COVID-19 pandemic - France
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Epidemic
Closed
225
2020-02-25 23:00
2020-02-26 00:00
2023-04-17 08:24
Update 2023-04-17: This event will be closed, as the situation in the country has not changed for a long time (e.g. restrictive measures, entry regulations, etc.). It will be reactivated and updated if the situation changes. The Country Dossiers and the Destination Manager provide an overview of the existing restrictions and entry regulations.
A3M
Update 2023-02-17: Since Thursday (16 February), travellers from China no longer have to show a negative PCR test result in order to board their flight to France.
France24
Update 2023-01-02: According to media reports, a negative PCR test (max. 48h old) is required upon arrival for all travellers from China to France.
CNBC, Euronews
Update 2022-09-15: Due to modified classification rules, in which only restrictions by authorities are now taken into account, a reassessment of the overall rating was conducted. Case numbers are no longer factored in due to reporting gaps, amongst others.
A3M
Update 2022-07-27: As of Monday (1 August), travellers will be permitted to enter France without having to provide proof of vaccination, recovery or a negative test result. At the same time, the health emergency will also be lifted.
Tourmag
Update 2022-07-14: Due to modified classification rules, in which only restrictions by authorities are now taken into account, a reassessment of the overall rating was conducted. Case numbers are no longer factored in due to reporting gaps, amongst others.
A3M
Update 2022-07-06: According to media reports, the city of Nice will reintroduce the requirement to wear face masks when using public transport from Monday (11 July). Throughout France, covering one's face is otherwise only mandatory in health and care facilities.
Ouest France
Update 2022-05-11: According to reports published on Wednesday (11 May), the requirement to wear face masks on French public transport will be dropped from Monday (16 May). Face masks will remain mandatory in health (care) facilities, however.
Ouest-France
Update 2022-03-03: As announced by Prime Minister Castex on Thursday (3 March), a vaccine pass will no longer be required in France to enter restaurants, cultural and entertainment venues, discos or to participate in events from 14 March. The requirement to wear face masks will also largely be dropped; only on public transport will this continue to be mandatory.
France24
Update 2022-03-02 - Official notice issued by the RKI: In its latest update from Tuesday (1 March), the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) removed France from the list of international high-risk areas with effect from Thursday (3 March). Therefore, the travel warning by the Federal Foreign Office for France will be lifted.
RKI (German Robert Koch Instiute)
Update 2022-02-15: Since 12 February, France classifies the countries of the world either as green or orange; depending on the categorization, different entry regulations apply. Germany and other EU states are currently listed as 'green'. Vaccinated and recovered travellers no longer have to provide a negative test result, unvaccinated travellers are still required to do so and must present a PCR test (max. 72h old) or antigen rapid test (max. 48h old) upon arrival.
Further information is available via the link below.
Ministère de l'Intérieur
Update 2022-02-11: From 28 February, the obligation to wear masks indoors will be abolished. However, the obligation to wear a mask will still apply in public transport.
AFP
Update 2022-01-20: The vaccine pass will come into effect on Monday (24 January), provided it gets approved by the Constitutional Council. From 2 February face masks will not be required outside.
AFP
Update 2022-01-17: According to media reports on Monday (17 January), the vaccine pass is not expected to be introduced before 20 January 2022. An exact date has not yet been announced, however.
linternaute, La depeche
Update 2022-01-13: According to the latest media reports, It is expected that a vaccination pass ('pass vaccinal') will replace the previously valid health pass ('pass sanitaire') in many areas of public life starting upcoming Monday (17 January). To obtain the vaccine pass, proof of immunization (vaccination or recovery) is mandatory. A negative test will no longer be sufficient, with the exception of entering health care facilities and travelling to Corsica or French overseas territories.
The booster certificate is considered valid 7 days after receiving the booster dose.
Service Public France, Femme actuelle
Update 2021-12-29: From Friday (31 December), wearing a mask outdoors in Paris is compulsory. This applies to everyone over the age of eleven.
AFP, Le Figaro
Update 2021-12-28: According to media reports on Monday (27 December), a negative test result will no longer be sufficient to be recognised in the health passport (pass sanitaire) from 15 January on. Only a vaccination or recovery will then allow access to large parts of public life.
dpa
Update 2021-12-21: According to recent media reports from Tuesday (21 December), EU COVID certificates will soon no longer be valid if 9 months have passed since completing primary vaccination and no booster dose has been administered. This was announced by the EU Commission. Accordingly, the decision will come into force on 01 February 2022.
Reuters
Update 2021-12-17: The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) updated its list of high risk areas on Friday (17 December). From Sunday (19 December), the entire country is considered a high risk area. The associated registration, quarantine and documentation requirements must be observed. For details see the link below.
RKI
Update 2021-12-03: As of Saturday (04 December) fully vaccinated travellers (aged 12 years or over) travelling from outside of the European Union must show proof of a negative COVID-19 test result from either a PCR or antigen test. Tests must be taken no more than 48 hours before travel for vaccinated travellers and no more than 24 hours before travel for non-vaccinated. Furthermore, non-vaccinated arrivals from the European Union must show proof of a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 24 hours before departure.
FCDO
Update 2021-12-01 (2): As of Saturday (04 December) will start allowing flights from southern Africa allowing only French and EU residents as well as diplomats and flight crews to disembark. Travellers from these countries must provide a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival and quarantine for seven days, while a positive test will require a 10-day quarantine. All travellers from outside the European Union will have to provide a negative COVID-19 test, regardless their vaccination status.
Reuters, AFP
Update 2021-12-01 (1): The suspension for flights from seven southern African countries will remain in effect until at least Saturday (04 December).
Reuters
Update 2021-11-25 (2): According to media information from Thursday (25 November), the Corona passport will expire seven months after full vaccination for individuals who do not complete a booster vaccination. For individuals over 65, this regulation will apply from 15 December, and for individuals 18 and over, it will apply from 15 January 2022. Moreover, from Monday (29 November), COVID-19 tests in France will only be valid for 24 hours, instead of 72 hours as before.
dpa
Update 2021-11-25 (1): Due to changes in infection rates and/or restrictions, the overall rating was reassessed and updated.
A3M
Update 2021-11-12: As of Saturday (13 November), unvaccinated travellers from a large number of European countries must present a negative test on arrival, no older than 24 hours. Unvaccinated children over the age of 12 must present a test (PCR or antigen test) regardless of the vaccination status of the adult accompanying them. In addition to Germany and Austria, the countries affected by the regulation are Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia.
Auswärtiges Amt, Ministère de l’intérieur
Update 2021-11-10: As of 15 December, health pass, which is required to enter a wide range of venues, will automatically be deactivated for all over 65 years who do not get a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot six months and five weeks after their last vaccine shot.
The Local
Update 2021-11-06: On Saturday (06 November), the French Prime Minister announced that winter sports resorts in France could start operations this season under hygiene conditions. In some cases, masks will be compulsory and if the 7-day incidence rises to 200 new infections per 100,000 inhabitants, the health passport will have to be shown in order to visit the ski resorts.
dpa
Update 2021-11-05: On Friday (05 November), it was announced that the regulation of the so-called health passport will be extended until the end of July 2022. The penalties for violations will be increased.
AFP, dpa
Update 2021-10-21: The overall rating was reassessed and updated due to adjusted standards, which take greater account of the local healthcare infrastructure.
A3M
Update 2021-09-30: Since Thursday (30 September), the rules considering the health pass also apply to children aged twelve years and two months. This affects, among other things, visits to cinemas, restaurants, cafés and long-distance trains. A paper document is also permitted for children.
dpa
Update 2021-09-24: In its latest update from Friday (24 September), the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) removed the region Provence-Alpes-Côte d´Azur in France from the list of international high-risk areas with effect from Sunday (26 September). Therefore, the travel warning by the Federal Foreign Office for Provence-Alpes-Côte d´Azur will be lifted.
RKI
Update 2021-09-22: According to media reports from Wednesday (22 September), the COVID-19 restrictions in France are to be slightly relaxed. As of 04 October, attendance limits for events and in buildings will no longer apply in départements with a 7-day incidence of less than 50, .
dpa
Update 2021-09-10 (2): In its latest update from Friday (10 September), the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) removed the Corsica and Occitanie regions from the list of international high-risk areas with effect from Sunday (12 September). Therefore, the travel warning by the Federal Foreign Office for these regions will be lifted.
RKI
Update 2021-09-10 (1): According to media reports on Friday (10 September), the United States and Israel have been classified as category amber countries of origin by French authorities. As of Sunday (12 September), only travellers fully vaccinated against COVID-19 will be allowed to enter France from both countries for tourism purposes. Travellers from both countries who have not been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 will only be allowed to enter France for essential reasons starting Sunday (12 September).
The Local
Update 2021-08-25: According to media reports on Wednesday (25 August), French authorities have reintroduced the obligation to wear a mask outdoors in 38 departments. A detailed list of all affected departments can be found in the link below.
sortiraparis.com
Update 2021-08-10: German authorities published detailed information on France's traffic light system and amended country risk classifications on Tuesday (10 August). Moreover, the health passport required for visiting numerous venues can also be provided by using among others the German CovPass and Corona-Warn app applications, as well as in paper form.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-08-06: As of Sunday (08 August), the French regions of Occitanie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur and Corsica are classified as high-risk areas by German authorities.
RKI
Update 2021-08-04: According to media reports Wednesday (04 August), mandatory masks in public spaces have been reintroduced in the departments of Finistère and Morbihan in Brittany, on the island of Corsica, municipalities in southern France along the Spanish border and the region around Lake Annecy in the French Alps.
AFP
Update 2021-08-01: Due to the removal of the category "basic risk area", the entire country will no longer be classified as a risk area by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) as of Sunday (01 August). However, this does not necessarily mean that there is a lower risk of infection in this country.
RKI
Update 2021-07-28: According to official information on Wednesday (28 July), the tightened COVID-19 restrictions in France will now come into force on 09 August instead of on Sunday (01 August) as originally planned.
dpa
Update 2021-07-26: Sunday night (25 July, local time), the French parliament confirmed the tightening of the proof requirement as of August.
AFP, dpa
Update 2021-07-23 (2): The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) updated its list of global risk areas on Friday (23 July). From Sunday (25 July), the regions of Corsica, Occitania, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur are considered a risk area.
RKI
Update 2021-07-23 (1): On Friday morning (23 July, local time), members of the French National Assembly approved a bill to extend the obligation to provide proof of a negative coronary test, vaccination or recovery. If the Senate approves the new regulations, this will mean that proof will also be required for long-distance trains, bars, restaurants and shopping centres from August.
dpa
Update 2021-07-21: In several cities of the Département Haute-Corse the health passport is to be required in restaurants already starting from 28 July. In return, catering establishments will be allowed to stay open until midnight (local time). Currently, they still have to close at 11:00 p.m. (local time).
orange
Update 2021-07-19: The Federal Foreign Office pointed out on Monday evening (19 July, local time) that travellers can also prove their vaccination, test or convalescent status in paper form or digitally via a German app ("CovPass" or "Corona-Warn-App"). However, the reading of proof issued in Germany into the French app and vice versa cannot be guaranteed.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-07-17: According to media reports Saturday (17 July), travelers from the United Kingdom, Spain, Portugal, Cyprus, Greece and the Netherlands who have not been vaccinated against COVID-19 will be required to present a negative COVID-19 test no more than 24 hours before arriving in France, starting Sunday (18 July). At the same time, French authorities have added Tunisia, Mozambique and Cuba to the red list. Separate entry, testing and quarantine requirements apply to red list countries.
AFP
Update 2021-07-16: As of Saturday (17 July) the obligation to wear a face mask during the day in the southwestern French department of Pyrénées-Orientales applies again. Beaches and open-air areas such as hiking trails are exempt from the mask requirement.
AFP, dpa
Update 2021-07-13 (2): According to media reports from Tuesday (13 July), entry restrictions for unvaccinated travellers from Spain, Portugal and the United Kingdom will again be tightened. Among other things, unvaccinated travellers must present a negative COVID-19 test, no older than 24 hours. These new restrictions are supposed to enter into force this week.
The Local
Update 2021-07-13 (1): The extension of the "COVID Pass" system to public cultural institutions with more than 50 visitors such as theaters, cinemas and museums is to take place as early as 21 July. From August, in addition to the facilities already mentioned, this pass will also be required for long-distance travel by public transport.
The Local
Update 2021-07-12: On Monday (12 July), it was announced that the "COVID pass" system would also cover visits to restaurants, bars, shopping centres and other public venues from August. Therefore, people who want to visit these venues must be able to prove that they are fully vaccinated or can provide a recent negative COVID-19 test.
AFP, AP
Update 2021-07-02 (2): German authorities reported on Friday (02 Friday), that Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Taiwan and Vanuatu are also classified as "green" by French authorities. Entry from these countries is generally possible without an essential reason for travel.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-07-02 (1): As of Wednesday (07 July), COVID-19 tests are to become chargeable for foreign tourists in France.
AFP
Update 2021-06-30: On Wednesday (30 June) most of the capacity restrictions for stores, restaurants, events and leisure facilities were lifted. Only in the department of Landes they will remain in force until at least 06 July.
AFP
Update 2021-06-23: On Wednesday (23 June), French authorities put Russia, Namibia and the Seychelles on their red list for entry restrictions.
AFP
Update 2021-06-18 (2): As of Sunday (20 June), continental France is no longer classified as a risk area by German authorities.
RKI
Update 2021-06-18 (1): On Thursday (17 June), the United States and Canada were added to the so-called "green list" of the French authorities. This means that travel from these two countries is again possible without quarantine and the presence of an important reason for travel. Unvaccinated travellers must nevertheless still present a negative PCR test that is no more than 72 hours old. Other changes included placing Turkey on the "orange list" and Afghanistan, the Maldives and Paraguay on the "red list".
The Local
Update 2021-06-16: From Sunday (20 June) the night-time curfew will be lifted in France. In addition, the general outdoor mask requirement will be lifted from Thursday (17 June). Originally, the curfew should have been lifted on 30 June.
AFP
Update 2021-06-04 (4): The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) updated its list of global risk areas on Friday (04 June). From Sunday (06 June), the region of Corsica is no longer considered a risk area. For this reason, the Federal Foreign Office has lifted its warning against non-essential, tourist travel (valid from Sunday, 06 June) for this region.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-06-04 (3): According to further reports, France will introduce a colour-coded system for entry regulations as of Wednesday (09 June). EU countries will be considered green. This also applies to Australia, South Korea, Israel, Japan, Lebanon, New Zealand and Singapore. These are the countries that will benefit from the aforementioned relaxations of the testing requirement for vaccinated travellers. In addition, a valid reason for travel is no longer required. From orange-rated countries (e.g. the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada and large parts of Asia and Africa), travel will still only be possible with a valid reason. In addition, travellers from these countries must undergo a seven-day quarantine after entering the country. For travellers from these countries, the testing requirement continues to apply regardless of vaccination status. 16 countries are initially classified as red. This concerns, for example, Turkey, India, South Africa and large parts of South America. Travellers from these countries, who are allowed to enter, also need a negative test and have to go into quarantine for at least ten days.
From 01 July, the European health passport will also be accepted as proof. For details see the link below.
AFP, Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-06-04 (2): As of Wednesday (09 June), fully vaccinated travellers from other European countries will again be able to enter France without a negative PCR test. This also applies to travellers from Australia, Japan and Israel, for example.
dpa
Update 2021-06-04 (1): From Wednesday (09 June), indoor restaurants in France will be allowed to reopen. The night-time curfew will then start at 11:00 p.m. (local time) every day.
AFP
Update 2021-05-28: The stricter entry rules for travellers from the United Kingdom will come into effect on Monday (31 May). From that date, only EU citizens, persons with a residence permit and persons with a valid reason will be allowed to enter France from the UK.
