Travel Limited for Entry and Exit to Countries Outside European Union and European Economic Area
February 3, 2021
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At a Glance
- The French government is now permitting entry into and exit from France to travelers from only the European Union, European Economic Area, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, Switzerland and Vatican City, except for essential purposes.
- Essential purposes are extremely limited and only for health, family or professional reasons.
The situation
The French government is now only permitting entry into and exit from France to the European Union, European Economic Area, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, Switzerland and Vatican City, except for essential purposes.
A closer look
- Essential purposes definition. Essential purposes, in this context, are currently defined as having a compelling health reason, family reason, or professional reason that cannot be postponed. Whether or not a foreign national qualifies under this category is a discretionary decision made by the French authorities.
- Other exemptions. Exemptions listed in the travel certificates are still applicable but these travelers must now show an additional attestation proving a compelling reason to enter France.
- Other entry requirements. Travelers are reminded that there are testing and quarantine requirements in place which must also be followed when entering France.
Impact
Travelers will find that they have a limited ability to enter and exit the country at this time.
Background
This new measure has been implemented to curb the spread of infections in France.
Looking ahead
It is expected that France will lift some of the travel restrictions when the rate of COVID-19 infection decreases in the country.
For up-to-date information on COVID-19-related travel bans, restrictions and concessions, among other information, check Fragomen’s dedicated website.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
