Questions linger as COVID-19 tests become mandatory for passengers travelling from Turkey to Germany

All passengers travelling from Turkey to Germany are required to take COVID-19 tests and those who do not submit a negative PCR test result will not be allowed to leave the country. However many questions are still unanswered regarding this new implementation as travelers still do not know where they will be placed under quarantine, who will cover the cost of their accommodation should they stay at a hotel and how their treatment will be actualized in Turkey.

Duvar English

Germany says arrivals from Turkey, Western Balkan countries contributing to rise in COVID-19 casesGermany says arrivals from Turkey, Western Balkan countries contributing to rise in COVID-19 cases

Following consultations between German and Turkish officials, the German Foreign Ministry earlier in August updated its advisory against “all but essential” travel to Turkey, saying destinations with low rates of infection such as coastal Antalya, İzmir, Muğla and Aydın are now exempt.

As a precaution, travelers returning to Germany will be asked to show a negative PRC (virus antigen) test taken no more than 48 hours before arrival. Those who test positive for the virus will not be allowed to travel to Germany and will be placed under quarantine in Turkey and start a treatment. If a traveler refuses to present their test result, they will not be allowed to board on the plane.

Some questions are however unanswered regarding this new implementation. Travelers still do not know where they will be placed under quarantine, who will cover the cost of their accommodation should they stay at a hotel and how their treatment will be actualized.

Germany drops travel warnings for four Turkish provincesGermany drops travel warnings for four Turkish provinces

Berlin warns citizens they might face arrest, prosecution in Turkey

The German Foreign Ministry's statement regarding travel to Turkey was not limited to the coronavirus. Berlin warned its citizens that they might face arrest or prosecution in Turkey in connection with statements critical of the government, especially considered to be insulting the president.

“Arrests, criminal prosecutions or an exit ban can be undertaken with regards to statements critical of the government on social media, especially due to allegations of insulting the president. Even if someone was able to travel to Turkey in the past without problems, it cannot be ruled out that they may face arrest / prosecution once they enter the country again,” the German Foreign Ministry's statement on Aug. 4 read.

“The above measures do not only affect German nationals with close private and personal ties to Turkey, but also those who have Turkish citizenship, in addition to German citizenship, and those who are active in Kurdish associations,” it said.

The statement also pointed out to the situation of journalists, saying that journalists' statements which are covered by freedom of expression within the framework of German legal system, can “lead to measures restricting employment and end up in criminal proceedings in Turkey.”