France Borders now Open for International Students

by Ragini Sharma Study Abroad Consultant

In view of the favorable conditions of the health situation in France and other countries of Europe as well as in accordance with the advice of the European Commission, France will withdraw all restrictions on movement at its internal European borders on the morning of June 15th which was put in place to fight the Covid-19 pandemic.

The European Commission recommended that from June 15th all EU and Schengen Zone countries should withdraw their internal border restrictions for travel for European peoples, although the final decision will be in the hands of individual countries.

With other top study abroad destinations still delaying at the decision of end of the lockdown, stakeholders in France say this is an important signal to international students, as to how France is so dedicated towards its international students. The international students will be allowed to travel to France, whatever their home country is, the arrangements for their reception will be easy and smooth.

The spokesperson of Campus France, Florent Bonaventure said that the government of French is following its ambition to welcome more and more international students study in France. Giving them priority shows its commitment to the strategy of welcoming in France. It recognizes their important contribution to the excellence of universities and research.

Visa services

France is among the EU countries that the European Commission has recommended reopening to international visitors as of 1^st July, advising that processing of France Student Visa and arrangements for incoming international students should be looked after as a priority. Many European nations have resumed their services of visa issuance to popular international student's markets over the last few weeks. Along with Portugal, Denmark and Norway.

Although travelling of people was restricted by France from April, but like some other European countries, France did not totally close its borders. People travelling from Europe were allowed to enter the country only for essential reasons and had to produce an international travel permit to the authorities at the border.

Health and Safety Measure

After lifting up the restrictions, the only restriction which will remain in place for some of the travellers is a quarantine recommendation. Most countries of Europe are against it, but Spain and the UK have imposed quarantines on international arrivals for 14 days, and France has said that it will also quarantine the people coming from these countries on the principle of reciprocity. However, there will be voluntary quarantine in France which means there will be no forcing or fine handed out, people on arrival will be "invited" to be in observation for a 14 days period of self-isolation.
For travellers coming from outside the EU, UK or the Schengen Zone, restrictions remain in place, at least for some time.
The European Commission proposes a gradual reopening of external borders from 1st July, but only for specific countries with the health situation in the country being the main criteria.
Once you have entered into France, you must follow some strict lockdown rules. However, some rules such as the 100km travel limit, have now been relaxed but there are still some rules that you need to be aware of.

Here are the few lockdown rules that you will need to obey in France:

No public gatherings of more than 10 people.
Wearing Masks is compulsory in all the public transport, in many shops and public buildings.
Not getting closer to anyone less than 1m.
You should not travel from outside of Europe for any non-essential reasons.
Workplaces in France have been gradually opened since May 11^th, but at present, the government asks to work from home as much as possible.
Even though a lot of venues are reopening in France but not all have been given the permission just yet, with cinemas set to reopen on 22^nd of June.
You are not allowed to play any rugby or football matches or concerts
Make sure to follow the changed traffic rules as local authorities have declared many streets off-limits to cars.

It is obviously good news for international students who want to pursue their studies in France and build their career. But we also advise you to take care of your health along with pursuing your education as there is still a risk of this epidemic disease.

Hope this was helpful. Stay connected to know more about higher education abroad.