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• Section 2 - Interactions Between Travel Vaccines & Drugs
• Section 2 - Travelers’ Diarrhea

Yellow Fever Vaccine & Malaria Prevention Information, by Country

Cdc yellow book 2024.

Author(s): Mark Gershman, Rhett Stoney (Yellow Fever) Holly Biggs, Kathrine Tan (Malaria)

The following pages present country-specific information on yellow fever (YF) vaccine requirements and recommendations, and malaria transmission information and prevention recommendations. Country-specific maps are included to aid in interpreting the information. The information in this chapter was accurate at the time of publication; however, it is subject to change at any time due to changes in disease transmission or, in the case of YF, changing entry requirements for travelers. Updated information reflecting changes since publication can be found in the online version of this book and on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travelers’ Health website. Recommendations for prevention of other travel-associated illnesses can also be found on the CDC Travelers’ Health website .

Yellow Fever Vaccine

Entry requirements.

Entry requirements for proof of YF vaccination under the International Health Regulations (IHR) differ from CDC’s YF vaccination recommendations. Under the IHR, countries are permitted to establish YF vaccine entry requirements to prevent the importation and transmission of YF virus within their boundaries. Certain countries require proof of vaccination from travelers arriving from all countries ( Table 5-25 ); some countries require proof of vaccination only for travelers above a certain age coming from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines areas with risk for YF virus transmission as countries or areas where YF virus activity has been reported currently or in the past, and where vectors and animal reservoirs exist.

Unless issued a medical waiver by a yellow fever vaccine provider, travelers must comply with entry requirements for proof of vaccination against YF.

WHO publishes a list of YF vaccine country entry requirements and recommendations for international travelers approximately annually. But because entry requirements are subject to change at any time, health care professionals and travelers should refer to the online version of this book and the CDC Travelers’ Health website for any updates before departure.

CDC Recommendations

CDC’s YF vaccine recommendations are guidance intended to protect travelers from acquiring YF virus infections during international travel. These recommendations are based on a classification system for destination-specific risk for YF virus transmission: endemic, transitional, low potential for exposure, and no risk ( Table 2-08 ). CDC recommends YF vaccination for travel to areas classified as having endemic or transitional risk (Maps 5-10 and 5-11 ). Because of changes in YF virus circulation, however, recommendations can change; therefore, before departure, travelers and clinicians should check CDC’s destination pages for up-to-date YF vaccine information.

Duration of Protection

In 2015, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices published a recommendation that 1 dose of YF vaccine provides long-lasting protection and is adequate for most travelers. The recommendation also identifies specific groups of travelers who should receive additional doses, and others for whom additional doses should be considered (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 26, Yellow Fever ). In July 2016, WHO officially amended the IHR to stipulate that a completed International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis is valid for the lifetime of the vaccinee, and YF vaccine booster doses are not necessary. Moreover, countries cannot require proof of revaccination (booster) against YF as a condition of entry, even if the traveler’s last vaccination was >10 years ago.

Ultimately, when deciding whether to vaccinate travelers, clinicians should take into account destination-specific risks for YF virus infection, and individual risk factors (e.g., age, immune status) for serious YF vaccine–associated adverse events, in the context of the entry requirements. See Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 26, Yellow Fever , for a full discussion of YF disease and vaccination guidance.

Table 2-08 Yellow fever (YF) vaccine recommendation categories 1

Malaria prevention.

The following recommendations to protect travelers from malaria were developed using the best available data from multiple sources. Countries are not required to submit malaria surveillance data to CDC. On an ongoing basis, CDC actively solicits data from multiple sources, including WHO (main and regional offices); national malaria control programs; international organizations; CDC overseas offices; US military; academic, research, and aid organizations; and the published scientific literature. The reliability and accuracy of those data are also assessed.

If the information is available, trends in malaria incidence and other data are considered in the context of malaria control activities within a given country or other mitigating factors (e.g., natural disasters, wars, the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic) that can affect the ability to control malaria or accurately count and report it. Factors such as the volume of travel to that country and the number of acquired cases reported in the US surveillance system are also examined. In developing its recommendations, CDC considers areas within countries where malaria transmission occurs, substantial occurrences of antimalarial drug resistance, the proportions of species present, and the available malaria prophylaxis options.

Clinicians should use these recommendations in conjunction with an individual risk assessment and consider not only the destination but also the detailed itinerary, including specific cities, types of accommodations, season, and style of travel, as well as special health conditions (e.g., pregnancy). Several medications are available for malaria prophylaxis. When deciding which drug to use, consider the itinerary and length of trip, travelers’ previous adverse reactions to antimalarials, drug allergies, medical history, and drug costs. For a thorough discussion of malaria and guidance for prophylaxis, see Sec. 5, Part 3, Ch. 16, Malaria .

Entry requirements : None

CDC recommendations : Not recommended

No malaria transmission

Other Vaccines to Consider

See Health Information for Travelers to France .

1 Current as of November 2022. This is an update of the 2010 map created by the Informal WHO Working Group on the Geographic Risk of Yellow Fever.

2 Refers to Plasmodium falciparum malaria, unless otherwise noted.

3 Tafenoquine can cause potentially life-threatening hemolysis in people with glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. Rule out G6PD deficiency with a quantitative laboratory test before prescribing tafenoquine to patients.

4 Mosquito avoidance includes applying topical mosquito repellant, sleeping under an insecticide-treated mosquito net, and wearing protective clothing (e.g., long pants and socks, long-sleeve shirt). For additional details on insect bite precautions, see Sec. 4, Ch. 6, Mosquitoes, Ticks & Other Arthropods.

5 Primaquine can cause potentially life-threatening hemolysis in people with G6PD deficiency. Rule out G6PD deficiency with a quantitative laboratory test before prescribing primaquine to patients.

6 P. knowlesi is a malaria species with a simian (macaque) host. Human cases have been reported from most countries in Southwest Asia and are associated with activities in forest or forest-fringe areas. P. knowlesi has no known resistance to antimalarials.

Yellow Fever Maps

2 In 2017, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expanded its YF vaccination recommendations for travelers going to Brazil because of a large YF outbreak in multiple states in that country. Please refer to the CDC  Travelers’ Health website for more information and updated recommendations.

3 YF vaccination is generally not recommended for travel to areas where the potential for YF virus exposure is low. Vaccination might be considered, however, for a small subset of travelers going to these areas who are at increased risk for exposure to YF virus due to prolonged travel, heavy exposure to mosquitoes, or inability to avoid mosquito bites. Factors to consider when deciding whether to vaccinate a traveler include destination-specific and travel-associated risks for YF virus infection; individual, underlying risk factors for having a serious YF vaccine–associated adverse event; and destination entry requirements.

