French Polynesia travel restrictions
Airlines Updates | 16.09.2020 Air Tahiti Nui in recent schedule update revised planned service resumption to New Zealand and Japan, now scheduled in the first quarter of 2021. Latest adjustment as of 15SEP20 as follows. Papeete – Auckland Service to resume on 09JAN21, 2 weekly 787-9 Additional changes remain possible. Published on 15.10.2020 10.08.2020 Air Tahiti in late-July 2020 filed additional adjustment to planned operation between July and October 2020, mainly focusing on flights in September and October 2020. Updated operation based on 02AUG20 OAG schedules listing as follows. Following destinations previously cancelled in September and October 2020 is now restored: Anaa, Apataki, Faaite, Hikueru, Makemo, Niau, Pukarua, Reao, Takapoto, Tureia, Ua Huka, Ua Pou. Following destinations remain cancelled in September and October 2020: Nukutavake, Vahitahi. For the period of 01JUL20 – 24OCT20, overall flights as of 02AUG20 stands at 4987, an increase from 4525 as of 12JUL20, 3824 as of 21JUN20. The airline originally planned 8701 flights as of 03MAY20. The following is latest operation based on schedule comparison 03MAY20 vs 02AUG20. Note the airline does not have traffic rights on selected sectors. Ahe – Manihi Reduce from 28 to 24 flights Following sectors remain cancelled for the period of 01JUL20 – 24OCT20: Published on 07.08.2020 Published on 03.08.2020 16.07.2020 Air Tahiti earlier this month published revised schedule for the remainder of Northern summer 2020 season that went into effect since 07JUL20, which sees the airline maintaining all 48 destinations in July and August (except Rarotonga in The Cook Islands, scheduled to resume in September), reversing previous decision to cancel 26 domestic destinations. Previously cancelled destinations listed below has been restored in July/August, with reduced frequencies: Following destinations remain cancelled in September/October, possible restoration remains likely: For the period of 01JUL20 – 24OCT20, the airline’s latest listing as of 12JUL20 (based on OAG schedules listing) now shows 4525 flights scheduled, an increase from previously listed 3824 as of 21JUN20. As of 03MAY20, the airline filed 8701 flights. The following is a list of planned operation with frequency listed for the entire period. These are listed on one-way due to certain routes served on circular/triangle routing basis. Ahe – Manihi Reduce from 28 to 25 flights The airline’s sole International route, Papeete – Rarotonga, tentatively scheduled to resume on 05SEP20, operating once weekly. Further changes likely. Following one-way sectors remain cancelled. Number of flights for the period of 01JUL20 – 24OCT20 listed based on schedule listing as of 03MAY20: Published on 10.07.2020 Published on 24.06.2020 Published on 19.06.2020 Published on 16.06.2020 Published on 15.06.2020 Published on 08.06.2020 Air Tahiti Nui June 2020 Paris operational routing changes |
Full Restrictions | |
Open for travel from French Polynesia | |
Crossing Rules | Entry restrictions |
Flight Restrictions | published 09.11.2020 Entry restrictions |
Quarantine | No current quarantine requirement |
Insurance | |
Certification | COVID-19 negative certification required for entering the country. |
Full Restrictions
French Polynesia Latest News: CDC recommends travelers avoid nonessential travel because of high COVID-19 risk (CDC, 17.08.2020)
International Restrictions:
*Entry rules in response to coronavirus (COVID-19): Current measures include a requirement for all travellers to undertake a test for COVID-19 within 72 hours before departure and to show proof of a negative result when embarking. Further details are available on the website of the French High Commission.
Travellers will also need to register on the French Polynesian Electronic Travel Information System (ETIS) and provide the receipt at check-in. Minors travelling with their parents can be included on their ETIS form.
If travelling from France, travellers will also need to produce an international travel certificate to be completed in order to travel to French Polynesia. Further information is available here. Airlines may refuse boarding to anyone who does not produce both proof of a negative result and the self-certified document. If travelling via France, you should also the entry on France. Further details are available on the website of the French High Commission. These entry requirements are subject to change. For further information on the entry restrictions in place for French Overseas Territories, please see the French government’s website before travelling.
