Paris France travel requirements 2024: What American travelers need to know
We aim to keep this post updated about Paris France travel in 2024 with official Paris travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours.
Paris is a destination close to our hearts, as Michelle has relatives in the city and studied in Paris in college.
As restrictions vary based on the traveler’s citizenship, we will focus primarily on those affecting U.S. citizens.
Last update: January 2024. Originally published: May 2021.
Disclosure: This post contains some affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.
January 2024 – Agnes Groonwald of Travel on the Reg, expats in France: “Tourism in Paris has seemed light since our move just outside of the city, but we also haven’t experienced the peak summer season yet. It’s still expected to book the big attractions (e.g. Louvre Museum) a few weeks ahead of travel, and dinner reservations remain a must at popular eateries.
Some locals and tourists are still voluntarily masking on crowded public transit and popular tourist destinations. Otherwise, it appears to be business as usual. There are no COVID protocols outside of doctors’ offices where masking is compulsory. Paris attractions, restaurants, and public transit are all operating without COVID-era restrictions. You can travel to/from the city without vaccine cards. That said, the city continues to struggle with regular disruptions to transit/worker shortages that require patience from travelers, but this has more to do with local politics vs. COVID. It’ll be interesting to see what happens during the Olympics.
The general tips for Paris travel apply. Leave plenty of time to get to/from attractions around the city and pre-book the big ticket items as soon as you know when you’re visiting.”
*At the end of the post, we share more on-the-ground perspectives from local residents and travelers to the Paris so you can get a true sense of what to expect.
Table of Contents
Can US citizens travel to Paris, France? Can I travel to Paris right now?
Yes, France is open to American travelers, regardless of vaccination status.
As of August 2022, France removed all COVID entry requirements for any traveler from any country.
Testing, proof of vaccination, proof of recovery, proof of a compelling reason for travel, and sworn declaration about Covid contact and symptoms are no longer required.
Visitors from over 60 visa-exempt countries, including the U.S., will soon be required to have a European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) travel authorization to enter Italy and other European countries. The start date has been delayed from 2024 to 2025.
Paris, France travel restrictions currently allow traveling between regions. However, as of May 2023, short-haul domestic flights that can be taken by train in less than two-and-a-half hours are not allowed.
Effective March 2022, masks are no longer required in indoor spaces and public transport but still highly recommended in enclosed and small spaces, in hospitals, and other medical centers.
Quarantine rules in Paris, France: What happens if I get Covid?
Travelers are not required to quarantine upon arrival in France unless presenting symptoms of Covid.
Travelers who test positive for COVID-19 while in France are no longer required to self-isolate but are asked to observe the following guidelines:
- Wear mask, observe physical distancing, practice hand hygiene
- Avoid contact with people who are immunocompromised
- Notify others (family, friends, colleagues) you came in contact with within 48 hours before the onset of symptoms, or within 7 days before testing positive, if no symptoms are present
- Contact a doctor and monitor your health
See details here.
Paris Health Pass/Pass Sanitaire Requirements for Dining, Attractions, and Travel
You might be wondering: Do I need a vaccine certificate or Covid test to enter restaurants, public transit, accommodations, and attractions in Paris?
Since March 2022, a vaccine pass is no longer required to enter most establishments.
As of August 2022, Health Pass or passe sanitaire, obtained with a proof of either vaccination or a recent negative Covid test, is no longer required.
Can Americans travel to Paris France in 2024?
Travel to Paris in April is open for US citizens without restrictions. Please read on for details and check back for updates, as protocols may change.
What is it like to fly to Paris, France CDG Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport right now? As of March 2022, wearing a mask is no longer required in French airports. Check with your individual airline about mask requirements on board the flight.
Temperature checks or other screenings may be done at the airport. Hand sanitizers are readily available.
Do Americans have to quarantine when traveling to Paris, France? No. Travelers are not required to quarantine upon arrival in France.
Does France check COVID-19 symptoms of incoming travelers? Health screening procedures, including temperature checks, may be in place at airports and other ports of entry in France.
Does France require a negative Covid 19 test for American travelers? As of August 2022, a negative Covid 19 test is no longer required for entry.
Does France require a proof of Coronavirus vaccine for American travelers? As of August 2022, a proof of Coronavirus vaccine is no longer required for entry.
Do I still need to provide a negative Covid test or quarantine if I have been vaccinated? No. Quarantine or proof of a negative Covid test are no longer required, regardless of vaccination status.
Is a booster shot required for travel to Paris, France? As of August 2022, booster shots are no longer required for purposes of entry to France. There is currently no expiration period set for the validity of vaccinations.
