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From the United States to France

From January 18, all travelers arriving in France from a country outside the European space (EU Member States and Andorra, the Holy See, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino and Switzerland) will need to present a negative PCR test conducted less than 72 hours before boarding. Only PCR tests will be accepted.

Travelers will also be required to self-isolate for seven days on arrival, and to take a second PCR test at the end of that period.

Travelers with an urgent reason to travel to France from countries without tests may request a travel pass from their nearest consulate. They will be tested immediately upon arrival in France and must remain in isolation for seven days in an establishment designated by the authorities.

A list of available testing sites in the United States can be found here .

In France you should download the TousAntiCovid app and follow its health recommendations.

Moreover, a nightly curfew from 6 PM to 6 AM is currently in force in Metropolitan France. For all information on this issue, visit https://www.gouvernement.fr/en/coronavirus-covid-19 .

Current travel restrictions remain in force. Passengers arriving from the United States should consult the FAQ section of the Interior Ministry website.

For any questions, please consult:

• The FAQ section on the Embassy website
• The website of the American Embassy in France: https://fr.usembassy.gov/

From France to the United States

Effective January 26, the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will require all air passengers entering or transiting by the United States (including U.S. citizens and Legal Permanent Residents) to present a negative COVID-19 test, taken within 72 hours of departure or proof of recovery from the virus within the last 90 days.

Airlines must confirm the negative test result or proof of recovery for all passengers two years of age and over prior to boarding. Airlines must deny boarding of passengers who do not provide documentation of a negative test or recovery.

◀ A passenger attestation must also be printed out and presented prior to boarding.

Passengers who have previously tested positive for Covid-19 must present a positive test result less than 3 months old accompanied by a letter from a healthcare professional certifying that they have been cleared for travel may be exempt from this latest requirement.

CDC recommends that travelers get tested 3-5 days after travel and stay home or otherwise self-quarantine for 7 days after travel. Even if you test negative, stay home for the full 7 days. If you don’t get tested, it’s safest to stay home for 10 days. Always follow state and local recommendations or requirements related to travel.

Please see CDC’s FAQ regarding the new requirement for proof of negative COVID-19 test or recovery from COVID-19 for all air passengers arriving in the United States.

Current travel restrictions remain in force. Passengers arriving from Europe should consult the FAQ section of the CDC website for information on the travel ban.

For any additional questions, please contact your consulate after consulting the following resources:

• The order of January 12, 2021 establishing the new requirement: https://www.cdc.gov/quarantine/fr-proof-negative-test.html
• The updated FAQ section on the CDC site: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/testing-international-air-travelers.html

Covid-19 - Obligation to submit a virologic screening test

COVID-19: Europe, Latin America and Caribbean agree to pool resources

Covid-19 - Advice for Foreign Nationals in France

Covid-19 - Travel restrictions in France and establishment of health measures at the borders

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Travel Restrictions and Implementation of Public Health Measures at Borders - Press release issued by the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs and the Ministry for Solidarity and Health (22 May 2020)

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To help control the spread of COVID-19, the Act of 11 May 2020 extending the state of health emergency provides for the possibility of putting specific health measures in place for travellers arriving in Metropolitan and Overseas France. The measure comes on top of the travel restrictions which came into force at our borders on 18 March and will remain in place until 15 June 2020.

The decrees implementing the Act of 11 May will be published and come into force on Saturday 23 May 2020. They create a legal framework which makes it possible to impose, by decision of the prefect and under judicial supervision, 14-day quarantine or isolation measures at home or in appropriate accommodation. This is a legal option, which nevertheless systematically applies to Overseas France, where there is a specific health situation, and to people arriving at our borders who show symptoms of being infected with COVID-19 during the health checks which will be put in place.

From Monday 25 May 2020, the Government is additionally putting in place a voluntary 14-day quarantine measure for travellers arriving from certain countries:

• For travellers arriving from outside the European area (all countries of the world except European Union member States, the United Kingdom, Andorra, Iceland, Lichtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland, Vatican City), the principle which remains in place today, and until further notice, is the border closure and therefore the ban on entry.

French nationals or permanent residents in France may, however, enjoy continued access to French territory, as may certain specific categories of people set out on the website of the Ministry of the Interior . In return, people are nevertheless asked to act responsibly by placing themselves in voluntary quarantine. On their arrival on French territory, those admitted who arrive from outside the European area will be provided with information about the conditions under which the voluntary quarantine can be carried out at their chosen address or, where applicable, in appropriate accommodation. Travellers are called upon to be civic-minded and demonstrate a sense of responsibility in putting this health precaution into practice.

