The banks’ working hours have changed due to the coronavirus. As case numbers rise, measures against COVID-19 continue to be increased. According to a recent announcement from the Banks Association of Türkiye, banks’ branch hours have been limited. Following the decision sent to banks by the Association, branch operating and customer service hours have been set at 12:00–17:00. The official statement from the Banks Association reads that branches and service units that provide direct customer service will operate and accept customers between 12:00 and 17:00. Banks may, if they wish, determine their customer service and operating hours more flexibly.
What Does the Statement from the Banks Association of Türkiye Say?
What does the statement from the Banks Association of Türkiye say? Measures against the coronavirus are being expanded day by day, and this new restriction adds to those measures. The latest announcement restricts the working hours of banks across the country. To protect public health, the most recent government guidance has been implemented as follows. In coordination with the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye and the World Health Organization, precautionary instructions and recommendations aim to ensure that customers can carry out their banking transactions safely. Within the scope of these protective measures, the Board of Directors of the Banks Association of Türkiye has issued the following advisory decision, which is ultimately left to the discretion of member banks.
Branches and service units that serve customers directly will have working and customer acceptance hours set between 12:00 and 17:00. If banks wish, they may set their own operating and customer hours flexibly. Banks must inform their customers of any hours they establish. Measures will be taken in branches and service units to prevent close contact and crowding. High-risk branches and those in crowded locations may be taken out of service. Alternative channels will continue to provide uninterrupted service so that banking transactions can be completed through digital means.
In this context, it is important that customers follow announcements issued by their banks and use digital channels for daily transactions whenever possible. Using remote and electronic banking services plays a crucial role in the global effort to combat the pandemic. We believe the public will understand these necessary measures, implemented to protect and sustain community health. Our goal is to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus by following the recommended precautions. By acting together, we can contribute to controlling the outbreak and protecting public health.