Turkey has been waiting for Russian medical tourists since May 20

Turkey will open borders for foreign tourists in May, but not for beach holidays. Using the example of a medical audience of travelers, the Turkish authorities want to try out special protocols and procedures for their stay. Russia is in the list of allowed countries.

Starting May 20, Turkey will allow citizens of 31 countries of the world to come for treatment and rehabilitation. This list includes the Russian Federation, the CIS countries (Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan), several countries of Europe and the Middle East.

When crossing the border, foreigners are required to have a certificate confirming that they do not have Covid-19 (valid for 48 hours) or to be tested already upon arrival (the service will be paid). During a flight to Turkey and during customs checks, foreign tourists are required to be masked.

According to Turkish statistics, in 2019, the country hosted about a million medical tourists, and income amounted to one billion dollars. These are mainly citizens of the Middle East, Asia and Europe. In comparison with the “beach” tourists, who during their stay leave in Turkey 500-700 Euros, medical tourists spend from 1,5 thousand Euros or more.

Despite the “invitation” of the Turkish authorities, the Russians are unlikely to be able to go to Turkey for treatment in May and June. The date of the opening of the borders of the Russian Federation remains unknown.

According to the head of the Ministry of Transport, Yevgeny Dietrich, the restoration of international traffic is possible from July. The restart of Turkish Airlines flights to Moscow and St. Petersburg is also scheduled for July.