is also preferable to let employers know about any professional insurance needs in advance, for instance to insure instruments.

Some venues require an A1 form to indicate that social security payments are taken care of in the country of residence, and it is generally considered best to have one.

A1 forms are delivered by one’s home country’s authorities. Under A1 agreements, the minimum wage for a performance is 145€ (gross salary), from which 15% tax is deducted. In all cases, it is preferable to be in touch with a French professional who will be able to guide you through the intricacies of employment regulations and funding requirements (that are tricky even for the French).