In a bid to prevent the Omicron variant of COVID-19 from spreading within its borders, France is implementing more rigorous testing requirements for some visitors. These testing requirements will go into effect on Dec. 4.
Any nonexempt traveler from outside the EU will have to provide negative COVID-19 results from a test taken within 48 hours before the entrance. This requirement will apply even to visitors who can provide proof of complete vaccination or recovery.
Visitors from outside the EU will also have to consent to more testing after arriving in the country. Children under the age of 12 will be exempt.
Residents of the EU will still be permitted to visit France without added restrictions as long as they provide proof of full vaccination or recovery. Unvaccinated travelers from within the EU will have to provide negative test results within 24 hours before the entrance.
France also has a travel ban list, which includes areas with numerous Omicron-variant cases. Only French nationals will be allowed to enter France after visiting countries on the ban list.
Since the beginning of November, France has seen a startling spike in COVID-19 case rates. However, its death rates have remained low since early October.