The following authors contributed to the previous version of this chapter: Mark D. Gershman, Emily S. Jentes, Rhett J. Stoney (Yellow Fever) Kathrine R. Tan, Paul M. Arguin (Malaria)

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France set to block entry to unvaccinated US travelers from this week

Sep 10, 2021 • 2 min read

France moves to ban unvaccinated tourists from the United States and Israel ©Getty Images

France will ban tourists from the United States and Israel who have not been vaccinated from September 12 as it moves both countries to its "orange" or mid-risk list for travel.

The move comes two weeks after the European Union removed the US and Israel from its “white list” of countries from outside the EU from which non-essential travel is permitted due to an increase in COVID-19 infections there; and recommended that member states reinstate entry restrictions on US travelers.

The EU recommendations are not binding, however, and it's up to each individual country to decide whether or not to impose them. Some countries such as Italy have tightened restrictions on US travelers by adding testing requirements, others such as the Netherlands have banned anyone coming from the US for non-essential travel, and then nations such as Denmark , Spain and— now France —have effectively banned those who aren't vaccinated.

Read more: Italy has new rules for US travelers - here's what you need to know

France's new rules come into effect at midnight on Sunday, September 12 when the US and Israel are downgraded from the green to orange list. Travelers coming from both countries who are vaccinated can visit for any purpose, such as tourism, business or to visit friends and family. They will not be required to undergo any additional restrictions such as quarantining or testing, but they must present proof of vaccination.

France accepts vaccines approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) including Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca (Vaxevria and Covishield) or Johnson & Johnson. Travelers are considered fully vaccinated seven days after the second dose of the two-shot vaccines, and four weeks after the single dose of Johnson & Johnson. According to the US Embassy in Franc e, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) card is acceptable evidence of vaccination for entry into France.

People coming from orange countries who are not fully vaccinated can only enter France if they meet the criteria for " essential travel ", and even then they will need to present a negative COVID-19 test; either a PCR test (conducted no more than 72 hours before traveling to France) or an antigen test (conducted no more than 48 hours before travel). They will also need to quarantine for seven days upon arrival, either at their accommodation or at a private home.

The rules apply to anyone 12 years and older. Children under the age of 11 are exempt from testing.

Once in France, a Pass Sanitaire (health pass) is required for accessing restaurants, bars, tourist attractions, and long-distance train travel. The pass indicates the holder is fully vaccinated or has recently tested negative for COVID-19. In this situation, the CDC card will not be accepted as proof of vaccination and Americans must apply for a QR code that's compatible with the French system: here's how to do that .

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US travelers no longer need to test before visiting France if vaccinated, boosted

Dreaming of a trip to the city of love this Valentine’s Day? As of Saturday, entry into France got easier for vaccinated U.S. travelers. 

France updated its entry rules for travelers this weekend, allowing fully vaccinated travelers and those under 12 to enter without a negative coronavirus test, according to the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in France.

Before Saturday, vaccinated travelers from the U.S. had to show a negative test taken no more than 48 hours  before departure.

Travelers will still need to show proof of vaccination and a sworn statement that they do not have COVID-19 symptoms and have not recently been in contact with someone who has COVID-19, according to the U.S. Embassy.

EU TRAVEL: Which EU countries are open to US tourists? A breakdown of EU travel restrictions by country

Learn more: Best travel insurance

As of Feb. 1, travelers 18 and older will need a booster dose of a coronavirus vaccine no later than nine months after their initial one- or two-dose vaccination series to be considered fully vaccinated by France.

Travelers from the U.S. who are not fully vaccinated will need a "compelling reason" to enter France and will need to show a negative coronavirus test.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has classified France as a level 4 country for its "very high" level of COVID-19  and warns U.S. travelers to avoid the country.

"If you must travel to France, make sure you are vaccinated and up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines before travel," the CDC says on its website. "Even if you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines, you may still be at risk for getting and spreading COVID-19."

CDC COVID-19 WARNING: The CDC warns US travelers to avoid more than 100 countries. Do people care?

Follow USA TODAY reporter Bailey Schulz on Twitter: @bailey_schulz . 

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France Vaccine Requirements & What Vaccinations Are Recommended?

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France , renowned as the heart of romance and the epitome of European sophistication, is celebrated for its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the opulent Palace of Versailles . This nation, which has profoundly influenced art, fashion, cuisine, and philosophy, is the birthplace of luminaries such as Victor Hugo, Claude Monet, and Coco Chanel. Its cultural richness is mirrored in its diverse culinary landscape, offering delights from croissants and coq au vin to fine wines and cheeses. Visitors to France are enchanted by the picturesque countryside of Provence, the glamorous French Riviera, and the historic Normandy beaches. The country’s many museums, ranging from the Louvre to the Musée d’Orsay , offer a deep dive into its artistic and historical heritage, making it a dream destination for travelers.

If you’re planning a trip to France, it’s important to know what vaccinations are recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for travel to this location. (Be sure to visit your doctor at least a month prior to your trip to get any vaccines or medicines you may need.)

Recommended vaccines for travel to France

As of November 2023, here are the current CDC guidelines:

Routine vaccinations

Vaccines the CDC recommends prior to every trip include those for chickenpox (varicella), Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTaP), flu (influenza), Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR), polio, and shingles.

COVID-19 is a highly contagious viral respiratory infection. It spreads when an infected person breathes out droplets or small particles containing the virus, which can then enter through the eyes, nose, or mouth of an uninfected person (or contaminate surfaces, in some cases). 

For everyone who is eligible, the CDC also recommends being up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection that is caused by the hepatitis A virus. It is primarily spread when an uninfected person consumes food or water that has been contaminated by the feces of an infected person, or when an infected person uses dirty hands to prepare food.

This vaccine is recommended for most travelers and is particularly recommended for those who will be engaging in higher-risk activities, such as visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas, or eating street food.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus. It is spread when blood, semen, or another bodily fluid from someone who is infected enters the body of someone who is not infected, as can happen during sexual contact, sharing drug-injection equipment, or during birth from mother to baby. 

The CDC recommends this vaccine for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 going to France, and notes that those 60 years old and up may get vaccinated prior to traveling to France.

Measles is a serious, highly contagious, airborne disease that can lead to a variety of complications, including death. It is spread when an uninfected person comes into contact with infected nasal or throat secretions (for example, from coughing or sneezing) or breathes the air that was breathed by someone with the condition. 

The CDC recommends that infants 6 to 11 months old who are traveling internationally get one dose of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine before their trip. (The dose does not count as part of the routine childhood vaccination series.)

(Note that measles is also listed among the CDC’s “routine vaccinations” above.)

Rabies is a viral disease most often spread through the bite of an infected, or “rabid,” animal. It infects the central nervous system in mammals, causing disease in the brain and, ultimately, death.

