French Polynesia: Authorities to require vaccination to enter high-risk establishments territorywide from Feb. 8 /update 31

Event

Authorities will transition from a health pass system to a so-called vaccination pass from Feb. 8. The government will require people 12 years, two months old or above to be fully vaccinated to obtain a pass or convert their health pass; residents must receive a third vaccine dose five to seven months after their second dose to maintain the pass. The government will require the vaccination pass at most locations under the health pass system from Feb. 8. However, the government will permit people 16 years old and above to apply for an exemption for travel from Tahiti and Moorea to outlying islands for compelling reasons. Approved travelers must receive a negative test result taken within 24 hours before departure. The government will continue to accept health passes for visits to non-emergency healthcare facilities.

Domestic Measures
Public gatherings remain limited to 100 people. Establishments must limit capacity to one person per four square meters (43 square feet). Restaurants can offer dine-in services with up to eight people per table and social distancing in place. Sports facilities can operate at 50-percent capacity. A facemask mandate continues for indoor public areas.

Until Feb. 8, authorities will continue to accept a health pass for people 12 years, two months old and above. Individuals that are fully vaccinated, have obtained a negative COVID-19 test in the previous 72 hours, or received a positive test result within the past 11 days to six months can receive a health pass. Individuals must possess a health pass to access high-risk establishments, such as cultural events, concerts, nightclubs, trade fairs and shows, and visitors to medical facilities, except for emergencies. Events requiring a health pass can occur without capacity limits. Travel between Tahiti and Moorea can occur; however, the government requires a health pass for visitors from these locations to outlying islands.

International Travel Restrictions
The government permits entry for fully vaccinated foreign nationals over 12 years old for any reason. Travelers must apply for an Electronic Travel Information System (ETIS) health registration receipt 30 days or less before arrival; unvaccinated or red zone travelers must register at least six days ahead of arrival. Officials require all entrants to provide a PCR or rapid antigen test taken within 24 hours before entry and undergo an on-arrival test.

Most inbound travelers above six years old must also take additional tests on days four and eight after entry; vaccinated minors accompanied by a vaccinated adult are exempt. Fully vaccinated passengers do not have to quarantine, though request that these entrants self-quarantine at their accommodations for 72 hours until receiving the result of an on-arrival test. Unvaccinated arrivals aged above 12 years old and individuals who test positive must quarantine in Tahiti for 10 days at their own expense.

Vaccinated outbound passengers may travel for any reason; unvaccinated individuals and people traveling to red countries may only travel for essential reasons with prior approval unless returning to their primary place of residence.

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