Visa and Entry Requirements in Turkey

1. What is the current visa policy for traveling to Turkey?


The current visa policy for traveling to Turkey is as follows:

1. Citizens of most European countries, including all members of the European Union, can enter Turkey without a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

2. Citizens of the United States, Canada, and Mexico can obtain an e-Visa online before their trip or purchase a visa on arrival at Turkish airports for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

3. Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and many other countries are also eligible for an e-Visa or visa on arrival for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

4. Some countries have different requirements for obtaining a visa to Turkey. For example, citizens of Brazil must obtain a physical visa from a Turkish embassy or consulate before their trip.

5. For longer stays or work purposes, travelers will need to apply for a Turkish residence permit.

6. Diplomatic and service passport holders from certain countries are exempt from needing a visa for entry to Turkey.

It is always best to check with your nearest Turkish embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information on the visa policy as it may vary depending on your nationality or purpose of travel.

2. Do I need a visa to enter Turkey as a tourist?


Yes, most tourists will need a visa to enter Turkey. However, there are some countries that are exempt from needing a visa or can obtain one upon arrival. It is best to check with the Turkish embassy or consulate in your country to see if you need a visa and what type of visa you may require for your trip.

3. Are there any exemptions for certain nationalities in regards to visa requirements in Turkey?


Yes, citizens from a select list of countries do not need a visa to enter Turkey for short-term visits. These include citizens of the EU, USA, Canada, UK, Japan, Brazil and more. The complete list of exempted countries can be found on the website of the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

4. How long does it typically take to obtain a visa for Turkey?


The processing time for a visa for Turkey depends on the method of application and the country of origin. Generally, it takes about 10-15 days to obtain a visa via e-visa or at a Turkish embassy/consulate. However, in some cases, it can take up to 30 days if additional documents or information is required. It is recommended to apply for a visa well in advance of your planned trip to avoid any delays.

5. Is there an option for expedited processing of visa applications for Turkey?

There is no official expedited processing option for visa applications for Turkey. However, applicants may be able to receive their visa faster by requesting a rush appointment at the Turkish embassy or consulate where they submit their application. It is important to note that this option is not guaranteed and will depend on the availability of appointments and the specific circumstances of each individual case.

6. Are vaccinations required for entry into Turkey?

Yes, the Turkish government requires all visitors to have proof of certain vaccinations in order to enter the country. These may include routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), and polio. The specific requirements may vary depending on your country of origin, so it is best to consult with your local embassy or consulate before traveling. In some cases, a valid vaccination certificate or medical exemption letter may be accepted as well.

7. Is there a limit on how long I am allowed to stay in Turkey on a tourist visa?

The standard tourist visa allows visitors to stay in Turkey for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. After this period, they must leave the country and cannot re-enter until the 180 days have passed. If you wish to stay longer, you will need to apply for a residence permit.

8. Can I work or volunteer while on a tourist visa in Turkey?


No, you are not allowed to work or volunteer while on a tourist visa in Turkey. Tourist visas are only for temporary visits and do not allow for any kind of employment. Engaging in any work or voluntary activities may result in penalties, deportation, and future entry bans. If you wish to work or volunteer in Turkey, you must obtain the appropriate visa or work permit before entering the country.

9. Is it possible to extend my tourist visa once I am already in Turkey?

Yes, it is possible to apply for an extension of your tourist visa while staying in Turkey. You can apply for an extension at the provincial Directorate of Immigration Administration before your initial visa expires. The length and conditions of the extension will be determined by the Directorate based on your reasons for staying longer. It is important to note that extensions are not guaranteed and it is best to apply well before your original visa expires.

10. What are the necessary documents and fees required for a visa application to Turkey?


The necessary documents for a visa application to Turkey may vary depending on your country of citizenship and the purpose of your visit. However, some common requirements include:

1. Valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining beyond the intended stay in Turkey.
2. Completed visa application form.
3. Passport-sized photos.
4. Proof of travel arrangements (flight tickets, hotel reservations, etc.).
5. Evidence of sufficient funds to cover the expenses of your trip.
6. Letter of invitation from a sponsor or host in Turkey (if applicable).
7. Travel health insurance.
8. Police clearance certificate (depending on the length of stay).
9. Proof of previous travel history.
10. Visa application fee.