The CDC notes that France is free of dog rabies but that the disease may still be present in wildlife species (especially bats). The organization recommends rabies vaccination prior to a trip to France only for those who will be working directly with wildlife on their trip, such as veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers who will be working with specimens from mammals.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE)

Tick-borne encephalitis is a viral infectious disease that affects the central nervous system. It is transmitted to humans by the bite of infected ticks and is present in many parts of Europe and Asia. The sickness often occurs in two phases, with symptoms of the first phase including fever, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, and nausea, and the second phase involving the neurological system with symptoms of meningitis (inflammation of the membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord) or encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). 

Regarding TBE in France , the CDC notes that the “main endemic area is Alsace in the northeast and Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. In [a] small number of additional locations mostly sporadic cases occur.”

The CDC recommends the TBE vaccine for people who are “traveling to a TBE-endemic area and will have extensive exposure to ticks based on their planned outdoor activities and itinerary.”

Last-minute reminders

Prior to any travel to France, be sure to check the official CDC Traveler’s Health page , as vaccination recommendations may have been updated since the publication of this article. 

As you prepare to delve into the captivating allure of France, don’t forget the importance of your health. Ensuring that you are up-to-date with the necessary vaccinations is a key step in safeguarding your well-being. This preparation allows you to fully enjoy France’s rich cultural heritage, exquisite cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes, making for an unforgettable and worry-free French adventure.

Disclaimer of Medical Advice: This information does not constitute medical advice or recommendation of any kind, and you should not rely on any information contained in such posts or comments to replace consultations with your qualified healthcare professionals to meet your individual needs.

Diane Fennell, a New York City-based editor and writer, served as the Editorial Director of the Wellness Division for Diabetes Self-Management and its sister publications, covering diabetes and related health conditions for more than 20 years. A graduate of Columbia University, she is a proud pharophile and enjoys traveling to visit lighthouses in her spare time.

How American Travelers Can Get a Digital Vaccine Pass for France

To go to museums, restaurants, and other public places in France, you need an official digital pass with a QR code. Here's how to get it.

By Frommer's Staff

Last update: January 27, 2022

Update: As of March 14, 2022, the Pass Vaccinal system has ended except for visits to hospitals, nursing homes, and other locations with vulnerable citizens. It is no longer required for museums, restaurants, bars, public transit, or tourist attractions.

The French Covid-19 vaccine pass, which is required to enter a wide range of cultural institutions, sports facilities, public transport, and eating establishments, is now available for tourists arriving from outside the European Union. 

On August 9, 2021, the French government announced a new process where vaccine certificates from the U.S. and other non-European countries can be converted to an official French pass sanitaire with a QR code, accepted throughout the European Union. The French government created a special mobile app,  TousAntiCovid , where visitors can store their pass for easy access. 

When the pass first went into effect in July, it applied mainly to cultural institutions, including museums, monuments, and any place where more than 50 people might get together, like festivals, theaters, and cinemas. 

Now the pass is also required to board long-distance trains and enter large shopping centers as well as bars, restaurants, and cafés (including outdoor terraces). 

In short, almost everything a tourist would want to do on a visit to France currently requires a vaccination pass—and that probably won’t change any time soon. 

Vaccinated Americans are issued proof of vaccination cards from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), but the cards don’t come with QR codes. That will cause problems in France, where an employee with a QR reader will usually be checking passes at the entrance to museums, restaurants, and train stations. 

Fortunately, a new system has been put in place to allow Americans and other non-EU citizens to obtain passes with the required QR code.  

It’s not the most high-tech process, but it is relatively simple.  

As of January 24, 2022, a vaccine pass, now called Pass Vaccinal, is required of anyone aged 16 or older in France.

As of February 15, 2022, visitors will require a booster dose if at least four months have passed since they completed their initial vaccination. There is no allowance for non-EU citizens to submit a negative Covid-19 walk-in test instead. 

Adults can obtain a French pass by bringing their vaccination proof (for Americans, it's the CDC-issued card) and passport at select French pharmacies. There is usually a fee of about €35 (US $40).

The French health authorities maintain a list of participating pharmacies at the bottom of this official web page , which has an English-language section.

Visitors aged 12 to 15 need proof of vaccination, but not proof of a booster shot. Instead of booster proof, teens in that age range must obtain a "health pass" that is good for only 24 hours at a time by taking a PCR or antigen test at participating French pharmacies. This process would obviously be burdensome over a long vacation, but until booster shots are approved for that age group, it's what the French government has decided to do.

Everyone under 12 requires no vaccination or booster proof of any kind.

For other information about restrictions on the ground once you're in France, visit the official government tourism website .  

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

France - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in France due to  terrorism  and  civil unrest .

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in France. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Incidents such as pickpocketing and phone snatchings occur frequently and can happen anywhere, especially in crowded areas such as airports, train stations, subway and train cars, and near tourist attractions.

Peaceful demonstrations and strikes in Paris and other cities throughout France occur regularly and can disrupt transportation. On rare occasions, demonstrations have included violence and property damage and police have responded with water cannons and tear gas.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to France.

If you decide to travel to France:

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and large crowded public venues.
• Avoid demonstrations and areas with significant police activity.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities including movement restrictions related to any ongoing police action.
• Find a safe location and shelter in place if unable to leave the vicinity of a demonstration.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for France.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

At least three months beyond date of departure from the Schengen area. The 12-page U.S. emergency passport is not valid for visa-free entry into France.

Must have at least one blank page for stamps

Not required for stays under 90 days

10,000 Euros Max

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Paris 2 Avenue Gabriel 75008 Paris, France Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22, enter zero “0” after the automated greeting Fax:  +(33)(1) 42-61-61-40 (Special Consular Services) [email protected]

Only the consular sections in Paris and Marseille are authorized to issue passports. The other offices provide limited services to U.S. citizens.

U.S. Consulate General Marseille Place Varian Fry 13286 Marseille Cedex 6 France Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-47-54 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22 [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Strasbourg 15, Avenue d'Alsace 67082 Strasbourg Cedex France Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-48-80 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22 Fax: (33)(3) 88-24-06-95 [email protected]

When calling from within France, drop the country code and add a zero. For example: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22 becomes 01-43-12-22-22.

Please note that the emergency after-hours telephone number for all U.S. posts in France is: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22 . Ask to speak to the duty officer if you need emergency assistance after business hours.

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the  Embassy of France  website for the most current visa and entry requirement information.

The Government of France does not recognize the 12-page U.S. emergency passport, issued by U.S. embassies and consulates overseas, as a valid travel document for visa-free entry into France. If traveling on this emergency passport, you may be refused boarding and/or entry by immigration officials and/or held at the airport until a return flight to the U.S. is available. Direct transit through France for another destination accepting an emergency passport may be permitted. You should check entry requirements of any other country of destination to make sure the emergency passport is accepted for entry.

You may enter the Schengen area, including France, for up to 90 days for tourist and business purposes without a visa.

Immigration officers may also request you show sufficient funds for your intended stay and a return airline ticket.

