Read Before Asking: FAQ

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Circle Around! Listen here and listen well because before we can help you it is you who must help us. This French Foreign Legion forum has been around for quiet some time and over this period of time we have gathered together a significant amount of questions and answers. With these we have created a FAQ that not only benefits you but everyone on this forum. Having to addressing repeatedly asked questions sidetracks those who have “been there done that” from answering important genuine questions thus degenerating the quality of this forum. Because of this we will only address these questions once right here and right now. Take a look around and find your question in the FAQ. If your question is not here in the FAQ it is either because…

…the question can not be answered by anyone.

…the question can be answered by you.
…the question has little importance or relevance to the Legion.
If none of the above apply than you have a genuine question that should be asked and more than likely added to the FAQ. It is important that you title all topics of your posts’ with an appropriate title that suits your question. Topics with “I have a Question” wastes everyone’s time. Give us a clue as to what you will be asking in your topic. Use common sense when posting a question. We are all adults and expect you to hold a manner of professionalism during your stay here. You will respectfully address the members on this forum and adhere to the knowledge of the members who have “been there done that.” Feel free to introduce yourself, doing so is courteous to those of us who see new faces everyday, however you are not encouraged to give out personal information. So with that, BIENVENUE!


Just another soldier,


<B>

Forgotten
</B>



Click Here Or Scroll Down For New FAQ ([Only registered and activated users can see links])


Click Here Or Scroll Down For New FAQ ([Only registered and activated users can see links])


Click Here Or Scroll Down For New FAQ ([Only registered and activated users can see links])


Click Here Or Scroll Down For New FAQ ([Only registered and activated users can see links])



Le Général Questionne
- Response from the official Legion website. ([Only registered and activated users can see links])

Relations et Famille
- What is the Legion’s policy regarding a family emergency? Can one leave to attend a funeral for example?
Non. > Read More ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Can one join the Legion if one is married?
Non. > Read More ([Only registered and activated users can see links])

Vie à la Légion
- Desertion ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Foreign Legion life ([Only registered and activated users can see links]) (book by Evan McGorman)
- 2ème REP ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Regiments of the Foreign Legion ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- After Castelnaudary ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Cooks ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Corsica ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Christmas ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Professionalism ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Swimming ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Workout Terms ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Vacation ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Legion songs ([Only registered and activated users can see links]) (External link)

Légion Équipement
- Beret ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- About FAMAS ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- FAMAS & lefties ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Precision rifles ([Only registered and activated users can see links])

Procédé De Recrutement
- Behaviour ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- How is ones physical capacity tested? Are there timed runs for example?
One will run the Multistage Fitness Test, otherwise known as the "beep test." > Read More ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- College Education ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- French Courses Online ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Going Civil ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Inapte Définitif ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Inapte Temporaire ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Inapte Temporaire (deux) ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Military path Before Joining ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Mindset before joining ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Nationality ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Papers To Bring ([Only registered and activated users can see links]) (Diploma's etc.)
- Personnel Possesions ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Selection Pay ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Sleep & Food ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Store Belongings ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Turn-Away Rates ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- What The Legion Is Looking For ([Only registered and activated users can see links])

Voyager en France
- Entering France ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Civil Bank Account ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
- Currency Exchange Rates ([Only registered and activated users can see links]) (External link)
- US Passport FAQ ([Only registered and activated users can see links]) (External link)

Legion videos
- available here (thanks to CJ for hosting them) ([Only registered and activated users can see links])

[voltigeur]

[Only registered and activated users can see links]
Subject: Re:Demande d'information
Date: Wed, 1 Dec 2004 14:33:21 +0100

Hello ,

In reply to your mail, I address you a list (attached document) which sums up the bulk of what it is necessary to know about the modalities of commitment in the foreign Legion and gives the answer to your question.

All you need to do is to come to a Legion recruiting post, whatever your nationality or your country of origin, in mainland France foreigners from outside the EEC are required to have a valid passport (with or without visa) to enlist. No recruiting is done in other countries. You can come every day of the year in an office recruiting post, however recommend to
come during the week from 8 h at 17 h to make easier administrative tasks.

