French Polynesia Power Plugs, Wall Sockets & Electrical Outlets
In French Polynesia, power plugs and sockets (electrical outlets) of Type C (CEE 7/16 (Europlug), two round pins, ungrounded) and Type E (CEE 7/5, two round pins plus hole for socket grounding pin, grounded) are used. Wall sockets run at 220V and 60Hz. Check if you need a travel adapter, electrical adapter or voltage converter before travelling to French Polynesia.
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French Polynesia uses:
What Plug Type Does French Polynesia Use?
A French Polynesia power plug follows the French electrical standard, meaning travelers will encounter two plug types when visiting the islands: Type C (the Europlug) and Type E, the grounded French-style plug. Power in French Polynesia runs at 220 volts and 60Hz, which differs from many countries' voltage but is worth confirming against your device's rated input before plugging in. Most modern electronics, including phone chargers, laptop adapters, and camera battery chargers, are built to handle a range of voltages, so the plug shape rather than the voltage itself is usually the main concern for visitors.
Where to Buy a Travel Adapter for French Polynesia
If your home country uses a different plug shape, you'll need a travel adaptor that converts your existing plug into a Type C or Type E pin configuration to fit into the local socket-outlet. These adapters are widely available at airport shops, electronics retailers, and luggage stores before departure, and they're also sold in general stores and hotels throughout French Polynesia, though selection may be limited locally. It's generally more reliable to purchase an adapter in advance rather than assume you'll find the exact type you need once you arrive.
Dual-Voltage Devices and French Polynesia
Many laptops, phone chargers, and camera battery packs are dual-voltage, meaning they can safely accept anywhere from around 100 to 240 volts without needing a separate converter. Checking the fine print on your charger's label will confirm whether it supports the 220V supply used at every electrical outlet in French Polynesia. If a device is not dual-voltage and is rated only for a lower voltage, a voltage converter, not just a plug adapter, would be required to use it safely.
Understanding French Polynesia's Power Plugs and Sockets
Type C, the Europlug, is a compact two-pin ungrounded plug with round 4mm pins spaced 18.6mm apart, rated for a maximum of 2.5A. It's designed for double-insulated Class II devices that don't require grounding, making it common for phone chargers, tablets, and other small electronics, but it's not suitable for higher-power appliances such as hair dryers or kettles. Because the Europlug is only a partial fit for some grounded sockets, it can occasionally sit loosely, so a firm connection should always be checked.
Type E, based on the French CEE 7/5 standard, is the grounded plug found throughout French Polynesia and features two round 4.8mm pins alongside a hole that accepts a grounding pin protruding from the wall socket. Rated at 16A for 220-240V use, Type E is built for higher-demand appliances like kitchen equipment and power tools, and its recessed socket design adds a layer of protection against accidental contact. Type C Europlugs can be inserted into Type E sockets, but doing so bypasses the grounding connection, so grounded appliances should always use a proper Type E or compatible hybrid plug.
- Type C (Europlug): ungrounded, 2.5A, for low-power electronics only
- Type E: grounded, 16A, standard for household and high-power appliances
- Voltage: 220V at 60Hz throughout French Polynesia
- E/F hybrid plugs also work in Type E sockets across much of Europe and French-influenced regions
Frequently Asked Questions
If your home country uses plug types other than Type C or Type E, you will need a travel adapter to fit local sockets. Visitors from regions using Type E or E/F hybrid plugs may find their existing plugs work directly, but most other travelers will need an adapter for the trip.
French Polynesia operates on a 220V supply at 60Hz. Always check that your device is rated for this voltage, or use a compatible dual-voltage device, before plugging in.
Yes, the Type E sockets used in French Polynesia are grounded, with a protruding pin in the socket that connects to a hole in the plug. Type C Europlugs can be plugged into these sockets but do not provide a grounded connection.
Most modern phone chargers are dual-voltage and can safely handle the 220V, 60Hz supply used in French Polynesia without a converter. You'll just need a plug adapter to match the Type C or Type E socket shape, not a voltage converter.
