Since July, a number of public venues and establishments have required a health pass for entry, demonstrating either proof of full vaccination, proof of a negative test or proof of recovery from the virus.

The bill aims to replace the health pass regime with a vaccine pass, which requires proof of full vaccination or recovery from Covid-19, meaning the unvaccinated would no longer be able to rely on a negative test to access venues. The vaccine pass would not be required in the workplace or essential healthcare of social services.

If adopted, the new rules are expected to enter into force on January 15.

Véran emphasized the importance of getting vaccinated as he expressed hope that France’s fifth wave “may be the last.”