French Polynesia: Authorities maintaining COVID-19 restrictions through May 31; border controls relaxed for US travelers /update 11

Event

Authorities in French Polynesia are maintaining COVID-19 measures in the territory through at least May 31. Officials allow gatherings of up to 15 people, though schools and businesses are exempt from the restriction. A 22:00-04:00 nightly curfew continues in Tahiti and Moorea. Permits are required for essential trips, including hospital visits and work commutes, during curfew hours. People must wear facemasks in public spaces, including restaurants and shops, on public transport, and at airports and ferry terminals; violators may face fines.

The government permits most nonessential businesses to operate. Restaurants can host tables of up to six people if following social distancing measures. Food and beverage establishments can offer takeaway services after 22:00. Places of worship can operate with group limits of six people. Funerals remain limited to 15 people. Trade fairs and conferences can occur, but capacity is limited to one person per four square meters (43 square feet) up to 500 people.

Travel Restrictions
The government continues to suspend most international travel. Officials only allow travel for essential reasons, such as critical personal or professional needs or medical emergencies. The government will require supporting documentation before allowing passengers to board flights. Tourist travel from the US will resume from May 1. Permitted passengers must provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure; officials will permit travelers with proof of a completed COVID-19 test and a same-day antigen test if results are not available before departure. Travelers must also present an Electronic Travel Information System health registration receipt.

Authorities will conduct a COVID-19 antigen test upon arrival. Vaccinated passengers do not have to quarantine but must self-test for COVID-19 on day four after arrival. Officials will charge XPF 5,000 (USD 50) for the test. Unvaccinated arrivals must quarantine for 10 days at government-designated facilities at their own cost. Fees are XPF 6,000 (USD 60) per day for people over 11 years old. However, the government will permit some travelers to self-quarantine; individuals must request self-quarantine more than 72 hours before departure. Travelers must self-test for COVID-19 on day four of quarantine and take another COVID-19 test on day eight of quarantine.

Advice

Follow all official orders. Obtain permission before traveling during curfew hours. Consider delaying travel if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays.

Resources

Electronic Travel Information System
High Commission in French Polynesia