U.S. warns of travel to Turkey after failed coup

The U.S. State Department on Saturday said U.S. citizens should reconsider traveling to Turkey after a failed coup left dozens dead in Ankara, Istanbul and other parts of the country. The U.S. Embassy in Ankara said U.S. citizens in Turkey should only leave their residences for essential errands or business. 

Key points:

• The State Department travel warning said that “In light of the July 15 coup attempt and its aftermath, we suggest U.S. citizens reconsider travel to Turkey at this time.”
• The warning specifically said U.S. citizens should avoid southeastern Turkey, especially areas near the Syrian border; avoid large crowds, including those at tourist destinations; stay away from protests or political gatherings; and follow instructions of local authorities in an emergency.
• The S. Embassy said it would be open Tuesday, but indicated that non-immigrant visa services would be limited. Services for American citizens and immigrant-visa applicants were not expected to be affected.
• The Federal Aviation Administration temporarily suspended air travel to and from Turkey over the weekend, but restrictions were lifted Monday.

Background: A faction of the Turkish military attempted a coup against President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s government late Friday. The attempt was unsuccessful and thousands of alleged conspirators were arrested over the weekend. The embassy said the “situation in Turkey remains fluid” and advised U.S. citizens to leave their residence or hotel only for essential business.

BAL Analysis: Companies that have not already done so should be sure they can account for all employees in Turkey. Employers in need of urgent immigration services or who plan on moving personnel into or out of Turkey at this time should contact their BAL attorney.

This alert has been provided by the BAL U.S. Practice group. For additional information, please contact BerryApplemanLeiden@bal.com.

Copyright © 2016 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.