Brexit: The food items British travellers can no longer take into the EU

The Union Jack and EU flags.

Due to Brexit and Covid restrictions, Brits may be confused about the new rules for travelling to the European Union (EU).

As the UK has left the EU, holidaymakers are now subject to travel restrictions like the rest of the world. Plus, Covid rules can also be difficult to keep up with , as the rules vary by country and can be subject to change.

Therefore, it’s important to be clued up with all the rules that British people need to follow when travelling to EU countries.

One set of rules to be aware of are those around importing food, particularly meat and dairy products.

To avoid getting caught out at the airport, find out everything you need to know about the EU’s rules on food imports below.

Which foods can’t you take into the EU?

Brits can’t take any meat or products containing meat, nor milk or dairy into the EU.

People travelling from the UK also can’t take any fresh fruit (apart from bananas, coconuts, dates, pineapples, and durians), vegetables, plants, or plant products into the EU unless they pay to have them inspected and get a ‘phytosanitary certificate’ before they leave.

There are various exceptions to these rules. Travellers will be allowed to take powdered infant milk and infant food, plus “special food for the dietary management of a diagnosed disease, disorder or medical condition” or pet food required for medical reasons, according to the government website.

However, these exceptions must also weigh less than 2 kilograms, not need to be refrigerated before opening, are packaged proprietary brand products, and the packaging is unbroken unless it is in current use.

People from non-EU countries can take up to 20 kilograms of fish products, like fish and certain shellfish, into the EU.

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Travellers can also take up to 2 kilograms of animal products like honey, live oysters, live mussels, and snails.

Where to eat food from every EU member state after Brexit

travel france to uk food restrictions

Why can’t we take meat and dairy into the EU?

The European Commission explains the rules on its website: “Personal goods containing meat, milk or their products brought into the EU continue to present a real threat to animal health throughout the Union.

“It is known, for example, that dangerous pathogens that cause animal diseases such as Foot and Mouth Disease and classical swine fever can reside in meat, milk or their products.

“Therefore, pathogens could be introduced into the EU if personal goods containing meat, milk or their products are sent by post or carried in the baggage of travellers arriving from countries outside the EU, where such pathogens may be circulating.”

The European Commission put these restrictions in place following the 2001 Foot and Mouth epidemic.

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Brexit: travel rules between the UK and France

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Reading time: 0 min Published on 11 January 2023

On 1 January 2021 Brexit came into effect, re-establishing the borders between the UK and France. Here's the information you need to know before planning trips between the two countries.

Please consult our dedicated Covid-19 article for the latest updates on travel between the UK and France.

Following a transition period, Brexit came into effect on 1 January 2021 and the UK left the European Union. Free movement no longer applies between the UK and France, and migration controls have been re-established to and from the UK.

Travel arrangements

For British travellers to France:

Since 1 January 2021, British nationals have been subject to more in-depth checks when travelling. They are encouraged to allow additional time for border control and use the queue labelled 'Ressortissant de pays tiers' rather than 'EU / EEA / CH'.

British nationals who are not resident in an EU Member State and who wish to travel to France for a short stay (a maximum of 90 days in a 180-day period), or who are in transit to another Member State or to the Schengen area, do not require a visa.

Travellers need to:

  • present their passport with at least six months' validity, which will be stamped upon entering and leaving the Schengen area. The maximum duration of a short stay cannot exceed 90 days within a period of 180 days;
  • be able to prove that they have sufficient funds to meet their needs during their stay. With some exceptions, the minimum required in France is calculated as 65 euros per day. Examples of proof include cash or a bank statement;
  • obtain travel insurance covering all medical, hospital and death expenses that could be incurred during their stay in France, including repatriation costs for medical reasons. Current EHIC cards will still be valid until their expiry date.

The supporting documents used to verify compliance with the entry conditions are listed in Annex I of the Schengen Borders Code, accessible here .

Further information on travel arrangements for British nationals to France is available on the French government website here and the UK government website here .

For international tourists wishing to visit both France and the UK on the same trip:

EU, EEA and Swiss citizens can travel to the UK visa-free for holidays or short stays. A passport valid for the duration of the stay is required to enter UK territory. Until 1 October 2021, it is also possible to travel with a valid national ID card.

For nationals from outside the EU, a visa may be required to stay in the UK. Further information is available on the UK government website here .

Travellers from the UK to France are subject to customs control to comply with deductibles for purchases made in the UK, in quantity for alcohol and tobacco, and in value for other goods. The level of these exemptions is specified on the French Directorate General of Customs and Excise website here .