If you are traveling to France or Monaco for reasons other than business or tourism, such as employment (including diplomatic or official travel), study, or internship, you must obtain the appropriate French or Monegasque (Monaco) visa for that purpose before you leave the United States. You should be aware that it is nearly impossible to obtain or change visa status while in France.

All minors (under age 18) traveling without a parent or legal guardian and who are residents in France must have the written consent of at least one parent or legal guardian to leave France. The minor must travel with his or her own I.D., a copy of the parent/guardian’s I.D., and form number 15646*01, executed by the parent/guardian and available  here .

If you are transiting through France to South Africa, there are special requirements for minors. See  Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements for South Africa  for additional information.

Contact the  French Embassy  in Washington at 4101 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007, tel. (202) 944 6000, or one of the  French Consulates General  in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, or San Francisco for the most current visa information.

Special Note:  Overseas departments and territories of France (i.e. those not located in Europe) are not included in the Schengen Agreement. Please see Country Specific Information on  French Guiana ,  French Polynesia , and the  French West Indies  for entry and exit requirements. For other departments and territories, visit the  Embassy of France  website for the most current visa and entry requirement information for those areas.

Monaco:  For further information on entry requirements to Monaco, travelers may contact the  Embassy of the Principality of Monaco , 888 17th Street NW, Suite 500, Washington D.C. 20006, Tel: (202) 234-1530, Email:  [email protected] ; or the Consulate General of Monaco, 565 Fifth Avenue – 23rd floor, New York, NY 10017, Tel: (212) 286-0500, Email:  [email protected] .

Traveling Through Europe :  If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay if you plan on transiting a Schengen country. Please review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page.  We recommend that your passport have at least six months’ validity remaining.
• You will need s ufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket . 
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of France.

Find information about  dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad.  Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds.  Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) 

For more information, see our Terrorism page. 

French authorities have spoken publicly about the heightened threat conditions for terrorist attacks in Europe.

A counterterrorism law enacted in 2017 allows the government to prevent the circulation of individuals and to create zones of protection and security.

The French government has temporarily reestablished border controls at its borders with its Schengen neighbors and movement may be restricted in some areas. Border controls with the United Kingdom, including the Channel Tunnel crossing, have also been reestablished following Brexit.

The Government of France routinely conducts security and crisis management drills involving deployment of security forces, emergency services, and police to high profile areas that may be near popular tourist sites. U.S. citizens should be aware of the possibility of drills and should heed instructions of local authorities should they encounter them.

French police and military routinely patrol public spaces. You should expect security inspections (to include purses, bags, and backpacks) at the entrance to large public venues and businesses.

When traveling or living in France, you should:

• Be aware of your local security situation and take appropriate steps to bolster your personal security.
• Monitor media and local information sources like  France24 , Radio France International , The Local , and the Paris Travel Information webpage and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities. 
• Address specific safety concerns to French law enforcement authorities who have responsibility for the safety and security of all residents and visitors to France.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

Crime:  The majority of crimes directed against foreign visitors, including U.S. citizens, involve pick-pocketing (passports, phones, cash, credit cards), vehicle and residential break-ins, bicycle theft, and other forms of theft.

Visitors to congested and popular tourist areas (e.g., museums, monuments, train stations, airports, and subways) should be particularly attentive to their surroundings. Rental cars are frequently targeted for break-ins when visitors exit their vehicles and leave valuables behind.

Crimes of opportunity are more likely to involve violence on the street late at night or when the victim resists. 

Exercise extra caution when out alone at night and/or consider traveling out at night with trusted companions.

While the incidence of sexual assault is statistically low, attacks do occur.

Be aware of “date-rape” drugs, which are present in France. The Embassy has assisted multiple victims who appear to have been targeted using these drugs.

Be cautious in bars and clubs where alcohol is served, and do not leave your drink unattended or accept a drink from strangers, as they may have slipped drugs into the drink.  

There are high incidences of “smash and grab” robberies in economically depressed areas or on highly traveled thoroughfares such as roads to and from the airport. Thieves on foot or motorcycle will approach a vehicle that is stopped in traffic, smash a window, reach into the vehicle to grab a purse or other valuable item, and then flee. Keep doors locked and valuables out of sight.

See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Demonstrations  occur frequently.  They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. 
• Strikes can interfere with travel plans and increase expenses of traveling to France.

Demonstration organizers must obtain prior police approval, and police routinely oversee participants. In case of violence or property damage, French authorities may use chemical agents and water cannons to disperse crowds.

Alerts issued regarding demonstrations are posted on the  U.S. Mission’s website .

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI   pages for information.

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local police by dialing 112 (the European emergency number which has some English-speaking staff)  or 17 from a landline or cell phone and contact the U.S. Embassy Paris at +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22. French authorities do not generally speak English and communication may be difficult.  Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• provide a  list of local attorneys
• provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• provide the Paris Police Prefecture pamphlet in English
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• replace a stolen or lost passport .
• provide you with information regarding victims’ assistance groups in France

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact  the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:   You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. French authorities will not routinely notify the Embassy unless you request them to do so. See our  webpage  for further information.

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in France are severe.

Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. 

In France and Monaco, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol could land you immediately in jail.

Flying Drones:  The use of drones and drone footage in France is highly regulated. It is against the law in France to operate drones over public spaces (including museums, parks, streets) in urban areas and near airports, military bases, prisons, nuclear plants, and large gatherings such as outdoor concerts and parades. The privacy of individuals captured in drone footage is paramount. Violators can be arrested and subject to fines of up to 75,000 euros and/or one-year imprisonment. Review the  information sheet  provided by the French government concerning hobbyist drone flights.

You should contact the  Embassy of France  or one of  France's consulates  in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements. Please see our  Customs Information .

There are strict regulations concerning temporary importation or exportation from France of items such as firearms, antiquities, medications, business equipment, merchandise samples, and other items.

French Foreign Legion:  U.S. citizens interested in joining the French Foreign Legion (FFL) should be aware that the cognitive and physical tests for acceptance are extremely challenging.

Ensure you have access to sufficient funds to return home should your candidature be refused.

Successful candidates report that the FFL provides a new identity and retains their U.S. passport during a long probation period. Lack of access to your passport can complicate routine or emergency travel.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

Faith-Based Travel Information

International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports

Human Rights Report  – see country reports

Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers

Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in France.

See our  LGBTQI+ travel information  page and section 6 of the  Department of State's Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:  The law in France prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, and the law is enforced.  Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States.  Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation and general infrastructure.

Visitors to France should expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation (subway, specifically), lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure. Getting around French cities can be challenging for those with mobility issues. Many sidewalks are narrow and uneven, and cobblestone streets make access difficult, though major tourist sites generally have better facilities.

Although the Paris Metro is a very efficient method for traveling throughout central Paris, most stations are not readily accessible for people with disabilities. However, many Parisian buses and tramways are equipped with lowering platforms for travelers with limited-mobility, or sight- or hearing-disabled. Taxis are also a good mode of transportation.