The required fees may also vary depending on your nationality and type of visa you are applying for. Visas can be applied for online or at a Turkish embassy or consulate in your home country.

It is recommended to check with the nearest Turkish embassy/consulate for specific requirements and fees before submitting your visa application.

11. Are there any specific requirements or restrictions for business travelers entering Turkey?


Yes, there are specific requirements and restrictions for business travelers entering Turkey. These include:
1. Valid passport: All travelers must have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity remaining from the date of entry.
2. Visa requirements: Business travelers from certain countries may need to obtain a visa before traveling to Turkey. You can check if you need a visa on the official website of the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
3. Invitation letter: In addition to a valid passport and visa (if required), business travelers may be required to show an invitation letter from their host company or organization in Turkey.
4. Proof of purpose: Business travelers may be asked to provide proof of their intended activities in Turkey, such as attending meetings, conferences, or conducting market research.
5. COVID-19 Test: As of April 15, 2021, all international passengers arriving in Turkey are required to present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.
6. Health Declaration Form: All travelers must complete an online “Traveler Entry Form” before entering Turkey. This form includes personal information and health-related questions related to COVID-19.
7. Quarantine requirement: Depending on your country of origin and current COVID-19 situation, you may be required to self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival in Turkey.
8. Travel insurance: It is recommended that business travelers have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation/interruption, and emergency evacuation.
9. Restricted areas: Some regions in Turkey require special permits for foreign visitors due to security concerns.
10.Precautionary measures: All international travelers are required to follow precautionary measures while traveling within Turkey, including wearing masks in public places and adhering to social distancing guidelines.
11.Restrictions on certain nationalities: Some nationalities may face additional restrictions or limitations when entering Turkey due to political tensions or conflicts with other countries.

It is important to check the latest travel restrictions and requirements before planning your trip to Turkey as they are subject to change.

12. Do minors require a separate visa when traveling with their parents or legal guardians to Turkey?

Minors traveling with their parents or legal guardians do not require a separate visa to enter Turkey if they are listed on their parent or guardian’s visa. However, it is recommended to bring along a birth certificate or other proof of relation to confirm the child’s traveling companions. If the minor is not listed on their parent or guardian’s visa, they will need to apply for a separate visa.

13. What is the duration of validity for a tourist visa to enter Turkey?


A tourist visa for Turkey is typically valid for 180 days, allowing for multiple entries during that time period. However, the duration of stay for each entry cannot exceed 90 days within a 180 day period.

14. Can I enter and exit multiple times with one single-entry tourist visa for travels within Turkey?

No, a single-entry tourist visa for Turkey only allows you to enter the country once. If you need to exit and re-enter multiple times, you will need to apply for a multiple-entry visa.

15. Can I apply for a tourist visa upon arrival at the airport in Turkey?

No, you cannot apply for a tourist visa upon arrival at the airport in Turkey. You must obtain a tourist visa before traveling to Turkey from your nearest Turkish Embassy/Consulate or online through the Electronic Visa Application System (eVisa).

16. Does my passport need to have a minimum number of months remaining before expiration in order to apply for a visa to enter Turkey?

Generally, your passport should be valid for at least six months from the date of your planned departure from Turkey in order to apply for a visa. However, this requirement may vary depending on your country of citizenship. It is always best to check with the Turkish embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements.

17. Will my criminal record affect my eligibility for obtaining a visa to enter Turkey?


Possibly. If you have a criminal record, you may be deemed ineligible for a visa to enter Turkey. The Turkish government reserves the right to deny entry to individuals who have previous criminal convictions, especially for serious crimes such as drug trafficking or terrorism. It is recommended that you check with the nearest Turkish embassy or consulate before applying for a visa to determine if your criminal record will affect your eligibility.