Purchases made in France may be eligible for tax relief - check here . PABLO machines, which automate this process, are available in ports, airports and train stations serving the UK.

Further information on customs procedures for UK travellers to France is available on the French government website here and the UK government website here .

Download the Brexit guide for travellers (French only)

Driving licences

British nationals travelling to France for a short stay can drive under their UK driving licence. An international driving licence is not required.

Travelling with pets

It is no longer possible to enter an EU territory with a European pet passport issued in the UK. British nationals travelling to France with dogs or cats must comply with the following health conditions defined by the regulation of 12 June 2013: - ensure that pets are identifiable by way of a microchip or clearly legible tattoo made before 3 July 2011; - ensure that pets have been vaccinated against rabies and that the vaccine is still valid; - ensure that each pet has a health certificate issued by a registered UK vet. The certificate must be accompanied by proof of vaccination against rabies as well as a document attesting to the pet's ID. Certificates are valid for a period of 10 days from the date of issue and must be presented during border checks during this period. They remain valid in EU territories and Northern Ireland for a period of four months.

EU or Northern Irish nationals returning from a temporary stay in the UK and transporting dogs or cats to France must be in possession of a European pet passport. The passport must certify a valid anti-rabies vaccination and must be presented at border control.

On arrival in France, travellers with pets will need to enter through a designated travellers’ point of entry (TPE).

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UK Customs - What Foods Can You Bring Into the UK?

travel france to uk food restrictions

The withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union (a move known as "Brexit") formally occurred on January 31, 2020. Following that departure is a transition period lasting until December 31, 2020, during which the U.K. and E.U. will negotiate the terms of their future relationship. This article has been updated as of the January 31st withdrawal, and you can find up-to-date information about details of the transition on the U.K.'s government website .

When it comes to food and agricultural products, what you can - or cannot - bring into the UK, isn't a mystery anymore.

Duty free allowances  for bringing gifts of alcohol, cigarettes and perfumes are widely publicized. But what about food products, agricultural produce, plant materials? They often fall into a grey area of difficult to understand regulations. Judging from the number of UK customs questions we get from readers - especially as holidays approach and people want to bring gifts to friends and family - there's still a lot of confusion about it.

But thankfully, that should all change now that the UK government has published quite a lot of information and clarification online. Best of all, they've also published an online tool that you can very easily search.

The UK government's web page, Bringing food, animals or plants into the UK ,  is a way to quickly check products you are thinking about bringing into the UK. But for a more detailed look, use the Personal Import Rules Database . This comprehensive tool provides detailed information, by country, on hundreds of food products (including animal products) you might bring into the UK in your luggage, or send there by ordering online.

The database also has information on weight limits. If you bring back honey from most places, for example, it will count as part of a 2 kilos (about four lbs) per person total allowance in combination with other food products. On the list - live bivalves, eggs and egg products, skinned frogs legs, reptile, insect and snail meat (yum). So if you can bear to leave the clams, boiled rattlesnake and chocolate covered ants behind, you could, in theory, bring in 2 kilos of honey.

And you can bring a 20 kilos (that's about 40 lbs) combination of fish and fishery products (from most places) that can include live lobsters. How you are supposed to keep 40lbs of live Maine lobster alive on a transatlantic flight is a good question - but I'm sure someone has the answer.

Definite No-Nos

Don't even think about bringing meat, potatoes or cheeses to the UK from outside the EU.

Milk products from outside the EU are banned - so no powdered milk drinks from Australia or that nice hunk of Wisconsin Cheddar you were planning to bring Great Aunt Felicity. And potatoes or potato products from anywhere (including the EU), even canned, bottled or otherwise packaged, are strictly forbidden. It you are served a bag of potato chips on the plane, eat them before you land or leave them on the plane.

Those restrictions apply to canned and packaged products as well. So no canned corned beef hash or devilled ham from outside the EU, no potato chips or tins of matchstick potatoes.

There are some surprising restrictions. While you can bring in allowed quantities of most fruits and vegetables from the USA, you cannot bring chestnuts. Only chestnuts from the EU and European Mediterranean countries are allowed. So if granny makes delicious chestnut spread for the holidays, leave it home. On the other hand, if she bakes a mean batch of chocolate chip cookies with chopped pecans baked into them, by all means, bring them along.

To find out what you can or cannot bring, just follow the instructions on the Personal Import Rules, DEFRA website. Type in the country you are coming to the UK from or where the goods you are bringing have come from.Then use the search categories to narrow down the food category and find the actual product. Once you've found what you are looking for, click the button and the information - including weight limits - pops on screen.