• For travellers arriving from inside the European area (European Union member States, the United Kingdom, Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland and Vatican City), the borders are not closed but are still subject to travel restrictions imposed as part of border controls coordinated with our partners. Some measures have been relaxed: in addition to French nationals or people with permanent residence in France, cross-border workers, international carriers, new categories of people are now permitted to enter France, in particular for family reasons (separated spouses, continued schooling, childcare, visiting dependent relatives) and for professional reasons (seasonal workers and European posted workers whose missions cannot be postponed) to contribute to the economic recovery. All the permitted categories feature on the Interior Ministry website. Moreover, to facilitate the smooth movement of traffic while ensuring implementation of the restrictions remaining in force until 15 June, border crossing points are gradually being reopened and permanent static checks are giving way to intermittent dynamic checks. Finally, we are working on a single, joint declaration with the border States.

In health terms, given the similar epidemiological situations in European States and the coordination of crisis management measures, there will be no requirement for people arriving on French territory from countries in the European area to go into a 14-day quarantine period.

However, for travellers arriving from European countries whose authorities have decided, in an uncoordinated fashion, to apply 14-day quarantine measures to travellers entering their territory from European countries, a voluntary 14-day quarantine period will be reciprocally requested. For example, from Monday 25 May onwards, travellers arriving from Spain, on flights only, will be asked to go into voluntary quarantine, because Spain imposed a quarantine system on 15 May for travellers arriving in Spain by plane. This applies to travellers of Spanish, French and all other nationalities. Likewise, travellers arriving from the United Kingdom, whatever their nationality, will be asked to go into a 14-day quarantine period when the British 14-day quarantine measure, announced this evening, actually comes into force.

The following people will be exempt from voluntary quarantine, except if they show symptoms :

• people in transit to another country;
• crew members and people operating passenger and cargo flights, or travelling as passengers to their departure point;
• international freight transporters;
• coach and train drivers and crew;
• crew members and people operating merchant and fishing vessels;
• foreign health professionals helping fight COVID-19;
• staff of diplomatic and consular missions and of international organizations with headquarters or offices in France, as well as their spouses and children;
• French and foreign domestic security or defence forces personnel returning from missions, or on mission, staff of the judicial authority carrying out its work, and government officials posted abroad or returning from missions, as well as their spouses and children;
• cross-border workers;
• people with compelling family reasons (travel justified for the purpose of transferring custody of or having access or staying access to a child; continued schooling; urgent assistance to a loved one; the funeral of a close relative);
• people allowed to enter France for economic reasons if they are staying for less than five days. The quarantine conditions applicable to seasonal and posted workers permitted to enter are set out in the directive of 20 May 2020.

In order to make their journey, travellers will have to provide the following documents, available on the website of the Ministry of the Interior :

• an international travel declaration;
• a sworn statement certifying that the traveller shows no symptoms of being infected with COVID-19.

France is also continuing its efforts to increase coordination with its European partners, in particular its border countries. We ask the States in the European area to give priority to quarantine measures not applying to travellers arriving from inside the European area. We are also promoting coordinated health measures at the European area’s external borders, with the aim of arriving in the coming weeks at a harmonized list of third countries where the active spread of the virus has been observed, and for which increased and coordinated health measures may be implemented.

Press service of the Ministry of the Interior: service-presse at interieur.gouv.fr / 01.40.07.22.22 Press service of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs: presse.dcp at diplomatie.gouv.fr / 01.43.17.57.57 Press service of the Ministry for Solidarity and Health: sec.presse.solidarites-sante at sante.gouv.fr / 01.40.56.60.65

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Everything you need to know about travel to France right now

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France has raised its national threat level to its highest degree. The UK government website states that “terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in France”, and advises those travelling in France currently to “remain vigilant at all times”. We look at how the situation impacts travel and what you can do to stay safe when travelling in France.

What is happening in France right now?

The change in terrorism threat levels comes after a fatal attack in Arras, northern France on Friday 13 October 2023. On Saturday 14 October 2023, the Louvre was evacuated after receiving a written threat , and the Palace of Versailles has been closed twice since Friday 13 October due to security scares. President Emmanuel Macron has increased the national threat level to its highest point, the ‘Emergency Attack Level’, and ordered 7,000 French soldiers to mobilise to further bolster security in public spaces.

How is this situation impacting travel to France?

On Wednesday 18 October 2023, news reports stated that six airports across France had been evacuated as state security received information of bomb threats. According to The Independent , these airports include Lille, Nice, Toulouse, Lyon, Nantes and two terminals at Paris-Beauvais. This has caused delays and cancellations for flights planning to arrive or depart from these airports.

Can I travel to France right now?