What Covid testing options are available for travelers in Paris, France? U.S. Citizens can obtain a COVID-19 test at laboratories and testing centers in Paris. Covid-19 testing centers are also available for certain situations in Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport and Paris-Orly by appointment.
PCR tests generally cost between 50 and 100 euros, payable in advance. Results for the PCR test are available within 48 hours. Antigen tests cost 29 euros for those not covered by French social security; results are usually available within half an hour.
Testing centers in France can be found on this map.
What healthcare options are available to travelers in Paris, France who get the virus? Paris, France hospitals and clinics are open. Testing in labs and pharmacies is available to foreign visitors at their own expense.
For travel insurance that covers Covid, check out Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing >
What service businesses and restaurants are open in Paris, France? Restaurants, bars, cafes, museums, parks, clubs, attractions (including the Eiffel Tower), and tours have reopened. Stadiums, arenas and other large-capacity venues are allowed to operate at full capacity.
Are face masks required in Paris, France? Masks are no longer required in France but may still be required in medical facilities. Private businesses may make masks a condition of entry at their discretion, but this is rare.
Are buses running in Paris, France? Public transportation is available in Paris. A health pass is not required.
Will France impose new Covid restrictions? What’s next is difficult to predict. Historically, most countries impose COVID-19 restrictions when strains on the health care system might become unsustainable.
How has the Coronavirus impacted Paris, France?
France has been one of the hardest hit countries in Europe and went into a series of national lockdowns. Case numbers spiked in Fall 2020, Spring 2021, and Summer 2021 with the Delta variant.
More than 130,000 people in the tourism sector lost jobs in France.
In June 2021, France reopened its borders to more countries outside of Europe with a color-coded system for entry requirements.
France State of Emergency ended in August 2022; France removed all Covid related restrictions for all travelers from any country.
Over 90% of the population have been fully vaccinated.
For the current situation in Paris France, including: total COVID-19 positive cases; total cases in France; and COVID-19 testing in France, please see the French Department of Health site.
What should you pack for safely traveling in Paris France?
😷 Face Masks – Face coverings are recommended in crowded places.
Find N95 masks at Bona Fide > or designer options at Vida >
💊 Medicine – Bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for your entire trip to avoid trips to the clinic.
💳 Vaccine Card Holder – Protect that paper CDC card when traveling abroad (if your country doesn’t offer a digital version).
Get a simple plastic protector > or Vegan leather clippable > or Leather passport + card combo holder >
👃 Covid self-test – The most studied rapid antigen self-test with FDA emergency authorization. NOT valid to enter countries. Use for your own peace of mind.
Order from CVS > or Walmart >
💧 Sealed water bottle – Make sure your reusable water bottle has a lid that’s not exposed to the air. We use one of each of the following:
Shop insulated water bottles with protective lid >
Shop water bottles with purification filter and protective lid >
✈️ Travel insurance that covers Covid – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.
What do Paris, France locals and recent travelers say about visiting Paris, France now?
What is it like to visit Paris, France right now? It’s our goal to provide regular updates here from real people on the ground, to help potential visitors know what to expect.
The following are subjective opinions only. Official travel guidance can be found above.
January 2024 – Agnes Groonwald of Travel on the Reg, resident of France: “Tourism in Paris has seemed light since our move just outside of the city, but we also haven’t experienced the peak summer season yet. It’s still expected to book the big attractions (e.g. Louvre Museum) a few weeks ahead of travel, and dinner reservations remain a must at popular eateries.
Some locals and tourists are still voluntarily masking on crowded public transit and popular tourist destinations. Otherwise, it appears to be business as usual. There are no COVID protocols outside of doctors’ offices where masking is compulsory. Paris attractions, restaurants, and public transit are all operating without COVID-era restrictions. You can travel to/from the city without vaccine cards. That said, the city continues to struggle with regular disruptions to transit/worker shortages that require patience from travelers, but this has more to do with local politics vs. COVID. It’ll be interesting to see what happens during the Olympics.
The general tips for Paris travel apply. Leave plenty of time to get to/from attractions around the city and pre-book the big ticket items as soon as you know when you’re visiting.”
September 2023 – Lauren of Pack and Paint, UK traveler: “I caught the Eurostar from London to Paris for five days of sightseeing. Tourism in Paris is in full-swing post covid with adventurers from across the globe hitting up the French capital in their millions. Top tourist attractions such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre were busy which indicated a large tourism boom.