FCDO
Update 2021-05-27 (2): France has again tightened its entry regulations for travellers from the United Kingdom who do not have a permanent residence permit for France, on Thursday (27 May): Britons must again show a compelling reason if they want to enter France.
AFP
Update 2021-05-27 (1): According to reports from Thursday (27 May), the self-isolation requirement for the United Kingdom is expected to come into force on Monday (31 May) and travellers from the United Kingdom must also provide a negative COVID-19 test, no older than 48 hours.
Reuters
Update 2021-05-26: According to media reports on Wednesday (26 May), travellers arriving in France from the United Kingdom will have to go into self-isolation for seven days. Exact details have not yet been disclosed, but the reason for the measure is the spread of the Indian COVID-19 variant in the United Kingdom. So far, travellers arriving in France from Brazil, India, Argentina, Chile, South Africa, Colombia, Uruguay, Costa Rica, Bahrain, Turkey, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Nepal, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar need to self-isolate after arrival.
AFP
Update 2021-05-21: The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) updated its list of global risk areas on Friday (21 May). From Sunday (23 May), the entire of France is considered a risk area. For this reason, the Federal Foreign Office has extended its warning against non-essential, tourist travel (valid from Sunday, 23 May) to the entire country.
France will no longer be considered a high incidence area.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-05-14: From Sunday (16 May), people entering France from Bahrain, Costa Rica, Colombia or Uruguay will have to go into quarantine for at least ten days. The quarantine list of the French authorities is thus extended to 16 countries.
AFP
Update 2021-05-11: As was announced on Tuesday (11 May), France will introduce the European traffic light system for the uniform assessment of the epidemiological situation in other countries from the end of May. This was announced by Foreign Minister Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne. So far, this structure is already used in the Czech Republic, Norway, Estonia, Lithuania, Cyprus and Denmark, among others.
schengenvisainfo
Update 2021-05-08: From Sunday (09 May), travellers from Turkey, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates must present a negative PCR test result upon arrival, which must not be older than 36 hours. There is a ten-day long mandatory quarantine. Entry from these countries is only permitted for French nationals or foreign nationals residing in France.
FCDO
Update 2021-05-06: According to media reports, commuters from the Département Moselle will be subject to the same rules as residents of the Saarland from 13 May, which means that the special testing requirement upon entry will no longer apply. Moreover, for a stay of less than 24 hours, no test has to be provided either.
Süddeutsche Zeitung
Update 2021-04-30: According to British authorities on Friday (30 April), the currently valid domestic French travel restrictions will be lifted as of Monday (03 April).
FCDO
Update 2021-04-29 (3): According to further reports, the night-time curfew in France will be gradually shortened before it is lifted on 30 June. From 19 May it will start at 09:00 p.m. (local time) and from 09 June from 11:00 p.m. (local time). In addition, assemblies of up to ten people are to be allowed again from 19 May.
AFP, dpa
Update 2021-04-29 (2): According to current media reports, the Moselle Department will no longer be classified as a virus variant area by German authorities as of Sunday (02 May). It will then be considered a high incidence area, like the rest of France.
dpa
Update 2021-04-29 (1): On Thursday (29 April), the French President announced that catering establishments and cultural institutions are to reopen gradually over May and June. On 19 May, shops, museums, cinemas and the outdoor areas of cafés and restaurants are to be allowed to open. The indoor areas of catering establishments will follow on 09 June. The night-time curfew is to be lifted on 30 June.
AFP
Update 2021-04-26: According to British authorities, the tightened testing and quarantine obligations also apply to travellers from South Africa and French Guiana. The quarantine lasts ten days and another PCR test must be carried out at the end.
FCDO
Update 2021-04-23: According to German authorities on Friday (23 April), travellers from Argentina, Brazil, Chile and India entering France are subject to stricter testing requirements. Travellers from these countries require a negative COVID-19 PCR test conducted no more than 36 hours before departure. If applicable, the test may have been performed up to 72 hours prior to departure if travellers can then present a rapid antigen test that is no more than 24 hours old. In addition, there is a mandatory quarantine upon arrival in France at a location to be specified in advance.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-04-22: The previously announced mandatory ten-day quarantine for travellers from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, India and South Africa is due to come into effect on Saturday (24 April).
Reuters
Update 2021-04-21: On Wednesday (21 April), the French government announced that travel restrictions within France are expected to be lifted as of 03 May. Outdoor dining areas are expected to be able to open in mid-May. Further quarantine and testing conditions are also to be introduced for travellers from India. However, these have not yet been finalised.
AFP, Reuters
Update 2021-04-20: The mandatory quarantine for travellers arriving from Argentina, Brazil, Chile and South Africa will go into effect as of Saturday (24 April).
AFP
Update 2021-04-19: US citizens (especially those who have already been vaccinated and those with a special permit) can expect easier entry into France from the beginning of May. This is according to a statement by France's President on Sunday (18 April).
Deadline
Update 2021-04-17: According to media reports, French authorities announced that a 10-day quarantine will be introduced for travelers arriving from Argentina, Brazil, Chile and South Africa.
AFP
Update 2021-04-13: According to media reports from Tuesday (13 April), France will suspend all flights to and from Brazil until further notice.
AFP
Update 2021-04-01: According to an announcement made by French Prime Minister Castex on Thursday (01 April), the consumption of alcoholic beverages in parks and other places will also be banned as part of the latest tightening of measures in France. No more than 6 people will be allowed to gather on riverbanks and public places.
AFP
Update 2021-03-31: According to media reports on Wednesday (31 March), the lockdown currently in effect in 19 departments will be extended to all of France starting Saturday (03 April) and will last for at least four weeks. Non-essential businesses and educational institutions will have to close during the lockdown and citizens' freedom of movement will be limited to 10 kilometers around their homes. A detailed list of all restrictions can be found here.
AFP, The Local
Update 2021-03-29: British authorities stated Monday (29 March) that air travel between Morocco and France will be suspended until further notice as of 11:00 p.m. (local time) on 30 March. Travellers from France are not allowed to enter Morocco via transit stops in other countries.
FCDO
Update 2021-03-26: From Sunday (28 March), the whole of France will be classified as a high incidence area by German authorities.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-03-24: On Wednesday (24 March), it was announced that the Rhône, Aube and Nievre departments are also affected by the new restrictions.
AFP
Update 2021-03-23: After some regulations and measures in the areas affected by a new lockdown remained unclear, French authorities published clarifications. An English-language summary can be found in the link below.
The Local
Update 2021-03-18 (3): The Alpes-Maritimes department is also affected by the new restrictions. A complete list of the affected areas can be found here.
dpa
Update 2021-03-18 (2): According to further reports, the start of the countrywide night-time curfew will also be postponed from 06:00 p.m. (local time) to 07:00 p.m. In general, movements in the areas affected by the new partial lockdown are also restricted. Similar to previous lockdowns, the reason for leaving the house must be entered in a form.
AFP
Update 2021-03-18 (1): On Thursday (18 March), the French Prime Minister announced a partial shutdown in several parts of the country. Non-essential businesses will have to close from midnight on Friday (19 March, local time) and people will not be allowed to move more than ten kilometres from their residence without necessary reasons. Travel across regional borders is prohibited. These measures are to apply for at least one month.
Paris and the Île de France as well as the Hauts-de-France region and parts of Normandy are affected. In total, this applies in 16 departments.
AFP, Independent
Update 2021-03-11 (3): On Thursday (11 March), the French government relaxed entry restrictions for travellers from several countries. Travel from Australia, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea and the United Kingdom is no longer possible only for a necessary reason of travelling.
AFP
Update 2021-03-11 (2): According to current media reports, the weekend lockdown in the Alpes-Maritimes department will also apply this weekend. A further extension is currently still being discussed.
The Local
Update 2021-03-11 (1): On Thursday (11 March), the French Transport Minister announced that flights on Air France to Guadeloupe and Martinique would require the traveller to use a special mobile phone app in which travellers must store information about a possible vaccination they have received or negative tests. This represents a test that will be conducted for a month before the use of the app is potentially extended to other flights.
AFP
Update 2021-03-10: According to media reports on Wednesday (10 March), the weekend lockdown in the Communauté urbaine de Dunkerque has been extended by three weeks until at least 28 March.
connexionfrance
Update 2021-03-04: On Thursday (04 March), the French government announced the introduction of weekend lockdowns in the Pas-de-Calais department.
AFP
Update 2021-03-02: According to the German Foreign Office, a new highly contagious variant of COVID-19 has been detected in the Département Moselle. Due to this, the Département Moselle is classified as an area with a particularly high risk of infection as of Tuesday (02 March). In addition to the existing registration requirement and basic quarantine requirement, people entering from Département Moselle must also carry proof of a negative COVID-19 test in English, French or German. The underlying test must have been performed no more than 48 hours prior to entry and must meet the requirements of the Robert Koch Institute. Likewise, as of Tuesday 02 March), there is a transport ban for travellers from the Département Moselle to Germany. Travellers with a place of residence in Germany are exempt.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-02-25: According to media reports from Thursday (25 February), a negative COVID-19 PCR test, no older than 72 hours, will be required for non-professional entries into the département of Moselle starting from March. Commuters will be exempted from this measure for the time being.
Spiegel Online
Update 2021-02-24: On Wednesday (24 February), it was announced that weekend lockdowns will also be introduced in the Communauté urbaine de Dunkerque until further notice. The house may then only be left in necessary cases.
The French authorities are already warning that such measures could be extended to other areas in the country, as case numbers are rising in many départements.
AFP
Update 2021-02-22 (2): According to further reports, the lockdown in the Département Alpes-Maritimes will only last from 06:00 p.m. on Fridays until 06:00 a.m. on Mondays (local time) during the next two weekends.
AFP
Update 2021-02-22 (1): According to media reports from Monday (22 February), a partial lockdown has been imposed for the Département Alpes-Maritimes. As of Friday (26 February), leaving one's home is only possible for important reasons. Sports activities will only be allowed within a 5 km radius of the place of residence and for one hour per day. Additionally, the mask requirement will be extended and large shops will have to close.
dpa
Update 2021-02-09: On Tuesday (09 February), the French parliament approved the extension of the health emergency until at least 01 June.
dpa
Update 2021-02-05: German authorities pointed out on Friday (05 February), that the negative COVID-19 test, which is no more than 72 hours old and must be presented on entry into France, should be a PCR test, as rapid antigen tests are only accepted in exceptional cases.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-01-29: As French Prime Minister Castex announced on Friday evening (29 January, local time), France will close its borders to non-essential travel by people from non-EU countries from Sunday (31 January). Contrary to previous assumptions, no new countrywide lockdown was announced.
AFP
Update 2021-01-27: Due to insufficient controls at Ethiopian Airlines, France has suspended traffic with the airline for four days. From Thursday (28 January) to Sunday (31 January), Ethiopian Airlines services in France will be suspended. Ethiopia's national airline is of particular importance because it has maintained most of its numerous connections in Africa throughout the Corona crisis.
AFP
Update 2021-01-22: From Sunday (24 January) at midnight local time, EU citizens entering France must also present a negative PCR test, which must not be older than 72 hours. There are exceptions for essential travel (e.g. border traffic and movement of goods).
dpa
Update 2021-01-20: Until at least 21 February, a declaration of a recognised reason for entry must be carried when entering the country from Great Britain and Northern Ireland. In addition, the regulations for entry from non-EU countries apply.
FCDO, Ministere de l'Intérieur
Update 2021-01-15: According to further reports, the negative PCR test that travellers from non-EU countries must present when entering France must not be older than 72 hours. This comes into force on Monday (18 January). Essential business travellers and border commuters are exempt from the subsequent isolation requirement.
The Local
Update 2021-01-14: According to media reports from Thursday (14 January), as of Saturday (16 January) the curfew in France will be moved forwards by two hours and begin at 06:00 p.m. (local time). This measures will remain in force for at least two weeks. Additionally, travellers from non-EU countries will be required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test and then self-isolate for seven days. In order to leave self-isolation a second COVID-19 PCR test will be required.
AFP, dpa
Update 2021-01-12: The Federal Foreign Office reported on Tuesday (12 January) that until 08 February a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen test), no older than 72 hours, is required for entry to Corsica.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-01-11: In addition to the areas announced yesterday (see below), the department of la Drôme will also be affected by the early curfew (from 06:00 p.m. local time) from Tuesday (12 January). This is according to current FCDO information.
FCDO
Update 2021-01-10: According to British authorities on Sunday (10. January), the earlier curfew from 06:00 p.m (local time) applies in the departments of l’Allier, Hautes-Alpes, Alpes-Maritimes, Ardennes, Les Bouches-du-Rhône, Le Cher, la Côte-d’Or, Doubs, Jura, Marne, Haute-Marne, Meurthe-et-Moselle, Moselle, Meuse, Nièvre, le Bas-Rhin, le Haut-Rhin, Haute-Saône, Saône-et-Loire, le Vaucluse, Vosges, Territoire de Belfort and will also apply from Tuesday (12. January) in the department of le Var.
FCDO
Update 2021-01-09 (2): The earlier curfews from 06:00 p.m. (local time) are to be introduced in a total of eight more departements from Sunday (10 January). In addition to those already mentioned, the departments of Bouches-du-Rhône and Côte-d'Or are also to be affected.
AFP
Update 2021-01-09 (1): According to media reports on Saturday (09 January), the night curfew in the departments of Bas-Rhin and Haut-Rhin will apply from 06:00 p.m. (local time) starting Sunday (10 January).
dpa
Update 2021-01-08 (2): From Sunday (10 January), the night-time curfew in many areas in the east of France will begin from 06:00 p.m. (local time).
AFP
Update 2021-01-08 (1): As the French Prime Minister announced on Thursday (07 January), the existing measures in France will remain in force until at least 20 January. This also applies to the travel restrictions with Great Britain. It was also said that bars and restaurants would not open until mid-February.
rfi
Update 2021-01-07 (2): As of Saturday (09 January), the travel warning issued by the German Federal Foreign Office against non-essential tourist travel due to high numbers of cases applies to the whole of France. Until now, the regions of Brittany and Corsica were exempt.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-01-07 (1): According to British authorities on Thursday (07 January), travel between France and the United Kingdom remains restricted.
FCDO
Update 2021-01-04: According to German authorities on Monday (04 January), entry into France from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea and Thailand, as well as all EU countries, is not subject to any special entry restrictions. Entry from the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland is subject to COVID-19 PCR testing until the end of 06 January. For entry from all other countries special regulations apply which can be viewed here.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-01-02: According to British authorities on Saturday (02 January), the nationwide curfew was extended by 2 hours and is now already valid from 06:00 p.m. (local time). in the departments of Hautes-Alpes, Alpes-Maritimes, Ardennes, Doubs, Jura, Marne, Haute-Marne, Meurthe-et-Moselle, Meuse, Nièvre, Haute-Saône, Saône-et-Loire, Vosges, Territoire de Belfort and Moselle.
FCDO
Update 2021-01-01: On Friday (01 January), it was announced that the curfew would be extended by two hours, from 06:00 p.m. instead of 08:00 p.m. (local time), in 15 departments severely affected by the coronavirus. The regulation is to come into force on Saturday (02 January).
AFP, Le Figaro
Update 2020-12-23: Since Wednesday (23 November) until at least 6 January 2021, EU citizens are allowed to cross the border to France again. This also applies to British citizens and citizens of third countries who have a residence permit in the EU or the European Economic Area or can show a valid reason for the journey. All travellers from the UK must present a negative COVID-19 test no more than 72 hours prior to the time of departure. This also applies to children over the age of eleven.
