The French government has announced opening the borders on June 9 to fully vaccinated travellers with vaccines approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) – Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson – while other travellers will have to justify one of the compelling reasons established by the French authorities. 

 

Both types of travellers will have to undergo PCR tests. Most countries of the Middle East are classified as orange, except Lebanon (as green) and Bahrain (as red).

 

Foreign citizens who plan to travel to France from the region will need to follow these instructions:

 

For fully vaccinated travellers:

- Submit vaccination proof - only Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson are currently approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and a negative PCR test of less than 72 hours or a negative antigen test of less than 48 hours on boarding.

 

For travellers who have not been vaccinated, they will need a compelling reason:

- Present a negative PCR test of less than 72 hours or negative antigen test of less than 48 hours on boarding,

- Random antigenic test upon arrival in France,

- Complete a seven-day self-isolation upon arrival in France.

 

The compelling reasons and quarantine measures applied to vaccinated adults are extended under the same conditions to children (below 18 years old) accompanying them, whether they are vaccinated or not. A negative PCR test will be needed while leaving the country. France is one of the only countries in the world that provides free PCR tests.

 

“French destinations, hotels and tourist attractions are ready to welcome travellers from the Middle East in the best conditions while respecting sanitary measures”, said Karim Mekachera, Regional Director of Atout France Middle East, the France tourism development agency. “We are aware of the urge of Middle Eastern tourists to travel back to Europe and historically, France is one of the most privileged destinations for Middle-Eastern travellers. Therefore, we are very much looking forward to welcoming them to rediscover the beauties of the different regions and destinations in France.” - TradeArabia News Service