French Prostitution Law: A Practical Guide for Paris Escorts

If you work as an escort in Paris, the law isn’t a mystery you can ignore. France has a clear set of rules that focus on the client rather than the sex worker, and knowing them protects your business and peace of mind.

Key Rules You Must Follow

Since 2016 the French Penal Code treats buying sexual services as a criminal offense. That means a client can be fined up to €3,750 and face a short jail term. The escort herself is not prosecuted as long as she works independently and does not act as a third‑party exploiter (pimp, manager, or agency that extracts money).

Running an escort agency is still illegal under the “proxénétisme” law, unless the agency can prove every companion is fully autonomous and the service is purely an introduction. Most safe‑house platforms avoid the word “agency” and present themselves as “booking services" to stay in the gray area.

Payment methods matter. Cash is the safest route because it leaves no digital trail that could be used as evidence. If you accept card payments, make sure the transaction is labeled as “consultation" or "service" and that the amount stays below the threshold that triggers automatic reporting (currently €1,000 per transaction).

Age verification is non‑negotiable. Anyone under 18 is off‑limits, and you must keep a copy of a valid ID for your records. Failure to do so can lead to charges of child prostitution, which carry severe penalties.

Staying Safe and Legal in 2025

First, keep a clear line between personal and professional communication. Use a dedicated phone number and email address that you can discard if needed. Encryption apps like Signal add a layer of privacy without raising suspicion.

Second, draft a short agreement before meeting a client. It should outline the service, duration, price, and a clause that the client acknowledges the legal status of purchasing sexual services. Having this written proof can protect you if the police get involved.

Third, watch the news for local enforcement trends. Some arrondissements increase patrols near tourist hotspots during events like the Olympics. Adjust your locations accordingly – a quiet cafe or a private residence can be less risky than a public park.

Finally, stay connected with other escorts. Peer networks share red‑flag clients, new law interpretations, and reliable payment platforms. When you see a pattern—like a client demanding unusually low prices or refusing to show ID—trust the group’s advice and walk away.

Understanding French prostitution law isn’t about being scared; it’s about making smart choices. Follow the client‑focused rules, keep your transactions clean, and protect your personal data. That way you can focus on what matters most: offering a safe, enjoyable experience in the City of Love.