Turks and Caicos Islands: Government tightens certain COVID-19-related restrictions through at least Feb. 10 /update 21

Event

The government of Turks and Caicos has tightened a number of restrictions as part of the territory's ongoing efforts to control the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Under the new directive, which remains in force through at least Feb. 10, the existing 2000-0500 curfew on the island of Grand Turk has been extended; moreover, a new nightly 2100-0500 curfew has been imposed on the island of Providenciales. Furthermore, businesses on Grand Turk must close to the public at 1900 each evening, while those on other islands may remain open until 2000 nightly; public-facing businesses had previously been allowed to operate until 2200. Restaurants, bars, and night clubs are restricted to operating at no greater than 30 percent of their occupancy capacities.

All public gatherings and social activities are prohibited, including those taking place on beaches. Attendance at funerals, weddings, and worship services is capped at 20 persons.

A number of other measures remain in effect. Various facilities and establishments must comply with certain mandates aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19, including employing enhanced sanitation procedures, adhering to social distancing standards, and maintaining logs for contact tracing purposes, among other things. All individuals must wear protective facemasks in public spaces.

International and Domestic Travel
The territory's airports are open for regional and international passenger travel; however, the cruise center remains closed until at least Jan. 31. All arriving nonresident foreign nationals, returning legal residents, and citizens over the age of 10 must obtain "TCI-Assured" online pre-authorization by providing a negative COVID-19 test taken within five days before arrival, proof of medical insurance, and a completed health screening questionnaire. Domestic travelers will be subject to temperature health checks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Government of Turks and Caicos - COVID-19 Updates
TCI-Assured Travel Authorization