In Paris, it felt like everyone had gone back to pre-covid times. Hardly anyone wore masks or followed social distancing. With large crowds at most tourist attractions, it would have been tough to follow covid related advice.”
June 2023 – Jori of The Tejana Abroad, expat: “Summer in Europe is back and with it, all the usual summer crowds! Most attractions in Paris have opened up and are welcoming international visitors. If you’re still a bit wary of crowds after Covid though, maybe try to visit France during the lower seasons, such as fall and spring.
The majority of French citizens are vaccinated with booster shots, but the government is no longer testing international visitors. Healthcare in France is easy to access and if you fear you are infected, you are able to get tested at any nearby pharmacy. Local tourist attractions and restaurants are very crowded in the high season, but a nice alternative is ordering food to go and enjoying it in a picnic in the park.”
February 2023 – Laura Bronner of Eternal Expat, American traveler: “I visited Paris for 4 days as part of a 10-day trip around France in February 2023. Paris feels completely back to normal. All museums and tourist attractions are back open with normal opening hours. The metro is clean and operating at normal and frequent times.
It was very busy when I visited in Feb 2023, especially at the biggest tourist sites like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and view points for these places. If you plan to visit in 2023, I highly recommend pre-booking tickets for the museums you want to go to with time slots and make sure to make reservations for restaurants you don’t want to miss, especially if you are traveling as a group of more than 2 people. If you don’t make a reservation, arrive at the time the restaurant opens for the best chance of getting a table for lunch or dinner service.
There is still easy access to testing at most pharmacies around Paris. You can definitely get the at-home tests at every pharmacy and many have testing centers outside the pharmacies which are conducted by pharmacists. There are no other restrictions on public transportation (no masks required, but they are “recommended” for public transport). There are lots of lines at museums and restaurants near the main attractions were incredibly busy.”
January 2023 – Amber Everywhere, American traveler: “Tourism seems to be back to normal in Paris, with large crowds in many of the most popular parts of the city. You’ll see masks and social distancing in some spaces, but most places are crowded and maskless.
Testing appears to be widely available in Paris, with some visible testing tents throughout the city. There does not appear to be contact tracing in place, at least for crowded public spaces; locals did not mention any trouble accessing healthcare. Most local attractions appeared to be open, same with restaurants and other amenities. I didn’t notice any COVID-related restrictions, though many people chose to wear masks when in public areas (like the metro).”
September 2022 – Alyssa, American traveler: “We arrived in Paris with our two little kids, getting ready to caravan with some friends here in France. So far, I would say Paris is medium to low in terms of crowdedness. Public transit hasn’t been too packed. Everything is open and mask free for the most part.”
June 28, 2022 – Gretchen of Chasing Advntr, U.S. traveler : “We flew to Paris for several days as part of a month long European trip and to celebrate my twins birthday. We walked to all the major sites and while it was crowded, we had no trouble enjoying the attractions. We were glad we booked a river cruise and tickets to Musee D’Orsay in advance as tickets sold out for the river cruise and the museum line was at least an hour wait.
There were very few people wearing masks and maintaining social distance. Lines were long at the major attractions, but we never waited long for a table to eat. We also experienced a partial train strike which added to the difficulty of getting to the airport on already busy trains. Give yourself plenty of extra time to get to the airport.”
May 2022 – Mike C., American traveler: “Travel in Paris was pretty relaxed. There’s no more green pass or need to show vaccine card. Technically there were some rules on public transit to wear a mask. But it felt more like a choice as it was 50/50 on who did and didn’t. Transit was literally the only place with masking in Paris. Crowds felt like Paris is back to normal.”
March 9, 2022 – Erica of Nice French Things, French resident: “It’s the perfect time to visit Paris. Lines are short (or nonexistent) and monuments and tourist attractions are under capacity. Asian tourists have not returned yet and other Europeans are visiting their own countries they haven’t seen in the past 2 years.
Testing and tracing has been perfected here. Our vaccine pass will stop being required on Monday so we will be free to go to museums, theaters, restaurants without showing pass and we will not be required to wear masks. Pharmacies are the go-to for everything. Easy, fast, cheap tests done there. Paris area just reduced price permanently on regional rail tickets. Very advantageous for visitors.”
February 15, 2022 – Ingrid of Second Half Travels, U.S. traveler: “I’m spending 5 weeks in Paris and Montpellier currently studying French. COVID case numbers are dropping steeply in France. However, tourism numbers in February are still very low, so it’s a great time to visit to enjoy uncrowded museums and other sights.