AFP, FCDO
Update 2020-12-20: According to media reports on Sunday (20 December), the French government has issued an entry ban for Travellers from the United Kingdom, initially limited to 48 hours.The entry ban applies from Sunday (20 December) 00:00 p.m. (local time) for all border crossings by air, sea, rail and land.
dpa
Update 2020-12-15 (2): According to FCDO information from Tuesday (15 December), travel between the regions is again permitted and public services and shops are open.
FCDO
Update 2020-12-15 (1): The Federal Foreign Office reported on Tuesday (15 December) that travellers to Guadeloupe, Martinique, St. Martin, St. Barthélemy and La Réunion must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test, no older than 72 hours, prior to departure. A self-declaration of absence of symptoms is also required.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-12-14: The Federal Foreign Office reported on Monday (14 December) that a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen test), no older than 72 hours, is required for entry into Corsica from Saturday (19 December) until 08 January 2021. Additionally, an affidavit must be presented stating that no COVID-19 symptoms are apparent and that there has been no contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case within the last 14 days.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-12-11 (2): The reopening of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, scheduled for Wednesday (16 December), has been postponed until further notice due to continued high levels of infection.
dpa
Update 2020-12-11 (1): The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) has suspended the risk area status for the French regions of Brittany and Corsica. Therefore, from Sunday (13 December), the German Federal Foreign Office's warning against unnecessary tourist trips to these two regions does no longer apply. In addition, the travel warning for the overseas departments Guadeloupe, La Réunion and Martinique are suspended.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-12-10: According to media reports on Thursday (10 December), a nighttime curfew will be in effect between 08:00 p.m. and 06:00 a.m. (local time) starting Tuesday (15 December). The only exception to the curfew is christmas eve on 24 December.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-12-01: According to FCDO information from Tuesday (01 December), travellers have to fill-out an international movement certificate as well as a declaration that they do not have COVID-19 symptoms. Additionally, it may be necessary to present a negative COVID-19 test result, no older than 72 hours by departure. Otherwise, travellers could be asked to take a COVID-19 test at the airport. Arrivals from the "European Area" are exempt from these restrictions. A list of exempted countries and further information can be found here.
FCDO
Update 2020-11-24: On Tuesday (24 November), the French President announced that shops would be allowed to reopen from Saturday (28 November). However, people in the country will still have to fill in a certificate when they leave their residence. Walks and sports up to 20 km from the place of residence will be allowed for up to three hours from the weekend. Bars and restaurants are expected to be allowed to reopen from 20 January. Exit restrictions will be relaxed as early as 15 December. A night-time curfew from 09:00 p.m. to 07:00 a.m. (local time) will remain in force beyond that time. At Christmas and New Year's Eve the curfew will be suspended.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-11-03: German authorities reported on Tuesday (03 November), that a written exit permit must be carried when staying outside one's own home in France. In most cases, this can be filled in by the person concerned.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-10-28 (2): On Wednesday (28 October), the French President announced that a country-wide lockdown would be reintroduced from Friday (30 October) until at least 01 December. Non-essential businesses would have to close and exit restrictions would apply. People may only leave their homes to go to work, visit a doctor, help relatives or make essential purchases. Short walks are also permitted.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-10-28 (1): The Federal Foreign Office reported on Tuesday (28 October), that the existing night-time curfew will be extended to the departments of Strasbourg, Grenoble, Lille, Lyon, Montpellier, Rouen, St. Étienne and Toulouse. There is also a nationwide obligation to wear masks in all public indoor areas. In addition, checks will continue to be carried out at the borders with Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy and Spain until at least 01 April, 2021.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-10-22: On Thursday (22 October), the French Government announced the extension of the night-time curfew to dozens of departments. This is due to come into force on Friday (23 October) and will apply for at least six weeks. This means that about two thirds of the French population are now affected by the measure.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-10-16: German authorities reported on Friday (16 October) that in France, gatherings of more than six people are prohibited in public places. Private parties are also prohibited countrywide.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-10-15: From Saturday (17 October), the travel warning issued by the German Federal Foreign Office will be extended to the whole of continental France.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-10-14 (2): From Saturday (17 October), night-time curfews will apply in the Paris area and the cities of Grenoble, Lille, Lyon, Aix-Marseille, Montpellier, Rouen, St Etienne and Toulouse between 09:00 p.m. and 06:00 a.m. (local time). These curfews will remain in place for at least four weeks.
AFP, euronews, Reuters
Update 2020-10-14 (1): On Wednesday (14 October), the French government announced that the national health emergency would be reintroduced from Saturday (17 October). This will allow the government to introduce further restrictions, which may also include curfews. An announcement of new measures is expected on Wednesday evening (local time).
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-10-12: German authorities reported on Monday (12 October) that also in the cities of Montpellier and Toulouse the maximum alarm (alerte maximale) was declared due to high case numbers.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-10-08: According to media reports on Thursday evening (08 October, local time), as of Saturday (10 October), four more cities will fall under the maximum alert category ('zone d‘alert maximale'): In addition to Paris, Aix-Marseille, and the overseas territory of Guadeloupe, also Lille, Lyon, Grenoble, and Saint-Étienne will be subject to the maximum alert level from then on, due to increasing numbers of infections.
AFP
Update 2020-10-07: The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) removed the French island of Corsica from the list of COVID-19 risk areas on Wednesday (07 October). The Federal Foreign Office has therefore lifted the travel warning for Corsica.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-10-05 (2): Cafes, bars, clubs, dance halls, gyms, and swimming pools will be closed and parties will be prohibited in Greater Paris from Tuesday (06 October). Health clubs will remain closed. Restaurants and cultural facilities such as theatres, cinemas and museums can remain open when following additional measures. The consumption of alcohol outdoors is no longer allowed after 10:00 p.m. local time. The measures will initially be in effect for two weeks.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-10-05 (1): The maximum alarm level will be declared in larger Paris on Monday (05 October), allowing for the close of cafes while restaurants could remain open under strict conditions. The measures could initially be in effect for 15 days.
dpa
Update 2020-09-30: On Wednesday (30 September), the travel warning was extended by the German Foreign Office to all of France, with the exception of the Grand-East region, due to high infection rates.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-09-29: On Monday (28 September), all restaurants and pubs were closed in Marseille and Aix-en-Provence for two weeks.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-09-23 (2): Since Wednesday (23 September), the Centre-Val-de-Loire, Normandy, and Brittany regions are considered risk areas according to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI). For this reason, the Federal Foreign Office issued a warning against non-essential tourist trips to the capital region on the same evening (local time).
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-09-23 (1): On Wednesday evening (23 September, local time), the French Minister of Health, Olivier Véran, announced the publication of a new COVID-19 map, which now classifies individual areas as 'zone d'alert', 'zone d'alert renforcée' and 'zone d'alert maximale'. This has been accompanied by further tightening of the current COVID-19 measures in France: As a result, restaurants and bars in Marseille will have to close. The surrounding region (Aix-Marseille) is now in a state of maximum alert ('zone d'alert maximale'), as is the French overseas territory of Guadeloupe. Eleven metropolitan regions are now considered as 'zones d'alert renforcée': Paris, Lille, Toulouse, Saint-Etienne, Rennes, Rouen, Grenoble, Montpellier, Bordeaux, Lyon, and Nice.
AFP, France Bleu
Update 2020-09-18: According to media reports on Friday (18 September), the authorities of the city of Nice announced a tightening of the directives. Public events will be limited to 1,000 participants, while private meetings in public places will be limited to ten participants. A closing time of 00:30 a.m. (local time) has been imposed for bars. The authorities of Marseille and Bordeaux had already introduced similar measures several days ago.
dpa
Update 2020-09-16: On Wednesday (16 September), the Federal Foreign Office extended its travel warning for the Hauts-de-France region and the overseas territory of La Réunion.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-09-15: According to the information provided by the German authorities on Tuesday (15 September), the French authorities have now also identified the departments of Aude, Ille-et-Villaine, Isère, Loire, Loire-Atlantique, Maine-et-Loire, Puy-de-Dôme, Pyrénéees-Atlantiques, Bas-Rhin, Seine-Maritime and Tarn-et-Garonne as risk areas. Further restrictions may be imposed locally.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-09-14: On Monday (14 September), official bodies reported a tightening of local measures in Bordeaux. According to media reports, private outdoor meetings are now limited to ten people, and private family celebrations should be treated in the same way. Flea markets and street parties are prohibited, discos are closed. Public events in the Gironde department will be limited to 1,000 participants instead of 5,000.
dpa, AFP
Update 2020-09-09: On Wednesday (09 September), the German Federal Foreign Office extended its travel warning due to high infection rates to the regions Auvergne-Rhônes-Alpes, Occitanie, Nouvelle-Aquitaine and Corse. In the Hauts-de-France region, too, the number of cases has recently risen sharply.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-09-07: German authorities reported on Monday (07 September), that the departments of Corse-du-Sud, Haute-Corse, Côte d'Or, Nord, Bas-Rhin and Seine-Maritime were also included by the French authorities in the list of areas with increased risk of infection. Local authorities there can now introduce more stringent restrictions.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-08-28: On Friday (28 August), the list of departments with increased virus spread was extended by the following: Île-de-France and Sarthe, Loiret, Rhône, Gironde, Haute-Garonne, Hérault, Gard, Bouches-du-Rhône, Var, Alpes-Maritimes. In overseas territories, Guadeloupe, Martinique and Guyana are now also among the areas with increased numbers of infections. In Paris, the Départements Seine Saint Denis, Hauts de Seine and Val de Marne, masks are compulsory, as in Marseille, Toulouse and Strasbourg.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-08-27 (2): The French Prime Minister announced on Thursday (27 August) that in Paris a general obligation to wear masks in all public places will apply.
AFP
Update 2020-08-27 (1): According to media reports on Thursday (27 August), Belgian authorities have added the greater Paris area and several other regions to the list of countries to which travel without a permit is prohibited. These include the regions in the departments of Alpes-Maritimes, Bouches-du-Rhone, Hérault, Sarthe, Seine-Saint-Denis and Val-de-Marne. Mayotte and Guyana also belong to this list.
The Local
Update 2020-08-26: According to media reports on Tuesday (25 August), a general obligation to wear masks in public places applies in Marseille from Wednesday evening (26 August, local time). There are also limited opening hours for restaurants and bars. The regulations will initially remain in force until September.
dpa
Update 2020-08-24: On Monday evening (24 August, local time) the German Federal Foreign Office issued a travel warning for the Île-de-France and the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. This was justified with the current high number of cases in these areas.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-08-20 (2): According to media reports on Thursday (20 August), a general mask obligation will also apply in parts of downtown Lyon from Saturday (22 August).
AFP
Update 2020-08-20 (1): A strict obligation to wear protective masks outside private spaces is in effect between 07:00 a.m. and 03:00 a.m. (local times) in all areas of Toulouse from Friday (21 August). Wearing a protective mask outdoors is also mandatory in parts of Paris and Nice.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-08-18: On Tuesday (18 August), the Ministry of Labour announced that the wearing of a mask at the workplace will be compulsory from the end of August. According to the announcement, this will affect meeting rooms, corridors, changing rooms and shared offices. Individual offices are excluded.
dpa, Le Figaro
Update 2020-08-17: French authorities do not rule out a general obligation to wear a mask. France's capital was classified as a corona-active zone at the end of last week.
dpa
Update 2020-08-14 (2): On Friday (14 August) French authorities classified the city of Paris and the department of Bouches-du-Rhône as "red" zones. Based on this classification, local authorities can again impose curfews, restrict public transport and close down companies. The introduction of such measures by the authorities must be expected.
Reuters
Update 2020-08-14 (1): After British authorities announced on Thursday evening (13 August, local time), that travellers from France would have to go into 14-day quarantine from Saturday (15 August), French authorities announced that they would introduce a similar measure. Details are not yet known, but it is expected that the measure will be introduced at short notice.
AFP
Update 2020-08-12: Following a further increase in infection rates in France, the Prime Minister extended the ban on gatherings of more than 5,000 people until at least 30 October. The government also called on local authorities to introduce stricter rules on the wearing of masks.
BBC
Update 2020-08-08: From Monday (10 August), the wearing of face masks will be compulsory in parts of Paris and the broader region for all people aged eleven and over.
AFP
Update 2020-07-31: On Friday (31 July), the French government gave the prefectures the freedom to impose a mask obligation outdoors. The city of Lille then introduced a mask obligation in the city centre, in car parks and in parks. It is to be expected that other cities in France will also introduce such measures.
dpa
Update 2020-07-30: Several cities in France have announced the introduction of compulsory masks, according to media reports on Thursday (30 July). In the city of Saint-Malo in Brittany, such a duty was introduced for the old town. In Orleans it exists for open-air markets and from 09:00 p.m. (local time) along the Loire river. In the city centres of Bayonne and Biarritz, a compulsory mask is in force from Monday (03 August). In the North department, new measures will be announced on Friday.
AFP
Update 2020-07-27: On Sunday evening (26 July, local time), a night-time curfew on beaches for the holiday resort of Quiberon in Brittany was announced after a cluster of infections was discovered last week. Parks and gardens will also be closed at night from 09:00 pm until 07:00 am (local time). Masks have also been extended to markets in the town's open and busy streets. Quiberon residents were instructed to reduce social contacts and take precautionary measures.
AFP
Update 2020-07-24: On Friday (24 July), the French government advised against travelling to the Spanish region of Catalonia. It was also announced that travellers from 16 high-risk countries will have to be tested for COVID-19 at the airport on their return to France in future. If the test is positive, the travellers will have to go into quarantine. The countries affected include Brazil, India, Israel, South Africa and the United States. Travelling between these countries and France is currently only possible for French citizens or persons with permanent residence in France.
AFP, dpa, Reuters
Update 2020-07-22: According to reports from Wednesday (22 July), many cities in France tightened their mask obligation. Cities in Brittany (La Rochelle, Concarneau and Saint-Brieuc) are particularly affected. The measures mostly include orders to wear a mask in the city centre or in other busy places. However, they differ locally.
dpa
Update 2020-07-16: French government authorities announced on Thursday (16 July) that the obligation to wear masks in closed public places will already apply from Monday (20 July).
AFP
Update 2020-07-14: On Tuesday (14 July), the French president announced that in the coming weeks a mask obligation in closed public places would be published.
AFP
Update 2020-07-10: According to the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office, travellers from the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, Montenegro, Morocco, New Zealand, Rwanda, Serbia, South Korea, Thailand, Tunisia and Uruguay no longer need to isolate themselves, prove that their journey is essential or hold an international travel certificate.
FCO
Update 2020-07-04: On Monday (06 July), the Louvre in Paris will reopen with social distancing measures in place. The Eiffel Tower had already been reopened on 25 June while the Palace of Versailles had reopened on 06 June.
AFP
Update 2020-06-24: According to reports from Wednesday (24 June), a 14-day quarantine has to be carried out when travelling to to French overseas territories. In the territories of Guadeloupe, Martinique, Réunion, St Martin and St Barthelemy this can be reduced to 7 days if a negative COVID 19 test not older than 72 hours can be presented and another test after 7 days is also negative. Regular flights to overseas territories will be resumed from Saturday (27 June).
FCO
Update 2020-06-20: Cinemas, holiday resorts, casinos and gambling halls will reopen with some restrictions on Monday (22 June). Team sports are again allowed while martial arts are still prohibited. From 11 July, river cruises will again be allowed and stadiums as well as racetracks will reopen. There is an upper limit of 5,000 spectators. Industry trade fairs, international cruises and the operation of clubs remain prohibited until at least September.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-06-15 (2): There are no additional restrictions for travel to Corsica, according to the German Federal Foreign Office.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-06-15 (1): The travel warning of the German Federal Foreign Office against non-essential tourist travel to France was lifted. Travellers from countries for which stricter entry regulations are in place must confirm in writing that they have no symptoms of COVID-19. Home quarantine can be ordered when showing symptoms of an infection. Specific regulations are in effect for travel to overseas territories and Corsica until at least 22 June. Non-essential and tourist travel travel are prohibited. Orly Airport in Paris will expectedly remain closed until 25 June. Clubs, concert halls, amusement parks, cinemas etc. will remain closed until at least 22 June.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-06-13: According to current media reports, France plans to start reopening its borders to travellers from non-member states of the EU or the Schengen area on 01 July. This reopening is to take place in harmony with the relaxation of entry restrictions that is being considered at EU level.
