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Timing of booster to enter France

This is from a French government website: "Since 1 February 2022, people aged 18 or over who wish to enter French territory must have received a booster dose of an mRNA vaccine no later than 9 months after the last required dose to be considered fully vaccinated."

I was vaccinated in March 2021. In August 2021, I got COVID. I did not get a booster in 2021, because I was reading about a booster could not be any older than 270 days to enter the EU. So I thought I should wait. I am scheduled for the Paris and the Heart of France beginning October 7. According the the above, because I did not get a booster in December 2021, I cannot enter France? Am I interpreting this properly? Do I have to cancel my tour because of this?

Posted by
4324 posts

you should consult the French embassy and your airline, they have to deal with this all the time

Posted by
26829 posts

I am not an expert on this--and in any case, the rules could easily change long before your tour begins in October--but folks from France have explained that once you are boosted, the 9-month requirement is not an issue. It's just that, if you haven't yet had a booster, your COVID pass would no longer be valid after 9 months.

Posted by
1077 posts

I would go get the booster right now, As long as your fully vaccinate (2 x mRNA Phizer/Moderna or one J&J) plus a mRNA booster you will be fine, France's major concern is that you have all your shots. Do NOT cancel your trip! If you are still worried, call the Rick Steves office and they will help you get fully prepared for your trip.

Posted by
111 posts

I sent an email to the Rick Steve’s office. The reply was that I would be allowed to visit France regardless of when I get the booster. Thank you everyone for replying.

Posted by
3 posts

This is super helpful! I got vaccinated (2 dozes Pfizer) in May of 2021. I never got the booster but after reading the requirements for France I got the booster 3/26/22. We are traveling to France 4/13/22. From what I understand, you are good to go 7 days after your booster.

Another question .... we are traveling with our 16 year old daughter and I feel like I am reading conflicting information. Does she need a booster to be considered fully vaccinated?

Posted by
223 posts

I can confirm the 9 month rule is for unboosted travellers. I believe its either 7 or 14 days must pass after the booster shot to enter the country.