Testing for Covid-19

Types of screening tests

• Virological test ("RT-PCR"): result usually available within 24 to 48 hours.

• Antigenic test (or "TROD", for "Test Rapide d'Orientation Diagnostique", rapid diagnostic orientation test): quick result, within 30 minutes.

• Self-test ("autotest"): sold in pharmacies, these tests do not have the same clinical performance as virological 'RT-PCR' tests, and are not recommended if you have been in contact with someone with confirmed Covid-19, or if you have Covid-19 symptoms.

In case of a negative result, the PCR and antigenic tests allow to obtain a health pass valid for 72 hours.
The negative result of a self-test, even if performed under the supervision of a health professional, does not allow to obtain a health pass anymore.

The different options and places for getting tested

You can get tested in a dedicated center, a laboratory, a pharmacy or by a health professional.

At a laboratory: before going there, contact the laboratory to check whether an appointment is necessary.
At a pharmacy: mainly for antigenic tests, which allow a quick result, within 15 to 30 minutes after.
By a health professional: doctors or nurses can carry out the tests, either in their office or at your home.
At the airport: check with the airport beforehand to find out about the testing procedures.
 
SEE THE LIST OF ALL TESTING LOCATIONS ON THE WEBSITE SANTÉ.FR 

Cost and coverage of tests

Since October 15, 2021, screening tests are no longer systematically free or covered by the Health insurance.

Getting tested can be covered and reimbursed only for persons in one of the following situations:
 

• vaccinated against Covid-19 (full vaccination schedule),
• medical contraindication that prevents vaccination against Covid-19,
• minors (under 18 years old),
• identified by the Health Insurance as a contact person,
• with a certificate of recovery less than 6 months old,
• group screening organized by an institution,
• positive antigenic test less than 48 hours old (requiring a confirmatory PCR test),
• coming from countries classified in orange or red zones and for the test to be performed at the end of the quarantine period,
• on medical prescription (e.g. in case of symptoms).

In these cases, you have to present the documents corresponding to your situation:
vaccination or recovery certificate, ID (for minors), email or SMS from the Health Insurance justifying contact at risk, proof of transportation and declaration on honor (for people coming from countries in orange or red zones), medical prescription.

You will also need to present your French Health Insurance certificate, 'carte Vitale' or European Health Insurance Card.

For any other situation, the tests are being charged:

• 44€ for a PCR test,
• from 22 to 45€ for an antigenic test.