My flight from Dallas to Paris in February was almost empty. I had a whole row of 9 seats to myself. Rapid and PCR tests are readily available at French pharmacies. It was easy and quick to get my Pass Vaccinal at an airport pharmacy when I arrived for 36 euros; I just showed my CDC vaccination proof of my vaccines and booster.
The Pass Vaccinal is supposed to be checked at all restaurants, museums, and long-distance trains. In practice, restaurants and trains sometimes fail to check. The Louvre and Musée d’Orsay in Paris were uncrowded: no large tour groups, only individual tourists from neighboring European countries like Spain. A Parisian friend told me, ‘You will never see Paris uncrowded like this again.’ I have actually extended my trip to add on more days in Paris to take advantage of this unique opportunity.”
October 23, 2021 – Jennifer A., American tourist: “We had a fantastic time. We were very careful the entire week we were in Paris. Wore our masks everywhere and washed our hands a lot.
Instead of doing two or three things in a day, we just did one major tourist thing each day. To be honest, that made the trip more enjoyable.
We used the Paris Museum Pass and that was great. I ordered the five day passes and they mailed them to me last month. A couple of the museums required us to book a time slot to get in.
I was of course concerned about passing a COVID test 72 hours prior to returning to the U.S. My sister and I walked about 500 feet from our hotel to a pharmacy to take the COVID test. The cost was 25 Euros for each one of us. The gentleman in the pharmacy was so professional. We also received our results via email in about 30 minutes. Unbelievable.
We were able to upload the COVID results to a VERIFLY app that American Airlines wanted us to use. It made things a lot easier to go home.
The French residents were all so nice to us. I am so glad we went.”
October 6, 2021 – Nick Winder, Illness To Ultra, American digital nomad: “I flew to Paris in order to transit to the south of France to visit family. Although there are still people visiting Paris, it’s obvious the tourist rates are reduced. Locals are more than welcoming, but the requirement of a health pass, even for foreign visitors proves challenge for both tourists, and local business owners.
Nearly every local was compliant with city regulations, which is a must, especially considering public transport can still be busy. Access to testing and healthcare is abundant among pharmacies, although Sundays many pharmacies are closed. Most local attractions still remain open, although at a reduced capacity, but the reduced tourist level lines are not much of a problem. Just be aware that many attractions are ticketed.”
September 13, 2021 – Susan, US traveler: “We’ve been in Paris almost 2 weeks finding it somewhat changed in several ways. We read that you can get the Passe Sanitiaire at pharmacies, yet, we’ve gone to more than I can count always being told that pharmacies are not providing them. At one yesterday, the owner said he believes that people were getting antigen tests at the pharmacy which gives a 72-hour Passe Sanitiaire.
Tourists are few especially Americans. Some stores are permanently closed in touristy areas while nothing has changed in our neighborhood that is more residents of Paris.”
November 2021 – Roobens, French citizen in Paris, Been Around the Globe: “Everything reopened in May (bars, restaurants, gyms, clubs, etc.) in France. Meaning life is more or less back to normal. You just need to have a health pass to prove you’re fully vaccinated. And you have to wear a mask indoors (at the supermarket, when taking the metro, etc.).
People are more than ready to travel in Europe only right now. Outside Europe it’s a different story since many borders are still closed.
It’s very easy to get tested and to get vaccinated. There’s also an app for contact tracing, most people use it (it’s called “AntiCovid”). Everything is open (museums, restaurants, tourist attractions, etc.).”
September 2021 – Susan, traveling to Paris from US: “My husband and I flew to Paris in August-September 2021 for a 3 week visit with my daughter who lives there as a digital nomad. Tourists are very welcome if fully vaccinated.
Major tourist attractions were uncrowded, though online ticket purchases are still recommended. Restaurants were full, especially the venues with large outdoor seating areas. (Travelers should be aware that diners frequently smoke in the outdoor areas.)
Nevertheless, this may have been the best time in recent years to be in Paris, due to small crowd size.
Paris was very ready to serve customers in the time of Covid. The French population is >70% vaccinated and the digital vaccine passport works well for French residents (but not visitors). Visitors should bring their original vaccine card to get on the airplane, but a laminated photocopy worked well at every location.
A vaccine card (or proof of a negative Covid test within 72 hours) was required at every.single.sit-down eating establishment, hotel, museum, or major tourist destination. Proof was not required to ride public transportation.
Surgical (not cloth) masks are required in every indoor space. Indoor mask-wearing was being strictly followed, with an occasional scofflaw in the subways. Compliance was certainly better than most places in the US.