AFP
Update 2020-06-12 (2): According to media reports on Friday (12 June), the border of the country to Spain will not be opened until 21 June.
AFP, Catalan News
Update 2020-06-12 (1): France is preparing to open its borders with other EU member states and members of the Schengen zone on Monday (15 June). According to media reports, the French airline Air France is planning to resume its flight connections during the holiday season faster than planned.
The Local, Reuters
Update 2020-06-10: According to media reports on Wednesday (10 June), the French government does not plan to extend the health emergency any further after 10 July. However, it should still be possible to restrict meetings and movements in public places.
dpa
Update 2020-05-28: French Prime Minister Édouard Philippe announced on Thursday (28 May) further relaxation of the restrictive measures previously imposed. Restaurants, cafés, museums and monuments in all regions classified by the government as 'green' will be allowed to reopen completely from Tuesday (02 June). In 'orange' regions, such as Paris, opening will be subject to restrictions. In large 'green' parts of France, tourist accommodation, leisure and sports facilities and public parks may also reopen. However, gatherings of groups of more than ten people are still prohibited until 21 June. In Paris and the overseas territories of French Guyana and Mayotte, which are classified as 'orange', such openings will only be possible from 22 June. Meanwhile, the French Interior Minister announced that the lifting of border controls at the border to Germany on 15 June would be maintained. The 100-kilometre limit for travellers within France will also be lifted on 02 June. A protective mask is still mandatory in public transport.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-05-23: According to media reports on Saturday (23 May), French government authorities announced that travellers from Spain and the United Kingdom will be subject to an obligatory 14-day quarantine. While this regulation is to come into force for Spain on Monday (25 May) and will apply only to air travellers, the start of the implementation of this measure for the United Kingdom was initially unclear. From 08 June, such a quarantine obligation will apply to almost all foreign travellers arriving in the United Kingdom.
dpa
Update 2020-05-14: The French Prime Minister announced on Thursday (14 May), that domestic tourism would be made possible in July and August and that bookings could be made for this period. However, regional differences would have to be made.
dpa
Update 2020-05-11: On Monday (11 May), far-reaching relaxation of the measures came into force in France. Travelling up to one hundred kilometres away from one's home or within a Department is again permitted. However, for journeys that extend further away, it is to be decreed that there must be an essential reason. On the basis of the relaxation of travel regulations, cross-border train services have also been partially resumed. For example, Deutsche Bahn is again offering a daily connection between Frankfurt and Paris. However, entry into France is still only possible for good reasons. Multiple shops in the country were allowed to reopen under certain conditions and local exit restrictions were also greatly reduced. Nevertheless, there are still restrictions that can vary greatly from place to place.
Auswärtiges Amt, dpa
Update 2020-05-08 (2): In Paris, from Monday (11 May) during peak hours, passengers on public transport must present a certificate from their employer. This is necessary in the morning between 06:30 a.m. and 09:30 a.m. (local time) and in the evening between 04:00 p.m. and 07:00 p.m.. Outside these hours, the use of public transport in Paris is also possible without a certificate.
dpa
Update 2020-05-08 (1): On Thursday (07 May), the Prime Minister declared that restaurants and cafés in so-called "green zones" may reopen at the beginning of June, provided the number of new infections remains low. On Monday (11 May), a process lasting several weeks will begin to lead the country out of the lockdown measures. The country will be divided into red zones with high infection rates and green zones with lower infection rates. Besides the Paris region, the regions around the cities of Calains, Strasbourg and Dijon are defined as red zones.
France 24
Update 2020-05-07: According to media reports, the French Minister of the Interior, Christophe Castaner, announced on Thursday (07 May) that the restrictions on entry would remain in force for the time being. Until 15 June, the borders will remain closed for all but essential travel. At the moment, every EU citizen as well as citizens of Great Britain need an international travel permit and can only cross the French border if certain criteria are met.
The Local
Update 2020-05-04: On Sunday (03 May), French authorities indicated that, as part of the relaxation of measures to combat COVID-19 in the country, quarantine measures for travellers from the EU, the Schengen area and the United Kingdom would also be lifted. However, travellers from other countries will still have to remain in quarantine for at least two weeks after their entry. In addition, strict controls at the border will continue.
AFP
Update 2020-05-03: Wearing a protective mask becomes mandatory when travelling in Eurostar trains from Monday (04 May). Passengers not complying with the measure can be fined or refused travel.
AFP
Update 2020-05-02: After the first measures to contain the current COVID-19 outbreak in France had been lifted, French Health Minister Olivier Véran announced on Saturday (02 May) the extension of the health emergency ('état d'urgence sanitaire') for a further two months until 24 July.
AFP
Update 2020-04-28: As previously reported, shops in France are to be allowed to reopen under certain conditions from 11 May. Restaurants and bars, however, are excluded from this relaxation for the time being. From the same date, people using public transport in France will be obliged to wear a protective mask, while this is also recommended in shops.
dpa
Update 2020-04-23 (2): According to further reports on Thursday (23 April), national travel will also be permitted again from 11 May. Previously, travel between the various departments of the country had been prohibited, with the exception of commuter traffic.
The Local
Update 2020-04-23 (1): On Thursday (23 April), the French Finance Minister announced that the government plans to allow the opening of shops under certain conditions from 11 May. Restaurants and cafés are, however, excluded from these plans. He also said that it was possible that there would be local differences in the reopening, as one would have to react to the local situation.
Reuters
Update 2020-04-13: On Monday (13 April), the restrictions on outdoor activities were extended until 11 May. Borders with non-European countries will remain closed until further notice.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-04-09: The lockdown in France will be extended beyond 15 April. Details will be announced on Monday (13 April) after 08:00 p.m. local time. Over 77,000 cases of COVID-19 were reported in France so far, including around 10,800 fatal cases.
AFP, Le Parisien, WHO
Update 2020-04-08: From Wednesday (08 April), a daily ban on sports activities outside the own home will apply in Paris between 10:00 a.m. and 07:00 p.m. This measure was adopted because people continued to gather despite the ban on sports in groups.
EUobserver
Update 2020-03-27: On Friday (27 March), the stay-at-home order was extended for another two weeks until at least 15 April. The duration will be extended further if conditions require it.
AFP
Update 2020-03-25: On Wednesday (25 March), the operators of Paris-Orly airport announced its closure from Tuesday (31 March), after passenger numbers had last slumped by 92 per cent. The other airport in the capital, Charles de Gaulle, is also struggling with the low number of flights still being operated. About 89 percent of flights were cancelled there.
AFP, Ouest-France
Update 2020-03-24 (2): The number of COVID-19 deaths rose by 240 to about 1,100 on Tuesday (24 March). Meanwhile, a committee of scientific experts working with the French government announced that a duration of at least six weeks for the current curfews (since the start of the measure on 17 March) is recommended.
AFP
Update 2020-03-24 (1): From Tuesday (24 March), the French government further tightened the curfews in the country. From now on, it is forbidden to leave the house for sports activities for more than one hour and to move further than one kilometre from one's home.
dpa
Update 2020-03-23: As reported by the French media, Lille-Lesquin airport suspended all commercial flights from Monday (23 March). On the same day, the mayors of twenty cities in France declared curfews in addition to the measures already in place. Arras and Nice are also affected. The number of COVID-19 deaths rose by another 186 to 860, while nationwide 19,856 people were confirmed to be infected. A total of 8,675 COVID-19 patients are in hospitals, at least 2,082 of them in intensive care. Meanwhile, 31 French members of a travel group in Cambodia tested positive for the novel coronavirus.
AFP, France 3, The Local
Update 2020-03-22: According to media reports, a two-month health emergency was declared in France on Sunday (22 March) to counter the spread of the coronavirus and give the government more powers to fight the pandemic.
AFP
Update 2020-03-21: According to media reports on Saturday (21 March) the imposed curfew will be tightened in some French cities. In Nice, for example, a total curfew will be imposed from 23:00 until early morning. The tourist towns Vallauris and Menton had already introduced such a ban. In Paris, checks at railway stations have been increased and the banks of the Seine and several public places, including the Champ de Mars square at the Eiffel Tower, have been closed.
dpa
Update 2020-03-19: French health authorities believe that the two-week home confinement will very likely be extended, according to AFP reports on Thursday (19 March). Between two and four weeks were needed to contain the outbreak of the current COVID-19 epidemic in France.
AFP
Update 2020-03-16: According to reports from Monday (16 March), the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 rose to over 5,000, and at least 127 people were killed by the virus in France. From Tuesday noon (17 March, local time), the French president called on the population to leave their homes only for necessary activities, such as shopping. These restrictions should apply for at least 15 days. Any violation of these regulations would be punished.
AFP
Update 2020-03-15: On Sunday (15.03.) French government authorities announced that in the coming days long-distance traffic will be gradually reduced to a necessary minimum. This concerns bus, air and train connections. The number of train connections is expected to be cut in half, while only a few international air connections are to remain. Airports will remain open, but some terminals will be closed, affecting in particular Paris-Orly airport from Wednesday and Charles-De-Gaulle airport from the end of next week. Restrictions on train services will mainly affect the long-distance train service provider SCNF (Société nationale des chemins). Meanwhile, 12,000 French citizens who are currently still in Morocco are to be gradually repatriated.
AFP
Update 2020-03-14: According to media reports from Saturday (14 March), the French government announced the closure of all non-essential public places, including restaurants and cafés, from Saturday (14 March) 12:00 p.m. (local time). It was also announced that the number of deaths from COVID-19 in France had risen to 91, with a total number of 4,500 infected persons.
There are currently more than one hundred flight cancellations at Paris-Charles-de-Gaulle airport.
AFP, FlightAware
Update 2020-03-13: French authorities banned meetings with more than 100 people on Friday (13 March). The operators of the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Palace of Versailles stated that they would stop operations until further notice. Numerous other exhibitions, libraries, museums and theatres were also closed nationwide.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-03-12: In a statement on Thursday evening (12 March, local time), French President Emmanuel Macron announced that kindergartens, schools and universities in France would be closed until further notice from Monday (16 March). He also called on all people over 70 to stay at home. Meanwhile, confirmed COVID-19 cases had risen to at least 2,284, with 48 deaths so far.
AFP
Update 2020-03-11 (2): By Wednesday evening (11 March, local time), the number of deaths had risen by almost half to at least 48. In the meantime, at least 2,281 people have been confirmed infected with the novel coronavirus, said the French Health Minister. In two new areas, Corsica and the urban area around Montpellier, kindergartens and schools would remain shot for at least 15 days. As of today, there is a ban on visiting the country's old people's and nursing homes, which will last for several weeks.
Reuters
Update 2020-03-11 (1): The German Robert Koch Institute (RKI) has classified the eastern French regions of Alsace and Lorraine bordering on the german states of Baden-Württemberg, Saarland, and/or Rhineland-Palatinate as coronavirus risk areas since Wednesday (11 March). The Champagne-Ardenne region, which borders on Belgium, is also considered a risk area. In the meantime, a total of at least 1,784 people have contracted COVID-19 and 33 people have died as a result of the disease.
dpa
Update 2020-03-08: On Sunday (08 March), gatherings of more than 1,000 people were banned in order to slow the spread of the coronavirus. It was announced that a list of events that may nevertheless take place would be published.
AFP
Update 2020-03-07: On Saturday evening (07 March, local time), French authorities confirmed five more deaths from COVID-19, bringing the number of registered deaths to at least 16. The number of patients requiring intensive treatment increased to 45. The number of infections in France increased by 336 cases in the last 24 hours and is now reported as 949.
AFP
Update 2020-03-06: According to the French Ministry of Health on Friday (06 March), at least 577 people in France got ill with COVID-19 and at least nine deaths have been confirmed so far. The French government reacted to reports of sharp price increases for disinfectants and imposed a maximum price of three euros for a 100-millilitre package until at least 31 March.
dpa
Update 2020-03-05: On Thursday (05 March), a further sharp increase in the number of infection cases was reported in France. According to official information, at least 377 people have been infected with COVID-19 so far. At least six people in France have been killed by the novel coronavirus. Currently, the government is considering declaring the highest health warning level, a government spokeswoman announced on Wednesday (04 March). A consequence of the increase of the warning level would be travel restrictions and cancellation of events.
AFP
Update 2020-03-02: On Monday (02 March), French health authorities recorded a sharp increase in the number of cases of COVID-19 in the country. A further 61 infections and one more death were confirmed, bringing the number of people killed by the virus in France to at least three. The total number of recorded cases thus rose to at least 191. In response to the rising number of cases, the government banned gatherings of more than 5,000 people and closed schools and churches in the most affected areas. So far, two major infection clusters have formed in France. One is located in the village of Crépy-en-Valois in the department of Oise and the other in the department of Haute-Savoie.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-02-28 (2): In the course of Friday (28 February), the number of COVID-19 cases in France rose to 57. This is 19 more than the previous day, marking a new stage of the epidemic, the Minister of Health reported. On Monday (02 February), when the winter holidays officially end, schools in the Oise department north of Paris will remain closed. Several cases of coronavirus have been reported by the Ministry of Defence from the military base in Creil (Oise).
dpa, Reuters
Update 2020-02-28 (1): On Friday morning (28 February, local time), the number of confirmed infections with the novel coronavirus in France increased by 23 cases to at least 41. Eleven people are now considered cured. The largest cluster of infections is located in the Oise department, where the patient who died from the virus on Tuesday (25 February) lived.
The Local
Update 2020-02-26: Following the death of a Hong Kong tourist Tuesday night (25 February, local time) for reasons as yet unknown, the hotel where the tourist was staying was sealed off by French authorities. Guests of the hotel in Beaune, which belongs to the Accor Group, were not to leave the hotel until the cause of death was clarified. The results are expected on Wednesday evening (26.02., local time).
dpa
2020-02-26: On Wednesday (26 February), French authorities announced the first death of a French citizen caused by COVID-19. A 60-year-old man, already in critical condition, was admitted to a hospital in Paris on Tuesday evening (25 February, local time) and died. Already in the middle of the month a Chinese tourist in France had succumbed to the consequences of the disease. Thus the number of deaths caused by COVID-19 in France rose to at least two. The number of confirmed infections in France is 17 persons. However, at least eleven people are considered cured. One of those still infected is being treated in Amiens. Two cases have been confirmed in the last 24 hours, both of them coming from Lombardy in northern Italy, where most infections in Europe have been recorded. The French government is asking travellers coming from Lombardy or Veneto to isolate themselves and not to send their children to school. This recommendation also applies to travellers from China, Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore and South Korea.
AFP
Pandemic information:
- Robert Koch Institut (RKI)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- COVID-19 Dashboard (Johns Hopkins University)
- COVID-19 Travel Regulations Map (IATA)
Related A3M incidents:
- Information on the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak - worldwide
COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2): Human-to-human transmission of the viral disease primarily occurs through droplets and aerosols, but COVID-19 may also spread by touching contaminated surfaces. The course of the disease can vary greatly; symptoms commonly include rhinorrhea, sore throat, coughing, fever, headaches, dizziness, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, and loss of smell, taste or appetite. COVID-19 may also cause severe breathing problems and pneumonia as well as cardiovascular and organ dysfunction. Infections may also progress entirely asymptomatic, leaving people unaware they have contracted the virus. The incubation period ranges from 1-14 days, with an average period of 5-6 days.
