Northern Cyprus: Authorities extend COVID-19-related measures until May 3 /update 28

Northern Cyprus maintaining measures imposed to stem COVID-19 until May 3; significant business and travel disruptions continue.

Event

Authorities have extended measures imposed to combat the spread of COVID-19 until at least May 3. A nightly 21:00-05:00 curfew is in place, during which individuals may only leave their homes for essential purposes. An extended curfew is in effect from 21:00 May 1-05:00 May 3; only pharmacies, bakeries, and fuel stations will be permitted to operate during these times. Agriculture, animal husbandry, and related activities will also be permitted.

Certain cultural, entertainment, and leisure businesses remain closed. Shops that are permitted to operate may do so 10:00-20:00, restaurants may operate from 10:00-20:30, and markets may operate 07:00-20:00. Establishments that are allowed to operate must maintain strict hygiene requirements. Gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited. Protective facemasks remain mandatory in public spaces at all times.

International Entry Restrictions
All international travelers are must have evidence of a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken within the previous three days to be permitted entry. Passengers who have visited certain high-risk countries in the last 14 days must quarantine at a government facility for 14 days on arrival. As of April 27, the UK, Netherlands, Denmark, Brazil, the Canary Islands, and all African countries are considered high risk. Travelers from all other countries must quarantine for 10 days and must take a second test at the end of the quarantine period. Some travelers may be permitted to self-isolate at home under strict monitoring conditions.

Ercan International Airport (ECN) is operating on a reduced timetable; ECN is Northern Cyprus' only commercial airport and only operates direct flights with Turkey. Authorities could temporarily prohibit foreigners from entering via ECN if state-designated quarantine centers have reached capacity. Limited crossing points are open at the land border with Cyprus; residents crossing between Northern Cyprus and Cyprus are subject to quarantine, except for residents traveling for work, or medical purposes, who will need to possess a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test taken within the previous seven days.

Restrictions could be reintroduced or amended at any time, depending on disease activity in the country.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Confirm 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.