Almost all restaurants had outdoor patio seating available, though the desirability of this may change as the weather cools. Take-out businesses and park-bench dining were thriving. I did not see evidence that contact tracing (in restaurants) was happening.
There are Covid testing tents in most busy squares, but many are not accessible to non-residents because they don’t have the ability to charge the required fee there. Covid testing (required for return to the US, and elsewhere) can be done in pharmacies and labs. Your hotel desk may help you find a location. Caution – our results did not arrive via text, as promised, probably because we didn’t have a French phone number. We ended up waiting in a very slow line at the lab to get the results.”
August 30, 2021 – Melissa Suzuno, U.S. visitor: “I’m spending a week in Paris in late August/early September 2021 and my trip is just for fun but as a freelance writer, I’m also doing some work here.
I’m not sure if I’d really describe Parisians as “welcoming,” (haha) but tourism is alive and well in Paris. I did an Airbnb Experience and about half of the participants were French and half were American. The guide said that the number of Americans had decreased for a while but seems to be bouncing back.
There are restrictions in place and they seem to be followed quite consistently. For example, you need to show your health pass (or recent negative COVID test) to eat in a restaurant (even outside) or enter a museum. Everywhere I’ve gone has enforced this.
Local attractions like museums are open, but they recommend (and sometimes require) you to reserve your time in advance.
I’ve gotten a few tests since I’ve been here (to get the temporary health pass). Tests are available in nearly any pharmacy and cost around 30 euros.”
June 2021 – Leyla, Offbeat France, French resident: “I took a walking tour in the Marais a few days ago and we had one American tourist – the guide said it was her first of the season. Most tourists are French or European in Paris, but with the lockdown now lifted, a few Americans are beginning to arrive.
In Paris, I’d say about 90% of people are following the rules. There is the occasional person who doesn’t cover their face in the subway or bus but they do get sideways looks from others.
Everyone is masked in shops, because the owners will get fined otherwise. There’s usually plenty of gel at the door or at the cash register.
In the streets, quite a few people still wear masks, considering that they are no longer mandatory. As the hot weather moves in, there will probably be fewer masks in the streets. The attached photo shows people do occasionally wear masks outdoors.”
June 2021 – Lena, Salut from Paris, French resident: “Paris experienced a collective sigh in relief during the past weeks and enjoys the pure presence of normality – and travelers clearly belong to this normality.
Just a couple of weeks ago, the obligation to wear masks outdoors got lifted. Indoors, it is still mandatory and the vast majority is complying. Food services and attractions are open again. However, while the online booking service of attractions assures that the number of visitors is not exceeded, I observe often that bars and restaurants are way fuller than they should be.
It is recommended in France that everyone, locals and travelers, are downloading the app #tousanticovid for tracing and alerts. If a visitor requires a covid test, they can easily get tested in pharmacies.”
May 2021 – Audrey, French Resident in Lyon: “Since May 19, the curfew is now starting at 9:00 pm. Restaurants (only outdoor dining), boutiques, movie theatres, museums… have re-opened, only accepting half of the possible guests (which means you need to book everything or wait long lines on the sidewalk). Travel between regions is fully allowed before curfew and after if you’re filing an exemption form (if your train or flight arrives at 9:30 pm for example).
All French people over 50 are being vaccinated. Our next milestones are the following:
– May 31: opening of vaccination to everyone
– June 9: opening of indoor dining and more people allowed in boutiques and such.
Of course, wearing a mask is still mandatory everywhere public, inside and out.”
Planning a trip to Paris France?
Check out our other Paris, France travel resources:
– Preparing for a Budget Trip to France
– Where to Stay in Paris France: Best Neighborhoods Hotels Airbnbs
– Travel Seasons: The Best Time to Visit Europe
If you have questions or updates about travel to Paris, France during the Coronavirus crisis or post-pandemic, please let us know in the comments below.
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Disclaimer:
Please note, travel restrictions change frequently. Readers must take responsibility for verifying information through official sources like the State Department and CDC, in respect to their specific situations. No responsibility can be accepted by Intentional Travelers for action or inaction as a result of information provided through IntentionalTravelers.com. Any information provided here is issued as general information only.
https://www.euronews.com/2022/03/03/covid-in-europe-france-to-scrap-face-masks-and-vaccine-passes-on-14-march
Looks like things may be loosening up by March 14th hopefully
Michelle,
I have seen articles with Forbes, euro news & Reuters on the vaccine pass getting scrapped by March 14th in Paris except for in hospitals and on public transportation. Do you have any knowledge of this? Thanks
Wendy
Hi Wendy! Thank you for visiting our blog. That information is correct. The French Government has recently announced that effective March 14, the vaccine pass will not be required to enter most businesses such as restaurants, bars, cafes, ski lifts, museums, cinemas and other cultural venues and theme parks. However, proof of vaccination will still be required in hospitals, retirement homes, and health centers.
