Property and the Pandemic: Can I Still Buy a House in Turkey?
It’s more than a year since the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared a global pandemic as a result of Covid-19. As each country takes steps to protect its population and bring the virus under control, it’s not surprising many people are still confused about what is and is not allowed when it comes to international travel.
For those who have decided to buy property in Turkey, there have been fears their purchase may not go ahead – but the good news is, these are largely unfounded. If you’re in the UK, for example, while going abroad on holiday is not allowed right now, buying property and moving overseas are classed as genuine reasons to travel.
So, if you were planning a trip to choose your dream home in Antalya, don’t despair – it can still happen. Similarly, if you’re ready to make the move to your new life in Turkey, this is also permitted.
A change to the itinerary
Of course, that doesn’t mean travel plans can go ahead exactly as before. You’ll need to ensure you comply with requirements for a negative PCR test. Depending on where you are coming from, it’s likely you’ll have to enter Turkey through a third country, and you may need to quarantine on arrival. Once you get to Turkey you must make sure you’re aware of any restrictions or rules, such as curfew hours, that are in place at that time.
While this may make travel more difficult, it doesn’t mean it’s impossible. And remember – if you’re buying property in Antalya, our team is here to help you every step of the way. We’ll go the extra mile to make it as easy as possible, including doing as much as we can in your absence if that’s necessary. The last thing you want is to feel stressed out when you’re excited about buying your luxury villa in Kalkan or penthouse apartment in Side!
Dreaming of days in the sun
There are high hopes that current measures to contain Covid-19 means the 2021 tourist season in Turkey will go ahead, even if it is of shorter duration than usual or subject to some restrictions. The Turkish government has recently introduced tougher controls with a view to welcoming holidaymakers later in the year and is also pressing ahead with its vaccination programme.
Permission for holiday travel from the UK is set to resume in mid-May to certain international destinations. While it’s impossible to predict which countries will be on the ‘safe’ list, it’s hoped Turkey will make the cut later in the year.
Antalya and the surrounding areas have welcomed visitors from various countries in recent months, including Russia and Ukraine. Everyone is keen to enjoy a break after the challenges of the past year, so it’s expected the season will be busy once it can finally begin.
Keep a weather eye
If there’s one thing we’ve all learned over the past year, it’s that the situation is fluid with regard to Covid-19 and associated restrictions. When changes are announced, they can come into force within a matter of hours and be reversed again just as quickly.
This means that, if you are hoping to travel to Turkey, it’s vital you keep an eye on relevant news and government sites both here and in your home country. It’s also worth seeking out helpful online communities for information – this Facebook group, for example, is run by two travel industry professionals and focuses on the current rules for legally permitted travel between the UK and Turkey.
We’re here to help
If you’re starting the hunt for your ideal property in Antalya or are wondering whether you should delay your search for a while, let us reassure you. Take a look at our extensive portfolio and contact us with any questions you have.
Our friendly and knowledgeable team is here to assist you any way we can, making your purchase as easy and stress-free as possible – whether you are here with us or not.
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