Covid PCR or antigen test in Paris

At almost any pharmacy, for free.

Thank you.

Yes, thank you as I will need a test on my way back to the US.

Most, not all, pharmacies will be able to give you an Antigen test but if you have a phone, it will be easier to download the Dotorlib app and follow the instructions for booking a test.

You will need written test results at the airline checkin counter for your flight home.

Thank you.

Just about any pharmacy, there is no need to book ahead. Just keep your eyes open in the area around your hotel or lodging in the days after you arrive (or ask the front desk to help).

Lots of pharmacies have tents outside marked COVID TEST HERE, so they are easy to find.

The part that takes the longest is to fill out the form with your bio info and why you need the test. I stopped by the tent the day before I was going to take the test so I could fill out the paper at home and bring it with me the morning of.

They will give you your results (printed) in 15 minutes.

I don't know about cost. It's free for people in the French health system, but there may be a charge for visitors. I'll ask at my pharmacy next week what they do.

Kim, good tip to get the paperwork ahead of time.

Susan - there was news about a month ago that the French Health Minister had stated that Covid testing would be free for tourists that needed it to get home, although I can't find it online.

Hi, I had missed this since I was back home in the States at the time, but indeed, the Europe minister said in mid-May that France would make tests free for visitors.

I don't know how this will work or if it has been implemented yet, but will check next week.

Here's an article quoting the minister.

https://www.ouest-france.fr/sante/virus/coronavirus/covid-19-les-tests-pcr-seront-gratuits-pour-les-touristes-en-france-cet-ete-7263013

is that inbound tests or outbound, Kim?

Inbound, testing is done in the US for Americans and Canada for Canadians, Nigel, They don't need to retest upon arrival. Hover last fall, I did see lines of people from countries that didn't have access to testing waiting to be tested upon arrival.

Outbound, they are done in France. And they are free for everyone.

Just for testing in Paris. It sounds as though there will be numerous options of where to test and that makes me feel better. Thank you all so much .

Ok, so it is free to tourists as I thought? Thank you skunk, Kim and Bets. I will edit my first and 2nd post, again… lol.

We will get it figured out !!