I am a fully vaccinated/boosted American who will be arriving in Brest, France for one day, May 10, on a cruise ship followed with a one day stop in LeHavre, France on May 12. I’m aware of the French Vaccine Pass but can’t find anything about what is needed for a cruise ship arrival. Any help you can provide will be greatly appreciated.
Hi Susan. The French government does not specify restrictions for cruise ship passengers, therefore, the current entry rules for air travelers may also apply to travelers who want to go ashore in French ports. I understand that you are fully vaccinated/boosted, which is already compliant to France’s entry rules (you can find the details in our blog). Your cruise ship operator may also have information regarding entry rules to France. We will update our blog if the French government releases information regarding cruise ship arrivals. I hope this helps.
I just received this from Eurostar “You are considered fully vaccinated for travel purposes if you are aged 18 and over and:
*you received a COVID-19 vaccine booster*
OR
*you received the second dose of a two-dose vaccine at least a week ago, but no more than nine months ago*
So the important word here is “OR”. Sounds like it’s just what you said Michelle…thank you so much!!!
Debbi
Thanks for following up, Debbi!
Hi there,
The new booster requirement is very confusing to me. I’ve read other articles where it says, if you don’t get a booster “within 9 months of original vaccine” then you’re considered unvaccinated.
I’m hoping you or someone you know can confirm this. My vaccination dates are as follows:
Moderna – 4/5/2021
Moderna – 5/3/2021
Moderna Booster – 2/12/2022
Traveling at the end of March 2022 – As of now, will I be considered fully vaccinated and allowed to enter France? Or did I get the booster too late?
Thank you. Your article is very helpful!
Hi Katherine. We acknowledge that this requirement has been confusing. The way the official rule was translated in English makes it sound like the booster must be done *within* a certain timeframe. However, an expiration like this would be highly impractical and, in fact, most reporting on the requirement say more clearly: “Travelers aged 18 and over who had their full vaccine course over 9 months ago and have not since received a COVID-19 vaccine booster must follow the rules for unvaccinated passengers to enter France.”
We have been researching this closely and have not seen any evidence of travelers being denied for a “late” booster, nor does France ever mention needing a second booster.
We are keeping a close eye on this and will share any updates as they become available.
Thank you so much for your reply! I will keep a close eye on your page for any other updates.
Hello Michelle,
I am confused about the new protocol in France re: vaccinations and boosters. If I had my 2 vaccinations last Feb and March 2021 and then my booster 6 months later, am I considered “fully vaccinated”? Also, my adult son had his 2 vaccinations, the second being May 6th. He has not yet had his booster. I am reading that there is a 9 month expiration of his initial vaccinations so as of Feb 6 (3 days ago) he can no longer be considered “fully vaccinated” even if he gets his booster immediately?
Debbi, I hear you. This particular requirement can certainly be confusing, not to mention constantly changing. The way France has written the booster rule (“no later than nine months following the injection of the last required dose”) makes it sound like the booster must be done *within* 9 months of the second dose to enter France (or soon to be 4 months for the vaccine pass to enter restaurants). However, an expiration like this seems highly impractical and, in fact, most reporting on the requirement say more clearly: “Travelers aged 18 and over who had their full vaccine course over 9 months ago and have not since received a COVID-19 vaccine booster must follow the rules for unvaccinated passengers to enter France.” This would indicate that your son can be considered fully vaccinated once he gets a booster, even if the booster is done after 9 months.
I’m assuming it’s just a translation/wording problem because I have not seen anywhere that travelers with “late” booster doses would lose any chance of being considered fully vaccinated. We are keeping a close eye on this and will share any updates as they become available.
Boosters every 4 months??! Wow
Yes, it seems to be the case. Like so many protocols, though, it could very well change.
I have a trip planned to Paris March 18,2022. I am reading that everyone needs to have the booster shot after being vaccinated for 4 months or you will not get the Vaccine Pass. Do you know if this rule is also mandatory for people going to France from the US? Some articles I have read say it is mandatory and others say it is not. Do you happen to know?