Advice: Authorities recommend to wear protective face masks, to avoid contact with infected people and to generally adhere to social distancing and hygiene measures in place (e.g. thorough and frequent hand-washing, avoid face-touching).
Please note the following information regarding our handling of entry requirements as a result of the coronavirus: COVID-19 disclaimer
A3M
Update 2023-02-17: Since Thursday (16 February), travellers from China no longer have to show a negative PCR test result in order to board their flight to France.
France24
Update 2023-01-02: According to media reports, a negative PCR test (max. 48h old) is required upon arrival for all travellers from China to France.
CNBC, Euronews
Update 2022-09-15: Due to modified classification rules, in which only restrictions by authorities are now taken into account, a reassessment of the overall rating was conducted. Case numbers are no longer factored in due to reporting gaps, amongst others.
A3M
Update 2022-07-27: As of Monday (1 August), travellers will be permitted to enter France without having to provide proof of vaccination, recovery or a negative test result. At the same time, the health emergency will also be lifted.
Tourmag
Update 2022-07-14: Due to modified classification rules, in which only restrictions by authorities are now taken into account, a reassessment of the overall rating was conducted. Case numbers are no longer factored in due to reporting gaps, amongst others.
A3M
Update 2022-07-06: According to media reports, the city of Nice will reintroduce the requirement to wear face masks when using public transport from Monday (11 July). Throughout France, covering one's face is otherwise only mandatory in health and care facilities.
Ouest France
Update 2022-05-11: According to reports published on Wednesday (11 May), the requirement to wear face masks on French public transport will be dropped from Monday (16 May). Face masks will remain mandatory in health (care) facilities, however.
Ouest-France
Update 2022-03-03: As announced by Prime Minister Castex on Thursday (3 March), a vaccine pass will no longer be required in France to enter restaurants, cultural and entertainment venues, discos or to participate in events from 14 March. The requirement to wear face masks will also largely be dropped; only on public transport will this continue to be mandatory.
France24
Update 2022-03-02 - Official notice issued by the RKI: In its latest update from Tuesday (1 March), the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) removed France from the list of international high-risk areas with effect from Thursday (3 March). Therefore, the travel warning by the Federal Foreign Office for France will be lifted.
RKI (German Robert Koch Instiute)
Update 2022-02-15: Since 12 February, France classifies the countries of the world either as green or orange; depending on the categorization, different entry regulations apply. Germany and other EU states are currently listed as 'green'. Vaccinated and recovered travellers no longer have to provide a negative test result, unvaccinated travellers are still required to do so and must present a PCR test (max. 72h old) or antigen rapid test (max. 48h old) upon arrival.
Further information is available via the link below.
Ministère de l'Intérieur
Update 2022-02-11: From 28 February, the obligation to wear masks indoors will be abolished. However, the obligation to wear a mask will still apply in public transport.
AFP
Update 2022-01-20: The vaccine pass will come into effect on Monday (24 January), provided it gets approved by the Constitutional Council. From 2 February face masks will not be required outside.
AFP
Update 2022-01-17: According to media reports on Monday (17 January), the vaccine pass is not expected to be introduced before 20 January 2022. An exact date has not yet been announced, however.
linternaute, La depeche
Update 2022-01-13: According to the latest media reports, It is expected that a vaccination pass ('pass vaccinal') will replace the previously valid health pass ('pass sanitaire') in many areas of public life starting upcoming Monday (17 January). To obtain the vaccine pass, proof of immunization (vaccination or recovery) is mandatory. A negative test will no longer be sufficient, with the exception of entering health care facilities and travelling to Corsica or French overseas territories.
The booster certificate is considered valid 7 days after receiving the booster dose.
Service Public France, Femme actuelle
Update 2021-12-29: From Friday (31 December), wearing a mask outdoors in Paris is compulsory. This applies to everyone over the age of eleven.
AFP, Le Figaro
Update 2021-12-28: According to media reports on Monday (27 December), a negative test result will no longer be sufficient to be recognised in the health passport (pass sanitaire) from 15 January on. Only a vaccination or recovery will then allow access to large parts of public life.
dpa
Update 2021-12-21: According to recent media reports from Tuesday (21 December), EU COVID certificates will soon no longer be valid if 9 months have passed since completing primary vaccination and no booster dose has been administered. This was announced by the EU Commission. Accordingly, the decision will come into force on 01 February 2022.
Reuters
Update 2021-12-17: The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) updated its list of high risk areas on Friday (17 December). From Sunday (19 December), the entire country is considered a high risk area. The associated registration, quarantine and documentation requirements must be observed. For details see the link below.
RKI
Update 2021-12-03: As of Saturday (04 December) fully vaccinated travellers (aged 12 years or over) travelling from outside of the European Union must show proof of a negative COVID-19 test result from either a PCR or antigen test. Tests must be taken no more than 48 hours before travel for vaccinated travellers and no more than 24 hours before travel for non-vaccinated. Furthermore, non-vaccinated arrivals from the European Union must show proof of a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 24 hours before departure.
FCDO
Update 2021-12-01 (2): As of Saturday (04 December) will start allowing flights from southern Africa allowing only French and EU residents as well as diplomats and flight crews to disembark. Travellers from these countries must provide a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival and quarantine for seven days, while a positive test will require a 10-day quarantine. All travellers from outside the European Union will have to provide a negative COVID-19 test, regardless their vaccination status.
Reuters, AFP
Update 2021-12-01 (1): The suspension for flights from seven southern African countries will remain in effect until at least Saturday (04 December).
Reuters
Update 2021-11-25 (2): According to media information from Thursday (25 November), the Corona passport will expire seven months after full vaccination for individuals who do not complete a booster vaccination. For individuals over 65, this regulation will apply from 15 December, and for individuals 18 and over, it will apply from 15 January 2022. Moreover, from Monday (29 November), COVID-19 tests in France will only be valid for 24 hours, instead of 72 hours as before.
dpa
Update 2021-11-25 (1): Due to changes in infection rates and/or restrictions, the overall rating was reassessed and updated.
A3M
Update 2021-11-12: As of Saturday (13 November), unvaccinated travellers from a large number of European countries must present a negative test on arrival, no older than 24 hours. Unvaccinated children over the age of 12 must present a test (PCR or antigen test) regardless of the vaccination status of the adult accompanying them. In addition to Germany and Austria, the countries affected by the regulation are Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia.
Auswärtiges Amt, Ministère de l’intérieur
Update 2021-11-10: As of 15 December, health pass, which is required to enter a wide range of venues, will automatically be deactivated for all over 65 years who do not get a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot six months and five weeks after their last vaccine shot.
The Local
Update 2021-11-06: On Saturday (06 November), the French Prime Minister announced that winter sports resorts in France could start operations this season under hygiene conditions. In some cases, masks will be compulsory and if the 7-day incidence rises to 200 new infections per 100,000 inhabitants, the health passport will have to be shown in order to visit the ski resorts.
dpa
Update 2021-11-05: On Friday (05 November), it was announced that the regulation of the so-called health passport will be extended until the end of July 2022. The penalties for violations will be increased.
AFP, dpa
Update 2021-10-21: The overall rating was reassessed and updated due to adjusted standards, which take greater account of the local healthcare infrastructure.
A3M
Update 2021-09-30: Since Thursday (30 September), the rules considering the health pass also apply to children aged twelve years and two months. This affects, among other things, visits to cinemas, restaurants, cafés and long-distance trains. A paper document is also permitted for children.
dpa
Update 2021-09-24: In its latest update from Friday (24 September), the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) removed the region Provence-Alpes-Côte d´Azur in France from the list of international high-risk areas with effect from Sunday (26 September). Therefore, the travel warning by the Federal Foreign Office for Provence-Alpes-Côte d´Azur will be lifted.
RKI
Update 2021-09-22: According to media reports from Wednesday (22 September), the COVID-19 restrictions in France are to be slightly relaxed. As of 04 October, attendance limits for events and in buildings will no longer apply in départements with a 7-day incidence of less than 50, .
dpa
Update 2021-09-10 (2): In its latest update from Friday (10 September), the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) removed the Corsica and Occitanie regions from the list of international high-risk areas with effect from Sunday (12 September). Therefore, the travel warning by the Federal Foreign Office for these regions will be lifted.
RKI
Update 2021-09-10 (1): According to media reports on Friday (10 September), the United States and Israel have been classified as category amber countries of origin by French authorities. As of Sunday (12 September), only travellers fully vaccinated against COVID-19 will be allowed to enter France from both countries for tourism purposes. Travellers from both countries who have not been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 will only be allowed to enter France for essential reasons starting Sunday (12 September).
The Local
Update 2021-08-25: According to media reports on Wednesday (25 August), French authorities have reintroduced the obligation to wear a mask outdoors in 38 departments. A detailed list of all affected departments can be found in the link below.
sortiraparis.com
Update 2021-08-10: German authorities published detailed information on France's traffic light system and amended country risk classifications on Tuesday (10 August). Moreover, the health passport required for visiting numerous venues can also be provided by using among others the German CovPass and Corona-Warn app applications, as well as in paper form.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-08-06: As of Sunday (08 August), the French regions of Occitanie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur and Corsica are classified as high-risk areas by German authorities.
RKI
Update 2021-08-04: According to media reports Wednesday (04 August), mandatory masks in public spaces have been reintroduced in the departments of Finistère and Morbihan in Brittany, on the island of Corsica, municipalities in southern France along the Spanish border and the region around Lake Annecy in the French Alps.
AFP
Update 2021-08-01: Due to the removal of the category "basic risk area", the entire country will no longer be classified as a risk area by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) as of Sunday (01 August). However, this does not necessarily mean that there is a lower risk of infection in this country.
RKI
Update 2021-07-28: According to official information on Wednesday (28 July), the tightened COVID-19 restrictions in France will now come into force on 09 August instead of on Sunday (01 August) as originally planned.
dpa
Update 2021-07-26: Sunday night (25 July, local time), the French parliament confirmed the tightening of the proof requirement as of August.
AFP, dpa
Update 2021-07-23 (2): The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) updated its list of global risk areas on Friday (23 July). From Sunday (25 July), the regions of Corsica, Occitania, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur are considered a risk area.
RKI
Update 2021-07-23 (1): On Friday morning (23 July, local time), members of the French National Assembly approved a bill to extend the obligation to provide proof of a negative coronary test, vaccination or recovery. If the Senate approves the new regulations, this will mean that proof will also be required for long-distance trains, bars, restaurants and shopping centres from August.
dpa
Update 2021-07-21: In several cities of the Département Haute-Corse the health passport is to be required in restaurants already starting from 28 July. In return, catering establishments will be allowed to stay open until midnight (local time). Currently, they still have to close at 11:00 p.m. (local time).
orange
Update 2021-07-19: The Federal Foreign Office pointed out on Monday evening (19 July, local time) that travellers can also prove their vaccination, test or convalescent status in paper form or digitally via a German app ("CovPass" or "Corona-Warn-App"). However, the reading of proof issued in Germany into the French app and vice versa cannot be guaranteed.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-07-17: According to media reports Saturday (17 July), travelers from the United Kingdom, Spain, Portugal, Cyprus, Greece and the Netherlands who have not been vaccinated against COVID-19 will be required to present a negative COVID-19 test no more than 24 hours before arriving in France, starting Sunday (18 July). At the same time, French authorities have added Tunisia, Mozambique and Cuba to the red list. Separate entry, testing and quarantine requirements apply to red list countries.
AFP
Update 2021-07-16: As of Saturday (17 July) the obligation to wear a face mask during the day in the southwestern French department of Pyrénées-Orientales applies again. Beaches and open-air areas such as hiking trails are exempt from the mask requirement.
AFP, dpa
Update 2021-07-13 (2): According to media reports from Tuesday (13 July), entry restrictions for unvaccinated travellers from Spain, Portugal and the United Kingdom will again be tightened. Among other things, unvaccinated travellers must present a negative COVID-19 test, no older than 24 hours. These new restrictions are supposed to enter into force this week.
The Local
Update 2021-07-13 (1): The extension of the "COVID Pass" system to public cultural institutions with more than 50 visitors such as theaters, cinemas and museums is to take place as early as 21 July. From August, in addition to the facilities already mentioned, this pass will also be required for long-distance travel by public transport.
The Local
Update 2021-07-12: On Monday (12 July), it was announced that the "COVID pass" system would also cover visits to restaurants, bars, shopping centres and other public venues from August. Therefore, people who want to visit these venues must be able to prove that they are fully vaccinated or can provide a recent negative COVID-19 test.
AFP, AP
Update 2021-07-02 (2): German authorities reported on Friday (02 Friday), that Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Taiwan and Vanuatu are also classified as "green" by French authorities. Entry from these countries is generally possible without an essential reason for travel.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-07-02 (1): As of Wednesday (07 July), COVID-19 tests are to become chargeable for foreign tourists in France.
AFP
Update 2021-06-30: On Wednesday (30 June) most of the capacity restrictions for stores, restaurants, events and leisure facilities were lifted. Only in the department of Landes they will remain in force until at least 06 July.
AFP
Update 2021-06-23: On Wednesday (23 June), French authorities put Russia, Namibia and the Seychelles on their red list for entry restrictions.
AFP
Update 2021-06-18 (2): As of Sunday (20 June), continental France is no longer classified as a risk area by German authorities.
RKI
Update 2021-06-18 (1): On Thursday (17 June), the United States and Canada were added to the so-called "green list" of the French authorities. This means that travel from these two countries is again possible without quarantine and the presence of an important reason for travel. Unvaccinated travellers must nevertheless still present a negative PCR test that is no more than 72 hours old. Other changes included placing Turkey on the "orange list" and Afghanistan, the Maldives and Paraguay on the "red list".
The Local
Update 2021-06-16: From Sunday (20 June) the night-time curfew will be lifted in France. In addition, the general outdoor mask requirement will be lifted from Thursday (17 June). Originally, the curfew should have been lifted on 30 June.
AFP
Update 2021-06-04 (4): The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) updated its list of global risk areas on Friday (04 June). From Sunday (06 June), the region of Corsica is no longer considered a risk area. For this reason, the Federal Foreign Office has lifted its warning against non-essential, tourist travel (valid from Sunday, 06 June) for this region.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-06-04 (3): According to further reports, France will introduce a colour-coded system for entry regulations as of Wednesday (09 June). EU countries will be considered green. This also applies to Australia, South Korea, Israel, Japan, Lebanon, New Zealand and Singapore. These are the countries that will benefit from the aforementioned relaxations of the testing requirement for vaccinated travellers. In addition, a valid reason for travel is no longer required. From orange-rated countries (e.g. the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada and large parts of Asia and Africa), travel will still only be possible with a valid reason. In addition, travellers from these countries must undergo a seven-day quarantine after entering the country. For travellers from these countries, the testing requirement continues to apply regardless of vaccination status. 16 countries are initially classified as red. This concerns, for example, Turkey, India, South Africa and large parts of South America. Travellers from these countries, who are allowed to enter, also need a negative test and have to go into quarantine for at least ten days.
From 01 July, the European health passport will also be accepted as proof. For details see the link below.
AFP, Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-06-04 (2): As of Wednesday (09 June), fully vaccinated travellers from other European countries will again be able to enter France without a negative PCR test. This also applies to travellers from Australia, Japan and Israel, for example.
dpa
Update 2021-06-04 (1): From Wednesday (09 June), indoor restaurants in France will be allowed to reopen. The night-time curfew will then start at 11:00 p.m. (local time) every day.
AFP
Update 2021-05-28: The stricter entry rules for travellers from the United Kingdom will come into effect on Monday (31 May). From that date, only EU citizens, persons with a residence permit and persons with a valid reason will be allowed to enter France from the UK.
FCDO
Update 2021-05-27 (2): France has again tightened its entry regulations for travellers from the United Kingdom who do not have a permanent residence permit for France, on Thursday (27 May): Britons must again show a compelling reason if they want to enter France.
