France will require non-EU travelers to present a negative COVID-19 test

With the Omicron variant spreading in Europe and around the world, France is updating its rules for travel, requiring that travelers from outside the European Union (EU) to present a negative test before entering the country. 

The new rule will apply to both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers, and must be taken within 48 hours of traveling, according to the Independent, and will come into effect on December 4. According to the Connexion, the type of test required has not yet been announced. 

Currently, France classifies countries as red, amber and green based on their COVID-19 risk, and this determines the entry requirements for travelers based on their place of departure. Previously, travelers from countries like the US and the UK could visit France without a negative COVID-19 test result, provided they had proof of vaccination with one of the EU-approved vaccines: Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca (Vaxzevria and Covishield), or Johnson & Johnson. Travelers were also required to provide a health declaration, stating that they have no symptoms of COVID-19 and haven’t been in contact with a confirmed case within two weeks of travelling. 

Countries around the world are tightening travel restrictions in response to the Omicron variant⁠—with some, like Israel, Japan, and Morocco, going as far as halting inbound travel.

Ireland will also introduce a testing requirement for travelers for the first time during the pandemic. Starting from Friday, December 3, any passenger arriving into the country must provide proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test, regardless of their vaccination status or point of departure.