French borders to reopen gradually for international students from July 1st

In a common press release published on Friday 12 June 2020, the French minister for Europe and foreign affairs and the minister for internal affairs announced the gradual reopening of borders.

15 June 2020: opening of European internal borders

Since 15 June 2020, France lifted all restrictions on movement at its European internal borders. This is for all people arriving from the European Space (European Union Member States as well as Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland and the Vatican) to enter the French territory.

Please note that in reciprocation, restrictions will continue to apply at the borders with Spain and the United Kingdom.

• Spain: Spain has chosen to maintain travel restrictions until 21 June. Until that date, air passengers coming from Spain will be subject to a 14-day quarantine upon their arrival in France.
   
• United Kingdom: On 15 June, travellers arriving from the United Kingdom will be asked to observe a 14-day quarantine upon their arrival. However, restrictions for entering national territory are now lifted.

From July 1st 2020: gradual reopening of Schengen Area external borders

France will progressively start to open its Schengen Area external borders from July 1st, 2020. Given the importance of the attractiveness of French higher education, international students will be allowed to travel to France, regardless of their countries of origin, and visa procedures will be facilitated. Visa and resident permit applications will be processed as a priority.

International students will be able to come regardless of their country of origin or residence permit, and also for short stays provided they can prove their status (registration in an institution before arrival). The exact implementation conditions are still being defined.