AFP
Update 2021-05-27 (1): According to reports from Thursday (27 May), the self-isolation requirement for the United Kingdom is expected to come into force on Monday (31 May) and travellers from the United Kingdom must also provide a negative COVID-19 test, no older than 48 hours.
Reuters
Update 2021-05-26: According to media reports on Wednesday (26 May), travellers arriving in France from the United Kingdom will have to go into self-isolation for seven days. Exact details have not yet been disclosed, but the reason for the measure is the spread of the Indian COVID-19 variant in the United Kingdom. So far, travellers arriving in France from Brazil, India, Argentina, Chile, South Africa, Colombia, Uruguay, Costa Rica, Bahrain, Turkey, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Nepal, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar need to self-isolate after arrival.
AFP
Update 2021-05-21: The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) updated its list of global risk areas on Friday (21 May). From Sunday (23 May), the entire of France is considered a risk area. For this reason, the Federal Foreign Office has extended its warning against non-essential, tourist travel (valid from Sunday, 23 May) to the entire country.
France will no longer be considered a high incidence area.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-05-14: From Sunday (16 May), people entering France from Bahrain, Costa Rica, Colombia or Uruguay will have to go into quarantine for at least ten days. The quarantine list of the French authorities is thus extended to 16 countries.
AFP
Update 2021-05-11: As was announced on Tuesday (11 May), France will introduce the European traffic light system for the uniform assessment of the epidemiological situation in other countries from the end of May. This was announced by Foreign Minister Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne. So far, this structure is already used in the Czech Republic, Norway, Estonia, Lithuania, Cyprus and Denmark, among others.
schengenvisainfo
Update 2021-05-08: From Sunday (09 May), travellers from Turkey, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates must present a negative PCR test result upon arrival, which must not be older than 36 hours. There is a ten-day long mandatory quarantine. Entry from these countries is only permitted for French nationals or foreign nationals residing in France.
FCDO
Update 2021-05-06: According to media reports, commuters from the Département Moselle will be subject to the same rules as residents of the Saarland from 13 May, which means that the special testing requirement upon entry will no longer apply. Moreover, for a stay of less than 24 hours, no test has to be provided either.
Süddeutsche Zeitung
Update 2021-04-30: According to British authorities on Friday (30 April), the currently valid domestic French travel restrictions will be lifted as of Monday (03 April).
FCDO
Update 2021-04-29 (3): According to further reports, the night-time curfew in France will be gradually shortened before it is lifted on 30 June. From 19 May it will start at 09:00 p.m. (local time) and from 09 June from 11:00 p.m. (local time). In addition, assemblies of up to ten people are to be allowed again from 19 May.
AFP, dpa
Update 2021-04-29 (2): According to current media reports, the Moselle Department will no longer be classified as a virus variant area by German authorities as of Sunday (02 May). It will then be considered a high incidence area, like the rest of France.
dpa
Update 2021-04-29 (1): On Thursday (29 April), the French President announced that catering establishments and cultural institutions are to reopen gradually over May and June. On 19 May, shops, museums, cinemas and the outdoor areas of cafés and restaurants are to be allowed to open. The indoor areas of catering establishments will follow on 09 June. The night-time curfew is to be lifted on 30 June.
AFP
Update 2021-04-26: According to British authorities, the tightened testing and quarantine obligations also apply to travellers from South Africa and French Guiana. The quarantine lasts ten days and another PCR test must be carried out at the end.
FCDO
Update 2021-04-23: According to German authorities on Friday (23 April), travellers from Argentina, Brazil, Chile and India entering France are subject to stricter testing requirements. Travellers from these countries require a negative COVID-19 PCR test conducted no more than 36 hours before departure. If applicable, the test may have been performed up to 72 hours prior to departure if travellers can then present a rapid antigen test that is no more than 24 hours old. In addition, there is a mandatory quarantine upon arrival in France at a location to be specified in advance.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-04-22: The previously announced mandatory ten-day quarantine for travellers from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, India and South Africa is due to come into effect on Saturday (24 April).
Reuters
Update 2021-04-21: On Wednesday (21 April), the French government announced that travel restrictions within France are expected to be lifted as of 03 May. Outdoor dining areas are expected to be able to open in mid-May. Further quarantine and testing conditions are also to be introduced for travellers from India. However, these have not yet been finalised.
AFP, Reuters
Update 2021-04-20: The mandatory quarantine for travellers arriving from Argentina, Brazil, Chile and South Africa will go into effect as of Saturday (24 April).
AFP
Update 2021-04-19: US citizens (especially those who have already been vaccinated and those with a special permit) can expect easier entry into France from the beginning of May. This is according to a statement by France's President on Sunday (18 April).
Deadline
Update 2021-04-17: According to media reports, French authorities announced that a 10-day quarantine will be introduced for travelers arriving from Argentina, Brazil, Chile and South Africa.
AFP
Update 2021-04-13: According to media reports from Tuesday (13 April), France will suspend all flights to and from Brazil until further notice.
AFP
Update 2021-04-01: According to an announcement made by French Prime Minister Castex on Thursday (01 April), the consumption of alcoholic beverages in parks and other places will also be banned as part of the latest tightening of measures in France. No more than 6 people will be allowed to gather on riverbanks and public places.
AFP
Update 2021-03-31: According to media reports on Wednesday (31 March), the lockdown currently in effect in 19 departments will be extended to all of France starting Saturday (03 April) and will last for at least four weeks. Non-essential businesses and educational institutions will have to close during the lockdown and citizens' freedom of movement will be limited to 10 kilometers around their homes. A detailed list of all restrictions can be found here.
AFP, The Local
Update 2021-03-29: British authorities stated Monday (29 March) that air travel between Morocco and France will be suspended until further notice as of 11:00 p.m. (local time) on 30 March. Travellers from France are not allowed to enter Morocco via transit stops in other countries.
FCDO
Update 2021-03-26: From Sunday (28 March), the whole of France will be classified as a high incidence area by German authorities.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-03-24: On Wednesday (24 March), it was announced that the Rhône, Aube and Nievre departments are also affected by the new restrictions.
AFP
Update 2021-03-23: After some regulations and measures in the areas affected by a new lockdown remained unclear, French authorities published clarifications. An English-language summary can be found in the link below.
The Local
Update 2021-03-18 (3): The Alpes-Maritimes department is also affected by the new restrictions. A complete list of the affected areas can be found here.
dpa
Update 2021-03-18 (2): According to further reports, the start of the countrywide night-time curfew will also be postponed from 06:00 p.m. (local time) to 07:00 p.m. In general, movements in the areas affected by the new partial lockdown are also restricted. Similar to previous lockdowns, the reason for leaving the house must be entered in a form.
AFP
Update 2021-03-18 (1): On Thursday (18 March), the French Prime Minister announced a partial shutdown in several parts of the country. Non-essential businesses will have to close from midnight on Friday (19 March, local time) and people will not be allowed to move more than ten kilometres from their residence without necessary reasons. Travel across regional borders is prohibited. These measures are to apply for at least one month.
Paris and the Île de France as well as the Hauts-de-France region and parts of Normandy are affected. In total, this applies in 16 departments.
AFP, Independent
Update 2021-03-11 (3): On Thursday (11 March), the French government relaxed entry restrictions for travellers from several countries. Travel from Australia, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea and the United Kingdom is no longer possible only for a necessary reason of travelling.
AFP
Update 2021-03-11 (2): According to current media reports, the weekend lockdown in the Alpes-Maritimes department will also apply this weekend. A further extension is currently still being discussed.
The Local
Update 2021-03-11 (1): On Thursday (11 March), the French Transport Minister announced that flights on Air France to Guadeloupe and Martinique would require the traveller to use a special mobile phone app in which travellers must store information about a possible vaccination they have received or negative tests. This represents a test that will be conducted for a month before the use of the app is potentially extended to other flights.
AFP
Update 2021-03-10: According to media reports on Wednesday (10 March), the weekend lockdown in the Communauté urbaine de Dunkerque has been extended by three weeks until at least 28 March.
connexionfrance
Update 2021-03-04: On Thursday (04 March), the French government announced the introduction of weekend lockdowns in the Pas-de-Calais department.
AFP
Update 2021-03-02: According to the German Foreign Office, a new highly contagious variant of COVID-19 has been detected in the Département Moselle. Due to this, the Département Moselle is classified as an area with a particularly high risk of infection as of Tuesday (02 March). In addition to the existing registration requirement and basic quarantine requirement, people entering from Département Moselle must also carry proof of a negative COVID-19 test in English, French or German. The underlying test must have been performed no more than 48 hours prior to entry and must meet the requirements of the Robert Koch Institute. Likewise, as of Tuesday 02 March), there is a transport ban for travellers from the Département Moselle to Germany. Travellers with a place of residence in Germany are exempt.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-02-25: According to media reports from Thursday (25 February), a negative COVID-19 PCR test, no older than 72 hours, will be required for non-professional entries into the département of Moselle starting from March. Commuters will be exempted from this measure for the time being.
Spiegel Online
Update 2021-02-24: On Wednesday (24 February), it was announced that weekend lockdowns will also be introduced in the Communauté urbaine de Dunkerque until further notice. The house may then only be left in necessary cases.
The French authorities are already warning that such measures could be extended to other areas in the country, as case numbers are rising in many départements.
AFP
Update 2021-02-22 (2): According to further reports, the lockdown in the Département Alpes-Maritimes will only last from 06:00 p.m. on Fridays until 06:00 a.m. on Mondays (local time) during the next two weekends.
AFP
Update 2021-02-22 (1): According to media reports from Monday (22 February), a partial lockdown has been imposed for the Département Alpes-Maritimes. As of Friday (26 February), leaving one's home is only possible for important reasons. Sports activities will only be allowed within a 5 km radius of the place of residence and for one hour per day. Additionally, the mask requirement will be extended and large shops will have to close.
dpa
Update 2021-02-09: On Tuesday (09 February), the French parliament approved the extension of the health emergency until at least 01 June.
dpa
Update 2021-02-05: German authorities pointed out on Friday (05 February), that the negative COVID-19 test, which is no more than 72 hours old and must be presented on entry into France, should be a PCR test, as rapid antigen tests are only accepted in exceptional cases.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-01-29: As French Prime Minister Castex announced on Friday evening (29 January, local time), France will close its borders to non-essential travel by people from non-EU countries from Sunday (31 January). Contrary to previous assumptions, no new countrywide lockdown was announced.
AFP
Update 2021-01-27: Due to insufficient controls at Ethiopian Airlines, France has suspended traffic with the airline for four days. From Thursday (28 January) to Sunday (31 January), Ethiopian Airlines services in France will be suspended. Ethiopia's national airline is of particular importance because it has maintained most of its numerous connections in Africa throughout the Corona crisis.
AFP
Update 2021-01-22: From Sunday (24 January) at midnight local time, EU citizens entering France must also present a negative PCR test, which must not be older than 72 hours. There are exceptions for essential travel (e.g. border traffic and movement of goods).
dpa
Update 2021-01-20: Until at least 21 February, a declaration of a recognised reason for entry must be carried when entering the country from Great Britain and Northern Ireland. In addition, the regulations for entry from non-EU countries apply.
FCDO, Ministere de l'Intérieur
Update 2021-01-15: According to further reports, the negative PCR test that travellers from non-EU countries must present when entering France must not be older than 72 hours. This comes into force on Monday (18 January). Essential business travellers and border commuters are exempt from the subsequent isolation requirement.
The Local
Update 2021-01-14: According to media reports from Thursday (14 January), as of Saturday (16 January) the curfew in France will be moved forwards by two hours and begin at 06:00 p.m. (local time). This measures will remain in force for at least two weeks. Additionally, travellers from non-EU countries will be required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test and then self-isolate for seven days. In order to leave self-isolation a second COVID-19 PCR test will be required.
AFP, dpa
Update 2021-01-12: The Federal Foreign Office reported on Tuesday (12 January) that until 08 February a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen test), no older than 72 hours, is required for entry to Corsica.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-01-11: In addition to the areas announced yesterday (see below), the department of la Drôme will also be affected by the early curfew (from 06:00 p.m. local time) from Tuesday (12 January). This is according to current FCDO information.
FCDO
Update 2021-01-10: According to British authorities on Sunday (10. January), the earlier curfew from 06:00 p.m (local time) applies in the departments of l’Allier, Hautes-Alpes, Alpes-Maritimes, Ardennes, Les Bouches-du-Rhône, Le Cher, la Côte-d’Or, Doubs, Jura, Marne, Haute-Marne, Meurthe-et-Moselle, Moselle, Meuse, Nièvre, le Bas-Rhin, le Haut-Rhin, Haute-Saône, Saône-et-Loire, le Vaucluse, Vosges, Territoire de Belfort and will also apply from Tuesday (12. January) in the department of le Var.
FCDO
Update 2021-01-09 (2): The earlier curfews from 06:00 p.m. (local time) are to be introduced in a total of eight more departements from Sunday (10 January). In addition to those already mentioned, the departments of Bouches-du-Rhône and Côte-d'Or are also to be affected.
AFP
Update 2021-01-09 (1): According to media reports on Saturday (09 January), the night curfew in the departments of Bas-Rhin and Haut-Rhin will apply from 06:00 p.m. (local time) starting Sunday (10 January).
dpa
Update 2021-01-08 (2): From Sunday (10 January), the night-time curfew in many areas in the east of France will begin from 06:00 p.m. (local time).
AFP
Update 2021-01-08 (1): As the French Prime Minister announced on Thursday (07 January), the existing measures in France will remain in force until at least 20 January. This also applies to the travel restrictions with Great Britain. It was also said that bars and restaurants would not open until mid-February.
rfi
Update 2021-01-07 (2): As of Saturday (09 January), the travel warning issued by the German Federal Foreign Office against non-essential tourist travel due to high numbers of cases applies to the whole of France. Until now, the regions of Brittany and Corsica were exempt.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-01-07 (1): According to British authorities on Thursday (07 January), travel between France and the United Kingdom remains restricted.
FCDO
Update 2021-01-04: According to German authorities on Monday (04 January), entry into France from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea and Thailand, as well as all EU countries, is not subject to any special entry restrictions. Entry from the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland is subject to COVID-19 PCR testing until the end of 06 January. For entry from all other countries special regulations apply which can be viewed here.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2021-01-02: According to British authorities on Saturday (02 January), the nationwide curfew was extended by 2 hours and is now already valid from 06:00 p.m. (local time). in the departments of Hautes-Alpes, Alpes-Maritimes, Ardennes, Doubs, Jura, Marne, Haute-Marne, Meurthe-et-Moselle, Meuse, Nièvre, Haute-Saône, Saône-et-Loire, Vosges, Territoire de Belfort and Moselle.
FCDO
Update 2021-01-01: On Friday (01 January), it was announced that the curfew would be extended by two hours, from 06:00 p.m. instead of 08:00 p.m. (local time), in 15 departments severely affected by the coronavirus. The regulation is to come into force on Saturday (02 January).
AFP, Le Figaro
Update 2020-12-23: Since Wednesday (23 November) until at least 6 January 2021, EU citizens are allowed to cross the border to France again. This also applies to British citizens and citizens of third countries who have a residence permit in the EU or the European Economic Area or can show a valid reason for the journey. All travellers from the UK must present a negative COVID-19 test no more than 72 hours prior to the time of departure. This also applies to children over the age of eleven.
AFP, FCDO
Update 2020-12-20: According to media reports on Sunday (20 December), the French government has issued an entry ban for Travellers from the United Kingdom, initially limited to 48 hours.The entry ban applies from Sunday (20 December) 00:00 p.m. (local time) for all border crossings by air, sea, rail and land.
dpa
Update 2020-12-15 (2): According to FCDO information from Tuesday (15 December), travel between the regions is again permitted and public services and shops are open.
