Turkey Travel and Entry Restrictions 2022: COVID-19 Update

The Turkish government has several travel restrictions that it uses to control its borders. This includes special measures to protect security and health in the country.

Due to COVID-19, Türkiye introduced travel restrictions on foreign visitors in the interest of public safety. Turkey’s Covid restrictions have been reviewed and updated throughout the pandemic.

This article looks at current Turkey entry restrictions, explaining:

• Who can enter Türkiye under the current rules
• Entry restrictions for tourists during COVID-19
• Whether your Turkish Visa is still valid under the restrictions

NOTE: All visitors must check the Turkey COVID-19 entry requirements before planning their trip to the country.

Can I Travel to Turkey? Is Turkey Open to Tourists?

Yes, Türkiye is open for tourism. Travelers of all nationalities who meet Turkey’s immigration regulations can enter the country following the rules outlined below.

As always, foreigners need a passport and a valid visa or a copy of an approved online eVisa to travel to Turkey.

Visitors should check the latest lockdown update and travel advisories. Turkey travel restrictions for tourists are under constant review as the international situation evolves.

Who May Not Travel to Turkey Due to the Coronavirus Pandemic?

The Turkish government does not prohibit any nationalities from entering Turkey. The same COVID-19 requirements now apply to passengers arriving from all countries.

Most international tourists can travel to Turkey either visa-free or, for those fitting the requirements, with an eVisa.

Some countries may only enter with a conventional sticker visa, which individuals can only obtain at a Turkish embassy. This includes national citizens of:

• Algeria
• Cuba
• Guyana
• Kiribati
• Laos
• Marshall Islands
• Micronesia
• Myanmar
• Nauru
• North Korea
• Palau
• Papua New Guinea
• Samoa
• South Sudan
• Syria
• Tonga
• Tuvalu

Special COVID-19 Entry Requirements in Turkey

Additional procedures are in place to safeguard the health of residents and tourists in Türkiye. To be granted entry to the country, visitors from overseas are required to comply with the following special coronavirus rules.

Complete a “Traveler Entry Form” before arrival

All incoming passengers over the age of 6 must complete a “Traveler Entry Form” at least four days before their arrival in Türkiye. Children under 6 are exempt.

The purpose of the form is to contact individuals who have been in contact with someone who later tested positive for COVID-19.

Visitors should provide contact information and the accommodation address in Türkiye.

The “Form for Entry to Turkey” must be completed online and takes a few minutes. All passengers need to present it before boarding a flight to Turkey and again on arrival.

Use the button below to complete the Entrance Form for Turkey now or when applying for the Turkish eVisa

Negative COVID-19 test requirement for Turkey

Passengers are no longer required to take a COVID-19 test result to enter Turkey. The PCR test requirement for Turkey was dropped on June 1, 2022.

Previously, passengers without a valid vaccination certificate or recovery document needed to take a PCR or antigen test in the days leading up to departure.

Travelers should check with their airline in case there are any additional requirements.

Türkiye COVID-19 Quarantine Rules

Most vaccinated travelers can now enter Turkey without quarantine.

Foreigners who fail medical screening or test positive could be required to self-isolate in Türkiye.

Other Entry Requirements On Arrival in Türkiye

On arrival in Turkey, passengers and airline crew may undergo a brief medical check, including temperature controls. Individuals who are not displaying any symptoms can continue their journey.

Visitors who test positive for coronavirus will be treated at a medical facility determined by the Turkish authorities or, alternatively, a private medical facility of the traveler’s choosing.

Entering Turkey Through Istanbul Airport

Istanbul’s entry restrictions are the same as the rest of the country.

As Istanbul Airport is the main arrival point for most foreign arrivals, it has taken several measures against COVID-19.

Istanbul Airport has test centers which offer service 24/7. Passengers can get a PCR, antibody, and antigen test done at the airport.

Everyone must wear their mask while at the airport, including the terminal area.

Travelers should expect body temperature screens at the terminal entrance.

All areas of Istanbul Airport are frequently cleaned and sanitized.

What Safety Measures Are in Place in Türkiye to Protect the Public?

In addition to COVID-19 travel restrictions, the Turkish government has numerous public safety measures to protect the population.

The government screens those applying for eVisas and visas with criminal record background checks to prevent passengers that pose a threat to the public from entering the country.

This, however, does not affect travelers with minor records and is intended to restrict terrorist activity and the risk of violent or dangerous criminal activity.