France’s Updated Travel Regulations for Unvaccinated Tourists
France will prohibit unvaccinated tourists from the United States and Israel starting September 12. This change arises as both countries are classified as “orange” or mid-risk for travel.
This decision follows the European Union’s recent action to remove the US and Israel from its “white list” of countries permitted for non-essential travel, due to rising COVID-19 cases. Consequently, member states were advised to restore entry restrictions on US travelers.
While EU recommendations are not binding, individual countries are responsible for enforcing them. For instance, Italy has enacted stricter measures for travelers from the US by introducing testing requirements, while the Netherlands has outright banned non-essential travel from the US. Countries like Denmark, Spain, and now France have also effectively barred entry for unvaccinated travelers.
Starting at midnight on September 12, the US and Israel will transition from the green to the orange list, meaning that vaccinated travelers will be allowed entry for reasons such as tourism, business, or visiting family. They are not subject to additional restrictions, including quarantine or testing, provided they present valid proof of vaccination.
Accepted vaccines in France include those authorized by the European Medicines Agency (EMA), such as Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca (Vaxevria and Covishield), and Johnson & Johnson. To be considered fully vaccinated, individuals must have received their second dose of the two-dose vaccines at least seven days prior or the single dose of Johnson & Johnson at least four weeks in advance. The US Embassy in France indicates that a CDC card is an acceptable form of vaccination evidence for entry.
Travelers from orange countries who are not fully vaccinated may only enter France under “essential travel” criteria, necessitating a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) taken shortly before their travel. Additionally, quarantine for seven days upon arrival is mandatory, whether at their accommodation or a private residence.
This regulation applies to all individuals aged 12 and older, with children under 11 exempt from testing.
Upon arrival in France, a Pass Sanitaire (health pass) is required to access restaurants, bars, tourist sites, and long-distance train travel. This pass confirms that the individual is fully vaccinated or has received a recent negative COVID-19 test. Notably, the CDC card is not accepted as vaccination proof under these circumstances; accordingly, travelers must obtain a QR code compatible with the French system.
