France Imposes Tight Travel Ban on UK Over New Covid Variant
France slammed the brakes on UK travel amid fears over the new Covid variant VUI-2020-12-01. From midnight on Sunday, 20 December, all movement of people and road transport from the UK to France was suspended for 48 hours. The move echoed across Europe, with many countries halting travel to combat the rapidly spreading strain.
Partial Travel Restart with Strict Tests
After talks between the EU and UK, the border partially reopened from midnight on 22 December. Only a select few can travel to France:
- French citizens and EU nationals, plus their partners and children
- UK and third-country nationals living in France, the EU, or those on essential trips
Travelers must present a negative Covid test taken within 72 hours before departure. This includes all children aged 11 and over.
“All travellers must show labs test proof to airlines, ferries or train companies,” officials confirmed. Border staff will rigorously check.
Types of Tests Allowed and Exemptions
While PCR tests are preferred, certain antigen tests sensitive to the new variant will also be accepted. The French Ministry for Solidarity and Health plans to publish an official list.
Exempt groups allowed entry despite the ban include:
- Holder of French or EU residence permits or long-stay visas
- Transit passengers staying less than 24 hours
- Diplomats, international organisation staff, and their families
- Foreign health workers battling Covid-19
- Crew members of flights, cargo, commercial vessels and trains
- International goods transporters
- Students and researchers with valid visas or official invitations
- Other specific cases like holders of “talent passport” visas and business travellers
When Will Normal Travel Resume?
French officials say current arrangements will last at least until 6 January. Any changes will depend on further bilateral or European discussions and ongoing risk assessments.
Details on goods traffic resumption will be unveiled soon. For now, cross-Channel travellers face strict new rules to guard against the dreaded variant.
