A new wave, a new variant, and therefore new restrictions: such is the health and regulatory context at international level at the beginning of December, and the France is no exception to the rule. On Wednesday, the government announced the entry into force of a new protocol for international travel. Travellers wishing to travel to France from a country outside the European Union will now have to present a negative test to the coronavirus, carried out within a maximum period of 48 hours. Unvaccinated travellers arriving from a Member State of the European Union should also carry out a testIn this case, the time limit is reduced to 24 hours. The measure could even be extended: " There is also the question of a mandatory negative test for travellers from countries within the European Union. On this point, we are working on a European coordination. A decision will be taken by the end of the week." says Gabriel Attal, government spokesman.
Southern Africa: flight suspension extended
In addition, the suspension of flights from theSouthern Africa will remain until Saturday. " This morning we extended the suspension of flights from seven southern African countries until Saturday." announced Clément Beaune, Secretary of State for European Affairs. He added " European coordination has worked: 23 European countries have taken measures to restrict or suspend flights from southern African countries".. These seven countries also join a new category unveiled on Wednesday by the French government, "scarlet redalongside Zambiathe Malawi and theMauritius. " An extremely strict and drastic framework has been put in place for these countries "says Gabriel Attal. " Only French nationals, European nationals, diplomatic personnel and flight crews will be able to travel to France from these ten countries. There will be no travel or access authorised for professional, tourist, family, study or even research purposes." he continues.
A global trend
Alongside these announcements in France, the list of countries tightening controls and travel restrictions is growing by the day. Visit Japanwhich had already announced the closure of its borders, is now asking airlines to suspend flight bookings for a period of one month.
Visit TunisiaAll travellers are now required to present a negative RT-PCR test carried out no more than 48 hours before check-in. They will also be required to undergo an antigen test on arrival.
On Thursday, the United States have in turn announced new measures to regulate access to their territory. According to the new measures unveiled by the White House, from the beginning of next week, travellers will have to undergo a test the day before their departure, regardless of their vaccination status or nationality. In addition, the requirement to wear a mask on public transport, planes and trains has been extended until 18 March.
