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January 2022 update: entry requirements for vaccinated U.S. Citizens and Residents

The United States has been placed on the Red list of countries as of January 2nd.

This will not affect vaccinated travelers who will be able to board flights with proof of vaccination, a sworn statement certifying the absence of COVID symptoms and other forms below, to enter France freely without restrictions.

Please note that all fully vaccinated U.S. Citizens & residents and non-EU international travelers over the age of 12 years will need to show proof of a negative COVID test. Either a PCR or antigen test taken within 48 hours before departure.

In addition to the test, travelers to France must show their airline a Certificate of International Travel in the form of a Sworn Statement that can be downloaded from the French Interior Ministry website | When you arrive on the page, go towards the middle of the page & select "TRAVEL TO/FROM AN RED LIST COUNTRY then scroll down to “You wish to enter Metropolitan France," then at the bottom select & download Sworn Statement

The French government also requires that you complete a digital passenger location form (dPLF).

However, un-vaccinated U.S. residents can only travel to France if they have pressing grounds for travel. Once arrived in France, they will need to quarantine for 10 days. See here for a list of pressing grounds.

Once in France, vaccinated travelers should apply for what was once known COVID Certificate or Pass Sanitaire. The pass is required to visit public sites (i.e. museums, monuments, restaurants and cafes) as well as board domestic transportation.

As of January 15,2022 , all people age 18 and older will need to show proof of a booster shot between 3 and 7 months after their second dose of the COVID vaccine to obtain a pass or to update a Pass Sanitaire. A law voted on January 15, 2022 and implemented by the end of the week, will transform the Pass Sanitaire into a Pass Vaccinal (Vaccination Pass,) which means that temporary Pass Sanitaires for un-vaccinated travelers showing a negative test will no longer be issued and that the Pass Vaccinal will only be issued to those with a full vaccination course & booster shot, allowing them to gain access to public sites & to board domestic transportation. To obtain what is now known as the Pass Vaccinal upon arrival in France the vaccination Pass will be delivered in select pharmacies in Paris and France. The list of pharmacies and their locations and addresses can be found on a map on this link at the bottom of the French Ministry of Health page.

Depending on the pharmacy, the service charge for generating a Pass Vaccinal from U.S. proof of vaccination & booster will be 30 to 36€ maximum.

American residents and Non-EU nationals (except students who must apply to the Assurance Maladie) must present the following documents:

– A passport. – The original paper certificate of vaccination & booster shot—i.e. CDC card.

These essential documents must include, in a legible manner, the surname, first name, date of birth as well as the date of vaccination, the vaccine used, number of doses and the country of vaccination.

The vaccines accepted by France are those recognized by the European Medecines Agency (EMA): Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson. The proof of vaccination is only valid on condition that it attests to the fulfillment of a complete vaccination timetable, that is:

• 2 weeks after the 2nd injection for dual injection vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca); • 4 weeks after the injection for vaccines with a single injection (Johnson & Johnson—sometimes referred to in Europe as Janssen); • 2 weeks after injection for vaccines in people with a history of Covid-19 (only 1 injection required)

Again, Un-vaccinated U.S. residents in France can no longer receive a temporary Pass Sanitaire (valid for 24 hours) by presenting proof of a negative COVID test to a pharmacy.

Entry Requirements for American Travelers to France

Passports and visas.

All U.S. and Canadian citizens, including infants, need a valid passport to enter France. Visas are not required for American and Canadian visitors staying in France for up to 90 days. For more information, contact your nearest French Consulate. See a list of local French consulates in the U.S. (External link)

It is mandatory in France to carry some form of identification at all times. If you lose your passport, the nearest U.S. Consulate will issue Americans a limited-validity replacement if travel is imminent, or a full-validity passport if further travel is not within two weeks. When in France, please carry a photocopy of your passport separately from your passport. The copy will facilitate issuance of a replacement ($75 fee for adults, $85 for children). The American Embassy in Paris is at 2, avenue Gabriel, tel. 01 43 12 22 22. The Passport Section is nearby at 4, avenue Gabriel (open 9a.m.-noon, Monday- Friday). There are other Consular Offices in Bordeaux, Lille, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Rennes, Strasbourg and Toulouse that provide assistance to American citizens.