The English-language  Paris Visitors Bureau and Explore France websites contains additional information specifically designed for travelers with special mobility needs. For further information, e-mail  U.S. Embassy Paris , U.S. Consulate General Marseille , or U.S. Consulate General Strasbourg .

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Dial 15 to connect to emergency medical services or dial 112 to reach an operator.

Ambulance services are widely available, though English is not widely spoken.

Medical care is comparable to that found in the United States.

Except for emergency services, you may be required to pay for service prior to receiving treatment in France. Be sure to obtain a “Feuille de Soins” for later reimbursement from your health care provider.

You may be refused routine care under local law if you lack the ability to pay.

Foreigners with terminal illnesses may be denied treatment if treatment is available in their home country.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. Hospital bills are not itemized.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on the type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the  government of France  to ensure the medication is legal in France.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations recommended  by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Roads are generally comparable to those in the United States, but traffic engineering and driving habits pose special dangers.

Lane markings and sign placements may not be clear. Drivers should be prepared to make last-minute maneuvers.

Right-of-way rules differ from those in the United States. Unless specifically indicated otherwise, drivers entering intersections from the right have priority over those on the left, even when entering relatively large boulevards from small side streets.

Bicycles, motorcycles, scooters, and electric skateboards are prevalent on streets, crosswalks and sometimes sidewalks. They have legal priority and often do not respect traffic signals.

On major highways, there are service stations at least every 25 miles. Service stations are not as common on secondary roads in France as they are in the United States.

Highway toll stations may not accept U.S. credit cards. For non-residents, the simplest way to pay is with cash euros at the toll lane marked for that purpose. Do not attempt to use a credit card if it is the only one you have in your possession in case the machine does not return your card.

Traffic Laws:  While French cities actively encourage bicycle rentals through widely available city-sponsored systems, you should be cautious, especially in a busy and unfamiliar urban environment. Helmets are neither required nor readily available near rental stations. If you plan to ride a bicycle in France, you should bring your own helmet. Though bicycles, scooters and electric skateboards must follow local traffic laws, or risk fines, they often do not do so and can pose a danger to drivers and pedestrians.  Many paths are clearly marked for this form of transportation in  larger cities.

Pedestrian accidents occur when a pedestrian steps out into the street, often when a car or motorcycle is making a turn through a pedestrian crosswalk. Pedestrians should be cautious and aware of traffic even when they have a green walking signal since this is no guarantee against aggressive drivers. Do not assume cars will stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk.

Public Transportation:  Paris has an extensive and efficient public transportation system. The interconnecting system of buses, subways, and commuter rails is comparable to or better than that found in major U.S. cities. Similar transportation systems are found in all major French cities.

If you use any of France’s public transportation services, take particular care to retain your used or “validated” ticket until you exit the bus, subway, or train station completely, as it may be checked or required for exit. Children over four years of age must have a ticket.

Inspectors conduct intermittent, random checks and passengers who fail to present the correct validated ticket are subject to stiff and immediate fines.  Failing to sign and date or enclose photo (when required) on a tourist pass (Paris Visite) makes the pass invalid and the holder subject to a fine.

Inspectors may show no interest in explanations and no sympathy for an honest mistake. Failure to cooperate with inspectors may result in arrest.

Between cities, France has extensive rail service, which is safe and reliable. High-speed rail connects the major cities in France. Many cities are also served by frequent air service. Traveling by train is safer than driving.

See our  road safety page  for more information. Visit the website of the  French National Tourist Office  for specific information on French driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance. See Embassy of France’s  driving in France  webpage for information on using U.S. driver’s licenses in France.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of France’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of France’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to France should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings website  (select “broadcast warnings.”)

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in France .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Coronavirus Updates

Cdc says travel is safe for fully vaccinated people, but opposes nonessential trips.

Rachel Treisman

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated its domestic travel guidance for fully vaccinated people on Friday, lifting certain requirements while continuing to advise mitigation measures like mask-wearing and hand-washing. Angus Mordant/Bloomberg via Getty Images hide caption

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated its domestic travel guidance for fully vaccinated people on Friday, lifting certain requirements while continuing to advise mitigation measures like mask-wearing and hand-washing.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has updated its domestic travel guidance for fully vaccinated people, lifting certain testing and self-quarantine requirements and recommending precautions like wearing a mask and avoiding crowds. But health officials continue to discourage nonessential travel, citing a sustained rise in cases and hospitalizations.

The CDC updated its website on Friday to reflect the latest scientific evidence, writing that "people who are fully vaccinated with an FDA-authorized vaccine can travel safely within the United States."

The announcement comes less than a month after the CDC first released updated guidance about gatherings for fully vaccinated people, which it described as a "first step" toward returning to everyday activities.

Air Travel Is Opening Up Again, But That Doesn't Mean The Pandemic Is Over

The CDC considers someone fully vaccinated two weeks after they receive the last dose of vaccine. Those individuals will no longer need to get tested before or after travel unless their destination requires it, and do not need to self-quarantine upon return.

The new guidance means, for example, that fully vaccinated grandparents can fly to visit their healthy grandkids without getting a COVID-19 test or self-quarantining as long as they follow other recommended measures while traveling, according to CDC Director Rochelle Walensky.

Those measures include wearing a mask over their nose and mouth, staying 6 feet from others and washing their hands frequently. Masks are required on all planes traveling into, within or out of the U.S., under an executive order issued by President Biden.

But Walensky, speaking at a White House COVID-19 Response Team briefing on Friday, nonetheless discouraged all nonessential travel, citing a continued increase in the seven-day average of cases and hospitalizations.

"While we believe that fully vaccinated people can travel at low risk to themselves, CDC is not recommending travel at this time due to the rising number of cases," Walensky said.

CDC Director Fears 'Impending Doom' If U.S. Opens Too Quickly

She said that while vaccinated people can do more things safely, most Americans are not yet fully vaccinated. Those who are not must have a negative test 1-3 days before they travel under CDC guidance. They must either get tested 3-5 days after they return and self-quarantine for 7 days, or self-quarantine for 10 days with no test.

Walensky said on Monday that there is more travel occurring now than throughout the pandemic, including the winter holidays. She acknowledged that people have been looking to get away over spring break or take advantage of what they perceive as a "relative paucity in cases," and she said the country was seeing an uptick in cases as a result.

"The thing that's different this time is that we actually have it in our power to be done with the scale of the vaccination," she said. "And that will be so much slower if we have another surge to deal with as well."

The U.S. is already seeing an uptick in domestic travel, and many Americans are looking to book trips in the coming months in what experts described to NPR as a sign of "clear pent up demand for travel."

