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Travel: Transit, Flights, SIM Cards, and Licenses: how it works in France — first-hand

Short answer
To exchange a Russian driving license in France, use a sworn translator to obtain a certified translation of the original document. For immediate mobile data, purchase an eSIM provider like Lycamobile before arrival. Note that French residency permits do not exempt individuals from UK visa requirements when traveling to London.

From real experience

To exchange your Russian driving license for a French one, official translation might be required.
While previously a certificate of non-revocation from Russia might have sufficed, current regulations may necessitate a certified translation of the Russian driving license itself, including the 'permis de conduire' inscription. Utilize official lists of sworn translators (traducteur assermenté) in France. You can typically submit a scanned copy of your license for translation and receive both digital and physical copies.
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When flying with Russian airlines like Transavia, consider whether you will transit through the airport or exit with hand luggage.
It is generally possible to obtain a boarding pass from Transavia if a seat is purchased. There are concerns about potential entry restrictions for Russians into EU countries, which might influence exit routes in the future, potentially requiring travelers to use the same routes for departure as they did for entry.
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Foreigners can purchase French SIM cards.
Free Mobile kiosks often allow activation using a foreign bank card (non-RU) and a local address (hotel/Airbnb). E-sim services like Phoenix Pass are viable alternatives for data-only access without needing local residency documentation.
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A user's son was flying from Moscow to Paris via Istanbul with Turkish Airlines and was initially denied a boarding pass for his connecting flight.
Upon approaching the airline's counter (not the check-in desk), they contacted Istanbul and successfully arranged a boarding pass.
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For travelers needing immediate internet access upon arrival in France, purchasing an eSIM before arriving is a convenient option.
Lycamobile is recommended as a straightforward choice for obtaining an eSIM that can be activated immediately at the airport.
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French residents traveling to London (United Kingdom) will require a visa.
Holding a French residency permit (VNF) does not exempt individuals from visa requirements for the UK.
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