Northern Cyprus: Officials tighten measures to curb the spread of COVID-19 as of Jan. 29 /update 17

Event

Northern Cyprus has tightened measures imposed to curb the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), as of Jan. 29. A weekend curfew will be implemented nationwide 2000 Jan. 29-0500 Feb. 1. Authorities have also introduced localized lockdowns in Nicosia and the Girne district. The lockdown in Nicosia will be in effect through Feb. 3, while the lockdown in the Girne district will be in effect through Feb. 10. Nonessential stores and businesses must close during this period. Fuel stations, food markets, pharmacies, bakeries, butchers, and their suppliers are permitted to open. Authorities have restricted entry to Nicosia and the Girne district. Additionally, educational institutions will remain closed until Feb. 10 and funerals may only be attended by direct family members.

Officials previously designated three categories of countries from which travelers are allowed to enter Northern Cyprus. Travelers from Category A countries, including Australia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, New Zealand, South Korea, and Thailand, must present a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test on entry, taken no more than 72 hours before boarding, and will not be required to self-isolate if arriving via Cyprus. For travelers from Category A arriving in Northern Cyprus via Turkey, the rules from Category B will apply.

Travelers from Category B countries must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test upon entry, taken within 120 hours before boarding. The travelers will be additionally quarantined in state-designated quarantine centers at their own expense for seven days, after which they will be released on confirmation of a negative PCR test. Officials will isolate students arriving in Northern Cyprus for higher education for seven days in dormitories or hotels designated by their respective universities.

Travelers from Category C countries must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test upon entry, taken within 120 hours before boarding. They must quarantine at a designated facility at their own expense for 14 days, after which they will be released on confirmation of a negative PCR test.

Ercan International Airport (ECN) is operating a reduced timetable; ECN is Northern Cyprus' only commercial airport and only operates direct flights with Turkey. Limited crossing points are open at the land border with Cyprus. Authorities could temporarily prohibit foreigners from entering via ECN if state-designated quarantine centers have reached capacity.

Most businesses and facilities have reopened, subject to strict hygiene and social distancing measures. Many public-facing employees are reportedly required to undergo PCR testing before resuming their duties. Protective face coverings are mandatory in public spaces.

Restrictions may be reintroduced or amended at any time, depending on disease activity in the country.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by official health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.

Resources

Northern Cyprus Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Northern Cyprus Ministry of Health - Country Categories
World Health Organization (WHO)