French Polynesia: Authorities slightly eases COVID-19 restrictions as of May 18; state of emergency remains in effect until June 1 /update 12

Event

Authorities in French Polynesia have slightly eased COVID-19 measures in the territory as of May 18. However, a state of emergency declaration remains in effect until at least June 1. The government has raised the maximum number of attendees at trade fairs and conferences from 500 to 1,000 people. However, the existing one person per four square meters (43 square feet) density regulation remains in place, and officials limit the total number of exhibitors to 50-100. Authorities also permit seated spectators at sporting events, with social distancing measures in place.

The government continues to limit gatherings to 15 people, though schools and businesses are exempt from the restriction. A 22:00-04:00 nightly curfew remains in effect 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.

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 has resumed for travelers who spent the previous 30 days in that country. Permitted passengers must provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure; officials will allow 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, and all inbound travelers must self-test for COVID-19 on day four after arrival. Vaccinated passengers and travelers with proof of COVID-19 antibodies through previous infection do not have to quarantine. Other arrivals must quarantine for 10 days at government-designated facilities at their own cost. Fees are XPF 6,000 (USD 61) 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. Quarantined travelers must undergo COVID-19 testing on day eight of confinement. Officials will charge vaccinated passengers XPF 5,000 (USD 51) and unvaccinated arrivals XPF 12,000 (USD 122) for testing.

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, delays, and quarantine.

Resources

Electronic Travel Information System
High Commission in French Polynesia