The French government has authorized St. Barts to reopen its borders to fully vaccinated U.S. travelers, effective June 9, the same day that France reopens its borders.

St. Barts first reopened in June 2020. However, the borders were closed Feb. 3 in the French overseas territories in the Caribbean and French Polynesia over fears of the spread of Covid-19 variants.

Tahiti reopened to fully vaccinated travelers on May 1. Caribbean destinations affected were Sr. Barts, Martinique, Guadeloupe and St. Martin. Martinique and Guadeloupe have not yet announced their reopening dates.

Visitors to St. Barts must provide proof of full vaccination, plus proof of a negative PCR test done within three days of arrival or an antigen test result taken within 48 hours. Visitors under 18 do not need proof of vaccination,  and those below the age of five are not subject to testing.

Visitors to St. Barts who transit through St. Maarten or San Juan must follow the entry procedures for those destinations, as well.

No quarantine or self-isolation will be necessary once visitors are on St. Barts, and no Covid test will be required during their stay except the test to enter the U.S., according to Nils Dufau, president of the Tourism Committee.

“After two successful vaccination campaigns, the vast majority of our island’s citizens are now vaccinated, and our efficient Covid-19 testing center offers swift service for everyone,” Dufau said.

Restaurants, boutiques, water activities and all services are being provided as usual. Hotels and private villas on the island are open for tourism.

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