You have to bring with you :

1) passport valid (with or without VISA), and if you have driving licences, ID card ...
2) briefs and socks for 3 days
3) a pair of sneaker
4) a vanity box: with: soap, razor (+ lather) , toothbrush, bath towel....
5) money about 40 euros ....

Do not bring with you : computer, walk-man, cellular phone, jewels, knife, credit card....

Don't forget to read the attached documents.

[Only registered and activated users can see links] ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
---------------------------------------------
Þetta skeyti er sent með vefposti strik.is
[Only registered and activated users can see links] ([Only registered and activated users can see links])

Don't forget to read the attached documents.

[Only registered and activated users can see links] ([Only registered and activated users can see links])

JOIN LEGION ETRANGERE

(answers questions: to see the end of the document)

[Only registered and activated users can see links] ([Only registered and activated users can see links])

TERMS OF REFERENCE

The selection and incorporation are permanent. After your arrival in a station of recruitment, you will be cabin and nourished free.

1. To make application form, you must present in an stations of recruitment whose addresses are reproduced on Internet site of Division recruitment of the foreign Legion: [Only registered and activated users can see links] ([Only registered and activated users can see links])
If recruitment is opened to the men from 17 to 40 years (parental authorization for the minors certified by the French state, therefore the Embassy of France for the foreigners), the candidates of less than 18 to 30 years have however much more chances to be selected.

2. After a first medical examination and a series questions in a station of one duration recruitment from 1 to 3 days, you will be possibly authorizes to subscribe one five years duration an unconditional contract (5) minimum.

3. You will be then directs on the Center of Selection d’ Aubagne, close to Marseilles, to be subjected there to operations of selection and average lasted orientation from 1 to 14 days :
- medical and sporting Controls, psycho technical tests.
- Talks of safety and motivation.

If the candidature is approved at the time of the weekly commission, you will be built-in.

In the contrary case and whatever is the reason, you will be immediately returned to the civil life.

Here the model of booklet which you can receive by postal way.

QUESTIONS / ANSWERS

1. Documents :
For residents of countries outside the EEC it is necessary to be in possession of a valid passport. The recruiting office cannot offer any aid for obtaining documents. No letters of intent or pre-enlistment can be sent and no financial support can be given for transportation.It is explicitly understood that no guarantees of enlistment are either given or implied. All selection tests are effectuated in France. As a general indication, about 1 of 7 volunteers eventually succeed in the tests.
2. Medical aptitude:
Medical aptitude is determined ONLY by the medical corps of the French army. No foreign certificates are recognized.

Minimum visual acuity:
* uncorrected: minimum 0,5 for each eye
* corrected: or [7/10 and 2/10], or [6/10 and 3/10] or [5/10 and 4/10] (total: 9/10 with the two eyes)
Correction in dioptres :
* near-sighted: -10
* far-sighted: +8

3. French language:
It is not necessary to speak French in order to enlist. French language classes are provided during basic training.

4. Selection tests:
All candidates pass a summary athletic ability test. The test consists of running on a measured track for a period of 12 minutes. The greater the distance achieved after 12 minutes, the greater the chances of being enlisted. There are of course other standard tests. However, in order to preserve equal opportunities, their nature and content cannot be revealed.

5. Dossiers:
It is not necessary to prepare an enlistment dossier. Valid identity papers or passport (see above) are the only required documents. However, providing more supporting documents increases the chances of enlistment.

6. Pay:
Legionnaires receive the same pay as soldiers in the French regular army. The pay scale is determined by rank, years of service and postings. Bonus pay is awarded according to missions. As an example, basic monthly pay (excluding postings and bonus) is ??? euros for a legionnaire 2nd class and 1556 euros for a staff sergeant. Food, lodging and equipment are provided at no extra charge. Legionnaires who have served for a minimum total of 15 years qualify for an army pension payable either in France or abroad.