18. What are the consequences if I overstay my tourist visa period in Turkey?


If you overstay your tourist visa period in Turkey, you could face the following consequences:

1. Fine: The Turkish government may impose a fine for every day that you have overstayed your visa.

2. Deportation: In some cases, overstay can lead to immediate deportation from Turkey and a temporary ban on re-entering the country.

3. Denied entry in the future: Overstaying your visa period and being deported can also result in denial of entry to Turkey in the future.

4. Legal action: If you are found to be working or engaging in any other unauthorized activities while staying on a tourist visa, you could face legal action, including fines and imprisonment.

5. Difficulty obtaining visas for other countries: Overstaying your visa in one country can make it difficult for you to obtain visas for other countries as well, as it can raise questions about your immigration intentions and adherence to immigration laws.

It is important to adhere to the rules and regulations of your tourist visa in order to avoid these consequences.

19.Is it possible to convert from one type of temporary residency permit (such as student, work, or family) to another while remaining within country limits in Turkey?


Yes, it is possible to convert from one type of temporary residency permit to another while remaining within country limits in Turkey. This is known as a residency permit conversion and it allows foreign nationals to change their reason for staying in the country without having to leave and re-enter Turkey on a new permit. However, the conversion must be applied for before the current residency permit expires. The specific requirements and application process may vary depending on the type of residency permit being converted to. It is recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or contact the local immigration authorities for more information on converting residency permits in Turkey.

20.What are the mandatory requirements regarding passport photos and sizes for visa application in Turkey?


The mandatory requirements for passport photos and sizes for visa application in Turkey are as follows:

1. Size: The size of the passport photo should be 5×6 cm.

2. Color: The photo should be in color, clear and with a white background.

3. Head position: The head of the applicant should be straight and facing the camera.

4. Facial expression: The applicant’s face should have a neutral expression with eyes open and clearly visible.

5. Quality: The photo should be high quality with no pixels or shadows.

6. Clothing: The applicant should not wear sunglasses or head accessories that cover the face, except for religious purposes. Uniforms or camouflage attire is also not allowed.

7. Photo Age: The photo should not be older than 6 months.

8. Mouth and Eyes: Both the mouth and eyes must be visible in the photo.

9. Glasses: Wearing glasses is allowed, but they must not cause glare and the frames must not cover any part of the eyes.

10. Hat or Headgear: Only religious headgear is allowed to be worn in passport photos.

11.Digital Format: Photos must be printed on photo-quality paper and cannot be digitally altered or manipulated.

12.Posture:The posture of the applicant in the photo should be natural, with shoulders straight and no slouching.

13.No Staple Marks:The photograph submitted must not contain any staple marks or creases on it.

14.Age Restrictions: Children under six years old should submit photographs showing their full face without hat, burka etc., while babies can have their faces supported by a hand; no toys, other people or distracting objects are permitted in this case either.”

15.Photo frame:A recent front-view (face) taken against a homogenous background.Straight hair must not cover face; oval shorn does not surround picture more than ounce centimeter.Must replace an expired ID prints within less two (2) months from its expiration.

16.Acceptable Replacements: The last four (4) photos are not different in conditions; they must replace the applicable two-application pictures!.

17.Modifying Pictures:The cannot modifying or framing printed image is required after both sides of new sequent will be scanned and digitally saved in one image representing negative end applied.

18.Picture Background:Photo background colour can be automatic system selection of taken photograph or a paper sheet with pure wall score depiction under factory floor retailers supervision meeting an additional white pharmaceutical, photographic, and dental mailing bag-style claims data-matching added up color encoding colour photographed pop-up including ice stamp.

19.Photo Evaluation. Photos are evaluated through biometric systems to ensure conformity with the above requirements. If the photo does not meet the necessary requirements, the applicant may be asked to submit new photos.

20.Photo Retention: The photo submitted by the applicant will be retained for official use and will not be returned.