As the country's supply of COVID-19 doses has grown, so has Biden's goal for the number of shots in arms during his first 100 days, doubling the target to 200 million by the end of this month. Many states have already expanded eligibility to all adults or are set to do so in the coming weeks, well ahead of the president's May 1 deadline.

According to NPR's vaccine tracker , 16.9% of the U.S. population is fully vaccinated, and 30% has had at least one dose. Researchers estimate that 70% to 85% of the country would need to have immunity for COVID-19 to stop spreading through communities.

International travel restrictions remain

The CDC is not lifting travel restrictions barring the entry of most non-U.S. citizens from places including China, Brazil, South Africa and parts of Europe. It will continue to require airline passengers entering the U.S. to get a test within three days of their departure and show proof of a negative result before boarding.

The travel industry has been pushing for some of these restrictions to end. A group of 26 organizations sent a letter to White House COVID-19 czar Jeffrey Zients urging the federal government "to partner with us to develop, by May 1, 2021, a risk-based, data-driven roadmap to rescind inbound international travel restrictions."

While Some Spring Breakers Swarm Beaches, Many Stay Home, Dreaming Of Summer Travel

"To be clear, at this time, we do not support removal or easing of core public health protections, such as the universal mask mandate, inbound international testing requirement, physical distancing or other measures that have made travel safer and reduced transmission of the virus," they wrote. "However, the data and science demonstrate that the right public health measures are now in place to effectively mitigate risk and allow for the safe removal of entry restrictions."

Travel and tourism have taken a considerable hit because of the pandemic with industry groups noting that overseas travel to the U.S. declined by 81% in 2020, causing billions of dollars in losses. Without lifting international travel bans, the U.S. Travel Association estimates that some 1.1 million American jobs will not be restored and billions in spending will be lost by the end of the year.

"Fortunately, enough progress has been made on the health front that a rebound for domestic leisure travel looks possible this year, but that alone won't get the job done," Roger Dow, the association's president and CEO, said in a statement . "A full travel recovery will depend on reopening international markets, and we must also contend with the challenge of reviving business travel."

Fauci Expects Surge In Vaccinations To Keep A 4th Coronavirus Wave At Bay

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France Planning to Ease Travel Restrictions for Vaccinated Americans by This Summer

"The idea indeed is altogether to offer that to the American citizen when they decide to vaccinate or with a PCR test being negative," Macron said.

France will look to welcome vaccinated Americans once again this summer, French President Emmanuel Macron said over the weekend, even as the country remains in lockdown.

"We will progressively lift the restrictions of the beginning of May, which means that we will organize in the summer time with our professionals in France for French European citizens, but as well for American citizens," Macron said in an interview with CBS' "Face the Nati on" on Sunday. "So we are working hard to propose a very concrete solution, especially for U.S. citizens who are vaccinated, so with a special pass, I would say."

The country is also working on a certificate for test or vaccine records — like a vaccine passport — to use for travel between European countries. Currently, Macron said officials are "finalizing the technical discussions" to determine what will be required to ease restrictions.

"The idea indeed is altogether to offer that to the American citizen when they decide to vaccinate or with a PCR test being negative," he said. "So the idea is indeed to always control the virus, to maximize the vaccination and to progressively lift the restrictions."

Several areas of the country, including Paris , have been on lockdown since March . Earlier this month, France expanded its lockdown nationwide , requiring residents to remain within about six miles of their homes and closing all non-essential shops.

While France looks ahead to a summer of travel, the country's vaccine rollout continues. So far, about 18.7% of people in France have received at least one dose of a vaccine and 6.7% have been fully vaccinated, according to Reuters' vaccine tracker .

But France isn't alone: several European countries are welcoming — or announced plans to welcome — vaccinated international travelers , including Iceland and Greece .

When travelers do return to France, they will have to navigate much of the country by rail after officials voted to eliminate domestic flights to destinations that can be reached by train in less than two and a half hours.

Alison Fox is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. When she's not in New York City, she likes to spend her time at the beach or exploring new destinations and hopes to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram .

clock This article was published more than  2 years ago

Traveling to Europe? What to know about requirements for 5 countries.

Some countries want proof of vaccination, some want a negative test, and some want both.

Through both the delta and omicron variant surges, European countries put restrictions in place to contain the virus while allowing in coronavirus -free travelers. Now, some countries are beginning to ease some rules.

Still, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has given a Level 4 warning to much of Europe because of high levels of coronavirus transmission, and it recommends Americans avoid travel to top destinations such as Italy, France and the United Kingdom.

The omicron variant hit the European travel industry, which had just begun to recover from the pandemic. However, leaders in the industry are confident that Europe will again be able to offer a safe experience for travelers.

“We have clear rules — people, hotels and restaurants are clearly complying in order for you as an American to not only have the best experience, but the safest one,” said Luís Araújo, the president of the European Travel Commission and Tourism ​​Portugal.

So what kinds of restrictions will Americans encounter when traveling to Europe? Entry requirements can vary widely, from what type of mask to wear on the flight to vaccination proof. We looked at how five major European destinations are handling international visitors.

CDC warning: Level 4

Entry requirements: Fully vaccinated Americans, which now includes being boosted if eligible, need to show proof of vaccination and a signed declaration stating that they do not have symptoms of covid-19.

Unvaccinated travelers may only enter the country for compelling reasons. Unvaccinated people must show proof of a negative test taken 48 hours before departure, take a test once they arrive and then quarantine for 10 days at a location disclosed to the French government.

Restrictions once you’re there: To access most services and businesses in France — including restaurants, museums, concert halls, trains, domestic flights, shopping malls and tourist attractions — people over the age of 12 are required to show a pass sanitaire (health pass).

While some tourist attractions may allow Americans to show the CDC vaccination card for entry, it is generally not accepted. However, travelers can apply for a French health pass at a designated pharmacy; it costs about $41.

Unvaccinated people can obtain a 24-hour health pass with proof of a negative coronavirus test. However, the French Parliament recently approved plans for health pass legislation that, if passed by the Senate and the National Assembly, would require all people over 16 to be vaccinated to receive a health pass.

Starting Jan. 15, adults who received their last vaccination dose more than seven months ago, or people vaccinated with Johnson & Johnson’s vaccine more than two months ago, must have a booster shot to obtain a health pass.

Entry requirements: Only vaccinated Americans can enter Spain for nonessential purposes. Starting Feb. 1, a booster will be required if your last vaccination was more than 270 days before arrival.

Americans will need to download a QR code through the Spain Travel Health portal to prove their vaccination status before arrival. If travelers arrive by air or sea , Spanish border agents will take their temperature and do a visual assessment of their health.

Spain is not mandating a quarantine for anyone entering the country. However, if border authorities suspect travelers of having the coronavirus because of an elevated temperature or visible symptoms, they can require those individuals to take a test.

Restrictions once you’re there: Once in Spain, make sure to check the regional restrictions in the areas you’re looking to visit.