7. Diplomas:
No scholastic or professional diplomas are required. Qualifications increase the chances of acceptance however whatever the qualifications ALL legionnaires begin their careers as simple soldiers.

8. Specialization:
Legionnaires are trained first and foremost to become elite combat soldiers. They can also with time become specialized in a large variety of other fields (administration, health care, maintenance, computer science, transmissions, public works etc.). These other specialties can facilitate their eventual return to civilian life.

9. Contracts:
The initial contract is for a period of 5 years and is not negotiable. The legionnaire can continue his career with subsequent contracts of 6 months to 3 years until reaching 15 years service or even more if his rank and service record so permit.

10. Advancement:
Advancement is obtained according to merit. Legionnaires are promoted not according to their prior qualifications but by virtue of the qualifications they obtain during their successive contracts.

11. Documentation:
Documentation and brochures can be obtained by writing to the following address.

12. Enlistment forms:
No enlistment forms can be sent by mail or by internet.

13. Leave:
During basic training (16 to 20 weeks) no leave time is given except for an occasional week end. Annual leave is established according to time in service.

1 year : 20 days
2 years : 35 days
3 years and more : 45 days

Leave may be taken anywhere in mainland France. Requests for taking leaves in other countries are subject to special conditions.

14. Naturalization and citizenship:
French citizenship is granted by the French government, not by the Foreign Legion. Foreigners may apply for French citizenship after ??? years of service. Provided that the legionnaire has a good service record the Foreign Legion can facilitate the administrative procedure. Legionnaires who do not wish to acquire French nationality have the option to obtain the status of resident alien.

15. Prior military service:
Many legionnaires have prior military service in their home countries. This is not however a necessary requirement for enlistment.

[Forgotten]

Frequently Asked Questions

Mis à jour le vendredi 16 septembre 2005.

Qualifications

Age


What are the age requirements?
You must be aged 17 - 40 years. 17 year olds require permission from caretakers (parents) with signed authorization to be presented at recruitment office. However, the Legion may overlook age requirements though it is very unlikely.

Will I be scrutinized for being older than most recruits?
It is likely, as with any military service your weaknesses will be exposed. This is part of the life. If the Legion feels your age is a problem they may very well change your date of birth when you receive your new name.

Highlighted Thread(s): “Need To Know Before I Go ([Only registered and activated users can see links])”

Body Size


Does the Legion have height requirements?
No. Legionnaires come in all sizes, however if you are legally a midget you should not trouble yourself.

Highlighted Thread(s): “Another stupid question ([Only registered and activated users can see links])”

Eyes


Will the Legion accept me if I have corrected vision with glasses?
Yes, however it may also be the very reason they dismiss you. This largely depends on how poor your vision is without the glasses. Bring your glasses with you, if you wear contacts get a pair of glasses.

Will the Legion accept me if I have corrected vision with laser eye surgery?
Yes, PRK would be the recommended procedure. Wait 12 months after the procedure before volunteering. The risks associated with eye surgery may be weighed against you during selection.

Highlighted Thread(s): “Hello ([Only registered and activated users can see links])” "Confusion about ... ([Only registered and activated users can see links])"

Feet


I have flat feet, will the Legion accept me?
This depends on how sever your case of flat feet is. If it posses a risk to injury during exercise or reduces you physical ability you may be dismissed.

Highlighted Thread(s): “flat feet - is it really a problem ([Only registered and activated users can see links])?”

Sexually Transmitted Diseases


Does the Legion take volunteers who have contracted a sexually transmitted disease?
No. Carriers of any disease that can cause a hygiene problem or pose a risk (indirectly one would hope) to fellow Legionnaires is grounds for going civil.

Highlighted Thread(s): “Std,hiv,aids?. ([Only registered and activated users can see links])"

Tattoos


How does the Legion feel about tattoos?
During selection the Legion will record all tattoos on your body. Tattoos can stir mixed feelings amoung recruiters and it is possible that you can be dismissed on their account. Some symbols can send mixed messages across culture barriers, bring documentation regarding the symbols if necessary.

