Turks and Caicos’ new vaccination rules have officially taken effect, headlined by a new vaccination requirement for incoming travelers.

The British Overseas Territory is now requiring all visitors 16 and over to show proof of full vaccination in order to be granted entry into the destination. 

All visitors additionally need to show proof of a negative PCR test taken and received within three days before arrival to Turks and Caicos. 

Tralvers also need proof medical or travel insurance that covers COVID-19 medical costs, full hospitalization, doctors’ visits, prescriptions, and air ambulance/medevac and quarantine. 

All travelers need to fill out a health screening questionnaire and submit a Travel Authorization Form. 

Fully vaccinated means that a traveler has received his or her last dose at least 14 days prior to the day of entry to the Turks and Caicos. 

Approved vaccines include the Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Moderna and Janssen/Johnson and Johnson vaccines. 

Visitors under are exempt from the vaccination requirement; visitors between 10 and 15 do have to show proof of the negative PCR result within three days before travel. 

Visitors who are unable to take a COVID-19 vaccine due to medical reasons will be exempt from showing proof of vaccination; however, they need written and signed proof from a medical professional stating the exemption, which will be reviewed by the Turks and Caicos Ministry of Health. 

The move is part of an increasing trend toward vaccination requirements across the Caribbean. Turks and Caicos joins destinations that have enacted similar measures, including St Kitts and Nevis and Anguilla.

That’s along with recent news that one of the region’s top hotel portfolios, Elite Island Resorts, is also requiring proof of vaccination for travelers aged 16 and up.

For more, visit Turks and Caicos. 

— CJ