close
COVID: Why are travel rules for France different from other amber list countries?
August 2021 | Reading time: 3 minutes
Table of Contents
Fully vaccinated travellers and under 18s returning to the UK from amber list countries no longer need to self-isolate except when returning from France.
Update: From 8 August, the ‘quarantine exemption for fully vaccinated and under-18s’ rule will apply to France along with all other amber list countries.
Since the government’s travel updates on 19 July, people who have received both COVID-19 jabs in the UK from the NHS as well as under 18 travellers are exempt from quarantine requirements when returning from a visit to amber list countries.
Furthermore, they are no longer obligated to take Day 8 PCR tests either. Only pre-travel PCR tests and Day 2 PCR tests still apply.
The rule for fully vaccinated returnees from amber list countries was expanded to include travellers who have received their COVID-19 shots from the US and most EU countries from 2 August.
However, despite being on the UK’s amber list, France does not qualify for the ‘fully vaccinated travellers’ exemptions. Everyone returning from France must quarantine for ten days and undergo Day 2 and Day 8 PCR tests regardless of vaccination status.
‘Persistent’ Beta variant cases
The chief concern behind the government’s easing of rules for fully vaccinated travellers not applying to France is the rise in Beta variant cases.
Experts worry that the COVID-19 vaccines are not quite so effective against the Beta variant.
According to the Health Secretary, Sajid Javid: ‘We have always been clear that we will not hesitate to take rapid action at our borders to stop the spread of Covid-19 and protect the gains made by our successful vaccination programme.
With restrictions lifting on Monday across the country, we will do everything we can to ensure international travel is conducted as safely as possible and protect our borders from the threat of variants.’
The Beta variant, which was first encountered in South Africa, is now responsible for 10% of the new COVID-19 infections in France. This statistic includes the French territories on the Indian Ocean – Reunion and Mayotte. The Beta variant is behind almost all new cases of COVID-19 in the two islands.
Travelling to France
Meanwhile, the French authorities have increased restrictions for UK visitors who are not fully vaccinated. Travellers must produce a negative PCR test taken within 24 hours of arrival as opposed to the previously imposed 48-hour time window.
However, UK travellers who have been fully vaccinated with shots from AstraZeneca, Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna or Janssen will not have to provide a negative PCR test on arrival in France.
The decidedly more infectious Delta variant now accounts for most of the new COVID-19 infections in the UK. The Delta variant was first identified in India.
Visit VIVO Clinic’s foreign travel portal for the latest information and entry requirements of countries worldwide.
Related Articles
Ultrasound Cavitation Belfast
Looking to get rid of stubborn fat? Our Ultrasound Cavitation treatment may be the ticket to your perfect body, and...
My Top Anti-Ageing Secrets: Look Younger for Longer
Intro: Why Anti-Ageing MattersLet's be real, we all want to look and feel our best as we age, right? While...
The 5 Weirdest Fat Reduction Methods from History
Throughout history, humans have concocted some truly bizarre methods in their quest to shed unwanted pounds. From the peculiar to...
The Ultimate Guide to Shedding Those Stubborn Pounds
Introduction: Embrace a Healthier LifestyleLosing weight can be a daunting task, but with the right mindset and approach, it's achievable....
Unlock Your Glow: The Ultimate Guide to Radiant Skin
The Importance of Skin CareHey, gorgeous! In this fast-paced world, it's easy to overlook the importance of proper skin care....
Do Smoothies Really Help with Weight Loss?
Nowadays, smoothies are all the rage. You can find them in stores, at the gym, at beauty salons, and in...
Unlock Your Best Life: Simple Health Hacks for Everyday Wellness
Start Your Day RightMornings can set the tone for the entire day, so why not kick things off on a...
Embrace the Lifestyle You Deserve: Tips for Living Your Best Life
Define Your PrioritiesThe first step to embracing a lifestyle you love is to define your priorities. What truly matters to...
BOTOX – Myth Vs Fact
We separate the myth from the fact while exploring the truth about Botox, its use, and the potential risks. As...
Technology: Enhancing Our Lives, One Innovation at a Time
The Unstoppable Force of TechnologyIn our ever-evolving world, technology has become an unstoppable force, revolutionizing every aspect of our lives....
Kitchen Gadgets to Aid Healthy Eating
Eating healthy can sometimes feel like a burden. It can be time-consuming and may not taste as good as faster,...
Dermal Filler Aftercare
This dermal filler aftercare advice is provided so that you know what to expect following your treatment at VIVO Body...Fill out the form below or click here to arrange a callback at a specific time.
Quick Contact
"*" indicates required fields
Happy Customers
1,843 Reviews and Counting
Mobina carried out this treatment and she is v knowledgable, professional and attentive throughout. I’ve got my next appointment booked & can’t wait to see the results after that session.
I would highly recommend this treatment and Mobina.