Polls have opened in France as the country votes for its next President. 

Voters have until 7pm CEST to cast their choice in most regions, though polling stations may remain open for another hour in busy areas or large cities. 

The first exit polls will be released at 8pm CEST, which usually gives a good indication of which two candidates will progress to next week's second round run-off. 

Incumbent Emmanuel Macron faces challenges from the right (Marine Le Pen) and the left (Jean-Luc Melenchon) and nine others. 

Read more about the election, the candidates, and the issues here.