30 Km Rule: A Step Forward, but Not Enough

The Prince's Government takes note of the relaxation of health checks at the border, as announced by the Prefect of the Alpes-Maritimes, but deems it insufficient.

In a communication published on Saturday 13 February, the French authorities announced that they have decided "by derogation to the current regulations concerning international travel, and as long as the health situation so allows, persons residing in Monaco are exempted from the obligation to provide proof of a PCR test when entering French territory for travel of less than 24 hours within the limits of the Department of the Alpes-Maritimes."

This 24-hour period is deemed insufficient by the Monegasque authorities, as it does not meet the practical needs of Monegasque residents who, with the approach of a school holiday period, find themselves hindered in their movements in the neighbouring area, a cross-border living area of Monaco.pénaliser

This decision is in contradiction with the Franco-Monegasque convention, which guarantees the free movement of nationals of both countries on both sides of the border.  Furthermore, it hampers the 9,000 French nationals residing in the Principality, who have only limited access to their country of origin.  Finally, in its spirit, this measure does not take into account the geographical enclosure of the Principality in French territory, whereas during previous measures to restrict movement taken by the French authorities last spring (movements limited to 100 km), this was taken into account by regarding residents of the Principality in the same way as residents of the Alpes-Maritimes.

The Monegasque authorities will therefore pursue the dialogue with France to have this 24-hour limit lifted.

Meanwhile, the Prince's Government announces that it will apply strict reciprocity of the French provisions.  In practical terms,

•            Anyone entering Monaco from France must provide proof of a negative PCR test taken within the past 72 hours, as well as a certificate of non-contagiousness.  The following are exempted from this provision:  commuters, schoolchildren and students, as well as residents of the Alpes-Maritimes entering the Principality for less than 24 hours.

•            Anyone staying in a hotel in the Principality, whatever their country of origin and length of stay, must provide proof of a negative PCR taken within the past 72 hours, as well as a certificate of non-contagiousness. 

These measures will enter into force on Monday 15 February.  Increased checks will take place at the Principality's borders.

Although the Principality already has one of the highest testing rates in Europe, in anticipation of this school holiday period, and in order to meet growing demand, notably due to French provisions, the Prince's Government is increasing its capacity to carry out PCR testing from Wednesday 17 February.  This increased testing will also be effective after the holidays to enable the maximum number of people be tested on their return from holiday.  Those wishing to be tested are reminded that it is essential to make an appointment for testing by contacting the COVID-19 call centre on 92.05.55.00.