Highlighted Thread(s): “tattoo issue... ([Only registered and activated users can see links])" “My short trip... ([Only registered and activated users can see links])"

Teeth


How does the Legion regard candidates with dental issues?
During your medical you will see a dentists who holds a score card rating your oral health out of 100. Cavities can quickly add up thus sending you to the door.

Highlighted Thread(s): “Les Dents ([Only registered and activated users can see links])"

[mammikoura]

A tip for those who are having problems with the links.

You need to edit the url a bit to get them working. For example:
[Only registered and activated users can see links] -> [Only registered and activated users can see links]

basically all of the links in the first post are [Only registered and activated users can see links] when they need to be [Only registered and activated users can see links]

So just add those 3 numbers into the url and you can view the threads.

[mitzulick]

i have a problem, when i clik the urls in this faq section(e.g.the interviews, the medical problems,etc.) a new window appear to me with the message <eror 404 page not found>... well, the message tell itself what the problem is, but i want to know if is there another posibility to see that page... those answers... in the rest, congratulations for the forum and help offered here... it counts a lot for us, wannabes. thanks and please respond me if you know!

[mammikoura]

i have a problem, when i clik the urls in this faq section(e.g.the interviews, the medical problems,etc.) a new window appear to me with the message <eror 404 page not found>... well, the message tell itself what the problem is, but i want to know if is there another posibility to see that page... those answers... in the rest, congratulations for the forum and help offered here... it counts a lot for us, wannabes. thanks and please respond me if you know!

see my post above.

[voltigeur]

We see so many repeat questions that can be easily answered by visiting the official Legion web site(s).
For those that have a difficult time finding them, click on the link(s).

[Only registered and activated users can see links]

[Only registered and activated users can see links]

[Only registered and activated users can see links] :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

[Bob]

I noticed the links were all in French, what about us guys who cant speak anything but English? :confused:

[Gregor]

I noticed the links were all in French, what about us guys who cant speak anything but English? :confused:
[Only registered and activated users can see links]

[ivo1000]

fellas, I've tried to follow the faq links, however none of them leads to the gate :confused:

I am particularly interested in food! Searching came up with nothing but mocking newbies, on the matter. :rolleyes:

[tom.]

fellas, I've tried to follow the faq links, however none of them leads to the gate :confused:

I am particularly interested in food! Searching came up with nothing but mocking newbies, on the matter. :rolleyes:
"The gate"?

Have you tried putting "123" in the URL next to "legionbbs"?

[Only registered and activated users can see links]

[ivo1000]

"The gate"?

Have you tried putting "123" in the URL next to "legionbbs"?

[Only registered and activated users can see links] Thanks! it works, though they don't give much. I miss a lot of stuff due to all the reading ride I am into as I don't have much free time to spend.

[RMD]

Perhaps, for some, this is an example of too much information or an information overload. But as the Boys Scouts say, 'Be Prepared'. Half, if not more, of the information below will not be needed by most. But I thought I would be thorough & fair by providing it all as it can be found online. I hope it may help others as it has helped me.

Below you will find a link to the official Aéroports de Paris website. Here you can find information concerning 'Flights, Timetables & Airlines', 'Access, Maps & Car Parks', & 'Procedures & Practical Information'.

Aéroports de Paris ([Only registered and activated users can see links]).

Within the 'Flights, Timetables & Airlines ([Only registered and activated users can see links])' tab you will find information regarding;

Flight information (departure from Paris, arrival in Paris).
Airlines & their terminals ([Only registered and activated users can see links]) (find the contact details of all airlines, with the list of destinations & terminals served).
Connecting flights ([Only registered and activated users can see links]) (travelling between terminals or airports?).

