France Covid checklist: Isolation, mask-wearing and other new rules

Home quarantine for 10 days now obligatory with positive test

People who test positive are now obliged to quarantine at home for 10 days – previously, this was only recommended. The Assurance Maladie and will make checks and alert prefects of suspicious cases. Those breaking the rule face a fine of up to €1,500. People who are self-isolating can only leave their homes between 10:00 and 12:00 and in emergencies.

Changes for those vaccinated who have been in contact with positive case

People who are fully vaccinated and are flagged as having been in contact with someone who tests positive for Covid no longer face an obligatory self-isolation period. They must take a test after they have been alerted and, if negative, there is no need to quarantine. If it is positive, they will be obliged to quarantine for 10 days, as in the point above.

France-approved vaccines opens up international arrivals

People who are fully vaccinated with one of the vaccines approved by France – now including Covishield – can travel to France from anywhere in the world without an essential reason or a Covid test. This includes people in red or amber countries, such as India, South Africa and Brazil, who can now enter France with only proof of vaccination and a completed sworn statement that they have no Covid-related symptoms and have not been in contact with confirmed cases in the preceding fortnight.

Local prefects can enforce mask-wearing rules

Obligatory mask-wearing has been removed in public places where people must use a health pass to enter. However, local prefects, as well as managers on specific sites, will have the right to enforce their own rules on this if they think it necessary. The new rules will also only apply to visitors – staff who work in these places will continue to have to wear masks.

No scan, no punishment

There will be no punishment for people who fail to scan in a QR code at restaurants after MPs voted against a proposal for sanctions of up to a year in prison and a €15,000 fine.

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