The UK government website does not mention avoiding travel to France; however, it advises travellers to remain extremely vigilant when travelling there. Visitors are told to “stay aware of your surroundings, stay away from demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities”. The site claims that “terrorism attacks could be indiscriminate” and could happen “in places frequented by foreign nationals such as shopping centres, entertainment establishments. cultural events, public transport [and] places of worship”. Travellers are advised to “be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local French authorities”.

What shall I do if I am planning to travel to France, or currently travelling in France?

The UK’s Counter Terrorism Policing unit has collated information and advice on how best to stay safe when travelling abroad and important information on what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Advice to consider before you travel includes checking the latest UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office travel advice, ensuring you have adequate travel insurance, and knowing the local emergency numbers in your destination (all EU countries can call 112). Read up on further safety tips at counterterrorism.police.uk and gov.uk .

Franceadmirer.com

Foreign And Commonwealth Office Travel Advice France

In the current phase of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has issued travel advice for France. This is to inform travelers of potential risks and restrictions that may apply to them due to the changing situation in the country and the novel coronavirus abroad. This travel advice is important to consider, as it provides essential guidance which could, in turn, prevent travelers from facing any issues or risks while on holiday.

As the French government has made it mandatory for travelers entering the country from the United Kingdom (UK) to present a negative coronavirus test, tourists must make sure to inform themselves of the requirements. The FCO encourages tourists to look up the most recent information on travel and crossing the border before setting off, as restrictions may change and this would prevent any complications from arising. A travel corridor exists between France and the UK, however, travelers must remember to follow the FCO’s advice on social distancing and visiting public places, such as restaurants, shops, and pubs, always taking into account their individual risk assessment.

Furthermore, the FCO recommends that tourists adhere to all necessary safety measures set out by their travel provider; traveling by car, plane, or ferry. This includes the wearing of face masks, maintaining social distancing, and adhering to curfews when applicable. It is worth noting that there are disruptions to public transport links to and from the UK, and so it is important to always check in advance the availability of flights, ships, and ferries. Those who are considering going to a ski resort must be aware that there are restrictions in place in relation to public transportation.

It is also essential for tourists to consider the French Government’s quarantine guidelines, which require a 14-day isolation period upon arriving from a non-Schengen area, such as the UK. Tourists must meet certain criteria in order to be exempt from the mandatory quarantine period, including holding a valid visa, staying less than six months in the country, and having an anti-Covid-19 certificate issued in the six days before their arrival. The FCO warns that non-compliance with the quarantine requirement could lead to an €1,500 euro fine for each violation.

Travelers should also keep in mind that, while the country is open for tourism, medical resources may be weary or scarce if they are to find themselves in need of urgent medical attention. A limited number of medical facilities are open to tourists, therefore, it is advisable to purchase comprehensive and appropriate travel insurance ahead of travel to ensure they cover all eventualities.

The UK has also established a limited number of repatriation flights from France, which run on a weekly basis. It is important to remain updated with the latest information in this matter, and to regularly check travel advice updates from the FCO if considering a trip abroad, as the situation is constantly evolving. This includes being knowledgeable in relation to essential information such as entry requirements, health measures, and travel restrictions. It is also important to note that some EU countries, which France is a member of, have closed their borders and implemented entry bans to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

The FCO’s travel advice for France is intended to keep tourists safe and informed when considering a trip abroad. Voters are urged to consider all available information, take necessary precautions, and remember to practice social distancing and self-isolation whenever possible.

In conclusion, effective research, preparation and the adherence of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s travel advice for France are essential from a safety standpoint when considering a trip abroad. It is important to remain updated with the changing restrictions in the country, along with regulations and guidelines imposed by other EU countries. Furthermore, it is advisable for visitors to carry appropriate travel insurance and purchase negative coronavirus tests before setting off, where applicable.

Shirley Blanc

Shirley J. Blanc is a French expat and a passionate Francophile. She has been living in France for over a decade, and loves to share her experiences and knowledge about the country with others. Shirley has written extensively on topics such as French culture, language, travel, and cuisine.

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France Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to France

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

France entry details and exceptions

Ready to travel, find flights to france, find stays in france, explore more countries on travel restrictions map, destinations you can travel to now, dominican republic, netherlands, philippines, puerto rico, switzerland, united arab emirates, united kingdom, know when to go.

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Can I travel to France from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter France.

Can I travel to France if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter France without restrictions.

Can I travel to France without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter France without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter France?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering France.

Can I travel to France without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in France?

Mask usage in France is not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in France?

Restaurants in France are open. Bars in France are .

Foreign Office issues new advice for UK travellers to France amid ongoing riots

The latest advice for travellers from the UK to France is to "avoid areas where riots are taking place" and check their travel insurance "provides sufficient cover".