Within the 'Access, Maps & Car Parks ([Only registered and activated users can see links])' tab you will find information regarding;

Getting to & from Paris-Charles de Gaulle (by public transport ([Only registered and activated users can see links]), by car or motorcycle ([Only registered and activated users can see links]), by taxi ([Only registered and activated users can see links])).
Parking at Paris-Charles de Gaulle (car park maps & rates ([Only registered and activated users can see links]), motorcycle parking ([Only registered and activated users can see links]), car park subscription ([Only registered and activated users can see links])).
Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport map ([Only registered and activated users can see links]).

Within the 'Procedures & Practical Information ([Only registered and activated users can see links])' tab you will find information regarding;

Passengers Rights ([Only registered and activated users can see links]) (find out your rights & compensation awarded under European law).
Travel within the EU ([Only registered and activated users can see links]) (list of Schengen area member countries, checks & procedures).
Currency, purchases & customs ([Only registered and activated users can see links]) (duty-free shopping, products covered by specific regulations).
Travel documents ([Only registered and activated users can see links]) (ID card, passport, visa… Do you have all the necessary documents?).
Practical services ([Only registered and activated users can see links]) (lost property ([Only registered and activated users can see links]), post office ([Only registered and activated users can see links]), banks ([Only registered and activated users can see links]), foreign exchange ([Only registered and activated users can see links]), car rental ([Only registered and activated users can see links]), multi-faith prayer area ([Only registered and activated users can see links]), luggage services ([Only registered and activated users can see links]), health center & pharmacies ([Only registered and activated users can see links])).
Crossing borders easily ([Only registered and activated users can see links]) (cross the border more quickly & also independently).
Boarding procedure (check-in ([Only registered and activated users can see links]), security control ([Only registered and activated users can see links])).

[RMD]

Below you will find a link to the official Marseille Provence Airport website. Here you can find information concerning 'Flights & Timetables', 'Access, Plan Your Arrival', & 'Airport Facilities'.

Marseille Provence Airport ([Only registered and activated users can see links]).

Within the 'Flights & Timetables ([Only registered and activated users can see links])' tab you will find information regarding;

Today's departures ([Only registered and activated users can see links]).
Today's arrivals ([Only registered and activated users can see links]).
Timetable ([Only registered and activated users can see links]).
Flight engine ([Only registered and activated users can see links]).
Airline ([Only registered and activated users can see links]).
Scheduled flights ([Only registered and activated users can see links]).
Low-cost flights ([Only registered and activated users can see links]).
Charter flights ([Only registered and activated users can see links]).
Traveler's guide ([Only registered and activated users can see links]) (plane travel [general remarks & formalities ([Only registered and activated users can see links])], foreign travel [admittance formalities ([Only registered and activated users can see links]), medical formalities ([Only registered and activated users can see links]), customs formalities ([Only registered and activated users can see links])], luggage facilities ([Only registered and activated users can see links]), prohibited objects ([Only registered and activated users can see links])).

Within the 'Access, Plan Your Arrival ([Only registered and activated users can see links])' tab you will find information regarding;

Train &/or bus ([Only registered and activated users can see links]).
Taxi's ([Only registered and activated users can see links]).
Airport maps ([Only registered and activated users can see links]).

Within the 'Airport Facilities ([Only registered and activated users can see links])' tab you will find information regarding;

Car rentals ([Only registered and activated users can see links]).
Hotels ([Only registered and activated users can see links]).
Luggage facilities ([Only registered and activated users can see links]).
Financial facilities ([Only registered and activated users can see links]).
Other facilities ([Only registered and activated users can see links]) (information desk, lost & found, automatic information service, internet access, first aid services, WIFI access, shower facilities, lounges).
Welcome services ([Only registered and activated users can see links]).

