Covid: France suspends transit ban for UK nationals during Christmas period

UK nationals will be allowed to travel through France if they are going to their home in an EU country during the festive period.

France suspended its Covid restriction after UK travellers faced difficulties reaching their country of residence.

Eurotunnel, which had earlier issued warnings to customers, said it was "delighted" by the move.

People from the UK are still largely banned from going to France unless they have a compelling reason.

France travel ban on UK tourists takes effect
What tests do I need to go on holiday?

Earlier this month, French ministers tightened travel rules for the UK, citing concerns about the spread of the Omicron variant.

Since 18 December, British citizens have needed an essential reason to travel to France, with some exemptions in place.

It had been thought that exemptions covered those crossing France in order to get to their home in another EU country.

However on Wednesday, both P&O and Eurotunnel said the French government had issued new rules meaning British people could "no longer transit France by road to reach their country of residence in the EU" unless they hold French residency.

The British government said it was "urgently" seeking clarification about any new restrictions that would affect UK nationals.

In response, the French government insisted that UK nationals who reside in another EU country are deemed to be "third country nationals" and are therefore not allowed to cross France to get home under the current Covid rules.