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in French Polynesia: The French government has outlined measures to stem the spread of coronavirus. Local measures are also in place in French Polynesia . For further information on local restrictions in French Polynesia, please see the French government’s website and the French High Commission’s website.
French Polynesia CDC recommends travelers avoid nonessential travel because of high COVID-19 risk (CDC, 17.08.2020)
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International restrictions:
Only travellers who can prove that entry is for urgent family/work reasons will be allowed to enter, and they will be expected to fill in a travel certificate (available here [https://www.interieur.gouv.fr/Actualites/L-actu-du-Ministere/Attestation-de-deplacement-et-de-voyage]) and provide proof. All travellers will need to undertake a test for COVID-19 within 72 hours before departure and will need to show proof of a negative result when embarking. Travellers must also provide a self -certified document affirming that they have no COVID symptoms and that to their knowledge they have not been in contact with any person confirmed positive within the last 14 days. Airlines will refuse boarding to anyone who does not produce both proof of a negative result and the self-certified document. Travellers will also need to register on the Polynesian Electronic Travel Information System (ETIS) and provide the receipt at check-in. Minors travelling with their parents can be included on their ETIS form. If you’re eligible to enter French Polynesia, you will need to self-isolate for seven days after arrival. Further details are available on the website [http://www.polynesie-francaise.pref.gouv.fr/Dossiers/Arrivee-en-Polynesie-francaise-a-compter-du-15-juillet] of the local prefecture.
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Relaxation of restrictions:
The French Government outlined new measures on 16 March 2020 to stem the spread of coronavirus, which also apply to the French Overseas Territories. This included confining people to their homes except for outings for specific purposes effective from midday 17 March 2020. The local Prefecture website will have details of any further local restriction.
To travel around in or transit through a French Overseas Territory, you must complete an Attestation de déplacement dérogatoire [https://www.interieur.gouv.fr/Actualites/L-actu-du-Ministere/Attestation-de-deplacement-et-de-voyage] to certify your reason for travel. You can carry a physical copy or an electronic version of this “attestation” (declaration). This declaration should be completed before starting your journey. More information is available on the Ministry of Interior website [https://www.interieur.gouv.fr/Actualites/L-actu-du-Ministere/Attestation-de-deplacement-et-de-voyage].a
French Polynesia *****
International restrictions:
French Polynesia has suspended entry of non-resident travelers to French Polynesia. All passengers arriving on an international flight will be required to self-quarantine at home or in other housing accommodation on that island for 14 days. Travel to other islands will be granted only after the 14-day period.
On 8 April 2020, French authorities introduced a requirement to complete a travel certificate [https://www.interieur.gouv.fr/Actualites/L-actu-du-Ministere/Attestation-de-deplacement-et-de-voyage] to enter the Overseas Territories. This travel certificate should be completed before departing for France Overseas Territories, in order to be shown to French border authorities on entry and, where appropriate, transportation companies prior to boarding.
In addition to the entry certificate above, when travelling around in or transiting through a French Overseas Territory, you must also complete an Attestation de déplacement dérogatoire [https://www.interieur.gouv.fr/Actualites/L-actu-du-Ministere/Attestation-de-deplacement-et-de-voyage] to certify your reason for travel.
*****
Relaxation of restrictions:
The French Government outlined new measures on 16 March 2020 to stem the spread of coronavirus, which also apply to the French Overseas Territories. This included confining people to their homes except for outings for specific purposes effective from midday 17 March 2020. The local Prefecture website will have details of any further local restriction.
To travel around in or transit through a French Overseas Territory, you must complete an Attestation de déplacement dérogatoire [https://www.interieur.gouv.fr/Actualites/L-actu-du-Ministere/Attestation-de-deplacement-et-de-voyage] to certify your reason for travel. You can carry a physical copy or an electronic version of this “attestation” (declaration). This declaration should be completed before starting your journey. More information is available on the Ministry of Interior website [https://www.interieur.gouv.fr/Actualites/L-actu-du-Ministere/Attestation-de-deplacement-et-de-voyage].a
French Polynesia *****
International restrictions:
French Polynesia has suspended entry of non-resident travelers to French Polynesia. All passengers arriving on an international flight will be required to self-quarantine at home or in other housing accommodation on that island for 14 days. Travel to other islands will be granted only after the 14-day period.