Remember, this is a "personal imports" database. The allowances are calculated for your own private use. Some food products that are allowed but not weight restricted - bagels from New York, chocolates from Paris - are limited by what customs officials think are reasonable quantities. They can use their discretion about that but if you are bringing in very large amounts - that could be for resale - your products could be subject to health checks and other commercial regulations.

What About Spices

Only one herb commonly available in some countries is specifically banned by UK authorities and that is Kava Kava. The ban, tightened in 2015, is because the herbal remedy, sometimes used to combat stress, has the potential to cause liver damage. 

The picture is less clear for other herbs and spices. In fact, it is something of a minefield and probably best left to the professionals who can seek advice from the  Seasoning and Spice Association . There are no specific laws or standards that apply and, if they are dried and packaged, there is usually no objection. But, individual ingredients, additives or packaging methods may involve health restrictions or food restrictions. You can find some trade rules about herbs and spices at the Food Standards Agency.

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Brexit: What you can (and cannot) bring into France from UK

Full brexit means new rules for travellers coming in from the uk due to eu animal and plant health rules.

travel france to uk food restrictions

This article was first published on 05-03-2021. It was updated with a new image change on 24-06-2021.

Several readers have asked us to clarify the post full-Brexit rules on what can be brought into France from the UK, particularly with regard to food and drink.

It comes after the British media ran articles in recent days about British lorry drivers having ham sandwiches confiscated by Dutch border guards.

One reader wondered how far this extends, as one official was quoted as mentioning not only meat and dairy but also other items such as fruit and vegetables.

“It all seems confusing and unnecessary,” the reader said.

The issue stems from EU rules on importation of food into the EU from third countries (ie. those outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland) which have applied to imports from other countries for some time. They now apply to travellers from the UK due to Brexit.

The rules relate to bringing in meat and dairy products, so as to avoid introducing any animal diseases from abroad. They also relate to plants and plant products.

On meat and dairy products in particular the EU toughened these rules following the 2001 foot and mouth epidemic after it was found that germs causing diseases such as this, or swine fever, can be carried in meat and milk.

The rules on plants were strengthened at the end of 2019 in a bid in particular to avoid plant pests entering the EU.

The rules do not totally ban imports to the EU of such products, however in this case animal products need to be accompanied by veterinary certificates and, since December 2019, plant products must be accompanied by phytosanitary certificates.

The latter are to verify that plant products are free from pests and diseases and in line with EU plant health requirements.

This means in practice that it is not usually possible to have such products in hand or hold luggage on coming into France from the UK or even to post them over in packages.

In spring 2019 an EU Commission spokeswoman confirmed to The Connexion that the meat and dairy rules were likely to apply to the UK after Brexit. At the time it was in the context of a possible no-deal scenario, however the UK’s agreed future relationship with the EU is not so close as to allow exemption from these rules.

She said at the time: “This is because the EU has the highest food safety standards in the world and free circulation of animals and food is only possible due to a stringent system of shared controls.

“When the UK leaves the EU, it will need to adapt to a new reality where the UK is no longer part of the invisible, but crucial, systems that make living in the EU so easy.”

The rules in detail include the following points:

Meat and dairy

  • Meat, meat products (that do not 'look like' meat but are made from it) and milk and dairy products may not be brought in. This includes, eg. yoghurt, cheese, Bovril. Also included under dairy products are butter, ice-cream and cream.
  • There is an exception for less than 2kg of powdered baby milk, and baby food or special foods needed for medical reasons (if they are foods that do not need to be chilled, are branded items and in unbroken packages unless needed for current use). This category also includes special pet foods needed for veterinary reasons.
  • Fish and seafood: Up to 20kg of fish can be imported
  • For some other animal products, including live oysters and mussels and honey, up to 2kg is allowed

Plant products

  • You cannot bring in actual plants, or cut plants and flowers, or fruits and vegetables or seeds. Exceptions include pineapple, banana, coconut, durians and dates as they are considered to pose no risk.
  • You cannot bring in fuel wood and logs

What can you bring in?

The rules on plants and plant products essentially refer to fresh plants, vegetables and fruits etc, so you can bring in for example rolled porridge oats (but not whole oat seed suitable for planting), you can bring in teabags, but not fresh whole, unfermented tea leaves, and roasted coffee beans are acceptable.

You can also bring in items containing products of plant origin but processed, crushed, powdered, cooked etc... so that would inlude eg. biscuits and baked beans (however it may be safer to put the latter in hold luggage however, in case considered too 'liquid' for cabin rules).

