Here’s what you should know and prepare for if you wish to visit France while the Covid-19 outbreak is ongoing.
General information
Although France has a history of having some of the strictest Covid-19 restrictions in the world, with three lockdowns, international travel to the country is not currently restricted because of the virus. Certain precautions are still in place, but they have loosened significantly.
Why you should go
The storied boulevards of Paris, the chic curve of La Croisette in Cannes, and the undulating lavender hills and vineyards of Provence are some of the most beautiful places in France. France has always been and will always be a popular vacation spot for people all over the globe.
It never fails to wow with its exquisite cuisine, excellent wine, scenic views, and exciting urban centers to suit any style of vacationer.
Who is allowed to visit
Covid-19-related travel bans in France were lifted on August 1. This implies that visitors to the country no longer need to prove that they’ve been vaccinated against the disease, fill out an affidavit of good health, or produce evidence of a negative PCR or antigen test before entering the country.
When traveling between the French mainland and French overseas territories, you must follow the same set of rules.
According to a statement released by the French Ministry of the Interior and Overseas, “faced with the new phase of the pandemic, the border health control system is lifted, in accordance with the law putting an end to the exceptional regimes created to fight against the epidemic linked to Covid-19.”
“The government retains until January 21, 2023, the possibility of activating ’emergency brake’ measures for a maximum period of two months, after consulting the high authority for health in the event of an appearance and circulation of a new variant of Covid-19 likely to constitute a serious health threat or, in overseas territories, in the event of a risk of saturation of the health system.”
What are the limitations?
As was already mentioned, there are now no limitations on travel from other countries to France because of the COVID-19 outbreak.
How is the situation with Covid in France?
France ranks among the worst-affected European countries, with approximately 37 million illnesses and 158,034 fatalities as of November 2.
Another spike in infections occurred after the Omicron variety emerged at the end of 2021, with over 2.5 million cases documented in a single week by the end of January 2022. The total number of cases of Covid-19 across the country would eventually reach a steady state. However, there has been a recent rise in the number of Covid-19 infections.
Over the seven days running up to Tuesday, November 2, there were 147,123 reported incidents. More than 83.6% of the population has received all recommended vaccinations.
What should those who come to France be prepared for?
Individuals are no longer required to wear masks or other face coverings while inside or while riding public transportation. However, rising numbers of Covid-19 cases have prompted regulators to recommend mask use in crowded public places again.
The need for a vaccination card to visit indoor venues was lifted outside of healthcare facilities in March.
Helpful resources
Advice for foreign nationals planning trips to France
French government official site
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