The French Tourism Minister, Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne, has announced there will be a relaxation on travel restrictions for some countries outside of the European Union (EU).
Tourists arriving from Australia, South Korea, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Britain, and Singapore will now no longer have to provide a ‘compelling reason’ to enter the country. Mr Lemoyne stated that “the decision to ease restrictions was taken because of the improving health situation in the seven countries.”
The news has been welcomed by British tourists who intend on visiting France for a holiday in the near future. Although, arrivals to France will still need to provide evidence of a negative Covid-19 test, taken up to 72 hours before their departure.
It’s important to remember the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) still advises against travel and UK remains under a travel ban. This means that British citizens are not allowed to travel outside of the country without a legally permitted reason to do so. And those who are caught travelling against the government’s advice, without a valid reason, run the risk of not being covered by their travel insurer should they need emergency medical attention while abroad, or if they need to submit a claim.
Additionally, anyone leaving the UK must now also complete a Declaration to Travel form, detailing their reason for travel. The travel form will be checked by transport providers before travel and anyone found without a form could be fined up to £200.
It comes as no surprise that most travel insurers also won’t cover any lost costs incurred as a result of being turned away by an airline, train, or ferry company if they do not deem the reason for travel as essential.
For more information on what the government defines as ‘essential’ travel, click here.