The most common restrictions in Spain include masking in public spaces including outdoors, limited capacity in indoor businesses and restaurants, and proof of vaccination to enter restaurants and other public services.

Entry requirements: Travelers coming from the United States, or who have been in the United States within the past 10 days , must provide proof they are fully vaccinated.

Those who have stayed in a risk area have to fill out a digital entry registration form and present it upon entry. Germany has designated the United States a “high risk area.”

Restrictions once you are there: Within Germany, there are tight restrictions in many regions, allowing only vaccinated or recovered people to enter nonessential businesses and services. Check requirements of the regions you plan to visit because restrictions may change based on the hospitalization rate.

Germany has a widely used open-source app for tracking transmission and cases. The free Corona-Warn-App lets people know anonymously and quickly if they have been near someone infected with the coronavirus.

Entry requirements: Anyone flying to Italy needs to wear an FFP2 mask , not a surgical or cloth mask. Upon arrival, Americans have to fill out a passenger locator form , provide proof of a negative molecular coronavirus test from the past 72 hours or a negative antigen test from within the past 24 hours, and proof of full vaccination or recovery from the coronavirus.

For those without proof of vaccination or recovery, prepare to travel by a private vehicle from your point of entry to a place to quarantine for five days . These travelers must notify the local health authority of their arrival in Italy and test negative at the end of the quarantine.

Children under 6 years old don’t have to take pre-departure tests or prove their vaccination status, as long as they are with a vaccinated parent. Kids over 6 have to take a test, but they don’t have to quarantine unless their parent needs to.

Restrictions once you’re there: Be prepared to wear an FFP2 mask while riding public transportation and in performance venues, whether indoors or outdoors.

Italy uses a “Green Pass” as a vaccination card, but U.S. vaccination cards and documents proving recovery are widely recognized as an equivalent . You will need to carry this documentation for most public attractions and restaurants, as well as for riding local transportation.

Again, restrictions are different depending on the region you are in, so be sure to check local guidance.

United Kingdom

Entry requirements: Fully vaccinated travelers no longer have to take a coronavirus test before entering the U.K. Regardless of vaccination status, all U.K. arrivals will need to complete a passenger locator form.

For England, Wales and Northern Ireland, travelers who are not fully vaccinated need to take a test before departing and a PCR test on or before their second day in the country. Scotland requires unvaccinated travelers to present a negative test taken no more than two days before departure.

Restrictions once you’re there: Vaccine pass rules vary across the United Kingdom , but CDC vaccine certificates are accepted . Scotland, England and Wales all have vaccine and testing requirements for nightclubs and large events. Be sure to check on specifics.

Update: You no longer need a test to enter France if you are fully vaccinated

France has announced yet another change to its ever-evolving entry requirements for incoming travelers, although this one is actually making the process easier for travelers.

As of February 12, fully vaccinated and boosted travelers coming from the U.S. no longer need to take a COVID-19 test to enter France.

With requirements shifting so often, things can easily get confusing, so we have gathered all of the information you need below.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Entry requirements for vaccinated travelers as of February 12

Currently, France color codes countries to determine entry requirements for travelers originating from specific places.

Fully vaccinated travelers coming from any green or orange country, including the United States, are no longer required to submit a COVID-19 upon arrival to France as of last week.

Instead, these travelers may enter France by submitting proof of vaccination, including a booster shot taken within nine months of their final dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Travelers who received their booster more than nine months after their second dose may still enter France as long as one week has passed since receipt of the booster.

Vaccine pass requirements as of Feb. 15

In order to obtain a " pass vaccinal " necessary to enter any public space requiring proof of vaccination, all people age 18 and older must show proof of a COVID-19 booster administered between three and four months of the final dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

This does not mean you need to be boosted within four months of travel, rather a booster is required if four months have elapsed since the second dose of a two-dose vaccine or one dose of a single-dose vaccine.

Vaccine passes for this age group will expire four months after their second dose of a two-dose vaccine or two months after the single dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine, meaning a booster is required to keep your pass active.

"The timing of your vaccine does not matter beyond the four-month booster requirement.

"To obtain the pass vaccinal, it's showing proof of a booster that is most important," per Atout France, the country's official tourism organization.

Related: Update: France delays vaccine pass implementation until Monday

Where are vaccine passes required?

The vaccine pass is required at all places where the "pass sanitaire" was once required, including bars, nightclubs, cafes, restaurants, malls, athletic facilities, gyms, theaters, cinemas, public transit (air/rail), museums and other cultural sites.

Essentially, if it's a public place, you will need to present a vaccine pass to enter.

Rules for children

Children ages 12-15 remain subject to the rules of the "pass sanitiare, " meaning people in this age group must show proof of vaccination to access most public spaces, but a booster shot is not mandatory.

"Travelers age 12-15 require a health pass everywhere a vaccine pass is required," according to the U.S. Embassy. "Travelers under age 12 do not require a pass" of any kind.

Those 12-15 may obtain a temporary, 24-hour health pass by submitting negative results of a PCR or antigen test taken at a pharmacy in France , where rapid tests are available on a walk-in basis.

These test results only serve as a temporary pass, meaning once the 24 hours have elapsed, you must take a new test to earn a new temporary pass.

The option to test for COVID-19 in lieu of the booster only applies to children holding a health pass.

Related: Applications for France's digital health pass are temporarily closed

Exceptions for non-Americans

While in some cases, showing proof of recent recovery from COVID-19 can take the place of one's initial dose of COVID-19 or a booster dose, this is only applicable if the person contracted COVID-19 and recovered from it while in the European Union.

"U.S. and other foreign certificates of recovery are not accepted," per the embassy.

Where to receive either pass

Those vaccinated in the United States (or elsewhere outside the EU) must go to a designated pharmacy in France with their CDC-issued vaccine card, passport and money to pay a fee of up to $40 (or 36 euros).

Bottom line

A vaccine pass showing proof of full COVID-19 vaccination (including a booster) is required for all persons in France age 18 and above, even tourists. A health pass showing full proof of COVID-19 vaccination (but not a booster) is compulsory for anyone ages 12-15. Those under 12 do not need either pass.

Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated people may only enter the country with a "compelling reason for travel" that has been approved by the French government. Additionally, they must present results of a negative test taken within 48 hours before departure and will also be tested again upon arrival, followed by a 10-day quarantine.

If you think you can skip out on quarantine, think again — you should expect routine police check-ins at the designated quarantine location you provided to French authorities.

Related: You can enter France if you haven't been boosted, but that might be all you can do

Measles outbreak puts elimination status at risk: CDC

The most recent outbreak of measles is threatening the United States' elimination status, according to a new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report published Thursday.

The first measles vaccine was introduced in 1963 and, thanks to a yearslong and highly effective vaccination campaign, measles was considered eliminated from the U.S. in 2000, meaning the disease is no longer constantly present.

