Europe – Turkey Visa – Requirements

1. Do I need a visa to travel to Turkey from Europe?

Yes, if you are a citizen of a European country outside of the European Union or the Schengen Area, you will need a visa to enter Turkey. Citizens of EU countries, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

2. What type of visa do I need for Turkey?
The type of visa you need for Turkey depends on the purpose and length of your stay. Visitors can apply for an e-Visa online or obtain a physical sticker visa from a Turkish embassy or consulate before traveling. The most common types of visas for visitors to Turkey include:

– Tourist Visa: For tourists planning to spend up to 90 days in Turkey.
– Business Visa: For those traveling to Turkey for business purposes.
– Student Visa: For students enrolled in a program in Turkey.
– Work Visa: For individuals who have been offered employment in Turkey.
– Transit Visa: For travelers passing through Turkey en route to another destination.

3. How long does it take to get a Turkish visa?
It typically takes between one and three weeks for applicants to receive their Turkish visa after submitting their application at an embassy or consulate. However, the process may be faster or slower depending on the individual’s country of citizenship and the specific circumstances of their application.

4. Can I get a visa upon arrival in Turkey?
No, it is not possible to get a visa upon arrival in Turkey. Applicants must obtain an e-Visa online or from a Turkish embassy or consulate before traveling.

5. How much does it cost to get a Turkish visa?
The cost of a Turkish visa varies depending on your country of citizenship and type of visa requested. The e-visa processed online costs $35 USD, while obtaining one from an embassy or consulate may incur additional processing fees.

6. Are there any restrictions on entering Turkey with certain items?
Yes, there are restrictions on entering Turkey with certain items, including weapons, drugs, and obscene materials. Visitors should also be aware of the restrictions on bringing in more than 10,000 USD in cash.

7. Can I extend my visa while in Turkey?
Yes, it may be possible to extend your visa while in Turkey if circumstances require it. However, this process can be complex and time-consuming, so it is best to plan ahead and obtain the appropriate visa before traveling.

8. Is travel insurance required for visiting Turkey?
While travel insurance is not explicitly required for visiting Turkey, it is highly recommended to have coverage for medical emergencies and other unexpected events.

9. What are the entry requirements for visitors with dual citizenship?
Visitors with dual citizenship should enter Turkey with the same passport that they used to obtain their Turkish visa. If one nationality does not require a visa for Turkey but the other does, it is important to enter with the non-visa-exempt passport.

10. Can I visit other countries while traveling in Turkey?
Yes, visitors can easily travel from Turkey to other neighboring countries such as Greece or Bulgaria. However, you will need to make sure you have any necessary visas before leaving Turkey and re-entering at a later date. Make sure to check current travel restrictions before planning trips outside of Turkey.

2. What are the requirements for obtaining a Turkish visa?

Some requirements for obtaining a Turkish visa include:

– A completed online visa application form.
– A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity beyond the intended stay in Turkey.
– Two recent passport-sized photos.
– Proof of sufficient funds to cover the cost of your stay in Turkey (such as bank statements or a letter from your employer).
– Round-trip flight tickets or other proof of onward travel.
– Travel medical insurance that covers the duration of your trip.
– Any additional documents required by the specific type of visa you are applying for (such as a letter of invitation from a Turkish host, business-related documents, etc.).

Please note that the exact requirements may vary depending on the country and type of visa. It is recommended to check with the nearest Turkish embassy/consulate for the most up-to-date and specific requirements.

3. How long can I stay in Turkey with a European visa?


The length of stay in Turkey with a European visa will depend on the type of visa you have been issued and the terms and conditions associated with it. Most tourist visas allow for a stay of up to 90 days within a period of 180 days. It is important to check the validity and length of your visa before traveling to Turkey.

4. Can I apply for a Turkish visa online or do I have to visit the embassy?


You can apply for a Turkish visa online or visit the Turkish embassy/consulate, depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for.

If you are eligible for an e-Visa, you can apply for it online through the official Turkish government website. This is the most convenient way to obtain a visa, as it eliminates the need to physically visit an embassy or wait in line.

However, if you are not eligible for an e-Visa or if you are applying for a different type of visa (such as a work or residence permit), you will need to submit your application in person at the nearest Turkish embassy/consulate.

It is recommended to check with the Turkish embassy/consulate in your country beforehand to determine the most appropriate method of application and to ensure that you have all the necessary documents and information.

5. Is there a fee for the Turkish visa application?


Yes, there is a fee for the Turkish visa application, which varies depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for. The fee can range from $20 to $160. You can find the specific fees for your country on the website of the Turkish consulate or embassy in your country.

6. What documents do I need to provide for my Turkish visa application?


The exact documents needed may vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your specific circumstances, but generally, the following documents are required for a Turkish visa application:

1. Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in Turkey.

2. Visa application form: You will need to fill out a visa application form, which can usually be found online on the Turkish embassy or consulate website.

3. Passport-sized photos: You will need to provide two recent passport-sized photos with a plain background.

4. Proof of travel arrangements: This can include flight reservation or tickets, hotel reservations, or an invitation letter from someone in Turkey if you will be staying with them.

5. Proof of sufficient funds: You may be required to show proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Turkey. This could include bank statements, credit card statements, or a letter from your employer stating your salary and leave approval.

6. Travel insurance: It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while traveling in Turkey.

7. Purpose of visit: Depending on the type of visa you are applying for, you may need additional documents such as a letter of invitation from a Turkish company if you are traveling for business, or proof of enrollment in a Turkish educational institution if you are applying for a student visa.

