01 Sep 2021 | 02:38 PM UTC
Turkmenistan: Authorities maintaining nationwide COVID-19 countermeasures as of Sept. 1 /update 17
Turkmenistan maintaining COVID-19 nationwide restrictions as of Sept. 1; travel and business disruptions ongoing.
Event
Authorities are maintaining international entry restrictions as of Sept. 1 as part of measures to minimize the spread of COVID-19. International commercial flights remain suspended and the only way to enter or leave the country by air is via a limited number of charter flights that are allowed to operate at Turkmenabat International Airport (CRZ). All land borders are closed until further notice.
Travel Restrictions
Only Turkmen nationals, permanent residents, diplomats, and workers in critical industries and key infrastructure are permitted to enter the country. Unvaccinated foreign nationals must present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within the previous 72 hours, and must undergo a 21-day quarantine in a state-run facility. Vaccinated travelers must self-isolate for only seven days, though may do so at their place of residence. All arrivals will be tested on arrival regardless of vaccination status. While freight transporters are generally allowed entry, Turkmen authorities have previously restricted cross-border freight traffic without warning or explanation. All persons departing the country must be in possession of a negative COVID-19 test certificate signed within the previous 24 hours.
Domestic Restrictions
Authorities announced several additional COVID-19 measures Aug. 29. People will only be permitted to enter and leave Ashgabat for limited essential reasons, including for work, until Oct. 1. In addition, employers must switch to remote working as far as possible. The school year has been postponed until Oct. 1 and universities will offer remote learning only. Officials have significantly scaled back planned mass events to mark the 30th anniversary of the country’s independence on Sept. 27. The measures come amid a reported increase in COVID-19 cases.
Many nonessential retailers have been closed nationwide. All people must observe social distancing of at least two meters (6.5 feet) and wear protective face coverings in public. Parks and recreational areas in urban centers are likely to be closed. Gatherings, including family celebrations, have been prohibited indefinitely nationwide. Rail services on all lines, with the exception of those between Ashgabat-Dashoguz and Ashgabat-Turkmenbashi, have been suspended.
Domestic flights are operating on a significantly reduced schedule. Overland travel between districts is prohibited. Security forces have erected checkpoints on roads entering Ashgabat; checkpoints have also been reported on highways in Balkan, Mary, and Dashoguz provinces, where health screenings have been carried out. Special permits are required for travel within or between provinces.
Authorities could impose further restrictions based on disease activity with little to no advance notice.
Context
Officials have announced that vaccination would be compulsory for all citizens of Turkmenistan over the age of 18. Persons with acute or chronic diseases are exempt from the mandatory vaccination order, as are pregnant or breastfeeding women and persons with an allergic reaction to an ingredient of the vaccine.
Advice
Follow all official instructions. Abide by national 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.