Saturday 1 July 2023 12:31, UK

UK travellers to France have been warned to be aware of the ongoing riots after a 17-year-old was fatally shot by police.

The Foreign Office has issued new travel advice which warns of potential disruption and urges people to be aware of the ongoing situation.

President Emmanuel Macron has not declared a state of emergency in the country but riots have spread across the country after a teenager named as Nahel M was shot dead by police during a traffic stop in the Paris suburb of Nanterre on Tuesday.

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The updated advice which follows four consecutive nights of rioting states "there may be disruptions to travel and local transport provision may be reduced".

"Some local authorities may impose curfews. Locations and timing of riots are unpredictable," it adds.

"You should monitor the media, avoid areas where riots are taking place, check the latest advice with operators when travelling and follow the advice of the authorities."

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A rally by groups opposed to the Iranian government due to take place on Saturday has been banned by French authorities due to concerns about security risks.

The Foreign Office says connected events are reported to still be going ahead and they are urging British nationals to "reconsider any plans to attend such meetings".

If people do attend, they should "be aware of [their] surroundings at all time, and move away quickly from disturbances".

The advice for travellers also states it is "more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover".

Read more: Mbappe calls for calm amid France riots Eyewitness: Another night of looting and lawlessness

Around 17 million British nationals visit France each year, according to the Foreign Office.

The burial of the 17-year-old is scheduled for Saturday.

Related Topics

• France protests

Foreign Office travel advice: New France travel warning issued as Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office updates safety and security guidance

The Foreign Office has issued a new travel warning for UK holidaymakers heading to France amid heightened security risk

UK holidaymakers have been given a fresh France travel warning by the Foreign Office as more people are set to travel to the country in the coming weeks due to D-Day commemorative events. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has updated its safety and security advice for Britons heading to Normandy.

It said: "Between 5 and 7 June commemorative events for the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings will take place in Normandy. Commemoration events are ticketed and it’s not possible to attend if you’re not in possession of a ticket in advance.

"On 6 June from 6am until 8pm, there will be a restricted traffic zone north and west of Caen from the RN13 road area to the sea. You must display a vehicle sticker on your windshield in this area.

"Check the Calvados Prefecture D-Day 80 page (in French) for further information, including a map of the restricted areas. Some roads may be closed, allow extra time for your journey."

Holidaymakers are being warned that there could be potential disruptions to travel over these dates and are being urged to allow extra time for moving around the region.

The new warning comes amid an ongoing guidance about various security risks in the country. The FCDO has an ongoing alert regarding terrorism in France as it states "terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks" in the country.

The Government body warned: "Terrorism attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreign nationals such as shopping centres, entertainment establishments, cultural events, public transport and places of worship.

"Methods of attack have included knife attacks, shootings, bombings and vehicle attacks. Be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local French authorities."

France travel warning issued by Foreign Office for anyone heading to Paris on holiday

Travellers are being warned their trip to Paris and other areas in France could be disrupted due to demonstrations in the country

• 08:02, 30 JUN 2023

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A warning has been issued to anyone travelling to France after violent protests erupted in the country.

The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for France, warning people their holiday could be disrupted by the demonstrations. It said: "Since 27 June, protests have taken place in Paris and other locations across France.

"Some have turned violent. The protests may lead to disruptions to road travel or targeting of parked cars in areas where protests take place. You should monitor the media, avoid protests, check the latest advice with operators when travelling and follow the advice of the authorities."

Read More : New EU travel permit which you will soon need to enter Spain, Italy, France and other countries

The Foreign Office website adds: "If demonstrations do turn violent, a heavy police/gendarmerie presence is to be expected. Avoid demonstrations wherever possible and follow the advice of the local authorities."

French protesters erected barricades, lit fires and shot fireworks at police in the streets of some French cities early on Friday morning as tensions mounted over the deadly police shooting of a 17-year-old that has shocked the nation. Armoured police vehicles rammed through the charred remains of cars that had been flipped and set ablaze in the northwestern Paris suburb of Nanterre, where a police officer shot the teenage delivery driver.

On the other side of Paris, protesters lit a fire at the city hall of the suburb of Clichy-Sous-Bois. In the Mediterranean port city of Marseille, police sought to disperse violent groups in the city centre, regional authorities said.

Tens of thousands of police officers have been deployed to quell the protests, which have gripped the country three nights in a row.

On Thursday, 100 people had been arrested by midnight, according to a national police spokesperson. The number was expected to rise as arrests underway were being tallied.

French President Emmanuel Macron held an emergency security meeting on Thursday about the violence. "These acts are totally unjustifiable," Mr Macron said at the beginning of the meeting, which aimed at securing hot spots and planning for the coming days "so full peace can return".

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