Entering France : Travelers from countries outside the European Union (EU) must declare certain articles when entering France. Duty and import taxes are levied on items not for personal use that individually or collectively exceed 175€ in value. Certain categories of items for personal use (tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, perfumes, coffee and tea, etc.) may be brought in untaxed up to certain authorized amounts. The following are forbidden or subject to strict control: drugs, radioactive materials, firearms, endangered species, plants, ivory and food, meat and dairy products. Carry prescriptions to authenticate any controlled substances. “Monetary instruments” equal to more than 10,000€ (whether brought into or taken out of France) must be declared. When in doubt, consult the French Embassy (External link) , a French Consulate or the French Customs and Excise Service's “ Info Douanes Service (External link) ” in Paris at tel. 08 20 02 44 44 (8:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m., Monday to Friday)

Re-entering the U.S. : Returning U.S. citizens who have been away for 48 hours or more are allowed to bring back, once every 30 days, $800 worth of merchandise duty-free. You're charged a flat rate of duty on the next $1,000 worth of purchases, and any dollar amount beyond that is subject to duty at whatever rates apply. On mailed gifts, the duty-free limit is $200. Have your receipts or purchases handy to expedite the declaration process. Note: If you owe duty, you are required to pay upon your arrival in the United States, using cash, personal check, government or traveler's check, or money order; some locations also accept Visa or MasterCard.

BRINGING YOUR PETS TO FRANCE

Travelers may bring dogs, cats and ferrets into France. Each family is limited to five animals, which must have valid rabies vaccination certificates and be identifiable by a microchip or tattoo. For more information, including details about travel with pet rodents, reptiles, birds or other species, visit www.ambafrance-us.org or contact the French Embassy.

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Travel Policy

Federal travel regulations.

The Federal Travel Regulations (FTR) contain the statutory requirements and Executive branch policies for travel by Federal civilian employees and others authorized to travel at the Government's expense. Chapter 301 of the FTR relates specifically to Temporary Duty Travel (TDY).

The Agriculture Travel Regulation (ATR ) supplements the FTR and is USDA's primary temporary duty travel policy. The ATR applies to all Departmental employees and other non-contractor individuals executing official Department activities.

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What Pet Travel Documents Are Needed to Travel to France?

Every country sets its own rules for importing pets when you move to or visit their country. In France, it is the French Ministry for Agriculture, Food, and Forestry that governs pet importation. The rules differ somewhat, depending on where you live now. For instance, if you and your pet (dog, cat, or ferret) currently reside in another European Union country and your pet has a current EU Pet Passport , you do not need any additional documentation to bring your pet to France.  

However, if you currently reside in a non-EU country, there are specific steps you will need to take in order to bring your pet into France. You can consult this page to get the details , but we have outlined all the essentials below. You will be happy to learn that France’s pet import requirements are less complex than those of many other countries.

But do not take the requirements lightly. Without proper documentation, your pet could be sent back, quarantined, or even euthanized. If your pet causes or contributes to the spread of transmissible disease, you could be fined or worse.

If your pet will not be traveling with you, you will need to sign a consent form for the person who will accompany or be authorized to transport your pet.

Rabies Vaccinations

Rabies is the only immunization required for dogs, cats, and ferrets to enter France. To be considered valid, the rabies vaccine must be administered after your pet is microchipped. All countries make this distinction because each animal’s microchip number is its unique identifier and it has to appear on all documentation.

To enter France, your pet’s microchip must be ISO-compliant. Your pet's microchip must be readable and correctly reported on all of your pet's paperwork. If your pet has more than one microchip that is readable then all paperwork must show both microchip numbers.

The first rabies vaccination given after implantation of a microchip (or at the same time) is considered the “primary” vaccination. This definition also applies to a vaccination given after an earlier rabies vaccine has expired. All pets must wait at least 21 days after the rabies vaccination before they can travel to France. Please note that the rabies vaccination for pets traveling to the EU must be greater than 21 days old and less than 1 year old at the time of travel. If your pet's vaccination will be over 1 year, then a new vaccine will be needed at least 21 days prior to travel.

Other Vaccinations

Although other immunizations are not officially required for import, it is recommended that cats and dogs are vaccinated for the following. Do note that if your pet will be boarding, these vaccinations will be required.

• Dogs : DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus), Bordetella (Kennel Cough), Leptospirosis, CIV (Canine Influenza Virus)
• Cats : FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia), Feline Leukemia

If you are moving from a  non-listed country (where rabies is a known problem or not reliably controlled), your pet will also have to have a rabies titer blood test to prove their rabies vaccine is active within their body. This blood test must be completed in an  approved EU laboratory and must be done at least 30 days after rabies vaccination and at least 3 months prior to travel.

This is not needed when coming from the United States. 

France does not require an import permit for dogs, cats, or ferrets that are personal family pets.

The requirements described below apply only if your dog or cat or ferret will be entering France within 5 days before or after your own arrival date. If the timing difference will be greater than this 5-day window, your pet will need a “commercial” health certificate, which is somewhat different. No worries, though – our Starwood Pet Travel team can easily handle this for you.

You will need a French EU Veterinary Health Certificate that must be endorsed by the official government vet prior to shipment for each pet. It must be filled out and signed by a government-approved (USA Accredited) veterinarian within 10 days prior to travel.  Coming from the USA, the APHIS 7001 form is also required for some airlines but does not need USDA endorsement. France will allow the health certificate to be submitted to the USDA electronically but the USDA endorsement must be in original ink. The original endorsed health certificate and original signed rabies certificate must travel with your pet.