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Home / News / What Foods Can I Take to France?

What Foods Can I Take to France?

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11  Minutes

What Foods Can I Take to France

What Foods Can I Take to France? This article aims to provide information about food regulations that travelers to France should know. France is known for its delicious cuisine, but it is also strict when it comes to food regulations, particularly for imports. Therefore, it is important for travelers to be aware of these regulations to avoid any potential issues or fines.

If you have question about bringing packaged food into France, continue reading this article. Knowing the food regulations for travelers to France is crucial because it can help prevent health risks and ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. This is particularly important for travelers who are bringing food products from their home country or planning to purchase food items in France to bring back home as souvenirs.

The article will provide an overview of the food regulations in France, including information on restricted and prohibited food items, and the procedures for declaring food items at the border. Additionally, it will provide tips on how to find and identify safe and high-quality food products in France, as well as the best places to purchase them. By the end of the article, travelers to France will have a better understanding of the food regulations and how to navigate them.

What Food Items Are Allowed into France?

What Foods Can I Take to France

  • Fruits and vegetables: Travelers are allowed to bring fresh fruits and vegetables from any country, provided that they are free from pests and diseases.
  • Packaged food items: Non-perishable packaged food items, such as cereals, pasta, and canned goods, are generally allowed.
  • Baked goods: Baked goods, such as bread and cakes, are allowed as long as they do not contain any meat or dairy products.
  • Chocolate and candy: Chocolate and candy are allowed, except for those containing meat or dairy products.

However, there are restrictions on some food items that travelers need to be aware of:

  • Meat: Travelers are not allowed to bring meat products from most countries outside of the EU, including beef, pork, poultry, and game.
  • Dairy: Dairy products, such as cheese, milk, and yogurt, are subject to restrictions, and travelers are only allowed to bring in limited quantities.
  • Fish and seafood: Fish and seafood are generally allowed, but there are restrictions on certain types of fish, such as sturgeon and caviar.
  • Plants and plant products: Plants and plant products, including cut flowers, require phytosanitary certificates to ensure that they are free from pests and diseases.

The maximum quantities allowed for each food item vary, and it is important for travelers to check the latest regulations before traveling. It is also advisable to declare all food items to the border authorities to avoid any potential fines.

For more information on the food regulations in France, travelers can visit the French Customs website or the European Union’s official website on food safety. Additionally, travelers can contact the French embassy or consulate in their home country for further information and guidance.

What Food Items Are Prohibited in France?

What Foods Can I Take to France

  • Meat from certain countries: Travelers are not allowed to bring meat products from certain countries, such as South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana, due to the risk of spreading foot-and-mouth disease.
  • Live animals and animal products: Live animals, as well as animal products such as fur, ivory, and reptile skin, are strictly prohibited.
  • Certain fish and seafood: Certain types of fish and seafood, such as tuna and swordfish, are prohibited due to high levels of mercury.
  • Unpasteurized dairy products: Unpasteurized dairy products, such as raw milk cheese, are prohibited due to the risk of spreading bacteria and causing illness.
  • Products containing GMOs: Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are strictly regulated in France, and the importation of products containing GMOs is prohibited.

Reasons for the bans

The reasons for the bans on certain products are usually related to public health concerns or the protection of local industries. For example, bans on certain meat products are in place to prevent the spread of diseases, while restrictions on GMOs are intended to protect local agriculture. Still wondering about what foods can I take to France? Continue reading.

The penalties for violating food import regulations in France can be severe and may include fines and the confiscation of goods. In some cases, violators may also be subject to legal action.

One more thing to consider before visiting France is new travel regulations. Approved by the European Union in 2018, the new European Travel Information and Authorization System ETIAS will replace the current EU Travel Regulations and Requirements from 2024. Visitors traveling to France from visa-exempt Third Countries, including the UK, will need to apply for ETIAS France authorization to enter the country.

For more information on the food import regulations in France, travelers can visit the French Customs website or the European Union’s official website on food safety. Additionally, travelers can contact the French embassy or consulate in their home country for further information and guidance. It is important for travelers to research and understand the food import regulations before traveling to France to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

How to Prepare for Travel to France with Food Items

What Foods Can I Take to France

  • Check the latest regulations: Travelers should check the latest food import regulations for France to ensure that the food items they plan to bring are allowed.
  • Declare all food items: It is important to declare all food items to the border authorities upon arrival in France to avoid any potential fines or penalties.
  • Pack food items carefully: Travelers should pack food items carefully to prevent any spills or leaks during transportation.
  • Keep documentation: It is important to keep all documentation, such as phytosanitary certificates for plants and plant products, in order to present them to the border authorities if needed.

