turkish tourist visa

Visa Traveler

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Turkey Visa for Tourists: A Complete Guide

Updated: October 19, 2023

Turkey has a liberal visa policy offering visa exemption and e-visas to many nationalities. A Turkey visa is also quite easy to obtain from the embassy or an authorized agent. 

Turkey has introduced e-Visa to simplify its visa application process and replace its Visa on Arrival. Currently, 30 nationalities can obtain a Turkey e-Visa from the comfort of their homes. 21 nationalities can also obtain an e-Visa if holding a visa or residence permit from any Schengen country, US, UK or Ireland. 

Many nationalities from the African continent that were previously eligible for e-Visas were unfortunately removed from that list recently. They will now have to apply for a Turkey visa through a Turkish mission or an agent. 

Table of Contents

Turkey visa requirements by nationality.

Minimum passport validity to enter Turkey as a tourist

The passport validity is different for different nationalities. It also depends on whether you are visa-exempt or require a visa. 

For nationalities that are visa-exempt, the minimum passport validity required is 60 days beyond your “allowed period of stay” in Turkey. For some, it’s 90 days.

For those who require an e-Visa, VOA or visa from the embassy, the minimum passport validity required is 6 months from the day of arrival. For some, it’s 3 months beyond the validity of their visas.

So in general, you will be fine with 6 months of validity remaining your passport at the time of entering Turkey. 

VISA EXEMPT nationalities

90-day entry (total 90 days within any 180 days).

• Algeria (below 15 or above 65)
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Czech Republic
• El Salvador
• Hungary 
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• North Macedonia
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• Trinidad and Tobago
• United Kingdom
• Vatican City

30-day entry (total 90 days within any 180 days)

• Turkmenistan

60-day entry (total 90 days within any 180 days)

30-day entry (total 30 days within any 180 days), visa on arrival eligible nationalities, 90-day, multiple-entry.

• Antigua-Barbuda
• Saudi Arabia
• United Arab Emirates
• United States

30-day, multiple-entry

E-visa eligible nationalities.

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Dominican Republic
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• South Africa

30-day, single-entry

• Timor Leste

30-day, single-entry with a US, UK, Ireland or Schengen visa or residence permit

• Afghanistan
• Algeria (below 18 or over 35)
• Egypt (below 20 or 45 years)
• Equatorial Guinea
• Philippines
• Solomon Islands

CONSULAR VISA REQUIRED nationalities

• Burkina Faso
• Central African Republic
• Cote d’Ivoire
• Congo, Dem Rep of
• Guinea-Bissau
• Marshall Islands
• North Korea
• Papua New Guinea
• Congo, Rep. of
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Sierra Leone
• South Sudan

Turkey transit visa requirements

Transit visas are NOT REQUIRED for transiting through Turkish international airports. 

If you are not leaving the international transit area, then you do not require a transit visa. But if you have to leave the international transit area, or claim your bags, or change to a different airline, then you would require a transit visa. 

Turkey visa requirements for cruise passengers

A Turkey visa is NOT REQUIRED for cruise passengers for up to 72 hours. 

Cruise visitors are issued a Harbor City Entry Permit that’s valid for 72 hours and limited to the harbor city where the cruise arrived and its surroundings.

TURKEY VISA ON ARRIVAL

Turkey introduced its e-Visa system in 2013 with the intention of phasing out its Visa on Arrival. But VOA is still available and a few countries that are eligible for e-Visa are also eligible for obtaining VOA at international airports in Turkey. 

Even though the e-Visa takes only a few minutes to apply, the VOA fee is considerably lower than the e-Visa fee for certain nationalities. It makes sense to simply get a VOA instead of an e-Visa if you are eligible and the fee is lower. 

Validity of Turkey Visa on Arrival

Visa on Arrival is valid for 90 days, with multiple entries. Total stay cannot be more than 90 days in a 180-day period. 

How long can you stay in Turkey with Visa on Arrival

Turkey Visa on Arrival is valid for 90 days. That means, if you continue to stay in Turkey after you have obtained your Visa on Arrival, you can stay up to 90 days. But if you leave and come back, you can only stay until your Visa on Arrival expiration date. 

Also, your total stay in Turkey cannot exceed 90 days in any 180-day period. 

• Your arrival date in Turkey is March 10
• You obtained VOA on March 10
• Your visa is valid from 10 March 2022 to 08 June 2022 (90 days)
• After 45 days, on 24 April 2022, you left Turkey. 
• You entered Turkey again on 19 May 2022 using your previous VOA. You can only stay till 08 June 2022, which is 21 days. 

Visa on Arrival application process

The VOA process is quite quick at airports in Turkey. Right before the immigration or passport control, you will see a section called “Visa”. Stop by there and get your visa on arrival. 

For obtaining VOA, all you need is your passport and visa on arrival fee in USD, EUR or GBP. Some nationalities require a passport-size photo.

Documents required

You must present the following documents.

