North Cyprus halves quarantine time for UK travellers to seven days

There was some unexpected good news yesterday for Turkish Cypriots and others in Britain wanting to travel to the Turkish Republic of North Cyprus (TRNC) this summer.

The TRNC Contagious Diseases Supreme Committee (‘Bulaşıcı Hastalıklar Üst Komitesi’, CDSD) announced on Wednesday evening, 8 July, that the period of mandatory quarantine for those travelling from the UK was being reduced from fourteen to seven days. The news came among a host of other updates on entry requirements into the country.

The CDSD, which reports into the Health Ministry, said it made the decision after reviewing data about the significant reduction in infection rates in Britain.

Travellers from Britain must first obtain a negative PCR test between three and five days before they travel. On arrival in North Cyprus, they will be tested again and then taken into quarantine for seven days at a centre of the government’s choosing.

At the end of the seven days of quarantine, they will have a third PCR test and providing this is also negative, they will be able to leave the quarantine centre.

The Health Ministry announcement did not specify who will pay for the quarantine and tests in the TRNC, but it is assumed these costs will be again be borne by the passenger.

The new rules will take effect from 16 July 2020.

Tour operator Cyprus Paradise have informed T-VINE that they are planning a 7-day quarantine package for the latter half of July. To register your interest, email info@cypruspremier.comwith your details.