Upon arrival in France, travelers can expect to have their luggage and food items inspected by customs officials. Any items that are found to be prohibited will be confiscated, and the traveler may be subject to fines or penalties.

In case of emergency or problems with food items, travelers should contact the French embassy or consulate in their home country for assistance. It is also important to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and trip interruption.

For more information on how to prepare for travel to France with food items, travelers can visit the French Customs website or the European Union’s official website on food safety. Additionally, travelers can contact the French embassy or consulate in their home country for further information and guidance. Proper preparation before travel can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience to France.

In conclusion, this article has highlighted the importance of understanding the food import regulations for travelers to France. It discussed the food items that are generally allowed and prohibited, the rules for meat, dairy, and other products, and the penalties for violating the regulations. Additionally, the article provided tips for travelers to prepare for travel to France with food items, including checking the latest regulations, declaring all food items, packing food items carefully, and keeping documentation. It is important for travelers to do their research and understand the regulations before traveling to France to avoid any potential issues at the border. Hopefully this answered the question about what foods can I take to France.

As mentioned above, ETIAS will play a huge role in world travel after 2024. You can check ETIAS travel information on this website. ETIAS authorization will be required for nationals of the 58 Visa-Exempt Countries to enter the country.

Frequently asked question

“what food can i take to france in my motorhome”.

You can take most food items in your motorhome to France as long as they are for personal consumption and do not exceed the allowed quantities. However, it is important to check the latest food import regulations to ensure that the items you plan to bring are allowed.

“What food can I take to France 2023?”

The food import regulations for 2023 may differ from the current regulations. Therefore, it is important to check the latest regulations before traveling to France with food items.

“What food can I take to France after Brexit?”

Brexit has changed the rules for bringing food items to France from the UK. Currently, travelers can bring certain food items such as meat, dairy, and vegetables, but there are limits on the quantities allowed. It is important to check the latest regulations before traveling.

“What food can I take to France on holiday?”

Travelers can take most food items on holiday to France as long as they are for personal consumption and do not exceed the allowed quantities. However, it is important to check the latest food import regulations to ensure that the items you plan to bring are allowed.

“What food can I take to France on Eurotunnel?”

Travelers can take most food items on Eurotunnel to France as long as they are for personal consumption and do not exceed the allowed quantities. However, it is important to check the latest food import regulations to ensure that the items you plan to bring are allowed.

“What food can I take to France on the ferry?”

Delicious Sweets

“What food can I bring to France from UK?”

Currently, travelers can bring certain food items such as meat, dairy, and vegetables from the UK to France, but there are limits on the quantities allowed. It is important to check the latest regulations before traveling.

“What food can I bring to France?”

Travelers can bring most food items to France as long as they are for personal consumption and do not exceed the allowed quantities. However, it is important to check the latest food import regulations to ensure that the items you plan to bring are allowed.

“What foodstuffs can I take to France?”

Travelers can take a wide range of foodstuffs to France as long as they are for personal consumption and do not exceed the allowed quantities. However, it is important to check the latest food import regulations to ensure that the items you plan to bring are allowed.

“What foodstuff can I take from UK to France?”

“what foods can i take to france from uk”.

Travelers can take a wide range of foods from the UK to France as long as they are for personal consumption and do not exceed the allowed quantities. However, it is important to check the latest food import regulations to ensure that the items you plan to bring are allowed.

“What foods can I not take to France?”

There are several food items that are prohibited in France, including meat products, live animals, certain fruits and vegetables, and some types of cheese. It is important to check the latest regulations before traveling.

“Laws in France for tourists”

Tourists in France are subject to the same laws as French citizens. It is important to follow local laws and regulations.

