The suspension of free Covid-19 screening tests was announced by President Emmanuel Macron in July and confirmed by Prime Minister Jean Castex last week. Prime Minister Castex said the purpose of this measure is to reimburse tests for medical reasons and continue to encourage people to get vaccinated against Covid-19.
As of October 15, the PCR test fee is 44 euros for adults who have not been vaccinated against Covid-19 and do not have a doctor's prescription. If performed in a laboratory, the antigen test fee will be 22 euros, while the direct test in pharmacies is 25 euros, in addition, the price will increase to 30 euros if performed on Sundays.
Since the beginning of July, foreigners coming to France, except for medical reasons, have had to pay for Covid-19 testing, at 43.89 euros for PCR testing and 25 euros for antigen testing. (Photo: Internet)
However, according to the French Ministry of Health, there are some exceptions where testing is free, for example people who have just turned 18 and are still in high school.
Additionally, all unvaccinated adults with symptoms of COVID-19 can be tested free of charge with a doctor’s prescription less than 48 hours old. Email orders after remote consultations will also be accepted. Furthermore, the free policy also applies to patients who need testing for surgery.
Those who have been vaccinated against Covid-19 will be exempt from testing fees. Patients with a certificate of contraindication to the vaccine must present this to the specialist performing the test to enjoy the regime. For cases with symptoms or preparing for surgery, a vaccination certificate must be presented if they want to be exempt from the fee.
