France Releases Re-Opening Plan; Foreign Residents Can Visit Starting June 9

May 3, 2021 Jim Byers

The President of France has released a multi-stage plan to open the country almost completely by late June.

For Canadians, the most important date on his calendar is June 9, when France’s borders will be opened to foreign travellers.

France Tourism (Atout France) sent out a media release on Monday saying that, if the sanitary situation allows it, international visitors from outside the European Union will be admitted from June 9, 2021, with an official health pass.

The health pass “will allow presenting a proof of vaccination, or a negative PCR test or a proof of their immunity (Covid recovery certificate). It will be in the form of a QR code, in paper or digital format.”

Because terms and conditions of the health pass are not yet known, Canadian tourists wishing to travel to France should check the rules of entry authorization before purchasing their tickets. Information will be available soon on the website of the French Embassy in Canada, officials said.

In addition, anyone planning to travel or live outside of Canada should read the Canadian Government’s Travel Reports and Warnings as well as the conditions for returning to Canada.

“It is time to start resuming our French-style way of life,” said President Emmanuel Macron. “People need conviviality, culture, and sport.”

About 22% of France’s citizens have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Macron said that number should be considerably higher by the time foreign tourists are able to enter the country in June.

Here’s a look at some of the changes being made in France.

May 3

Interregional travel no longer restricted

May 19

Shops and businesses can reopen with restrictions.

Reopening of outdoor cafes and restaurants with no more than six people per table.

Museums and theatres can reopen with 800 maximum capacity indoors and 1,000 outdoors.

Re-opening of covered and outdoor sports facilities with 800 maximum capacity indoors and 1,000 outdoors

June 9

Open for foreign tourists (subject to health pass)

Reopening of indoor dining for cafes and restaurants, with a maximum of six people per table.

Up to 5,000 people in cultural and sports facilities (subhect to health pass)

Curfew moved from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

June 30

End of Curfew

End of capacity limit for establishments welcoming the general public (social distancing and other protective measures stay in place)

Nightclubs remain closed

About the Author