Thanks for your question Susie. I think part of the confusion is that the rules have changed recently. The following update is directly from the French government website in regards to foreigners vaccinated outside of France:
“Since the 15th of January 2022, people aged 18 years and 1 month or more and who completed their initial vaccination scheme more than 7 months ago will need to present a proof of a booster dose to be eligible to receive a vaccine equivalency health pass.”
I’m not sure why this site does not list the change to a 4 month rule that reportedly goes into effect in February. Perhaps confirmation is still forthcoming.
I am fully vaccinated. I had my booster in Dec. of 2021. I am going to France in June 2022, 6 months after my booster. Do I need a second booster in order to get in the country, or the receive the Health Certificate to allow me into restaurants and museums?
Hi Rebecca. We acknowledge that this requirement has been confusing. The way the official rule was translated in English makes it sound like the booster must be done *within* a certain timeframe. However, an expiration like this would be highly impractical and, in fact, most reporting on the requirement say more clearly: “Travelers aged 18 and over who had their full vaccine course over 9 months ago and have not since received a COVID-19 vaccine booster must follow the rules for unvaccinated passengers to enter France.”
We have been researching this closely and have not seen any evidence of travelers being denied for a “late” booster, nor does France ever mention needing a second booster at this time.
If you are boosted, you meet the current requirements to enter France and to receive the vaccine certificate.
We are keeping a close eye on this and will share any updates as they become available.
I am wanting to plan a trip to take my 14 yr old daughter to Paris the last week of March 2022 on her spring break. I am fully vaccinated, but she is not. She has lab proof of antibodies – also sadly I’m being treated for a blood clot from my Covid vaccine which leads to my hesitation to vaccinate her. All of that aside- I see the paragraph that says travelers ages 11-17 are considered vaccinated if traveling with a fully vaccinated parent (I understand we would both need negative Covid test as well) I have read multiple other sites and I’ve seen this same info but have also seen on other sites everyone 12 & older must be vaccinated unless they’re going to quarantine for 10 days. Do you know what the policy is on this as we do not have 10 days to quarantine. IF she is able to come & not quarantine what would we do to get her a health pass or QR code to enter tourist sites? These are questions I cannot seem to clear up & I want to be sure before I would plan this. I am willing to email or call to France if I had the appropriate number and email contact. I’ve already sent an email a week ago through a government site and still do not have a response. Thank you in advance for any help/info you may have.
Hi Wendy,
Thank you for visiting our blog. Current France travel rules states that “The measures applicable to fully vaccinated adults will be extended under the same conditions to minors accompanying them, regardless of vaccination status.” Since you are vaccinated, your 14-year-old daughter will be treated as vaccinated as well and will not need to quarantine. A negative test is however required for all travelers aged 12 and over. You can check the U.S. Embassy in France or the France Diplomacy websites for more information.
Regarding the health pass, persons age 12-15 require a health pass everywhere a vaccine pass is required. You can obtain a vaccine pass (or a health pass for your daughter) from designated pharmacies in France for a fee of up to 36 Euros (approximately 41.18 USD). You can check here for the map of designated pharmacies in France. You can check our blog for more information about the health pass and regular updates about France’s travel requirements. Hope this helps.
Thank you for your reply. As far as the health pass goes for my 14 yr old daughter, since she is not vaccinated am I understanding that in order for her to obtain one from the French pharmacies she will have to pass a Covid test every 24 hrs. for a fee of 36 euros each time to keep it active in order to be admitted into restaurants, museums, etc.? I have clicked on the map of pharmacies to actually check with one but everything on that page is in French. I am just making sure I understand this.
Thank you
Wendy, an unvaccinated 14 year old would need a test within 24 hours in order to enter restaurants, attractions, and long-distance travel. She would not need to test daily unless you are visiting places where the pass is required each day. Antigen tests are 25 euros (36 was for the vaccine equivalent, sorry for the confusion). Here is a more direct link to pharmacy testing location map, you just have to keep clicking to zoom in on Paris: https://www.sante.fr/cf/carte-depistage-covid.html
Excellent information! Merci! It is January in the US right now and we are planning our trip to Paris for mid April 20 22 very excited but also so concerned because of the omicron variant now. I will follow your blog and see if any new postings are out as January comes to an end I am getting ready to book our trip now. Thanks again so much.
Great blog! Thanks for sharing paris travel restrictions, really helpful content.