FCDO
Update 2020-12-15 (1): The Federal Foreign Office reported on Tuesday (15 December) that travellers to Guadeloupe, Martinique, St. Martin, St. Barthélemy and La Réunion must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test, no older than 72 hours, prior to departure. A self-declaration of absence of symptoms is also required.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-12-14: The Federal Foreign Office reported on Monday (14 December) that a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen test), no older than 72 hours, is required for entry into Corsica from Saturday (19 December) until 08 January 2021. Additionally, an affidavit must be presented stating that no COVID-19 symptoms are apparent and that there has been no contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case within the last 14 days.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-12-11 (2): The reopening of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, scheduled for Wednesday (16 December), has been postponed until further notice due to continued high levels of infection.
dpa
Update 2020-12-11 (1): The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) has suspended the risk area status for the French regions of Brittany and Corsica. Therefore, from Sunday (13 December), the German Federal Foreign Office's warning against unnecessary tourist trips to these two regions does no longer apply. In addition, the travel warning for the overseas departments Guadeloupe, La Réunion and Martinique are suspended.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-12-10: According to media reports on Thursday (10 December), a nighttime curfew will be in effect between 08:00 p.m. and 06:00 a.m. (local time) starting Tuesday (15 December). The only exception to the curfew is christmas eve on 24 December.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-12-01: According to FCDO information from Tuesday (01 December), travellers have to fill-out an international movement certificate as well as a declaration that they do not have COVID-19 symptoms. Additionally, it may be necessary to present a negative COVID-19 test result, no older than 72 hours by departure. Otherwise, travellers could be asked to take a COVID-19 test at the airport. Arrivals from the "European Area" are exempt from these restrictions. A list of exempted countries and further information can be found here.
FCDO
Update 2020-11-24: On Tuesday (24 November), the French President announced that shops would be allowed to reopen from Saturday (28 November). However, people in the country will still have to fill in a certificate when they leave their residence. Walks and sports up to 20 km from the place of residence will be allowed for up to three hours from the weekend. Bars and restaurants are expected to be allowed to reopen from 20 January. Exit restrictions will be relaxed as early as 15 December. A night-time curfew from 09:00 p.m. to 07:00 a.m. (local time) will remain in force beyond that time. At Christmas and New Year's Eve the curfew will be suspended.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-11-03: German authorities reported on Tuesday (03 November), that a written exit permit must be carried when staying outside one's own home in France. In most cases, this can be filled in by the person concerned.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-10-28 (2): On Wednesday (28 October), the French President announced that a country-wide lockdown would be reintroduced from Friday (30 October) until at least 01 December. Non-essential businesses would have to close and exit restrictions would apply. People may only leave their homes to go to work, visit a doctor, help relatives or make essential purchases. Short walks are also permitted.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-10-28 (1): The Federal Foreign Office reported on Tuesday (28 October), that the existing night-time curfew will be extended to the departments of Strasbourg, Grenoble, Lille, Lyon, Montpellier, Rouen, St. Étienne and Toulouse. There is also a nationwide obligation to wear masks in all public indoor areas. In addition, checks will continue to be carried out at the borders with Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy and Spain until at least 01 April, 2021.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-10-22: On Thursday (22 October), the French Government announced the extension of the night-time curfew to dozens of departments. This is due to come into force on Friday (23 October) and will apply for at least six weeks. This means that about two thirds of the French population are now affected by the measure.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-10-16: German authorities reported on Friday (16 October) that in France, gatherings of more than six people are prohibited in public places. Private parties are also prohibited countrywide.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-10-15: From Saturday (17 October), the travel warning issued by the German Federal Foreign Office will be extended to the whole of continental France.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-10-14 (2): From Saturday (17 October), night-time curfews will apply in the Paris area and the cities of Grenoble, Lille, Lyon, Aix-Marseille, Montpellier, Rouen, St Etienne and Toulouse between 09:00 p.m. and 06:00 a.m. (local time). These curfews will remain in place for at least four weeks.
AFP, euronews, Reuters
Update 2020-10-14 (1): On Wednesday (14 October), the French government announced that the national health emergency would be reintroduced from Saturday (17 October). This will allow the government to introduce further restrictions, which may also include curfews. An announcement of new measures is expected on Wednesday evening (local time).
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-10-12: German authorities reported on Monday (12 October) that also in the cities of Montpellier and Toulouse the maximum alarm (alerte maximale) was declared due to high case numbers.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-10-08: According to media reports on Thursday evening (08 October, local time), as of Saturday (10 October), four more cities will fall under the maximum alert category ('zone d‘alert maximale'): In addition to Paris, Aix-Marseille, and the overseas territory of Guadeloupe, also Lille, Lyon, Grenoble, and Saint-Étienne will be subject to the maximum alert level from then on, due to increasing numbers of infections.
AFP
Update 2020-10-07: The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) removed the French island of Corsica from the list of COVID-19 risk areas on Wednesday (07 October). The Federal Foreign Office has therefore lifted the travel warning for Corsica.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-10-05 (2): Cafes, bars, clubs, dance halls, gyms, and swimming pools will be closed and parties will be prohibited in Greater Paris from Tuesday (06 October). Health clubs will remain closed. Restaurants and cultural facilities such as theatres, cinemas and museums can remain open when following additional measures. The consumption of alcohol outdoors is no longer allowed after 10:00 p.m. local time. The measures will initially be in effect for two weeks.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-10-05 (1): The maximum alarm level will be declared in larger Paris on Monday (05 October), allowing for the close of cafes while restaurants could remain open under strict conditions. The measures could initially be in effect for 15 days.
dpa
Update 2020-09-30: On Wednesday (30 September), the travel warning was extended by the German Foreign Office to all of France, with the exception of the Grand-East region, due to high infection rates.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-09-29: On Monday (28 September), all restaurants and pubs were closed in Marseille and Aix-en-Provence for two weeks.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-09-23 (2): Since Wednesday (23 September), the Centre-Val-de-Loire, Normandy, and Brittany regions are considered risk areas according to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI). For this reason, the Federal Foreign Office issued a warning against non-essential tourist trips to the capital region on the same evening (local time).
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-09-23 (1): On Wednesday evening (23 September, local time), the French Minister of Health, Olivier Véran, announced the publication of a new COVID-19 map, which now classifies individual areas as 'zone d'alert', 'zone d'alert renforcée' and 'zone d'alert maximale'. This has been accompanied by further tightening of the current COVID-19 measures in France: As a result, restaurants and bars in Marseille will have to close. The surrounding region (Aix-Marseille) is now in a state of maximum alert ('zone d'alert maximale'), as is the French overseas territory of Guadeloupe. Eleven metropolitan regions are now considered as 'zones d'alert renforcée': Paris, Lille, Toulouse, Saint-Etienne, Rennes, Rouen, Grenoble, Montpellier, Bordeaux, Lyon, and Nice.
AFP, France Bleu
Update 2020-09-18: According to media reports on Friday (18 September), the authorities of the city of Nice announced a tightening of the directives. Public events will be limited to 1,000 participants, while private meetings in public places will be limited to ten participants. A closing time of 00:30 a.m. (local time) has been imposed for bars. The authorities of Marseille and Bordeaux had already introduced similar measures several days ago.
dpa
Update 2020-09-16: On Wednesday (16 September), the Federal Foreign Office extended its travel warning for the Hauts-de-France region and the overseas territory of La Réunion.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-09-15: According to the information provided by the German authorities on Tuesday (15 September), the French authorities have now also identified the departments of Aude, Ille-et-Villaine, Isère, Loire, Loire-Atlantique, Maine-et-Loire, Puy-de-Dôme, Pyrénéees-Atlantiques, Bas-Rhin, Seine-Maritime and Tarn-et-Garonne as risk areas. Further restrictions may be imposed locally.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-09-14: On Monday (14 September), official bodies reported a tightening of local measures in Bordeaux. According to media reports, private outdoor meetings are now limited to ten people, and private family celebrations should be treated in the same way. Flea markets and street parties are prohibited, discos are closed. Public events in the Gironde department will be limited to 1,000 participants instead of 5,000.
dpa, AFP
Update 2020-09-09: On Wednesday (09 September), the German Federal Foreign Office extended its travel warning due to high infection rates to the regions Auvergne-Rhônes-Alpes, Occitanie, Nouvelle-Aquitaine and Corse. In the Hauts-de-France region, too, the number of cases has recently risen sharply.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-09-07: German authorities reported on Monday (07 September), that the departments of Corse-du-Sud, Haute-Corse, Côte d'Or, Nord, Bas-Rhin and Seine-Maritime were also included by the French authorities in the list of areas with increased risk of infection. Local authorities there can now introduce more stringent restrictions.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-08-28: On Friday (28 August), the list of departments with increased virus spread was extended by the following: Île-de-France and Sarthe, Loiret, Rhône, Gironde, Haute-Garonne, Hérault, Gard, Bouches-du-Rhône, Var, Alpes-Maritimes. In overseas territories, Guadeloupe, Martinique and Guyana are now also among the areas with increased numbers of infections. In Paris, the Départements Seine Saint Denis, Hauts de Seine and Val de Marne, masks are compulsory, as in Marseille, Toulouse and Strasbourg.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-08-27 (2): The French Prime Minister announced on Thursday (27 August) that in Paris a general obligation to wear masks in all public places will apply.
AFP
Update 2020-08-27 (1): According to media reports on Thursday (27 August), Belgian authorities have added the greater Paris area and several other regions to the list of countries to which travel without a permit is prohibited. These include the regions in the departments of Alpes-Maritimes, Bouches-du-Rhone, Hérault, Sarthe, Seine-Saint-Denis and Val-de-Marne. Mayotte and Guyana also belong to this list.
The Local
Update 2020-08-26: According to media reports on Tuesday (25 August), a general obligation to wear masks in public places applies in Marseille from Wednesday evening (26 August, local time). There are also limited opening hours for restaurants and bars. The regulations will initially remain in force until September.
dpa
Update 2020-08-24: On Monday evening (24 August, local time) the German Federal Foreign Office issued a travel warning for the Île-de-France and the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. This was justified with the current high number of cases in these areas.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-08-20 (2): According to media reports on Thursday (20 August), a general mask obligation will also apply in parts of downtown Lyon from Saturday (22 August).
AFP
Update 2020-08-20 (1): A strict obligation to wear protective masks outside private spaces is in effect between 07:00 a.m. and 03:00 a.m. (local times) in all areas of Toulouse from Friday (21 August). Wearing a protective mask outdoors is also mandatory in parts of Paris and Nice.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-08-18: On Tuesday (18 August), the Ministry of Labour announced that the wearing of a mask at the workplace will be compulsory from the end of August. According to the announcement, this will affect meeting rooms, corridors, changing rooms and shared offices. Individual offices are excluded.
dpa, Le Figaro
Update 2020-08-17: French authorities do not rule out a general obligation to wear a mask. France's capital was classified as a corona-active zone at the end of last week.
dpa
Update 2020-08-14 (2): On Friday (14 August) French authorities classified the city of Paris and the department of Bouches-du-Rhône as "red" zones. Based on this classification, local authorities can again impose curfews, restrict public transport and close down companies. The introduction of such measures by the authorities must be expected.
Reuters
Update 2020-08-14 (1): After British authorities announced on Thursday evening (13 August, local time), that travellers from France would have to go into 14-day quarantine from Saturday (15 August), French authorities announced that they would introduce a similar measure. Details are not yet known, but it is expected that the measure will be introduced at short notice.
AFP
Update 2020-08-12: Following a further increase in infection rates in France, the Prime Minister extended the ban on gatherings of more than 5,000 people until at least 30 October. The government also called on local authorities to introduce stricter rules on the wearing of masks.
BBC
Update 2020-08-08: From Monday (10 August), the wearing of face masks will be compulsory in parts of Paris and the broader region for all people aged eleven and over.
AFP
Update 2020-07-31: On Friday (31 July), the French government gave the prefectures the freedom to impose a mask obligation outdoors. The city of Lille then introduced a mask obligation in the city centre, in car parks and in parks. It is to be expected that other cities in France will also introduce such measures.
dpa
Update 2020-07-30: Several cities in France have announced the introduction of compulsory masks, according to media reports on Thursday (30 July). In the city of Saint-Malo in Brittany, such a duty was introduced for the old town. In Orleans it exists for open-air markets and from 09:00 p.m. (local time) along the Loire river. In the city centres of Bayonne and Biarritz, a compulsory mask is in force from Monday (03 August). In the North department, new measures will be announced on Friday.
AFP
Update 2020-07-27: On Sunday evening (26 July, local time), a night-time curfew on beaches for the holiday resort of Quiberon in Brittany was announced after a cluster of infections was discovered last week. Parks and gardens will also be closed at night from 09:00 pm until 07:00 am (local time). Masks have also been extended to markets in the town's open and busy streets. Quiberon residents were instructed to reduce social contacts and take precautionary measures.
AFP
Update 2020-07-24: On Friday (24 July), the French government advised against travelling to the Spanish region of Catalonia. It was also announced that travellers from 16 high-risk countries will have to be tested for COVID-19 at the airport on their return to France in future. If the test is positive, the travellers will have to go into quarantine. The countries affected include Brazil, India, Israel, South Africa and the United States. Travelling between these countries and France is currently only possible for French citizens or persons with permanent residence in France.
AFP, dpa, Reuters
Update 2020-07-22: According to reports from Wednesday (22 July), many cities in France tightened their mask obligation. Cities in Brittany (La Rochelle, Concarneau and Saint-Brieuc) are particularly affected. The measures mostly include orders to wear a mask in the city centre or in other busy places. However, they differ locally.
dpa
Update 2020-07-16: French government authorities announced on Thursday (16 July) that the obligation to wear masks in closed public places will already apply from Monday (20 July).
AFP
Update 2020-07-14: On Tuesday (14 July), the French president announced that in the coming weeks a mask obligation in closed public places would be published.
AFP
Update 2020-07-10: According to the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office, travellers from the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, Montenegro, Morocco, New Zealand, Rwanda, Serbia, South Korea, Thailand, Tunisia and Uruguay no longer need to isolate themselves, prove that their journey is essential or hold an international travel certificate.
FCO
Update 2020-07-04: On Monday (06 July), the Louvre in Paris will reopen with social distancing measures in place. The Eiffel Tower had already been reopened on 25 June while the Palace of Versailles had reopened on 06 June.
AFP
Update 2020-06-24: According to reports from Wednesday (24 June), a 14-day quarantine has to be carried out when travelling to to French overseas territories. In the territories of Guadeloupe, Martinique, Réunion, St Martin and St Barthelemy this can be reduced to 7 days if a negative COVID 19 test not older than 72 hours can be presented and another test after 7 days is also negative. Regular flights to overseas territories will be resumed from Saturday (27 June).
FCO
Update 2020-06-20: Cinemas, holiday resorts, casinos and gambling halls will reopen with some restrictions on Monday (22 June). Team sports are again allowed while martial arts are still prohibited. From 11 July, river cruises will again be allowed and stadiums as well as racetracks will reopen. There is an upper limit of 5,000 spectators. Industry trade fairs, international cruises and the operation of clubs remain prohibited until at least September.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-06-15 (2): There are no additional restrictions for travel to Corsica, according to the German Federal Foreign Office.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-06-15 (1): The travel warning of the German Federal Foreign Office against non-essential tourist travel to France was lifted. Travellers from countries for which stricter entry regulations are in place must confirm in writing that they have no symptoms of COVID-19. Home quarantine can be ordered when showing symptoms of an infection. Specific regulations are in effect for travel to overseas territories and Corsica until at least 22 June. Non-essential and tourist travel travel are prohibited. Orly Airport in Paris will expectedly remain closed until 25 June. Clubs, concert halls, amusement parks, cinemas etc. will remain closed until at least 22 June.
