Doing Business In (Insert Country Name Here) - BNA

U.S. Companies that require travel of foreign businesspersons to the United States
should be advised that security options are handled via an interagency process. Visa
applicants should go to the following links.
State Department Visa Website: [http://travel.state.gov/visa/index.html]
United States Visas.gov: [http://www.unitedstatesvisas.gov/]
Consular section of the American Embassy Paris:
[http://www.amb-usa.fr/CONSUL/visas/default.htm]
Telecommunications Return to top
Telecommunications to and from Paris compare favorably with those in any large U.S.
city. A direct-dial telephone system links France to the U.S. and most of the world.
Calls to the States may be charged to international telephone cards such as AT&T, MCI
and Sprint; international directory inquiries may be reached by dialing 0-800-99-00-11
(AT&T Direct U.S. operator). Most public phones in France are equipped for the
convenient "Télécartes" (pre-paid cards) available in tobacco shops, post offices and
subway/railway stations at 15 euros for 100 units and 7,50 euros for 50 units.
Transportation Return to top
Frequent direct air service is available to many U.S. and French cities. The two airports
serving Paris – Charles De Gaulle Roissy and Orly – are easily accessible by excellent
bus (Air France) and rail service. The French railway system is among the best in the
world; its efficient network ties in conveniently with public transportation in most French
cities.
Buses and the Metro (subway) may be crowded during rush hours, but they provide fast
and efficient service; however, a word to the wise: as in many large cities worldwide, one
should be alert to the dangers of pickpockets while in public places.
Language Return to top
While French is the official language in France, many business people speak English.
Product literature, correspondence and negotiations in the French language provide a
distinct advantage over competitors who use only English. It should be noted that other
EU suppliers are accustomed to dealing in the French language.
2/15/2008 Country Commercial Guide for France 135
INTERNATIONAL COPYRIGHT, U.S. & FOREIGN COMMERCIAL SERVICE AND U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE,
© 2007. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED OUTSIDE OF THE UNITED STATES.