17 Feb 2021 | 10:08 AM UTC
Turks and Caicos Islands: Authorities ease and extend COVID-19-related curfew to 2100-0500 through March 3 /update 23
Turks and Caicos reduces COVID-19-related curfew to 2100-0500; businesses to close by 2000, until March 3. Other measures remain.
Event
As of Feb. 17, authorities in the Turks and Caicos Islands have relaxed the nightly curfew from 1800-0600 to 2100-0500, as part of ongoing efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19. The new curfew will be enforced until at least March 3. Residents may not leave their homes during curfew hours, except for emergencies or essential work and travel purposes. Officials will also exempt persons arriving on international flights on the day of the general elections Feb. 19 until 0500 Feb. 20.
With the change in the curfew hours, businesses are now allowed to operate until 2000 instead of 1700, except for hotel restaurants, which may continue usual operating hours for hotel guests only. However, all other bars and restaurants are still restricted to curbside or takeout services only. All public gatherings and social activities are still prohibited, including those taking place on beaches. Attendance at funerals, weddings, and worship services remains capped at 20 people.
Additionally, certain facilities and establishments must comply with certain pandemic-related mandates, including employing enhanced sanitation procedures, adhering to social distancing standards, and maintaining logs for contact tracing purposes, among others. All individuals must wear protective facemasks in public spaces.
International and Domestic Travel
The territory's airports are open for regional and international passenger travel; however, the cruise center remains closed until further notice. All arriving nonresident foreign nationals, returning legal residents, and citizens over the age of 10 must obtain "TCI-Assured" online pre-authorization by providing a negative COVID-19 test taken within five days before arrival, proof of medical insurance, and a completed health screening questionnaire. Domestic travelers will be subject to temperature health checks.
Advice
Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance.
Resources
World Health Organization (WHO)
Government of Turks and Caicos - COVID-19 Updates
TCI-Assured Travel Authorization
