Adults only (18+)

Can You Vape in France

France has one of the largest vaping populations in Europe and was one of the first countries to adopt e-cigarettes as a tool for helping smokers quit. For many visitors, vaping in France feels quite natural and socially accepted, especially in outdoor cafés and public spaces. However, there are still clear laws on where vaping is allowed, what products are legal, and how tourists should travel with their vape devices.

If you plan to visit France and are wondering whether you can use your vape, buy supplies, or carry your e-liquids through airport security, understanding the country’s vaping rules will ensure you stay within the law and avoid unwanted fines.

The Legal Status of Vaping in France

Vaping is legal in France, and it has been regulated under the European Union’s Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) since 2016. This means e-liquids containing nicotine must comply with EU safety and labelling standards, including limits on nicotine strength and bottle size.

The maximum nicotine strength allowed in France is 20 milligrams per millilitre, and bottles containing nicotine must not exceed 10 millilitres. Vape tanks and pods are restricted to a maximum capacity of 2 millilitres. These regulations apply to both domestic and imported products.

Only licensed retailers are allowed to sell vaping products in France, and all packaging must display clear health warnings in French. Advertising for e-cigarettes is heavily restricted, and retailers are prohibited from marketing vapes as a medical or guaranteed stop-smoking aid.

You must be at least 18 years old to purchase or use vape products in France. Shops are required by law to verify age, and selling to minors can result in fines or loss of a retail licence.

Where You Can and Cannot Vape in France

France takes a similar approach to vaping as it does to smoking. While vaping is legal, it is restricted in certain public places to protect non-users from exposure. You cannot vape in enclosed public spaces such as offices, schools, hospitals, public transport, or government buildings. These areas are subject to the same regulations that ban smoking.

Vaping in restaurants, bars, and cafés is allowed only if the venue specifically permits it. Many establishments have outdoor terraces where vaping is common and accepted. However, indoor vaping is often restricted by management, particularly in places that serve food. Always check with staff before using your vape indoors, as fines can apply if you break local rules.

On trains, buses, and flights within France, vaping is completely prohibited. The French railway operator SNCF and airlines such as Air France have strict no-vaping policies. You are not allowed to use your vape in stations, terminals, or transport waiting areas either.

Vaping in Public Outdoor Spaces

You are free to vape outdoors in most public spaces, including parks, pavements, and beaches. France is known for its café culture, and it is common to see people vaping at outdoor tables. However, be respectful of those around you, as blowing vapour near diners or children can be considered impolite.

In certain family areas such as playgrounds and public gardens, local authorities may have posted signs prohibiting both smoking and vaping. Always look for signage before using your vape, especially in city parks or near schools.

Buying Vape Products in France

France has a thriving vape industry, with specialist vape shops found in almost every major town and city. You can purchase e-cigarettes, pod systems, coils, and e-liquids from authorised retailers. All products sold in France must comply with EU TPD standards, so you can expect the same level of safety and quality as in the UK.

French vape shops typically offer a wide range of nicotine strengths and flavours, from tobacco and menthol to fruit and dessert blends. Nicotine-free e-liquids are also common and can be sold in larger bottles, as they do not fall under the same restrictions.

If you prefer a specific UK brand or flavour, it’s legal to bring your own e-liquids into France for personal use. However, make sure they comply with EU rules on bottle size and nicotine concentration to avoid any issues at customs.

Travelling to France with Your Vape

If you are travelling to France from the UK or another country, you are allowed to bring your vape device and e-liquids with you for personal use. There are no restrictions on importing small amounts for individual consumption. However, you must follow airline safety regulations during your journey.

All vape devices and batteries must be carried in your hand luggage, not in checked bags, due to the risk of lithium battery fires. E-liquids must follow the standard 100-millilitre limit for carry-on liquids and be stored in a transparent resealable bag. Larger bottles can be placed in your checked luggage, but ensure they are tightly sealed and wrapped to prevent leaks.

Once you arrive in France, you can use your vape outdoors in most areas, but not indoors or on public transport. Attempting to vape on a plane or inside an airport can result in confiscation or fines.

Fines and Penalties for Breaking Vaping Laws

France enforces its public health laws seriously, and vaping in prohibited areas can result in fines. Individuals caught vaping in a banned location, such as on public transport or inside a public building, may be fined up to 150 euros. Employers who fail to enforce no-vaping rules in workplaces can face higher penalties.

Additionally, using an e-cigarette in areas with posted “interdiction de fumer” (no smoking) signs is treated the same as smoking under French law. Even if your vape produces no smell, it is still considered a nicotine product and falls under these restrictions.

Vaping and Health in France

France has a relatively progressive approach to vaping from a public health perspective. The French public health agency (Santé Publique France) and many national medical associations recognise vaping as a less harmful alternative for adult smokers. The country actively promotes harm reduction as part of its tobacco control strategy, encouraging smokers to switch to vaping where appropriate.

However, French authorities also emphasise that vaping is not completely risk-free and should only be used by adults who are already smokers. Advertising and sponsorship aimed at young people are strictly prohibited.

The government continues to monitor the long-term health effects of e-cigarette use and regularly reviews its regulations in line with emerging scientific evidence.

Vaping Etiquette in France

French culture values courtesy and respect in public spaces, and vaping etiquette is no exception. Even though vaping is widespread, it is considered good manners to ask before vaping around others, especially indoors or in social gatherings.

In outdoor cafés or terraces, vaping is usually accepted, but try to avoid producing large clouds of vapour near others who are eating or drinking. The French tend to appreciate discretion, and keeping your vaping low-profile will help you blend in more comfortably.

Vape littering is also frowned upon. Dispose of empty bottles, coils, and pods responsibly, and never drop them in public bins or on the street. Many vape shops offer recycling services for used devices and batteries.

How Vaping in France Compares to the UK

Vaping laws in France and the UK are very similar because both are based on the same EU Tobacco Products Directive. The key differences are cultural and practical rather than legal. In France, indoor vaping is less tolerated, and enforcement is stricter in workplaces and public institutions.

On the other hand, French vape shops tend to be more widespread, and vaping is seen as an established harm-reduction option for adult smokers. Both countries share the same nicotine limits, packaging standards, and age restrictions.

For UK travellers, bringing a vape to France is simple, provided you follow airline safety rules and respect local customs once you arrive.

Environmental Considerations

France places a strong emphasis on sustainability, and the government is increasingly focused on electronic waste management. Vape devices, batteries, and pods are classified as electronic waste and should be recycled at appropriate collection points. Many retailers offer battery recycling bins or trade-in programmes.

If you are using disposable vapes, take extra care to dispose of them properly, as throwing them in general waste is both illegal and environmentally damaging.

Final Thoughts

Yes, you can vape in France, but you must follow specific rules. Vaping is legal and well regulated under French and EU law, and you are free to use your device outdoors in most areas. However, vaping indoors, on public transport, or in enclosed public spaces is prohibited and can lead to fines.

When travelling, always carry your vape in your hand luggage, comply with liquid restrictions, and use your device responsibly. Be courteous in public, respect local customs, and dispose of your vape products thoughtfully.

France remains one of Europe’s most vape-friendly countries for adults who use e-cigarettes as an alternative to smoking. By understanding the rules and practising good etiquette, you can enjoy vaping in France with confidence and without any legal concerns.