France: Authorities expand stricter curfew nationwide from Jan. 16, tighten entry restrictions for travelers from outside the EU from Jan. 18 /update 30

Event

The French government plans to expand a stricter 1800-0600 curfew currently in effect in certain departments of the country to cover all of Metropolitan France beginning Jan. 16. The decision is in response to rising coronavirus disease (COVID-19) activity and will remain in force for at least 15 days. Additionally, effective Jan. 18, authorities will require that all individuals traveling to France from outside the EU produce proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 in the form of results from a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken within the 72 hours prior to boarding; such travelers must also self-isolate for seven days on arrival, with a second test being required at the end of the isolation period. Travelers unable to take a test in the country of departure may do so on arrival but must submit to seven days isolation at a government-designated facility.

Under most circumstances, travelers from EU and Schengen Area states, as well as those from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, Switzerland, South Korea, and Thailand, can enter France. Most travelers from other locations remain barred from entry; however, exceptions are made for French nationals and residents, as well as for persons traveling for what authorities deem to be essential reasons, such as certain necessary workers, diplomats, students, and those visiting for urgent family business. All such arrivals must complete a form declaring themselves to be COVID-free and present a certificate declaring their reason for travel, in addition to complying with the new testing requirement.

Domestic Restrictions
Aside from the new curfew entering into effect Jan. 16, individuals may leave their homes for any reason without written justification during noncurfew hours. Residents may leave their homes during curfew hours for limited exceptional purposes only; to do so, they must fill out an online justification certificate detailing the reason for their movement and provide it to authorities upon demand. Cultural sites and sports and leisure facilities remain closed until at least Feb. 1; bars and restaurants will remain closed until mid-February. Public gatherings of more than six people are prohibited. Facemasks are mandatory in enclosed public spaces nationwide, including in shared workspaces; a number of local jurisdictions, including Paris, also require their use in outdoor public spaces.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice, depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.

Resources

Government of France Coronavirus Information
Exceptional Travel Certificate
World Health Organization (WHO)