8  Minutes

9  Minutes

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CANADA (CAN) UNITED STATES (USA) AFGHANISTAN (AFG) ALAND ISLANDS (ALA) ALBANIA (ALB) ALGERIA (DZA) AMERICAN SAMOA (ASM) ANDORRA (AND) ANGOLA (AGO) ANGUILLA (AIA) ANTARCTICA (ATA) ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA (ATG) ARGENTINA (ARG) ARMENIA (ARM) ARUBA (ABW) AUSTRALIA (AUS) AUSTRIA (AUT) AZERBAIJAN (AZE) BAHAMAS (BHS) BAHRAIN (BHR) BANGLADESH (BGD) BARBADOS (BRB) BELARUS (BLR) BELGIUM (BEL) BELIZE (BLZ) BENIN (BEN) BERMUDA (BMU) BHUTAN (BTN) BOLIVIA (BOL) BONAIRE, SINT EUSTATIUS AND SABA (BES) BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA (BIH) BOTSWANA (BWA) BOUVET ISLAND (BVT) BRAZIL (BRA) BRITISH INDIAN OCEAN TERRITORY (IOT) BRUNEI (BRN) BULGARIA (BGR) BURKINA FASO (BFA) BURMA (BUR) BURUNDI (BDI) CAMBODIA (KHM) CAMEROON (CMR) CANTON AND ENDERBURY ISLANDS (CTE) CAPE VERDE (CPV) CAYMAN ISLANDS (CYM) CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC (CAF) CHAD (TCD) CHILE (CHL) CHINA (CHN) CHRISTMAS ISLAND (CXR) COCOS (KEELING) ISLANDS (CCK) COLOMBIA (COL) COMOROS (COM) CONGO, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF (COD) CONGO, REPUBLIC OF (COG) COOK ISLANDS (COK) COSTA RICA (CRI) COTE D'IVOIRE (CIV) CROATIA (HRV) CUBA (CUB) CURACAO (CUW) CYPRUS (CYP) CZECH REPUBLIC (CZE) DEMOCRATIC YEMEN (YMD) DENMARK (DNK) DJIBOUTI (DJI) DOMINICA (DMA) DOMINICAN REPUBLIC (DOM) DRONNING MAUD LAND (DML) EAST TIMOR (TMP) ECUADOR (ECU) EGYPT (EGY) EL SALVADOR (SLV) EQUATORIAL GUINEA (GNQ) ERITREA (ERI) ESTONIA (EST) ETHIOPIA (ETH) FALKLAND ISLANDS (FLK) FAROE ISLANDS (FRO) FIJI (FJI) FINLAND (FIN) FRANCE (FRA) FRANCE METROPOLITAN (FXX) FRENCH GUIANA (GUF) FRENCH POLYNESIA (PYF) FRENCH SOUTHERN TERRITORIES (ATF) GABON (GAB) GAMBIA (GMB) GEORGIA (GEO) GERMANY (DEU) GHANA (GHA) GIBRALTAR (GIB) GREECE (GRC) GREENLAND (GRL) GRENADA (GRD) GUADELOUPE (GLP) GUAM (GUM) GUATEMALA (GTM) GUERNSEY (GGY) GUINEA (GIN) GUINEA-BISSAU (GNB) GUYANA (GUY) HAITI (HTI) HEARD AND MC DONALD ISLANDS (HMD) HONDURAS (HND) HONG KONG (HKG) HUNGARY (HUN) ICELAND (ISL) INDIA (IND) INDONESIA (IDN) IRAN (IRN) IRAQ (IRQ) IRELAND (IRL) ISLE OF MAN (IMN) ISRAEL (ISR) ITALY (ITA) JAMAICA (JAM) JAPAN (JPN) JERSEY (JEY) JOHNSTON ISLAND (JTN) JORDAN (JOR) KAZAKHSTAN (KAZ) KENYA (KEN) KIRIBATI (KIR) KOSOVO (KVV) KUWAIT (KWT) KYRGYZSTAN (KGZ) LAOS (LAO) LATVIA (LVA) LEBANON (LBN) LESOTHO (LSO) LIBERIA (LBR) LIBYA (LBY) LIECHTENSTEIN (LIE) LITHUANIA (LTU) LUXEMBOURG (LUX) MACAU (MAC) MACEDONIA (MKD) MADAGASCAR (MDG) MALAWI (MWI) MALAYSIA (MYS) MALDIVES (MDV) MALI (MLI) MALTA (MLT) MARSHALL ISLANDS (MHL) MARTINIQUE (MTQ) MAURITANIA (MRT) MAURITIUS (MUS) MAYOTTE (MYT) MEXICO (MEX) MICRONESIA - FEDERATED STATES OF (FSM) MIDWAY ISLANDS (MID) MOLDOVA (MDA) MONACO (MCO) MONGOLIA (MNG) MONTENEGRO (MNE) MONTSERRAT (MSR) MOROCCO (MAR) MOZAMBIQUE (MOZ) MYANMAR (MMR) NAMIBIA (NAM) NAURU (NRU) NEPAL (NPL) NETHERLANDS (NLD) NETHERLANDS ANTILLES (ANT) NEUTRAL ZONE (NTZ) NEW CALEDONIA (NCL) NEW ZEALAND (NZL) NICARAGUA (NIC) NIGER (NER) NIGERIA (NGA) NIUE (NIU) NORFOLK ISLAND (NFK) NORTH KOREA (PRK) NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS (MNP) NORWAY (NOR) OMAN (OMN) PAKISTAN (PAK) PALAU (PLW) PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES (PSE) PANAMA (PAN) PAPUA NEW GUINEA (PNG) PARAGUAY (PRY) PERU (PER) PHILIPPINES (PHL) PITCAIRN ISLANDS (PCN) POLAND (POL) PORTUGAL (PRT) PUERTO RICO (PRI) QATAR (QAT) REUNION (REU) ROMANIA (ROM) RUSSIA (RUS) RWANDA (RWA) SAINT BARTHELEMY (BLM) SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS (KNA) SAINT LUCIA (LCA) SAINT MARTIN (FRENCH PART) (MAF) SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES (VCT) SAMOA (WSM) SAN MARINO (SMR) SAO TOME AND PRINCIPE (STP) SAUDI ARABIA (SAU) SENEGAL (SEN) SERBIA (SRB) SERBIA AND MONTENEGRO (SCG) SEYCHELLES (SYC) SIERRA LEONE (SLE) SINGAPORE (SGP) SINT MAARTEN (DUTCH PART) (SXM) SLOVAKIA (SVK) SLOVENIA (SVN) SOLOMON ISLANDS (SLB) SOMALIA (SOM) SOUTH AFRICA (ZAF) SOUTH GEORGIA AND THE SOUTH SANDWICH ISLANDS (SGS) SOUTH KOREA (KOR) SOUTH SUDAN (SSD) SPAIN (ESP) SRI LANKA (LKA) ST. HELENA (SHN) ST. PIERRE AND MIQUELON (SPM) SUDAN (SDN) SURINAME (SUR) SVALBARD AND JAN MAYEN ISLANDS (SJM) SWAZILAND (SWZ) SWEDEN (SWE) SWITZERLAND (CHE) SYRIA (SYR) TAIWAN (TWN) TAJIKISTAN (TJK) TANZANIA (TZA) THAILAND (THA) TIMOR-LESTE (TLS) TOGO (TGO) TOKELAU (TKL) TONGA (TON) TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO (TTO) TUNISIA (TUN) TURKEY (TUR) TURKMENISTAN (TKM) TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS (TCA) TUVALU (TUV) UGANDA (UGA) UKRAINE (UKR) UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (ARE) UNITED KINGDOM (GBR) UNITED STATES MINOR OUTLYING ISLANDS (UMI) URUGUAY (URY) UZBEKISTAN (UZB) VANUATU (VUT) VATICAN CITY STATE (HOLY SEE) (VAT) VENEZUELA (VEN) VIETNAM (VNM) VIRGIN ISLANDS (BRITISH) (VGB) VIRGIN ISLANDS (U.S.) (VIR) WAKE ISLAND (WAK) WALLIS AND FUTUNA ISLANDS (WLF) WESTERN SAHARA (ESH) YEMEN (YEM) ZAIRE (ZAR) ZAMBIA (ZMB) ZIMBABWE (ZWE)

