Is it illegal to refuse cash in France?

Yes, it is generally illegal for businesses in France to refuse payments in cash (euros) for transactions. Under Article 642-3 of the French penal code, refusing legal tender is a 2nd class offence, punishable by a fine. However, there are limited exceptions based on security or practicality.

Are you legally allowed to refuse cash?

While cash is considered a legal tender, businesses have no legal obligation to accept it and have the right to set their own payment policies.

Do they accept cash in France?

The banknote: a universal means of payment

Cash is legal tender in France. It is a criminal offence to refuse it in a transaction, although there are exceptions.

What is considered disrespectful in France?

Aside from a proper hello and goodbye, other pleasantries are expected in France. Leave them out and you will likely come across as rude. These include using please and thank you, and politely addressing people in shops or restaurants e.g. referring to waiters and waitresses as Madame or Monsieur.

Is France becoming cashless?

There is no doubt that cash is becoming less commonly used, but could France ban it entirely? In 2024, for the first time there were more card payments in France than cash transactions, according to the Banque de France. “Covid was a very powerful boost for cashless payments.

Is it illegal for a business to refuse cash as payment?

Which country is 100% cashless?

Sweden has officially become the first country in the world to go completely cashless. Almost every shop, café, and public transport system in Sweden now accepts only digital payments like cards or mobile apps. The popular app “Swish,” launched in 2012, is used by millions of Swedes to send and receive money instantly.

Is it better to take cash or card to France?

Although cards are accepted virtually anywhere in France, there will still be situations where you won't be able to use them. For example, you'll need cash for flea markets and souvenir shopping. Also, one of the top reasons for carrying cash is tipping.

Is it rude to say thank you in France?

n France, saying thank you is expected. It shows respect, not just politeness. Say it often Whether you're in a shop, on the street, or at someone's home, a quick merci goes a long way.

What is one weird law in France?

Perhaps the most odd law of all is that it is legal in France to marry a dead person, though you do need the permission of the President and you must have a good reason to do so.

Can I keep cash in my pocket through airport security?

Can I Keep Cash in My Pockets through TSA? No. TSA agents will ask that you remove everything, even a half-used tissue, from your pockets before going through metal detectors and scanners. Especially if you have coins in your pocket, you will get flagged for further search.

Do French supermarkets take cash?

All shops accept cash (euros) - which can be obtained from any French ATM as long as you have a valid card from one of the main international operators (Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, etc.) Markets: See the markets of France page.

Is the UK going to become cashless?

The UK is rapidly moving towards being a low-cash, but not fully cashless, society, with digital payments dominating, yet cash remains crucial for millions, especially vulnerable groups, leading to government efforts to protect access via legislation, banking hubs, and ATMs, even as some businesses go card-only and digital ID plans emerge. While cash use has plummeted (less than 10% of payments in 2024/25), the Bank of England and officials stress that a completely cashless system isn't feasible or desirable yet, focusing on maintaining choice and access for everyone, including the elderly and low-income individuals. 

Is it illegal to keep cash at home in the UK?

It is not illegal to keep cash at home in the UK, but it should be stored securely to mitigate risks. The amount of cash to have on hand varies, but a small amount for emergencies is recommended while keeping most in a secure bank account.

Is paying with cash safer than card?

There is also a practical security advantage with cash. Although debit and credit cards often have personal identification numbers (PIN) and chips for extra security, there is less risk of identity theft or your information getting stolen online when using cash.

Do the French actually say "je voudrais"?

Yes, the French absolutely say "je voudrais" (I would like), especially in polite situations like ordering food or making requests, but natives often use more casual, common alternatives like "je prends" (I'll have/take) or "je vais prendre" (I'm going to have/take) for everyday ordering. While "je veux" (I want) is grammatically correct, it's considered too direct and impolite for most social interactions, making je voudrais a staple for polite requests.

Is it polite to say "de rien"?

De rien: The relaxed you're welcome

You can use it as a way to say “You're welcome” when someone spontaneously thanks you for something unimportant. Beware though: De rien is fairly informal and shouldn't be used in professional or extremely formal situations.

What is a red zone in France?

The Zone Rouge, or Red Zone, is the name given to about 460 square miles of totally devastated land in the Meuse. Littered with unexploded ordnance, it became a physical and environmental catastrophe.

What does 93 mean in Paris?

Seine-Saint-Denis (French pronunciation: [sɛn sɛ̃ d(ə)ni]) is a department of France located in the Grand Paris metropolis in the Île-de-France region. In French, it is often referred to colloquially as quatre-vingt treize or neuf trois ("ninety-three" or "nine three"), after its official administrative number, 93.

Do and don'ts in France?

French Etiquette- 10 Essential Tips

• 1 Always “hello” - toujours “bonjour” ! ...
• 2 The kingdom of politeness. ...
• 3 Kissing not hugging. ...
• 4 Punctuality : never be on time ! ...
• 5 Table manners. ...
• 6 Clothes: less is more. ...
• 7 Don't talk too much about money. ...
• 8 Food, politics, art: the top 3 topics of conversation.

Is cash still king in Europe?

The use of coins and notes is steadily declining across Europe, yet it remains widespread. In many eurozone countries, cash is still the most common payment method both in terms of the number and value of transactions.

Do I have to tell my bank I'm going abroad?

It's not essential, but it helps our fraud detection systems to know in advance that you're travelling abroad. Find out how to get it at How do I get the mobile banking app?