Notice Paris

Visitors from outside the European Union can claim back VAT (value added tax) on purchases made in France. Shops and professionals that offer this service have a ‘Tax Free Shopping’ sign or sticker in their window. Cosmetics, wine, champagne, jewelry, gastronomy, time pieces, ready-to-wear, leather goods and luxury goods: all products can be subject to a tax refund.

Decree dated 15 November 2006 has determined the implementation conditions of smoking prohibition in collective venues in Paris. First, smoking was banned in all enclosed and covered public places, workplaces, health centers, schools and/or institutions designed to receive, educate or host the underage, as well as in all public transport. Since January 1st 2008, this ban has been extended to so-called “gathering venues,” hotels, restaurants, bars, tobacco shops, casinos and nightclubs. However, smoking is allowed on café, restaurant and pub terraces, as long as they are not covered, or enclosed.