Turkey: Authorities ease COVID-19-related international entry restrictions as of April 6 /update 52

Turkey eases COVID-19-related international entry restrictions as of April 6; some domestic measures remain in effect.

Event

Authorities in Turkey have eased international entry restrictions imposed to limit the spread of COVID-19 as of April 6. Authorities have dropped all measures requiring travelers arriving from various countries to self-isolate for any length of time. All travelers may enter the country provided they can present proof of vaccination, a negative result to a PCR test no more than 72 hours old, or a rapid antigen test no more than 48 hours old. Travellers who can prove they have recovered from the virus in the previous six months may also enter the country.

Domestic Measures
Most businesses are operating subject to social distancing and hygiene requirements. Turkish nationals still require a government-provided Hayat Eve Sigar (HES) code before international or intercity travel on public transport. Facemasks must be worn in airports and on flights.

International Travel Restrictions
All travelers may enter Turkey from any destination, provided that they can 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 who cannot show either must present a negative PCR test taken in the 72 hours before arrival or a negative rapid antigen test taken in the 48 hours before 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.

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. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.