Northern Cyprus: Authorities extend COVID-19-related measures until April 26 /update 27

Northern Cyprus maintaining measures imposed to stem COVID-19 until April 26; extended curfew in place April 24-26.

Event

Authorities in Northern Cyprus have extended a nightly curfew by one hour to 21:00-05:00 as part of efforts to limit the spread of COVID-19. The curfew will remain in force until at least April 26; individuals may only leave their homes for essential purposes during curfew hours. An extended curfew will be in effect 21:00 April 24-05:00 April 26; only pharmacies, bakeries, and fuel stations will be permitted to operate during the these times. Agriculture, animal husbandry, and related activities will also be permitted.

Certain cultural, entertainment, and leisure businesses remain closed. Retail stores and restaurants that are permitted to operate may do so 10:00-20:00, while markets may operate 07:00-20:00. Establishments that are allowed to operate must maintain strict hygiene requirements. Educational facilities are continuing to provide distance learning only. Protective facemasks remain mandatory in public spaces at all times.

International Entry Restrictions
All international travelers are must have evidence of a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken within the previous three days to be permitted entry. Passengers who have visited certain high-risk countries in the last 14 days must quarantine at a government facility for 14 days on arrival. As of April 19, the UK, Netherlands, Denmark, Brazil, the Canary Islands, and all African countries are considered high-risk. Travelers from all other countries must quarantine for 10 days and must take a second test at the end of the quarantine period. Some travelers may be permitted to self-isolate at home under strict monitoring conditions.

Ercan International Airport (ECN) is operating on a reduced timetable; ECN is Northern Cyprus' only commercial airport and only operates direct flights with Turkey. Authorities could temporarily prohibit foreigners from entering via ECN if state-designated quarantine centers have reached capacity. Limited crossing points are open at the land border with Cyprus; residents crossing between Northern Cyprus and Cyprus are subject to quarantine, except for residents traveling for work, or medical purposes, who will need to possess a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test taken within the previous seven days.

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

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Confirm 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.