Auswärtiges Amt
Update 2020-06-13: According to current media reports, France plans to start reopening its borders to travellers from non-member states of the EU or the Schengen area on 01 July. This reopening is to take place in harmony with the relaxation of entry restrictions that is being considered at EU level.
AFP
Update 2020-06-12 (2): According to media reports on Friday (12 June), the border of the country to Spain will not be opened until 21 June.
AFP, Catalan News
Update 2020-06-12 (1): France is preparing to open its borders with other EU member states and members of the Schengen zone on Monday (15 June). According to media reports, the French airline Air France is planning to resume its flight connections during the holiday season faster than planned.
The Local, Reuters
Update 2020-06-10: According to media reports on Wednesday (10 June), the French government does not plan to extend the health emergency any further after 10 July. However, it should still be possible to restrict meetings and movements in public places.
dpa
Update 2020-05-28: French Prime Minister Édouard Philippe announced on Thursday (28 May) further relaxation of the restrictive measures previously imposed. Restaurants, cafés, museums and monuments in all regions classified by the government as 'green' will be allowed to reopen completely from Tuesday (02 June). In 'orange' regions, such as Paris, opening will be subject to restrictions. In large 'green' parts of France, tourist accommodation, leisure and sports facilities and public parks may also reopen. However, gatherings of groups of more than ten people are still prohibited until 21 June. In Paris and the overseas territories of French Guyana and Mayotte, which are classified as 'orange', such openings will only be possible from 22 June. Meanwhile, the French Interior Minister announced that the lifting of border controls at the border to Germany on 15 June would be maintained. The 100-kilometre limit for travellers within France will also be lifted on 02 June. A protective mask is still mandatory in public transport.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-05-23: According to media reports on Saturday (23 May), French government authorities announced that travellers from Spain and the United Kingdom will be subject to an obligatory 14-day quarantine. While this regulation is to come into force for Spain on Monday (25 May) and will apply only to air travellers, the start of the implementation of this measure for the United Kingdom was initially unclear. From 08 June, such a quarantine obligation will apply to almost all foreign travellers arriving in the United Kingdom.
dpa
Update 2020-05-14: The French Prime Minister announced on Thursday (14 May), that domestic tourism would be made possible in July and August and that bookings could be made for this period. However, regional differences would have to be made.
dpa
Update 2020-05-11: On Monday (11 May), far-reaching relaxation of the measures came into force in France. Travelling up to one hundred kilometres away from one's home or within a Department is again permitted. However, for journeys that extend further away, it is to be decreed that there must be an essential reason. On the basis of the relaxation of travel regulations, cross-border train services have also been partially resumed. For example, Deutsche Bahn is again offering a daily connection between Frankfurt and Paris. However, entry into France is still only possible for good reasons. Multiple shops in the country were allowed to reopen under certain conditions and local exit restrictions were also greatly reduced. Nevertheless, there are still restrictions that can vary greatly from place to place.
Auswärtiges Amt, dpa
Update 2020-05-08 (2): In Paris, from Monday (11 May) during peak hours, passengers on public transport must present a certificate from their employer. This is necessary in the morning between 06:30 a.m. and 09:30 a.m. (local time) and in the evening between 04:00 p.m. and 07:00 p.m.. Outside these hours, the use of public transport in Paris is also possible without a certificate.
dpa
Update 2020-05-08 (1): On Thursday (07 May), the Prime Minister declared that restaurants and cafés in so-called "green zones" may reopen at the beginning of June, provided the number of new infections remains low. On Monday (11 May), a process lasting several weeks will begin to lead the country out of the lockdown measures. The country will be divided into red zones with high infection rates and green zones with lower infection rates. Besides the Paris region, the regions around the cities of Calains, Strasbourg and Dijon are defined as red zones.
France 24
Update 2020-05-07: According to media reports, the French Minister of the Interior, Christophe Castaner, announced on Thursday (07 May) that the restrictions on entry would remain in force for the time being. Until 15 June, the borders will remain closed for all but essential travel. At the moment, every EU citizen as well as citizens of Great Britain need an international travel permit and can only cross the French border if certain criteria are met.
The Local
Update 2020-05-04: On Sunday (03 May), French authorities indicated that, as part of the relaxation of measures to combat COVID-19 in the country, quarantine measures for travellers from the EU, the Schengen area and the United Kingdom would also be lifted. However, travellers from other countries will still have to remain in quarantine for at least two weeks after their entry. In addition, strict controls at the border will continue.
AFP
Update 2020-05-03: Wearing a protective mask becomes mandatory when travelling in Eurostar trains from Monday (04 May). Passengers not complying with the measure can be fined or refused travel.
AFP
Update 2020-05-02: After the first measures to contain the current COVID-19 outbreak in France had been lifted, French Health Minister Olivier Véran announced on Saturday (02 May) the extension of the health emergency ('état d'urgence sanitaire') for a further two months until 24 July.
AFP
Update 2020-04-28: As previously reported, shops in France are to be allowed to reopen under certain conditions from 11 May. Restaurants and bars, however, are excluded from this relaxation for the time being. From the same date, people using public transport in France will be obliged to wear a protective mask, while this is also recommended in shops.
dpa
Update 2020-04-23 (2): According to further reports on Thursday (23 April), national travel will also be permitted again from 11 May. Previously, travel between the various departments of the country had been prohibited, with the exception of commuter traffic.
The Local
Update 2020-04-23 (1): On Thursday (23 April), the French Finance Minister announced that the government plans to allow the opening of shops under certain conditions from 11 May. Restaurants and cafés are, however, excluded from these plans. He also said that it was possible that there would be local differences in the reopening, as one would have to react to the local situation.
Reuters
Update 2020-04-13: On Monday (13 April), the restrictions on outdoor activities were extended until 11 May. Borders with non-European countries will remain closed until further notice.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-04-09: The lockdown in France will be extended beyond 15 April. Details will be announced on Monday (13 April) after 08:00 p.m. local time. Over 77,000 cases of COVID-19 were reported in France so far, including around 10,800 fatal cases.
AFP, Le Parisien, WHO
Update 2020-04-08: From Wednesday (08 April), a daily ban on sports activities outside the own home will apply in Paris between 10:00 a.m. and 07:00 p.m. This measure was adopted because people continued to gather despite the ban on sports in groups.
EUobserver
Update 2020-03-27: On Friday (27 March), the stay-at-home order was extended for another two weeks until at least 15 April. The duration will be extended further if conditions require it.
AFP
Update 2020-03-25: On Wednesday (25 March), the operators of Paris-Orly airport announced its closure from Tuesday (31 March), after passenger numbers had last slumped by 92 per cent. The other airport in the capital, Charles de Gaulle, is also struggling with the low number of flights still being operated. About 89 percent of flights were cancelled there.
AFP, Ouest-France
Update 2020-03-24 (2): The number of COVID-19 deaths rose by 240 to about 1,100 on Tuesday (24 March). Meanwhile, a committee of scientific experts working with the French government announced that a duration of at least six weeks for the current curfews (since the start of the measure on 17 March) is recommended.
AFP
Update 2020-03-24 (1): From Tuesday (24 March), the French government further tightened the curfews in the country. From now on, it is forbidden to leave the house for sports activities for more than one hour and to move further than one kilometre from one's home.
dpa
Update 2020-03-23: As reported by the French media, Lille-Lesquin airport suspended all commercial flights from Monday (23 March). On the same day, the mayors of twenty cities in France declared curfews in addition to the measures already in place. Arras and Nice are also affected. The number of COVID-19 deaths rose by another 186 to 860, while nationwide 19,856 people were confirmed to be infected. A total of 8,675 COVID-19 patients are in hospitals, at least 2,082 of them in intensive care. Meanwhile, 31 French members of a travel group in Cambodia tested positive for the novel coronavirus.
AFP, France 3, The Local
Update 2020-03-22: According to media reports, a two-month health emergency was declared in France on Sunday (22 March) to counter the spread of the coronavirus and give the government more powers to fight the pandemic.
AFP
Update 2020-03-21: According to media reports on Saturday (21 March) the imposed curfew will be tightened in some French cities. In Nice, for example, a total curfew will be imposed from 23:00 until early morning. The tourist towns Vallauris and Menton had already introduced such a ban. In Paris, checks at railway stations have been increased and the banks of the Seine and several public places, including the Champ de Mars square at the Eiffel Tower, have been closed.
dpa
Update 2020-03-19: French health authorities believe that the two-week home confinement will very likely be extended, according to AFP reports on Thursday (19 March). Between two and four weeks were needed to contain the outbreak of the current COVID-19 epidemic in France.
AFP
Update 2020-03-16: According to reports from Monday (16 March), the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 rose to over 5,000, and at least 127 people were killed by the virus in France. From Tuesday noon (17 March, local time), the French president called on the population to leave their homes only for necessary activities, such as shopping. These restrictions should apply for at least 15 days. Any violation of these regulations would be punished.
AFP
Update 2020-03-15: On Sunday (15.03.) French government authorities announced that in the coming days long-distance traffic will be gradually reduced to a necessary minimum. This concerns bus, air and train connections. The number of train connections is expected to be cut in half, while only a few international air connections are to remain. Airports will remain open, but some terminals will be closed, affecting in particular Paris-Orly airport from Wednesday and Charles-De-Gaulle airport from the end of next week. Restrictions on train services will mainly affect the long-distance train service provider SCNF (Société nationale des chemins). Meanwhile, 12,000 French citizens who are currently still in Morocco are to be gradually repatriated.
AFP
Update 2020-03-14: According to media reports from Saturday (14 March), the French government announced the closure of all non-essential public places, including restaurants and cafés, from Saturday (14 March) 12:00 p.m. (local time). It was also announced that the number of deaths from COVID-19 in France had risen to 91, with a total number of 4,500 infected persons.
There are currently more than one hundred flight cancellations at Paris-Charles-de-Gaulle airport.
AFP, FlightAware
Update 2020-03-13: French authorities banned meetings with more than 100 people on Friday (13 March). The operators of the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Palace of Versailles stated that they would stop operations until further notice. Numerous other exhibitions, libraries, museums and theatres were also closed nationwide.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-03-12: In a statement on Thursday evening (12 March, local time), French President Emmanuel Macron announced that kindergartens, schools and universities in France would be closed until further notice from Monday (16 March). He also called on all people over 70 to stay at home. Meanwhile, confirmed COVID-19 cases had risen to at least 2,284, with 48 deaths so far.
AFP
Update 2020-03-11 (2): By Wednesday evening (11 March, local time), the number of deaths had risen by almost half to at least 48. In the meantime, at least 2,281 people have been confirmed infected with the novel coronavirus, said the French Health Minister. In two new areas, Corsica and the urban area around Montpellier, kindergartens and schools would remain shot for at least 15 days. As of today, there is a ban on visiting the country's old people's and nursing homes, which will last for several weeks.
Reuters
Update 2020-03-11 (1): The German Robert Koch Institute (RKI) has classified the eastern French regions of Alsace and Lorraine bordering on the german states of Baden-Württemberg, Saarland, and/or Rhineland-Palatinate as coronavirus risk areas since Wednesday (11 March). The Champagne-Ardenne region, which borders on Belgium, is also considered a risk area. In the meantime, a total of at least 1,784 people have contracted COVID-19 and 33 people have died as a result of the disease.
dpa
Update 2020-03-08: On Sunday (08 March), gatherings of more than 1,000 people were banned in order to slow the spread of the coronavirus. It was announced that a list of events that may nevertheless take place would be published.
AFP
Update 2020-03-07: On Saturday evening (07 March, local time), French authorities confirmed five more deaths from COVID-19, bringing the number of registered deaths to at least 16. The number of patients requiring intensive treatment increased to 45. The number of infections in France increased by 336 cases in the last 24 hours and is now reported as 949.
AFP
Update 2020-03-06: According to the French Ministry of Health on Friday (06 March), at least 577 people in France got ill with COVID-19 and at least nine deaths have been confirmed so far. The French government reacted to reports of sharp price increases for disinfectants and imposed a maximum price of three euros for a 100-millilitre package until at least 31 March.
dpa
Update 2020-03-05: On Thursday (05 March), a further sharp increase in the number of infection cases was reported in France. According to official information, at least 377 people have been infected with COVID-19 so far. At least six people in France have been killed by the novel coronavirus. Currently, the government is considering declaring the highest health warning level, a government spokeswoman announced on Wednesday (04 March). A consequence of the increase of the warning level would be travel restrictions and cancellation of events.
AFP
Update 2020-03-02: On Monday (02 March), French health authorities recorded a sharp increase in the number of cases of COVID-19 in the country. A further 61 infections and one more death were confirmed, bringing the number of people killed by the virus in France to at least three. The total number of recorded cases thus rose to at least 191. In response to the rising number of cases, the government banned gatherings of more than 5,000 people and closed schools and churches in the most affected areas. So far, two major infection clusters have formed in France. One is located in the village of Crépy-en-Valois in the department of Oise and the other in the department of Haute-Savoie.
AFP, dpa
Update 2020-02-28 (2): In the course of Friday (28 February), the number of COVID-19 cases in France rose to 57. This is 19 more than the previous day, marking a new stage of the epidemic, the Minister of Health reported. On Monday (02 February), when the winter holidays officially end, schools in the Oise department north of Paris will remain closed. Several cases of coronavirus have been reported by the Ministry of Defence from the military base in Creil (Oise).
dpa, Reuters
Update 2020-02-28 (1): On Friday morning (28 February, local time), the number of confirmed infections with the novel coronavirus in France increased by 23 cases to at least 41. Eleven people are now considered cured. The largest cluster of infections is located in the Oise department, where the patient who died from the virus on Tuesday (25 February) lived.
The Local
Update 2020-02-26: Following the death of a Hong Kong tourist Tuesday night (25 February, local time) for reasons as yet unknown, the hotel where the tourist was staying was sealed off by French authorities. Guests of the hotel in Beaune, which belongs to the Accor Group, were not to leave the hotel until the cause of death was clarified. The results are expected on Wednesday evening (26.02., local time).
dpa
2020-02-26: On Wednesday (26 February), French authorities announced the first death of a French citizen caused by COVID-19. A 60-year-old man, already in critical condition, was admitted to a hospital in Paris on Tuesday evening (25 February, local time) and died. Already in the middle of the month a Chinese tourist in France had succumbed to the consequences of the disease. Thus the number of deaths caused by COVID-19 in France rose to at least two. The number of confirmed infections in France is 17 persons. However, at least eleven people are considered cured. One of those still infected is being treated in Amiens. Two cases have been confirmed in the last 24 hours, both of them coming from Lombardy in northern Italy, where most infections in Europe have been recorded. The French government is asking travellers coming from Lombardy or Veneto to isolate themselves and not to send their children to school. This recommendation also applies to travellers from China, Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore and South Korea.
AFP
Pandemic information:
- Robert Koch Institut (RKI)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- COVID-19 Dashboard (Johns Hopkins University)
- COVID-19 Travel Regulations Map (IATA)
Related A3M incidents:
- Information on the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak - worldwide
COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2): Human-to-human transmission of the viral disease primarily occurs through droplets and aerosols, but COVID-19 may also spread by touching contaminated surfaces. The course of the disease can vary greatly; symptoms commonly include rhinorrhea, sore throat, coughing, fever, headaches, dizziness, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, and loss of smell, taste or appetite. COVID-19 may also cause severe breathing problems and pneumonia as well as cardiovascular and organ dysfunction. Infections may also progress entirely asymptomatic, leaving people unaware they have contracted the virus. The incubation period ranges from 1-14 days, with an average period of 5-6 days.
Advice: Authorities recommend to wear protective face masks, to avoid contact with infected people and to generally adhere to social distancing and hygiene measures in place (e.g. thorough and frequent hand-washing, avoid face-touching).
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