Despite occasional outbreaks, the U.S. has been able to maintain its elimination status. Cases have popped up due to international travel and unvaccinated or undervaccinated communities.

However, the rapid increase in the number of measles cases during the first quarter of 2024 "represents a renewed threat to the U.S. elimination status," according to the CDC report.

As of April 4, 2024, there have been 113 cases of measles reported in the U.S. This is an at least a 17-fold higher figure than the average number of cases seen during the same period from 2020 to 2023.

"What was surprising about 2024 is that we've seen a significant increase," said Dr. John Brownstein, an epidemiologist and chief innovation officer at Boston Children's Hospital and an ABC News contributor. "It's an alarming number because it indicates a trend going in the wrong direction for us, a virus that we have successfully controlled, a virus that we successfully have an effective vaccine for."

"We're seeing a rise that is unfortunate, and actually preventable, and so this outbreak highlights the fact that we are not unfortunately done with measles," he added.

This year, the number of measles cases have soared in part due to several localized outbreak, including at a children's hospital and daycare center in Philadelphia , an elementary school in Florida and at a migrant center in Chicago . Measles is so infectious that a measles patient can infect up to 90% of close contacts who are not immune.

Dr. Paul Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center and an attending physician in the division of infectious diseases at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, pointed out that almost all people in the U.S. who have had measles in recent years either traveled internationally to a country where measles has not been eliminated or were around someone who traveled internationally, and that immigrants are not responsible for the sporadic outbreaks.

He told ABC News that more than 20 years out since elimination status was declared, the U.S. should not be seeing as much of a renewed threat as it is.

"It's getting worse; I think it's fair to say that it is getting worse," Offit said. "Look, according to [the CDC's] definition. because there hasn't been 12 consecutive months of measles transmission, we're still considered to have eliminated measles ... but we're getting there."

This is not the first time that the measles elimination status has been at risk. In 2019, there were 1,274 reported cases due to outbreak in Washington state and in New York State and New York City.

The new report comes as there has been a dip in routine childhood vaccinations. A CDC report in November found that exemptions for routine childhood vaccination among U.S. kindergartners are at their highest levels ever.

The report found that about 93% of kindergarteners received select routine childhood vaccines, including the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine for the 2022-23 school year. This is about the same as the previous school year but lower than the 94% seen in 2020-21 school year and the 95% seen in the 2019-20, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. The latter percentage had been the standard for about 10 years.

Offit said there is a critical percentage of parents choosing not to vaccinate their children with the MMR vaccine. There are various reasons, including vaccine hesitancy from the COVID-19 vaccine affecting the choice to receive other vaccines and not remembering how serious measles used to be prior to vaccines.

In the decade prior to the first measles vaccine in 1963, there were three to four million cases annually, which led to 48,000 hospitalizations and 400 to 500 deaths.

"Number one is to find out what it is that's causing them to choose not to vaccinate, what's the fear, because the fear can invariably be addressed with information," Offit said. "I think it's understandable how people can be hesitant to get a vaccine, but it is a dangerous game we play. I mean, it's a game of Russian roulette."

Despite the outbreak, the experts and the CDC say that anyone who has had a previous measles infection or who has received two doses of the MMR vaccine is essentially protected for life.

The CDC currently recommends receiving two doses of the MMR vaccine, with the first those at 12 to15 months old and the second dose between ages 4 and 6. One dose of the measles vaccine is 93% effective at preventing infection if exposed to the virus. Two doses are 97% effective, according to the CDC.

"We've had a vaccine that has been in use for a very long time and is shown to be incredibly effective in keeping our elimination status of measles going," Brownstein said. "But it's not about the vaccine itself. This is not a question of whether the vaccine works. This is a question of whether people work to get the vaccine."

Measles cases surge in 2024 sparking vaccine emphasis

A report released Thursday said the measles cases show the need to increase routine childhood vaccinations. Credit: TNS/Dreamstime

Almost 30% of measles cases reported in the United States since 2020 occurred during the first few months of this year, an alarming trend that shows the need to increase routine childhood vaccination, according to a new report released Thursday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

One of those cases was an unvaccinated Nassau County child under the age of 5 who was admitted in March to Cohen Children’s Medical Center. The child has since been released from the hospital.

There were 338 confirmed measles cases reported to the CDC between Jan. 1, 2020, and March 28, 2024, with 97, or 29%, during the first three months of 2024.   The majority of cases were among children 4 years o   f age or younger who were not vaccinated. As of April 4, there were 113 cases reported across the nation so far this year.

Measles, a highly contagious viral respiratory disease, was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000. The last threat to its elimination status was in 2019 due to two outbreaks in under-vaccinated communities in New York and New York City, according to the CDC.

“The rapid increase in the number of reported measles cases during the first quarter of 2024 represents a renewed threat to elimination,” the CDC report read.

Symptoms include fever, cough and a rash. It can sometimes lead to serious complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis. The CDC said about 1 in 5 unvaccinated people in the United States who gets measles is hospitalized and about 1 in 20 children with measles gets pneumonia.

Almost all of the cases since 2020, about 96%, were among people who had traveled overseas or been in contact with someone who had traveled. The majority — 61% — of these cases were among people who had not been vaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown.

The CDC said the percentage of children receiving the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine nationwide has been lower than the desired 95% for three consecutive years, “leaving approximately 250,000 kindergarten children susceptible to measles each year.”

Experts believe 95% is the estimated population-level immunity needed to prevent sustained measles transmission.

The current population immunity in the U.S. is still high enough that the risk for widespread measles transmission is low, according to authors of the study.

Guidance from the CDC states that children should get their first dose of the vaccine at 12 to 15 months and the second dose between 4 and 6 years of age.

Statistics from the New York State Department of Health show 81% of children in Nassau County and 82% of children in Suffolk County have received their first dose of the MMR vaccine by the age of 2. That's slightly higher than the statewide rate of 79%.

Dr. Aaron Glatt, chairman of medicine and chief of infectious diseases at Mount Sinai South Nassau hospital in Oceanside, said he is very concerned about the drop in vaccinations.

“I think it's unfortunately a social phenomenon,” said Glatt, noting that influential, nonscientific people have spread misinformation about vaccines. “There are decreasing trends in vaccination, not increasing trends. One would've thought that if you see data like this, you rush to the pediatrician.”

He said it’s important for physicians and other health care workers to have a respectful dialogue with parents who are vaccine hesitant, instead of chastising them.

“I think we have to be able to present in a calm, clear fashion why these MMR vaccines are essential for their kids’ health,” he said. “This is a disease that is a killer.”

Study authors listed several recommendations, including taking steps to boost routine vaccination coverage, making sure you are vaccinated before traveling internationally, identifying communities at risk for measles transmission and quickly investigating suspected cases.

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Lisa joined Newsday as a staff writer in 2019. She previously worked at amNewYork, the New York Daily News and the Asbury Park Press covering politics, government and general assignment.

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