The improvement of the sanitary situation in France has led the French government to relax the measures for entry into the country. Since June 9, the flow of travelers between France and foreign countries has been reopened according to modalities that vary according to the health situation in third countries and the vaccination of travelers.
International travel to/from France
A classification of countries into 3 color categories (green, orange, red) has been defined based on health indicators.
The lists of countries are likely to be adapted according to the evolution of their epidemic situation (to be found on the government website).
« Green » countries: no active circulation of the virus, no variants of concern identified.
The following countries are classified as “green” as of June 17, 2021: European Union, Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, Lebanon, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, and the United States.
Vaccinated travelers from these countries can enter the country without a PCR test.
Unvaccinated travelers (11 years and older) must present a negative PCR or antigen test less than 72 hours old. Children under 11 years of age are exempt from testing.
« Orange » countries: active circulation of the virus in controlled proportions, without diffusion of variants of concern.
All countries, except “green” and “red” countries, are classified as “orange” on June 17, 2021.
Vaccinated travelers (from 11 years old) coming from these countries must present a negative PCR test of less than 72 hours or a negative antigen test of less than 48 hours.
Unvaccinated international travelers must also show a compelling reason. Children under 11 years of age are exempt from testing. A random test may be performed upon arrival at the port of entry. Finally, travelers will be required to complete a 7-day self-isolation.
« Red » countries: active virus circulation, presence of variants of concern.
Classified as “red” as of June 17, 2021: Afghanistan, Argentina, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Paraguay, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Uruguay.
International travelers from these countries, whether or not they have been vaccinated, must show a compelling reason to enter France. Vaccinated travelers must present a negative PCR or antigenic test less than 48 hours old. They will have to perform an antigenic test upon arrival and a 7-day self-isolation. Non-vaccinated travelers will have to undergo a mandatory 10-day quarantine controlled by the authorities.
Vaccines approved by France
The vaccines accepted by France are those recognized by the European Medicines Agency (EMA): Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson.
The proof of vaccination is only valid if it shows a complete vaccination schedule, i.e:
- 2 weeks after the 2nd injection for dual-injection vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca) ;
- 4 weeks after the injection for vaccines with a single injection (Johnson & Johnson);
- 2 weeks after injection for vaccines in people with a history of Covid-19 (only 1 injection required).
Travel to Corsica
A specific system has been put in place for travel to Corsica.
As of June 9, any person over 11 years old wishing to travel to Corsica from France must have:
– Either the result of a PCR test less than 72 hours prior to travel or antigenic test less than 48 hours. The only antigenic tests that are valid are those allowing the detection of the N protein of SARS-CoV-2; self-tests are not accepted for travel.
- Proof of vaccination status (full schedule).
- And a sworn statement of no symptoms.
Travelers should pay attention to the fact that trips of less than 24 hours from Corsica to the continent are no longer allowed as of June 14th.
More information is available on the website of the Corsican Regional Health Agency.
Overseas territories and departments
Specific measures have been taken for the overseas territories.
- As of June 9, the obligation to provide proof of a compelling reason has been lifted for Overseas Territories, except in French Guiana, New Caledonia and Wallis and Futuna where it is required until further notice.
For air travel to the French Overseas Departments and Territories, the PCR test within 72 hours or the antigenic test within 48 hours before boarding is still mandatory for passengers coming from France or from abroad (countries classified as “green” or “orange”). Passengers coming from a “red” country must provide a PCR test or an antigen test less than 48 hours old.
For flights in the French Overseas Territories: In view of the local epidemiological situation, the prefect may impose compelling reasons for departure and arrival in the territories. Proofs are then checked by the airlines or the Border Police.
For international flights: restrictions decided locally by the State representative or the competent authority apply.
In addition, the Ministry of Overseas France invites people wishing to travel to an overseas territory to find out in advance on the restrictions in place to fight against the epidemic of Covid-19 by checking the website of the prefecture or the high commission.
Travel to French Polynesia
As of June 9, Tahiti and its islands reopened their borders to travelers from metropolitan France. Compelling reasons between French Polynesia and France are lifted for vaccinated persons.
In view of the national decree concerning the easing of border restrictions, the conditions of entry and stay are changing: more information can be found on the Tahiti Tourism website.
► Security measures and restrictions.
- The curfew in effect from 11pm to 6am ended on June 20 at 6am.
- As of June 17, wearing a mask outdoors is no longer mandatory, with some exceptions (gatherings, lines, markets, stadiums…).
However, it is still mandatory in enclosed public places (companies, stores, transportation…) throughout the country for anyone aged 11 years and over (and from 6 years old at school) and in public transportation.
- Gatherings, meetings or activities in public spaces involving more than 10 people at the same time remain prohibited.
- The consumption of alcohol in public spaces remains prohibited.
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