A Turkey Visa is your gateway to the mesmerizing land of Turkey, allowing you to explore its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re planning a vacation, business trip, or educational journey, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the Turkish visa application process, the various visa types available, and answer frequently asked questions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Who Needs a Turkey Visa?
Before diving into the application process, it’s crucial to determine whether you need a Turkey visa. Turkey extends a warm welcome to many nationalities, but some are required to obtain a visa for entry. Exceptions are made for citizens of countries with strong diplomatic ties to Turkey.
Categories of Individuals Needing a Turkey Visa
- Foreigners Eligible for E-Visa: If your purpose of visit falls under tourism or commerce, you can apply for an e-visa. This category provides convenience for eligible travelers.
- Foreigners Requiring Sticker Visa: For those traveling to Turkey for purposes other than tourism or commerce, a sticker visa is mandatory.
It’s important to note that certain categories are exempt from both e-visa and sticker visa requirements. For a detailed list of exempt categories and additional information, refer to our article on who needs a Turkey visa.
Turkish Visa Application Process
Step 1: Determine Visa Type
Begin by identifying the type of Turkish visa that suits your purpose of travel. The main visa categories include:
- Turkish Tourist/Business Visa
- Turkish Education Visa
- Turkey Work Visa
- Other Visas (e.g., archaeological excavation, medical treatment, family unification)
Step 2: Timing Matters
Turkish authorities recommend applying for a Turkish sticker visa at least one month before your planned trip. The earliest you can submit your application is 60 days before your intended departure date. Timely application minimizes processing delays.
Step 3: Application Submission
To initiate your Turkey visa application, visit the Turkish embassy or consulate in your country of residence. In some cases, third-party visa processing centers handle applications, but the Turkish embassies and consulates remain the ultimate authorities for processing worldwide.
Step 4: Complete the Online Form
For Turkish Sticker Visa applicants, start by filling out the online form, providing essential information about your identity, nationality, and purpose of visit. If you are exempt from a visa, the system will inform you accordingly.
Step 5: Attend the Visa Interview
On the scheduled date, attend a brief interview at the Turkish embassy or consulate. A consular officer will ask questions related to your trip.
Required Documents
Submitting the correct documents is vital. Collect all required paperwork, adhering to the criteria set by Turkish authorities. Depending on your visa type and nationality, additional documents may be necessary.
Turkey Visa Application Processing
The processing time for a Turkey visa application varies depending on your location. Some countries provide responses within three days, while others may take up to 15 working days. Work visa applications may require up to 25 working days for processing.
To track your application’s status, visit the same website where you initiated the process.
Applying for a Turkish E-Visa
For a more streamlined process, Turkish e-visas offer convenience. Here’s how to obtain one:
- Visit the Turkish eVisa Website and complete the online application form.
- Check your email for a confirmation link.
- Pay the e-visa fee online.
- Download your e-visa and ensure it’s printed for presentation upon arrival in Turkey.
How Much Does it Cost to Apply for a Turkish Visa?
The cost of a Turkish visa depends on the type and your nationality. Turkish e-visa fees range from €14 to €71. Sticker visa fees range from €117 to €180 for most nationalities, but certain countries, like the UAE, may have higher fees, up to €465. For a detailed fee breakdown, consult our article on Turkey visa fees.
Turkish Visa Validity
With a Turkish visa, you can stay in Turkey for up to 90 days within six months. The duration may vary based on your nationality:
- Up to 30 days within six months
- Up to 60 days within six months
- Up to 90 days within six months
- Up to 60 days per visit, 90 days within six months
- Up to 30 days per visit, 90 days within six months
It’s important to note that e-visa and sticker visa holders have the same validity period.
After You Arrive in Turkey
If you plan to work or study in Turkey, it’s essential to register with the nearest local police department upon arrival. However, tourists and business visitors cannot apply for a residence permit.
Documents Required at the Turkish Port of Entry
Upon arriving in Turkey, you’ll need to present specific documents to prove your eligibility:
- A valid passport
- Your e-visa or sticker visa, as applicable
Citizens of select countries, such as Germany, Belgium, and Spain, may enter Turkey with only their IDs or expired passports issued within the last five years. For a comprehensive list, refer to our article.
For a full list of the Turkish visa costs, check our article on Turkey visa fees.
Turkey Visa FAQ
How long should my passport be valid to be eligible for Turkey visa application?
According to Turkish laws, your passport must have an expiration date at least 60 days beyond your intended stay in Turkey.
Can I visit Turkey with a Schengen Visa?
Under specific conditions, you can enter Turkey with a Schengen visa. These conditions include being a national of eligible countries, traveling with an approved airline, and having a hotel reservation and sufficient funds.
Can I visit Turkey with a US Visa?
Similar conditions apply for entering Turkey with a US visa as for a Schengen visa.
Do I need to enter Turkey on the exact date specified in my application?
No, your e-visa’s validity begins on the date specified in your application. You can enter Turkey anytime within this period.
Can I get an e-visa for work and study?
No, e-visas are exclusively for tourism and commercial purposes. To work or study in Turkey, you’ll need a Turkish sticker visa.
What is the latest I can apply for an e-Visa?
You can apply for an e-visa up to 48 hours before your trip. Additionally, you can apply as early as three months in advance.
Can I fill in the e-visa form in another language?
While currently available in English, French, and Spanish, the e-visa system is set to include Dutch, Norwegian, Polish, German, Arabic, and Chinese language options soon.
Can I get a refund if I do not use my Turkish visa?
No, Turkish authorities do not provide refunds for unused Turkish sticker visas or e-visas.
What happens if I overstay my Turkish Visa?
Overstaying your Turkish visa can result in fines, deportation, or a ban from entering Turkey for a specified period.
What is a Special Passport in the Turkish e-Visa system?
A UK Special Passport refers to a British passport marked as British Overseas Citizen, British Protected Person, or British Subject. Holders of these passports must
