France’s Covid-19 ‘health pass’: Where it is mandatory and what will change on August 9
France has made it obligatory to show a passe sanitaire (health pass) – proving that you are vaccinated or have tested negative for Covid-19 – for access to public venues for more than 50 people since July 21. On August 9 the health pass requirement will be extended to a range of new settings, including long-distance transport, restaurants and cafés – even France’s famed outdoor terraces.
The controversial extension of the health pass that will come into force on August 9 has already sparked protests, but the government is determined to press ahead and make the pass a key part of the fight against Covid-19. The Constitutional Council, France's highest legal authority, will rule on the new legislation August 5. But the government is moving forward with its plans on the assumption that it will be approved and has said it will allow for a one-week adjustment period as businesses bring themselves into line with the new rules.
Any of the following documents can be used as a health pass in France:
Proof of having completed a vaccination programme (two doses of an EU-approved vaccine: Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca or Johnson & Johnson)
A negative PCR or antigen test taken within the last 48 hours
A Covid-19 recovery certificate that is less than six months old
Anyone who enters an establishment without showing a valid pass can be fined €135 for a first offence.
Where a health pass is required
From July 21: Cultural and leisure venues of more than 50 people
Cinemas
Libraries
Nightclubs, discos and bars with dancing
Gaming rooms, casinos
Museums
Zoos, amusement parks, circuses
Swimming pools and sports centres
Theatres
Concerts and festivals
Indoor sports facilities
Cruise ships, ferries
Hotels, holiday resorts and camping sites with swimming pools, playgrounds or other entertainment facilities
>> Covid-19 'health pass' comes into force for access to French cultural venues
From August 9
Cafés and restaurants, including outdoor terraces
Fairs, trade shows and conferences
Care homes and retirement homes
Long-distance transport (airplanes, intercity trains, TGV, overnight trains, long-distance buses)
Medical establishments (with the exception of emergency rooms)
Hotels, holiday resorts and full-service camp sites (with the exception of camp sites that only offer accommodation, lodges and guest rooms)
Source: https://uk.news.yahoo.com/france-covid-19-health-pass-090640024.html?guccounter=1