On 8 April 2020, French authorities introduced a requirement to complete a travel certificate [https://www.interieur.gouv.fr/Actualites/L-actu-du-Ministere/Attestation-de-deplacement-et-de-voyage] to enter the Overseas Territories. This travel certificate should be completed before departing for France Overseas Territories, in order to be shown to French border authorities on entry and, where appropriate, transportation companies prior to boarding.
In addition to the entry certificate above, when travelling around in or transiting through a French Overseas Territory, you must also complete an Attestation de déplacement dérogatoire [https://www.interieur.gouv.fr/Actualites/L-actu-du-Ministere/Attestation-de-deplacement-et-de-voyage] to certify your reason for travel.
*****
Relaxation of restrictions:
The French Government outlined new measures on 16 March 2020 to stem the spread of coronavirus, which also apply to the French Overseas Territories. This included confining people to their homes except for outings for specific purposes effective from midday 17 March 2020. The local Prefecture website will have details of any further local restriction.
To travel around in or transit through a French Overseas Territory, you must complete an Attestation de déplacement dérogatoire [https://www.interieur.gouv.fr/Actualites/L-actu-du-Ministere/Attestation-de-deplacement-et-de-voyage] to certify your reason for travel. You can carry a physical copy or an electronic version of this “attestation” (declaration). This declaration should be completed before starting your journey. More information is available on the Ministry of Interior website [https://www.interieur.gouv.fr/Actualites/L-actu-du-Ministere/Attestation-de-deplacement-et-de-voyage].
French Polynesia Government lifts seven-day mandatory quarantine for incoming travelers as tourist flights resume. (RNZ, 16.07.2020).
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International restrictions:
French Polynesia has suspended entry of non-resident travelers to French Polynesia. All passengers arriving on an international flight will be required to self-quarantine at home or in other housing accommodation on that island for 14 days. Travel to other islands will be granted only after the 14-day period.
Travelers to French Polynesia are required to present a health certificate, dated within five days of departure, certifying that the traveler is free of infection prior to boarding a flight to French Polynesia. Passengers are required to fill out a health questionnaire while on the flight to French Polynesia. On the form, travelers are required to clearly list the location on Tahiti where they will spend the 14-day self-isolation. French Polynesia has temporarily banned cruise ships from arriving in the territory.
*****
Relaxation of restrictions:
The French Government outlined new measures on 16 March 2020 to stem the spread of coronavirus, which also apply to the French Overseas Territories. This included confining people to their homes except for outings for specific purposes effective from midday 17 March 2020. The local Prefecture website will have details of any further local restriction.
To travel around in or transit through a French Overseas Territory, you must complete an Attestation de déplacement dérogatoire [https://www.interieur.gouv.fr/Actualites/L-actu-du-Ministere/Attestation-de-deplacement-et-de-voyage] to certify your reason for travel. You can carry a physical copy or an electronic version of this “attestation” (declaration). This declaration should be completed before starting your journey. More information is available on the Ministry of Interior website [https://www.interieur.gouv.fr/Actualites/L-actu-du-Ministere/Attestation-de-deplacement-et-de-voyage].
French Polynesia *****
International restrictions:
French Polynesia has suspended entry of non-resident travelers to French Polynesia. All passengers arriving on an international flight will be required to self-quarantine at home or in other housing accommodation on that island for 14 days. Travel to other islands will be granted only after the 14-day period.
Travelers to French Polynesia are required to present a health certificate, dated within five days of departure, certifying that the traveler is free of infection prior to boarding a flight to French Polynesia. Passengers are required to fill out a health questionnaire while on the flight to French Polynesia. On the form, travelers are required to clearly list the location on Tahiti where they will spend the 14-day self-isolation. French Polynesia has temporarily banned cruise ships from arriving in the territory.