What Are the Pet Restrictions for France?

Like many countries, France does not allow the import of certain breeds of dogs, although there are no restrictions for cats. You can get more information about this here .

If your dog is one of the following breeds, you may not bring them to France unless they have an official, registered pedigree:

• American Staffordshire terrier (formerly Staffordshire terrier) or “pit bulls”
• Mastiff or "boerbulls"

If your dog is one of these breeds and does have a registered pedigree, you may import them but you will have to follow certain rules set forth for dangerous dogs . This also applies to Rottweilers and dogs that are “similar to Rottweilers,” with or without a registered pedigree.

France does not allow the import of puppies, kittens, or baby ferrets that are younger than 12 weeks and have no rabies vaccination, or those between 12-16 weeks whose rabies vaccine was administered less than 21 days prior to arrival. 

Do I Need a Microchip for My Pet to Travel to France?

All dogs, cats, and ferrets must have a microchip that meets ISO standard 11784 or 11785. (The number will be 15 digits.) The microchip must be implanted BEFORE the rabies vaccination. If your pet currently has no microchip, that should be your first order of business, because it is a prerequisite for obtaining documentation. If your pet has a microchip that does meet ISO standards, you have options:

• Carry a chip reader that customs officials can use to scan your pet
• Notify French customs in advance so they can have an appropriate scanner available
• Have your veterinarian implant a second, ISO-compliant microchip. This won’t hurt your pet. You will need to include both microchip ID numbers on all of your pet’s paperwork.

What Are the Quarantine Requirements for a Pet Traveling to France?

France does not quarantine pets upon arrival, providing they meet all the stated health requirements.

Are There Any Area Specific Pet Requirements in France?

Although France does not have any other pet import restrictions you will need to know about, airlines also have rules about pet travel. Therefore, it is important to consult your airline (or your Starwood rep) to learn if there are additional rules that apply to your pet’s journey.

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International travel - Press release from the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs (30 January 2021)

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Following the measures announced by the government on 29 January 2021:

Travellers to or from a destination outside the European space

As of Sunday, 31 January 2021, all travel to France or from France to any country outside the European space (European Union Member States, Andorra, the Holy See, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino and Switzerland) will be denied, with the exception of travel for imperative personal or family reasons, emergency medical treatment or professional trips that cannot be postponed.

If your travel falls within one of these exceptions, a sworn declaration can be downloaded on the Ministry of the Interior’s website .

It must be presented upon boarding to the transport company and accompanied by the appropriate supporting documents.

Travellers arriving from and travelling to a country in the European space

All travellers, irrespective of their means of transport (by air, sea or land), aged 11 years and over and who wish to enter France from a country in the European space (European Union, Andorra, the Holy See, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino and Switzerland) must present the results of a virology test (RT-PCR) taken within 72 hours prior to departure and that does not identify COVID-19 contamination. Hauliers, cross-border workers and residents living within a 30-kilometre radius of a border area are exempt from this obligation.

Upon arrival in France, it is highly recommended to self-isolate for seven days, and submit to a second virology RT-PCR test at the end of the seven-day period.

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Usda Pet Travel From Us To France

When traveling abroad with your pet, understanding the rules and regulations of the new country is essential. U.S. citizens wishing to bring their pets to France may find the process arduous. While worldwide trade of dogs and cats is largely regulated by the World Organization for Animal Health to ensure humane handling and good health, France is especially stringent when it comes to pet imports. That said, with the correct paperwork in place, transportation of animals to France can be achieved.

Procedures For Entry

Before taking your pet to France, you should have it vaccinated against rabies and obtain proof of the vaccination. You will need to provide documentation of a rabies-neutralization titration test when entering, which should be conducted at least 30 days prior to departure. Additionally, you must obtain an animal health certificate from your veterinarian within 10 days of travel, and have the pet microchipped. Some airlines provide a service where your pet will be scanned free of charge, while others will want to do it in-house. Make sure to check with your airline prior to departure.

Transportation Requirements

Airlines have specific requirements for traveling with a pet. Most airlines require that pets aboard an airplane be carried within sealed, USDA or CDC approved crates featuring proper ventilation and temperature control. Comfortably sized, each crate should include food dishes, a water bottle, extra bedding, and an absorbent disposable bag. Carriers should fasten securely to ensure the animal’s safety during flight. Smaller animals may be allowed to fly in the cabin as carry-on baggage, although passengers should check with their airline prior to booking.

