Turkey axes testing requirement for vaccinated Britons – what are the latest travel rules?

Simon Calder says current UK travel rules are a ‘mess’

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

Turkey has announced changes to its entry requirements for double-jabbed Britons with “immediate effect”. However, unvaccinated people or those who have received just one dose of the coronavirus vaccine must still provide evidence of a negative test before being permitted entry to Turkey.

The update is welcome news to vaccinated Britons who are now able to holiday in Turkey without quarantine requirements on their return to the UK.

Turkey was placed on the UK’s amber list for travel at the most recent traffic light update.

From October 4, the green and amber lists will merge for vaccinated travellers.

However, quarantine rules will apply to all unvaccinated arrivals from any country not on the “red travel list”.

In line with the latest updates, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued new information on its travel advice page.

What are the new entry rules for vaccinated Britons visiting Turkey?

The Turkish tourism board has confirmed that Britons who have received both doses of an approved COVID-19 vaccine will no longer be required to show evidence of a negative coronavirus test.

They will, however, be required to show official proof of their vaccination status.

The NHS vaccine pass is accepted by Turkish authorities.

The Turkish Tourism Board in the UK said: “Turkey is ready and excited to welcome back travellers from across the UK this month and beyond.

DON’T MISS
Spain Costa Blanca tourist tax introduced [INSIGHT]
Portugal holidays: What are the latest travel rules for Britons? [FCDO ADVICE]
Passport rules: Three things Britons must check before Europe travel [WARNING]

“With no requirement for PCR tests, and following our removal from the UK Government red list, travelling to Turkey couldn’t be easier.”

The FCDO states: “All arrivals (aged 12 and over) – including those arriving from the UK – into Turkey must have proof of a full course of COVID-19 vaccinations (completed at least 14 days prior to arrival in Turkey).”

Travel expert Simon Calder shared an update on Twitter, stating the new rules came into force with “immediate effect”.

Anyone travelling to Turkey must also fill out an online pre-departure form, regardless of vaccination status. This must be done in the 72 hours before departure.

What are the entry rules for unvaccinated Britons visiting Turkey?

Unvaccinated Britons are also allowed to enter Turkey, however testing rules still apply.

The good news is that Turkey will accept both PCR tests and rapid antigen tests.

PCR tests must have been taken within 72 hours of arrival in the country, while rapid antigen tests must have been taken within 48 hours of arrival in Turkey.

Evidence of a “recent recovery from COVID-19” is also accepted.

Travellers must also fill out a pre-departure health form no more than 72 hours before jetting off.

What are entry rules for children visiting Turkey?

According to the FCDO children aged 11 and under are not required to show evidence of a PCR test or vaccination certificate.

However, teenagers over the age of 12 who have not yet received a vaccine will be required to show evidence of a negative coronavirus test.

This can be either “a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival or a rapid antigen test taken within 48 hours of arrival.”

Evidence of a “recent recovery from COVID-19” is also accepted.

Source: Read Full Article