*****
Relaxation of restrictions:
The French Government outlined new measures on 16 March 2020 to stem the spread of coronavirus, which also apply to the French Overseas Territories. This included confining people to their homes except for outings for specific purposes effective from midday 17 March 2020. The local Prefecture website will have details of any further local restriction.
To travel around in or transit through a French Overseas Territory, you must complete an Attestation de déplacement dérogatoire [https://www.interieur.gouv.fr/Actualites/L-actu-du-Ministere/Attestation-de-deplacement-et-de-voyage] to certify your reason for travel. You can carry a physical copy or an electronic version of this “attestation” (declaration). This declaration should be completed before starting your journey. More information is available on the Ministry of Interior website [https://www.interieur.gouv.fr/Actualites/L-actu-du-Ministere/Attestation-de-deplacement-et-de-voyage].
French Polynesia As of July 15, 2020, French Polynesia will no longer require a quarantine upon arrival for visitors, which was a major deterrent for visiting. Instead French Polynesia will require testing before travel, and will randomly test visitors during their stay:
Visitors will need to take a PCR test no more than 72 hours before departure to French Polynesia; the test results will have to be shown at check-in, and you’ll only be able to travel if the result is negative
Travelers who tested positive for COVID-19 more than three weeks prior to the departure and who have an immunity certificate proving recovery are exempt from these requirements
While there will be no testing on arrival, four days after arrival the Ministry of Health and Prevention of French Polynesia will randomly test a panel of travelers during their stay
Other restrictions French Polynesia imposes on visitors
In addition to the PCR testing, there are some other things you can expect if visiting French Polynesia:
International travel insurance is required for every non-resident visitor (credit card coverage would qualify)
Visitors will have to sign a statement of commitment to follow sanitary measures and self-diagnosis of symptoms
Visitors will have to fill in an information form regarding their stay, including itinerary, accommodation, and more
French Polynesia 1. Passengers are not allowed to enter French Polynesia. – This does not apply to passengers who reside in French Polynesia. 2. A completed International Travel Certificate must be presented prior to boarding and to Immigration upon arrival or when transiting French Polynesia. The certificate must be obtained before departure via the French consular offices abroad or online at https://www.interieur.gouv.fr. 3. Passengers must go through a medical examination upon arrival and are subject to quarantine for a period of 14 days. – This does not apply to healthcare professionals related to Coronavirus (Covid-19). – This does not apply to airline crew. 4. Airline crew for repatriation flights are subject to a medical control and will complete a declaration on honour stating they will have to respect the sanitary measures requirements of self-isolation for 14 days. – This does not apply if they are in transit and stay in the aircraft. – This does not apply if they are authorized to go back on their company flight in case there is layover for one day or one night.
International restrictions:
Non-residents are denied entry until further notice. All passengers arriving in or transiting via French Polynesia are required to present an International Travel Certificate obtained from the French consular office before departure. Travellers coming from mainland France are required to be tested negative for COVID-19 before departing for French Polynesia. Arriving passengers from international flights will be subject to a 14-day self quarantine at their residence. Following the suspension of flights by Air Tahiti Nui until further notice, as well as other suspension by Air France, French Bee, Air New Zealand and United Airlines, commercial air routes out of Tahiti will not be viable until suspensions are lifted. All travellers who have been in Cambodia, mainland China, Hong Kong (SAR China), India, Iran, Italy (Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy and Veneto regions), Japan, Macao (SAR China), Malaysia, Nepal, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand or Vietnam must have a medical certificate.
The medical certificate must be dated from a maximum five days prior to their arrival and must describe the passenger’s health condition.
Relaxation of restrictions:
Lockdown measures have been lifted, although a ban on the sale of alcohol from Friday to Sunday remains in force. Domestic flights have resumed. Inter-island travel is banned except for journeys between Tahiti and Moorea. Ferry passengers between Tahiti and Moorea must show they are using the ferry either for work, health issues or an urgent family matter.