[Rapace]

For all the wannabes that wouldn't find their d:ck in their own underpants :mad: and the Anciens who are losing every day a little bit more of whatever memory they've got left :cool:, I've designed this special Google map, showing the locations of the various Legion bases/facilities in metropolitan France and around the world. The location on the map is very accurate, so you may zoom very closely and get an exact idea of where it is. In most cases, Google Street View is even available to give you a real idea of the surroundings.
Now, any new person asking "where is Aubagne?" or similar questions will have no excuse... They'll be mercilessly left in the hands of Sean G and/or Kro, for a good roasting ! :D

Location of the Legion bases / facilities ([Only registered and activated users can see links])

[voltigeur]

1. Documents :
For residents of countries outside the EEC it is necessary to be in possession of a valid passport. The recruiting office cannot offer any aid for obtaining documents. No letters of intent or pre-enlistment can be sent and no financial support can be given for transportation.It is explicitly understood that no guarantees of enlistment are either given or implied. All selection tests are effectuated in France. As a general indication, about 1 of 7 volunteers eventually succeed in the tests.

2. Medical aptitude:
Medical aptitude is determined ONLY by the medical corps of the French army. No foreign certificates are recognized.
Minimum visual acuity:
* uncorrected: minimum 0,5 for each eye
* corrected: or [7/10 and 2/10], or [6/10 and 3/10] or [5/10 and 4/10] (total: 9/10 with the two eyes)
Correction in dioptres :
* near-sighted: -10
* far-sighted: +8

3. French language:
It is not necessary to speak French in order to enlist. French language classes are provided during basic training. However, basic knowledge of French makes life in the early months of the contract much easier.

4. Selection tests:
All candidates pass a summary athletic ability test. The test is known as Luc-Léger test, consisting of running back and forth between two marks, at an increasing pace.

5. Dossiers:
It is not necessary to prepare an enlistment dossier. Valid identity papers or passport (see above) are the only required documents. However, providing more supporting documents increases the chances of enlistment.

6. Pay:
Legionnaires receive the same pay as soldiers in the French regular army. The pay scale is determined by rank, years of service and postings. Bonus pay is awarded according to missions. As an example, basic monthly pay (excluding postings and bonus) is ??? euros for a legionnaire 2nd class and 1556 euros for a staff sergeant. Food, lodging and equipment are provided at no extra charge. Legionnaires who have served for a minimum total of 17.5 years qualify for an army pension payable either in France or abroad.

7. Diplomas:
No scholastic or professional diplomas are required. Qualifications increase the chances of acceptance however whatever the qualifications ALL legionnaires begin their careers as simple soldiers.

8. Specialization:
Legionnaires are trained first and foremost to become elite combat soldiers. They can also with time become specialized in a large variety of other fields (administration, health care, maintenance, computer science, transmissions, public works etc.). These other specialties can facilitate their eventual return to civilian life.

9. Contracts:
The initial contract is for a period of 5 years and is not negotiable. The legionnaire can continue his career with subsequent contracts of 6 months to 3 years until reaching 15 years service or even more if his rank and service record so permit.

10. Advancement:
Advancement is obtained according to merit. Legionnaires are promoted not according to their prior qualifications but by virtue of the qualifications they obtain during their successive contracts.

11. Documentation:
Documentation and brochures can be obtained by writing to the following address.

12. Enlistment forms:
No enlistment forms can be sent by mail or by internet.

13. Leave:
During basic training (16 to 20 weeks) no leave time is given except for an occasional week end. Annual leave is established according to time in service.
1 year : 20 days
2 years : 35 days
3 years and more : 45 days
Leave may be taken anywhere in mainland France. Requests for taking leaves in other countries are subject to special conditions.

14. Naturalization and citizenship:
French citizenship is granted by the French government, not by the Foreign Legion. Foreigners may apply for French citizenship after ??? years of service. Provided that the legionnaire has a good service record the Foreign Legion can facilitate the administrative procedure. Legionnaires who do not wish to acquire French nationality have the option to obtain the status of resident alien. A law passed in 1999 (Français par le sang versé) allows any legionnaire WIA at the service of France to automatically receive French citizenship, if he wants it.

15. Prior military service:
Many legionnaires have prior military service in their home countries. This is not however a necessary requirement for enlistment.

[Rapace]

I've updated Joe's post and merged it into the FAQ thread.