8. Additional requirements: Some applicants may also be asked to provide additional documents such as employment letters, proof of residency, or marriage and birth certificates.

It is always best to check with the nearest Turkish embassy or consulate for specific requirements based on your country of residence and purpose of travel before submitting your application.

7. Do I need to provide proof of accommodation and travel arrangements for my trip to Turkey?

Yes, you will need to provide proof of accommodation and travel arrangements for your trip to Turkey. This is typically required during the visa application process. You can provide this information in the form of hotel reservations, airline tickets, or a letter of invitation from a Turkish resident if you are staying with friends or family. It is important to have these documents readily available when applying for a visa to Turkey.

8. Will I need a travel insurance for my trip to Turkey?


It is highly recommended to have travel insurance for your trip to Turkey. Travel insurance can protect you from unexpected events such as flight cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost or stolen belongings. It is important to carefully review the coverage and benefits of your travel insurance policy before purchasing to ensure it meets your needs for your specific trip to Turkey.

9. How long does it take to process a Turkish visa application?


The processing time for a Turkish visa application can vary depending on the individual’s nationality, the type of visa being applied for, and the workload of the embassy or consulate. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks for a Turkish visa application to be processed. It is recommended to apply for a visa well in advance of your intended travel date.

10. Can someone else apply for a Turkish visa on my behalf?

No, you must apply for a Turkish visa yourself. The application process typically involves submitting personal information and documents, so it is not possible for someone else to do this on your behalf. However, if you are unable to submit the application in person, you may be able to appoint a representative or use a visa agency to assist you with the process.

11. Can I extend my stay in Turkey if I have a European visa?


Yes, as long as your European visa is still valid and allows for multiple entries into the Schengen Area, you can extend your stay in Turkey. However, you may need to go through the necessary paperwork and procedures to obtain a residence permit for longer stays. It is always best to check with the Turkish embassy or consulate in your home country for specific guidelines and requirements for extending your stay in Turkey.

12. Do minors also require a visa to travel to Turkey from Europe?

Yes, minors under the age of 18 also require a visa to travel to Turkey from Europe. They can either apply for a regular visa or be included in their parent’s or legal guardian’s visa application.

13. Will having previous Schengen visas make it easier to obtain a Turkish visa?


Having previous Schengen visas may make it easier to obtain a Turkish visa, as it shows that you have a good travel history and are familiar with the requirements for obtaining a visa. However, the decision to issue a Turkish visa ultimately depends on your individual circumstances and the purpose of your visit to Turkey.

14. Are there any special requirements for business travelers applying for a Turkish visa?

There are no special requirements for business travelers applying for a Turkish visa. However, they should provide supporting documents related to their business trip, such as an invitation letter from a Turkish company, a letter from their employer stating the purpose of the trip and their employment status, and proof of financial means to cover their expenses during the stay in Turkey. It is also recommended to have a valid business license or registration document.

15. Do I need an onward ticket when applying for a Turkish visa?


Yes, you will need to provide proof of an onward ticket when applying for a Turkish visa. This can be in the form of a round-trip ticket or a confirmed itinerary showing your departure from Turkey. The purpose of this requirement is to ensure that you have solid plans for leaving the country and are not intending to overstay your visa.

16. Will having an invitation letter from someone in Turkey help with my visa application?

Having an invitation letter from someone in Turkey can potentially help with your visa application. This letter can serve as proof of the purpose and length of your trip, as well as your relationship with the person inviting you. It may also show that you have a local contact in Turkey who can vouch for your visit and provide assistance if needed.

However, it is important to note that an invitation letter does not guarantee approval of your visa application. The decision ultimately lies with the consular officer reviewing your application. You will still need to provide all required documents and meet the eligibility criteria for a Turkish visa.

It is always recommended to follow the official visa requirements and guidelines provided by the Turkish Embassy or Consulate in your country for the most up-to-date and accurate information on how to apply for a visa.

17. Can I visit other countries in Europe with a valid Turkish tourist visa?


Yes, with a valid Turkish tourist visa, you are allowed to travel to other countries in Europe that are party to the Schengen Agreement. This includes 26 European countries such as Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and more. However, it is always advisable to check the specific visa requirements of the country you plan to visit before traveling. Some countries may have different entry requirements or may require a separate visa for entry. It is important to research and plan your trip accordingly.

18. Are there any restrictions on the activities allowed when visiting Turkey on a tourist visa?


Yes, tourists are not allowed to engage in any work or employment activities while on a tourist visa. They also should not participate in any journalistic or media-related activities without proper credentials from the relevant authorities. Additionally, tourists may be restricted from visiting certain areas deemed sensitive by the Turkish government. It is advised to check with the Turkish embassy or consulate for a complete list of restrictions before traveling.

19. Can I work in Turkey with just my European tourist or business visa?

No, a European tourist or business visa does not allow you to work in Turkey. You will need to obtain a work permit and a residence permit in order to work legally in Turkey.

20.Has the process changed due to COVID-19, and are there additional requirements now?


The process for various activities, including shopping, traveling, and attending events or gatherings, may have changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There may be additional requirements in place to prevent the spread of the virus. These could include wearing face masks, practicing social distancing, providing proof of vaccination or negative test results, or following specific guidelines for certain locations or events. It is important to stay informed about any updates or changes in regulations and follow them to ensure personal safety and protect others from potential exposure to the virus.