Jersey’s ‘vaccine passports’ not currently recognised in France

Friday 30 July 2021

Jersey travellers are facing difficulties entering venues in France because the island’s vaccination certificate is not currently compatible with that country’s ‘health pass.'

President Emmanuel Macron announced earlier this month that people wanting to visit hospitality venues, shops and use public transport would need to use an app from 9 August to prove that they were either fully vaccinated or had recently tested negative for covid.

However, a QR code is needed to prove vaccination status – something Jersey’s vaccination certificates do not contain.

Jersey’s Government says it is working to resolve this as soon as possible.

A spokesperson said: “We are aware of the potential difficulties facing Jersey-vaccinated individuals, who are travelling in France, regarding the new requirements being introduced to enable access to public venues. 

“Jersey officials are engaging with French counterparts, via the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, to clarify the position as soon as possible.

“We are making every effort to ensure parity between Jersey and other parts of the Common Travel Area for those visiting France, but changes may have impacts for some weeks to come.”

They added: “Those travelling are reminded to check the requirements of their destination prior to travelling and update themselves on the current guidance within that country while visiting.”

Some Jersey travellers currently in France have sought assurances from venue owners in advance as to whether they will accept the paper version – but not all have suggested they will.

The ‘Health Pass’ has drummed up a lot of controversy in France.

One Saint Malo restaurant owner recently said he had packed a bag ready for prison and set aside €45,000 to pay a fine because he would not be forcing his clients to offer proof of health status to enter.

France has also made the covid jab mandatory for health workers and the Health Minister has now unveiled a plan to send pupils who have not been vaccinated home from school in the event of a covid-19 outbreak, while allowing vaccinated pupils to stay. The country has authorised vaccinations for children aged 12 to 17, while this has not yet received approval from the UK's Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), which Jersey follows.