Turkey: Authorities maintain COVID-19-related international entry restrictions and domestic measures as of Dec. 6 /update 48

Turkey maintains COVID-19-related international entry and domestic restrictions as of Dec. 6; travel and business disruptions likely.

Event

Authorities are maintaining international entry restrictions and domestic measures imposed to limit the spread of COVID-19 as of Dec. 6.

International Entry Restrictions
Authorities have indefinitely suspended flights with South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. Travelers who have been in one of these countries in the previous 14 days and plan to enter Turkey from another country must present a negative PCR test taken in the 72 hours before arrival and proof that hotel accommodation has been booked and paid for in advance as these travelers will be required to quarantine in said hotel for up to 14 days; quarantine can be ended early with a negative PCR test after day ten.

All individuals who have visited Brazil, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, India, and Pakistan in the previous 14 days must present a negative result from a PCR test taken within the 72 hours before arrival and self-isolate for 14 days; individuals may leave isolation early with a negative PCR test after day ten. Fully vaccinated travelers are exempt from self-isolation.

Travelers who have visited Afghanistan in the previous 14 days must present a negative PCR test taken within the 72 hours before arrival and quarantine at their own expense in a government-designated facility for 10 days. An early exit from quarantine will be permitted on day seven after a second negative PCR test result. Turkish citizens and Afghan citizens with work permits or Turkish residency and also arriving by air may self-isolate at their residence.

Individuals arriving from Egypt or Iran must present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before arrival in Turkey or proof of full vaccination.

Travelers from all other countries must present proof of vaccination against COVID-19 completed no less than 14 days prior to arrival or proof that they have recovered from COVID-19 in the previous six months. Travelers unable to meet these requirements must present a negative result from a PCR test taken in the previous 72 hours or a negative result from an antigen test taken in the previous 48 hours on arrival.

Other than those in transit, all incoming passengers must register via an online form within 72 hours before travel and may be selected to undergo checks for possible COVID-19 symptoms on arrival.

Domestic Restrictions
Most businesses are permitted to operate subject to social distancing and hygiene requirements.

Facemasks and social distancing are mandated in public spaces. Turkish nationals and residents must obtain a government-provided Hayat Eve Sigar (HES) code before international or intercity travel on public transport, including domestic flights. Numerous locations, including Istanbul, Ankara, and Agri Province, require residents to present a HES code upon entering hotels, public institutions, government offices, or banks.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further tighten, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks, particularly in response to developments regarding variant strains of COVID-19.

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. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.