France: Negative Covid-19 test and isolation period required for those travelling from UK
15:05, 17 January 2021
updated: 14:52, 18 January 2021
People travelling from the UK to France will need a negative Covid-19 test in order to enter the country from tomorrow.
They will also be required to isolate for seven days upon arrival, before taking a second test at the end of the quarantine period.
The new rules, which come into effect at 4am tomorrow, mean anyone travelling to France from outside the EU must present a negative PCR test from within 72 hours, before they will be able to leave their country.
It will affect all modes of transport, including those travelling by ferry from the Port of Dover, and those taking a Eurostar train from elsewhere in Kent.
Only PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests will be accepted.
The Department for Transport has confirmed rules for lorry drivers entering France remain unchanged. They will not be required to take PCR tests.
Under current Covid-19 guidelines, overseas travel is only permitted for essential reasons, such as for work.
The new rules for travel to France come after the British government announced all UK travel corridors will close from 4am on Monday.
This means anyone arriving in the UK from abroad will need to self-isolate for 10 days, or receive a negative result from a coronavirus test taken at least five days after they enter the country.
Anyone flying into the country from overseas will also have to show proof of a negative Covid test before setting off.
Chaos on roads leading to the Port of Dover
as it was announced drivers must test negative for Covid before leaving the country
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