There is no doubt that the world is a different place in 2022 than it was just two years ago. In 2020, the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) took the world by storm, disrupting travel plans and posing a serious threat to people all over the globe. Now, the same world is gradually returning to the pre-pandemic order. This, however, probably will never look the same.
Some of you probably already have traveled during the pandemic, while for others the incoming trip may be the first in a long time. So, if you’re planning on travelling to Turkey in the coming months, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with the still ongoing pandemic and take steps to protect yourself from potential exposure.
This article will also outline the most significant changes, including the necessary documents, introduced amid the Covid-19 pandemic. Read about the most essential things you need to know before setting off for your next trip.
Visa
Travelling to different countries is an exciting experience, but before you book your tickets, you should be aware that many destinations, including Turkey, require a visa for entry.
Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for visa weeks or even months in advance of your trip. So before you start planning that dream vacation, make sure to do your research and find out if a visa is required. Check also the specific time frame you must submit your visa application. Otherwise, you may find yourself stranded at the airport!
You may not realize it, but Turkey also offers an e-Visa system, meaning that you don’t have to go through the hassle of visiting a consulate or embassy and waiting weeks for your visa to be approved.
Imagine being able to plan your trip last minute without worrying about whether or not you’ll be able to get a visa! Plus, if something comes up and you need to change your travel plans, it’s much easier to do so when you don’t have a paper visa to worry about.
An e-Visa to Turkey gets approved within just 72 hours and once processed by the Turkish authorities gets delivered to each traveller via email. It’s as simple as that!
Passenger Locator Form
Currently, most travellers leaving or entering a given country are required to complete a passenger locator form. This health declaration introduced due to the outbreak of Covid-19 asks a variety of questions about your recent travel history, current health condition, and contact information.
Completing this form is an important step in preventing the spread of coronavirus and ensuring the safety of incoming visitors and citizens of a particular travel destination.
Turkey is one of the countries that do require completing that form, which is easily available online on the official government website at https://register.health.gov.tr/.
In recent years, many countries have introduced this additional travel document. Some European countries have already lifted this requirement, while others are still requiring international visitors to complete it before the planned trip.
Covid-19 vaccination
Many countries are now requiring travellers to be fully vaccinated in order to enter the country, and some (allowing unvaccinated travellers) are implementing mandatory quarantines for anyone who isn’t vaccinated. Among these countries are Australia, Canada, Cambodia, Qatar, and Thailand.
In turn, non-vaccinated travellers can travel to many European countries, including Greece, Portugal, Spain, Cyprus, France, and many others.
You do not need to be fully vaccinated to enter Turkey during the Covid-19 pandemic; however, you may need to take a Covid-19 test to ensure your visit to the country will be safe and secure.
Current entry requirements applicable when visiting Turkey can be checked here: https://www.turkishairlines.com/en-us/announcements/coronavirus-outbreak/.
Coronavirus test
Turkey does make it obligatory for not fully vaccinated travellers to take a pre-departure Covid-19 test or show proof of recovery.
Covid-19 tests must be performed within a specific time frame. Performing it earlier or later may result in some problematic issues on arrival and the necessity to perform the test again before being allowed on the territory of a given country.
Moreover, the country’s health authorities may perform random health checks upon arrival. It’s best to know that you can be randomly selected for a health or temperature check after crossing the border.
Travel Insurance
If you’re planning on travelling abroad in the near future, it’s important to purchase travel insurance. Make sure that your insurance policy includes coverage for Covid-19. Without this coverage, if you become infected with Covid-19 while travelling, you could end up facing expensive medical bills.
So be sure to shop around and find a policy that offers full coverage for this potential health risk. Protect yourself and your loved ones by purchasing travel insurance with Covid-19 coverage. Don’t let the possibility of getting sick stop you from exploring the world!
Make sure you have all your documents in order, know what restrictions are in place for your destination country, and follow the advice of health officials. With a little preparation, you can still enjoy travelling during Covid-19 hassle-free and safely. Follow our tips for preparing for international travel, and don’t let Covid-19 keep you from exploring the world!