I am planning a trip to Paris September 22 through 29th with a one day bus trip to Normandy. I understand that since I have a CDC proof of vaccination I do not need a test to enter France. However I do need a Travel Pass which would be obtained at a Pharmacy. I had read that the French government was paying for tests in order for tourists to return to their country of origin but not sure that is correct. My main question, does this process of receiving the Travel Pass work “smooth” or could there be snags. Same question for the required Covid-19 test upon returning, are there ample Pharmacy and testing sites for tourists? Has anyone taken a survey of recent travelers? Thank you
Thanks for visiting our blog. The French health pass for non-EU citizens is still relatively new and the protocols for visitors in September don’t seem to be fully established yet. Official guidance can be found here. At the moment, visitors coming before August 18 are able to submit their proof of vaccination by email before arrival to get the pass (a QR code). In case it’s not processed in time, getting tested in France is a temporary “back-up” method, valid for 72 hours. I’ve also seen that some travelers have been able to show their CDC vaccine card at a pharmacy in Paris to receive a QR code within 15 minutes, but I’m not sure how common that is yet.
We will continue to seek out on-the-ground reports from recent travelers to find out how it’s going, and we’ll regularly update this post as we learn more.
We are scheduled to arrive Paris September 7, cruise to Normandy from the 9th through 16th, spend two more days in Paris, returning to U.S. on the 18th. The CDC and State Department alerts say “do not travel” and also warn about demonstrations and violence in tourist areas of major cities. We are in our 70s, fully vaccinated, but also cancer survivors. Should we cancel our trip?
I understand your concern. It’s a question I’ve been getting a lot lately with all the uncertainty around Europe travel so I wrote an article about it here: https://intentionaltravelers.com/should-i-reschedule-my-trip/
There is no right answer, as it depends on your values and risk tolerance, so I can’t really make that call for you. Demonstrations in Paris are certainly an additional factor to consider. But just to give some perspective… I’ve never been to Paris when there *wasn’t* a demonstration going by on my Uncle’s street, although they can vary in intensity. Usually protest locations are known so they can be avoided. However, if potentially dealing with that sounds too stressful, it may be a reason to cancel.
Being fully vaccinated makes a huge difference but even so, cruising and travel in France during the pandemic is not without risk. Does the benefit of this trip outweigh that risk? Will worry get in the way of your enjoyment? That’s up to you.
Is there an app to use to show proof of vaccine status for visitors from outside the EU?
Thanks for your question. The E.U. vaccine app is only available to citizens and residents of the EU so far. Whether this will eventually be made available for non-EU tourists to facilitate travel in Europe is not yet clear, but we’ll be sure to update our blog posts here if that changes.
I am a US citizen planning a trip from USA to London and then to Paris. Is there any rules for US citizen traveling to Paris, via London by train?
Good question. Traveling through some countries to France can complicate the requirements. Whereas the U.S. is on the “green list”, the U.K. is on the “amber list” for France and the rules for the UK would apply since that’s where you’ll be departing from to enter France. Fully vaccinated travelers can enter France without an essential reason and would need to present a recent negative Covid test and proof of vaccination status. More details can be found here: https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/coming-to-france/coronavirus-advice-for-foreign-nationals-in-france/#sommaire_1
Hi Michelle,
It looks like France is no longer requiring a negative PCR test for vaccinated travelers from “Green” countries (the US included).
Or is it? Later on that page it states “(if you are aged 11 years or older) you agree to submit to a virological RT-PCR test for SARS-CoV-2 upon arrival in France.”
What are your thoughts?
Hi Ben. Thank you for visiting our blog. It is correct that France is no longer requiring a negative PCR test for fully vaccinated travelers from the United States and other Green countries. If a traveler (aged 11 years or older) from Green countries is not fully vaccinated, then a negative PCR or antigen test is required. A negative PCR or antigen test is also required for allowed travelers coming from “Orange” and “Red” countries.
A quick update from France:
Since May 19, the curfew is now starting at 9:00 pm. Restaurants (only outdoor dining), boutiques, movie theatres, museums… have re-opened, only accepting half of the possible guests (which means you need to book everything or wait long lines on the sidewalk). Travel between regions is fully allowed before curfew and after if you’re filing an exemption form (if your train or flight arrives at 9:30 pm for example).
All French people over 50 are being vaccinated. Our next milestones are the following:
– May 31: opening of vaccination to everyone
– June 9: opening of indoor dining and more people allowed in boutiques and such.
Of course, wearing a mask is still mandatory everywhere public, inside and out.
Hi! Thanks so much for sharing these updates from France!
I have friends in Paris and I’m thinking about going next month…. Will the restrictions ease by then?
Hello and thank you for visiting our blog. I understand your concern about your trip next month, though we don’t have any special insight as to when protocols might change, beyond what we’ve already shared in the article. We will do our best to keep updating this post as the situation progresses.