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Travelling to France

Includes travel advice and how to get married abroad.

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France travel advice

FCDO travel advice for France. Includes safety and security, insurance, entry requirements and legal differences.

Getting married or registering a civil partnership abroad

Requirements, paperwork and processes for weddings and civil partnerships overseas - registration, restrictions, fees

Information for UK nationals affected by domestic abuse in France

This guide provides advice on what the British Embassy can do to help UK nationals affected by domestic abuse in France, the services available in France, how to report abuse to the police and how to get protection.

Reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad

How to minimise your risk, and what to do if there's a terrorist attack.

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IMAGES

  1. How the NHS Covid Pass for travel from England works

    travel france to uk food restrictions

  2. Current France Travel Restrictions From The Uk: What You Need To Know

    travel france to uk food restrictions

  3. French border restrictions reviewed so 'movement from UK can resume

    travel france to uk food restrictions

  4. How the NHS Covid Pass for travel from England works

    travel france to uk food restrictions

  5. France quarantine: Travel restrictions for UK arrivals explained

    travel france to uk food restrictions

  6. France to ease UK travel restrictions

    travel france to uk food restrictions

VIDEO

  1. France to test travellers from 16 coronavirus high-risk countries including US

  2. UK adds France, Netherlands to travel quarantine list

COMMENTS

  1. Bringing food into Great Britain: Overview

    There are restrictions on bringing meat, dairy, fish and animal products and fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds into Great Britain from abroad. If you're bringing in any food or animal products ...

