The Pacific franc (code XPF, also known as the CFP franc) is the currency of French Polynesia, New Caledonia and Wallis and Futuna. One major feature stands out: it is tied to the euro by a fixed, guaranteed parity, which radically changes the way you plan your travel budget.
A French currency, but not the euro
These three overseas collectivities are part of the French Republic, but they are not in the eurozone. There you pay in Pacific francs, a currency inherited from the post-war era. For a traveller setting off from mainland France, it is a singular situation: you remain on French territory, with the tricolour flag and the French language, yet you must obtain a separate currency.
Unlike floating currencies (the dollar, the pound, the yen) whose rate moves every day, the XPF benefits from a fixed administered parity with the euro, inherited from its former link to the French franc. In practical terms, the ratio between the euro and the Pacific franc does not fluctuate with the markets: it is set by decree. This means you face no exchange-rate risk during your stay, and comparing prices on the spot remains simple once you understand the conversion mechanism. This stability is a genuine comfort, rare among far-flung destinations.
Three destinations, one and the same currency
The same banknote circulates across territories that are very far apart. In French Polynesia (Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, the Marquesas, the Tuamotus), the official currency remains the Pacific franc: shops, markets and food trucks operate in XPF, even if some large hotels accept bank cards for high-end services. In New Caledonia (Nouméa, the Isle of Pines, the Loyalty Islands), the Pacific franc is everywhere, including for water activities and local produce markets. In Wallis and Futuna, the most isolated and least equipped territory, cash is all but indispensable.
Bank card or cash: the cash culture remains strong
In urban centres such as Papeete or Nouméa, bank cards work without difficulty in hotels, supermarkets and restaurants. Cash machines do exist, but they become scarcer as soon as you move away from the main islands. On the Tuamotu atolls, in the valleys of the Marquesas or in Futuna, withdrawing money can become impossible for several days.
Foreign withdrawal fees, the risk of a network outage and the remoteness fully justify arriving with a reserve of cash. Craft markets, local transport, guesthouses, boat taxis and tips are very often paid in cash. Setting aside an envelope of XPF before you leave saves you from depending on a single cash machine that may be out of service.
Preparing your currency exchange from Paris
The Pacific franc is an uncommon currency: it is not always immediately available in store. That is why we strongly recommend ordering your currency online in advance, so as to guarantee the availability of the banknotes and prepare your collection with complete peace of mind. At Paris Change, a bureau de change approved by the ACPR (Banque de France), you reserve your amount and come to pick it up at our store at 4 Boulevard Saint-Michel (75005 Paris), open 7 days a week and commission-free, with more than 53 currencies on offer. Our approval and our roots in Saint-Michel are the guarantee of a transparent and compliant service.
Good to know before the big trip
Flights to the Pacific are long and often involve stopovers: change your euros calmly in Paris rather than in the rush of a connecting airport. Also bear in mind customs regulations: any movement of cash equal to or above €10,000 (or its equivalent) must be declared when entering and leaving the European Union. For a typical stay, plan instead to split your cash budget according to the duration and the legs of your trip.
Frequently asked questions
Does the euro / Pacific franc rate change every day?
No. The XPF is tied to the euro by a fixed parity set by the authorities, not by the markets. The ratio does not vary from day to day, unlike floating currencies. Our counter applies clear terms, commission-free.
Can you pay in euros on the spot?
Generally no: the official currency is the Pacific franc. Some large hotels may accept other means of payment, but shops, markets and transport expect XPF. It is therefore better to have local cash on hand.
Do you need to reserve in advance to obtain XPF?
Yes, it is advisable. As the Pacific franc is a currency in low demand, reserving online guarantees the availability of the banknotes on the day you visit the store.
Heading to Tahiti, Nouméa or Wallis? Plan your currency exchange ahead: order your currency now and come and collect your Pacific francs at 4 Boulevard Saint-Michel, 7 days a week and commission-free.