Quarantine Policies

When importing an animal to France, it is always possible that it may need to enter quarantine. Depending on its country of origin, documentation, and immunization records, the animal may have to stay in a quarantine kennel for up to seven days. If it fails to meet required standards, the animal may have to remain in quarantine for an additional 30 days. There are several kennels in France, certified by the Ministry of Agriculture, that will accept pets entering quarantine for any length of time.

Fines and Penalties

It is illegal to enter France with an unregistered pet, and violators may be fined up to €300 per animal. If there are discrepancies in the paperwork or if the animal appears to have been maltreated,passengers may be fined as much as €5,000, and the pet will be taken away. When transport is completed incorrectly,travelers may be charged €50 for wrongly sized crates and €100 for entire misuse of a crate.

Crossing borders with your beloved pet can be a complicated process, and travelers familiarizing themselves with the local regulations prior to departure are more likely to avoid hefty fines and trepidation caused by incorrect transport. The Department of Agriculture’s regulations and policies for pet travel are constantly changing, so pet owners should check with the department for amendments prior to transport. While it may initially seem tedious, with proper planning and execution, traveling your pet from the U.S. to France is completely possible.

If you are considering bringing your pet to France, it is recommended that you contact a certified veterinarian member of the APVMA (Australian Pest Animal Veterinarians) and follow their expert advice. With the proper documentation in hand, those taking their pets to France can be sure of a safe, happy and successful journey.

Shirley Blanc

Shirley J. Blanc is a French expat and a passionate Francophile. She has been living in France for over a decade, and loves to share her experiences and knowledge about the country with others. Shirley has written extensively on topics such as French culture, language, travel, and cuisine.

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Is it safe to travel to France? The latest advice

T he French government has raised its terror alert to the highest possible level, “emergency”, following the terror attack in Moscow that left more than 135 people dead.

French prime minister Gabriel Attal said the decision was taken “in light of the Islamic State’s claiming responsibility for the [Moscow] attack and the threats weighing on our country”.

France’s terror threat system has three levels. The highest level is announced if there is a terrorist attack in France or overseas, or if an attack on French soil is considered to be imminent.

France was already on high alert for potential terrorist attacks, with the Paris Olympics and Paralympics due to take place in the capital this summer.

The updated terror alert comes just days before the UK Easter school holidays, when thousands of British holidaymakers will travel across the Channel for a getaway.

What is the Foreign Office advice for France?

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) France advice, which was last updated on February 20, reads: “There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.”

“Methods of attack have included knife attacks, shootings, bombings and vehicle attacks. Be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local French authorities,” the FCDO adds.

The FCDO lists shopping centres, entertainment establishments, cultural events, public transport and places of worship as settings where “indiscriminate” terrorism attacks could take place.

Check the France FCDO page for the latest advice.

What happened in the Moscow terror attack?

On Friday, terrorists carried out an attack at the Crocus City Hall on the outskirts of Moscow, killing at least 137 and injuring 140.

Four men, all of whom are citizens of Tajikistan, have been formally charged with committing a group terrorist attack. The attack has been claimed by the Afghanistan-based Islamic State Khorasan Province (IS-K) group.

On March 7, the United States warned its citizens in Russia that extremists had “imminent plans to target large gatherings in Moscow” and specifically mentioned concert venues. It advised Americans to avoid large gatherings.

What should I do if I get caught up in a terrorist attack?

Britain’s counter-terrorism police gives advice on what to do in the event of an emergency . This includes to run to a place of safety: “This is better than trying to surrender or negotiate.” To hide: “It is better to hide than confront. Barricade yourself in, turn your phone to silent and use only when it is safe to do so.” And to tell: “Make sure you know the local emergency numbers in the country you are travelling to. For all EU countries call 112.”

Have there been recent terrorist attacks in France?

There have been a number of terrorist attacks in France over the past decade. In January 2015, eight cartoonists, two guests and two police officers were murdered at the offices of the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo . The gunmen identified as belonging to al-Qaeda.

In November that year, in the deadliest terrorist attack in French history, 131 people were killed and 413 were injured in a series of shooting and grenade attacks at the Bataclan music venue, near the Stade de France and at several restaurants and bars across Paris. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attacks.

In July 2016, 86 people were killed and 434 injured in Nice after a 19-tonne cargo truck was driven into crowds during Bastille Day celebrations on the Promenade des Anglais in Nice. Again Islamic State claimed responsibility.

What if I want to cancel my trip to France?

If you have booked a package holiday to France and want to cancel your trip for any reason, contact your tour operator and they might offer flexibility with alternative dates. 

But bear in mind that, because the Foreign Office has not issued any advice against travel to France, there is no guarantee that you will receive a refund, nor will you be able to claim money back with your travel insurance company.

If you have booked flights and accommodation independently, and wish to cancel your holiday, contact your travel providers as soon as possible to see if you can rearrange your plans. Note, however, that given the circumstances, it is unlikely you will receive a full refund.

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