  2. Entry requirements

    Staying longer than 90 days in a 180-day period. To stay longer than 90 days, you must meet the French government's entry requirements. If you're in France with a residence permit or long-stay ...

  3. Bringing food into Great Britain

    Bringing food into Great Britain: Meat, dairy, fish and ...

  4. Brexit: The food items British travellers can no longer take into the

    As the UK has left the EU, holidaymakers are now subject to travel restrictions like the rest of the world. Plus, Covid rules can also be difficult to keep up with, as the rules vary by country ...

  5. Customs: What products are prohibited from being brought to France

    The introduction into France of food products from a non-EU country European Union or a country of the East highly controlled. Are prohibited, all foodanimal origin : Meat; Meat products; Dairy ...

  6. Brexit: what are the rules for British travellers to France?

    For international tourists wishing to visit both France and the UK on the same trip: EU, EEA and Swiss citizens can travel to the UK visa-free for holidays or short stays. A passport valid for the duration of the stay is required to enter UK territory. Until 1 October 2021, it is also possible to travel with a valid national ID card.

  7. PDF Travellers arriving in the European Union

    Product. Travelling from outside the EU (including the UK from 1 January 2021) Travelling from Switzerland. Bananas, durians, coconuts, pineapples, dates. Permitted with no quantity limit and no plant health certificate is required. Plants and plant products. E.g. potatoes (for eating) Vegetables and fruit Flowers and flower buds Fresh or ...

  8. Post-Brexit Customs Restrictions & Allowances Between France and the UK

    Travel from the UK to France. The restrictions on items that can be brought into France and the EU from the UK are far stricter. The following items are all prohibited: ... Most processed, canned, and sealed foods (providing they don't contain animal-derived products) Powdered milk for babies and infants, and baby food (up to a total weight ...

  9. Everything you need to know about travel between France and the UK

    The majority of the restrictions - especially those concerning bringing in food, DIY equipment and high-value items, affect those travelling from the UK to France, but there are changes the other ...

  10. UK Customs Regulations

    But what about food products, agricultural produce, plant materials? They often fall into a grey area of difficult to understand regulations. Judging from the number of UK customs questions we get from readers - especially as holidays approach and people want to bring gifts to friends and family - there's still a lot of confusion about it.

  11. UPDATE: Your questions answered on new travel rules between France and UK

    The new travel rules apply specifically to people travelling from the UK, not British citizens as such. Most EU countries are on France's green list, making entry into the country pretty easy ...

  12. France travel advice

    The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about the risks of travel, to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice. Follow and contact ...

  13. LATEST: What you need to know if you're travelling from France to the UK

    Previously, if you were travelling to England from an amber list country such as France, you had to take a pre-departure Covid test, then book and pay for a Day 2 test. Fully vaccinated arrivals ...

  14. Everything You Need for Post-Brexit Travel Between France & UK

    As a British citizen travelling to France post-Brexit, there are three main changes to be aware of: Your Passport. Since the UK left the EU, new navy blue British passports are now available. However, if you still hold a valid EU-style burgundy passport, this will remain valid until it expires, so there is no need to change your passport.

  15. Brexit: What you can (and cannot) bring into France from UK

    This article was first published on 05-03-2021. It was updated with a new image change on 24-06-2021. Several readers have asked us to clarify the post full-Brexit rules on what can be brought into France from the UK, particularly with regard to food and drink.

  16. What are the latest travel restrictions for France?

    This means you can stay in France for 90 days, or visit France and several other Schengen countries in one trip - as long as you don't exceed 90 days in total. From November 2023, British travellers will be charged €7 (around £6) to visit Schengen Zone countries, including France. UK passport-holders will need to apply for an electronic ...

  17. What Foods Can I Take to France?

    Meat: Travelers are not allowed to bring meat products from most countries outside of the EU, including beef, pork, poultry, and game. Dairy: Dairy products, such as cheese, milk, and yogurt, are subject to restrictions, and travelers are only allowed to bring in limited quantities. Fish and seafood: Fish and seafood are generally allowed, but ...

  18. Safety and security

    keep your passport, credit cards and other valuables in separate bags or pockets. use the inside compartments in bags where possible. carry your bag across your body rather than on your shoulder ...

  19. What personal food, plant and animal products can I transport into

    Coach travel What personal food, plant and animal products can I transport into France from the UK Full details can be found on douane.gouv.fr :

  20. Travelling to France

    France travel advice. FCDO travel advice for France. Includes safety and security, insurance, entry requirements and legal differences.