01 Nov 2021 | 03:44 PM UTC
Turkmenistan: Authorities maintaining nationwide COVID-19 countermeasures as of Nov. 1 /update 19
Turkmenistan maintains COVID-19 nationwide restrictions as of Nov. 1; travel and business disruptions ongoing.
Event
Authorities are maintaining international entry restrictions and domestic measures consistent with those imposed elsewhere to limit the spread of COVID-19 as of Nov. 1. Despite the restrictions, Turkmenistan has not officially acknowledged the presence of COVID-19 in the country. As a result, travel restrictions and other public health measures are imposed without clear reference to disease activity and must sometimes be inferred from unofficial sources.
International Entry Restrictions
International commercial flights remain suspended. The only way to enter or leave the country by air is via a limited number of charter flights allowed to operate at Turkmenabat International Airport (CRZ). All land borders are closed until further notice.
Only Turkmen nationals, permanent residents, diplomats, and workers in critical industries and critical infrastructure are permitted to enter the country. All foreign nationals must possess proof of a negative PCR test taken within the previous 72 hours and proof of testing for COVID-19 antibodies to present on entry. Unvaccinated foreign nationals must undergo a 21-day quarantine in a state-run facility. Vaccinated travelers must self-isolate for only seven days and may do so at their place of residence.
Authorities test all international travelers 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 possess a negative COVID-19 test certificate signed within the previous 24 hours.
Domestic Restrictions
Authorities previously tightened COVID-19 countermeasures in Ashgabat and Turkmenbashi, as well as in the Mary Region. Access to Ashgabat is restricted; individuals may only enter or leave the city for limited essential reasons, including work. According to media reports, police in Ashgabat and Turkmenbashi enforce an unannounced COVID-19-related curfew from approximately 22:00; it is unclear when it ends. In Mary Region, inter-district bus services have been indefinitely suspended. In addition, employers must switch to remote working as far as possible.
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, except 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.
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.
