Proof of vaccination will be required at leisure venues and events.

France is currently in the midst of a fourth major wave of new coronavirus cases. The prevalence of the new delta variant has reignited the disease in France, especially in coastal resort towns that have seen a newfound increase in vacation season travel. The Charente-Maritime region of the country saw the highest increase in new infections, with case rates jumping up a startling 766%. Local governments have begun reinstating safety measures such as mask mandates, but the French government knows the first priority is to get everyone vaccinated.

France makes COVID-19 pass mandatory for tourist attractionshttps://t.co/TE6IFrtTyx

— Axios (@axios) July 21, 2021

It’s for this reason that French President Emmanuel Macron announced the implementation of a new “COVID Pass” system. These new certificates, indicating whether someone has been completely vaccinated against the disease, or has at least received a negative reading on an approved COVID test, will be mandatory to enter or attend any building or event where more than 50 people are gathered.

Covid-19 pass mandatory for people visiting France's Eiffel Tower and other tourist spotshttps://t.co/BVjkCSW7DW

— IndiaToday (@IndiaToday) July 22, 2021

Prime Minister Jean Castex confirmed the scope of these requirements on Wednesday, explaining that they include, but aren’t limited to, museums, theme parks, movie theaters, and festivals. For the first month, the certificates will also be required at bars, cafés, restaurants, and shopping malls, with the only exceptions being made for children under 12 years old.