• MMC

According to the recommendations of the European Council, the list of third countries whose residents are not limited by the borders of the European Union (EU) has been confirmed by France. As of July 7, the following countries are on the list: Algeria, Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, Montenegro, Morocco, New Zealand, Rwanda, Serbia, Korea from the South, Thailand, Tunisia, Uruguay and China, subject to reciprocity.

The Council of the European Union has recommended exceptions for certain categories of people, in particular in the event of economic need and if the candidate's work cannot be postponed or if it is carried out by highly qualified third-country nationals.

However, EU Member States and third countries associated with the Schengen area (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland) still have the responsibility to enforce the restrictions. Consequently, the press reports that some countries will impose quarantine restrictions on travelers outside the Schengen area, or that they will only open borders to part of the countries on the European list. This difference could lead in the short term to the introduction of new immigration controls in the Schengen area.

France has confirmed that even if the country of origin is not on the published list, foreigners can still apply for an entry visa for study purposes. Qualified third country nationals seem to do the same (see Talent Passport - European Blue Card).

On the other hand, certain employers received letters of "rejection" relating to the obligation of work permit within the framework of the procedure for the introduction of employees (document verified by DIRECCTE in France then sent to the French consulate to issue a visa ). It is not a refusal. Companies are invited to re-apply for the work permit when health conditions allow.