• Passport that’s valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival in Turkey
• Cash in USD, EUR or GBP for visa fee payment

The Visa on Arrival (VOA) fee starts from $30 and goes up all the way to $70 USD depending on nationality. Below is the Visa on Arrival fee for all eligible nationalities. 

Processing time

It usually takes a few minutes for the Visa on Arrival process. But it depends on how busy the Visa on Arrival section is.

TURKEY E-VISA

Turkey introduced its e-Visa portal in 2013 to help visitors obtain visas from the comfort of their homes. Today, 51 countries are eligible for Turkey e-Visa .

Of these 51 countries, 30 nationalities can apply for e-Visa with just their passports. And 21 nationalities can apply for an e-Visa only if holding a US visa , UK visa , Schengen visa or Ireland visa or a residence permit from any of those countries.

E-visa approval is immediate and it only takes 5 minutes to obtain the e-Visa. 

Validity of Turkey e-Visa

The validity of the Turkey e-Visa is 180 days from the “arrival date” that you’ve selected in your e-Visa application. 

E-Visas are either single-entry or multiple-entry depending on your passport. You must enter Turkey within the validity of your e-Visa. 

When to apply for e-Visa

You can apply for your Turkey e-Visa up to 3 months in advance. The latest you can apply is 48 hours. 

How long can you stay in Turkey on e-Visa

Depending on your passport, you can either stay up to 30 days or 90 days on an e-Visa. Your total stay cannot exceed 90 days in any 180-day period. 

E-Visa application process

Turkey e-Visa approval is immediate so there is no processing time. The application is quite simple, so it only takes about 10 minutes. You can pay the fee with a credit/debit card.

You will need the following documents.

• Original passport
• A valid visa from the US, UK, Ireland or Schengen (for those that require a supporting document)
• A credit or debit card for visa fee payment

Photo requirements

A photo is not required for the Turkey e-Visa application

The e-Visa fee varies from “no fee” to $77 USD depending on the passport. Below is the table for the current Turkey e-Visa fee.

There is no processing time for the Turkey e-visa as the approval is immediate. You can then save it as a PDF on your phone or print it to carry with you when you travel. 

Customer service

In case of questions on your visa status, you can contact the Turkey e-Visa authorities using their feedback form .

RELATED: How to apply for Turkey e-Visa – An easy step-by-step guide

TURKEY TOURIST VISA FROM THE EMBASSY/CONSULATE

Turkish tourist sticker visa can be obtained from your nearest Turkish embassy/consulate or through an authorized agent, depending on the country where you are applying from. 

For example, if you are applying from Indonesia or Georgia, you must apply at the Turkish embassy or consulate. If you are applying from India or Nepal, you must apply through an authorized agent. 

To figure out where to apply, simply start your application on the Turkey Visa Pre-application portal . The portal will tell you where to apply from. If you must apply from an agent, the portal will give you the details of the agent and their website. 

Validity of Turkey tourist visa

The validity of a Turkey tourist visa is up to 90 days from the day of the issue depending on the country. You can stay up to 90 days on such a visa, except for some countries where the stay granted is 30 days or less.

When to apply for Turkish tourist visa

You can apply for your Turkey tourist visa up to 3 months in advance. The visa processing takes up to 15 working days, so the latest you can apply is 30 days otherwise the embassy/consulate or the agent will not accept your application. 

How long can you stay in Turkey on a tourist visa

You can stay up to 90 days in Turkey on a tourist visa. Your total stay cannot exceed 90 days in any 180-day period. 

If you need to stay longer than 90 days, you would need to apply for a Short Term Residence Permit at your nearest immigration office. 

Tourist visa application process

You must start your application online on the Turkish Visa Pre-Application portal . If you qualify for an e-Visa, the portal will redirect you to the e-Visa website. If you need to use an agent, then the portal will provide you with the agent’s information and website. 

If applying online, you must fill out the application and make an appointment for an interview at the Turkish mission. After filling out the application form, you must download, print and sign it. You must carry your completed and signed application form, and copies of all the documents that were uploaded on the day of your appointment. 

The documents required for Turkish visa vary from country to country and also whether you would need to apply at the consulate or through an agent. 

You may need the following documents.

• A latest passport-size photo
• Flight reservation
• Hotel booking
• Employment letter
• Bank statements
• Health insurance

Apart from the above documents, some agents ask for the following as well.

• Property ownership
• Address proof
• Certified bank statements
• Income tax returns
• No objection certificate

For online applications, all documents must be in JPG, PNG or PDF format with a maximum of 2MB in size. 

The digital photo must be in JPG or PNG format and cannot exceed 2MB. If applying with an agent, the photo must be of passport size. 

The visa fee varies from country to country. The fee starts from $60 and goes up to $200.

The tourist visa processing time is 5-15 working days depending on the country, embassy or agent.

ENTRY AND EXIT PROCEDURE AT THE AIRPORT

Entering Turkey by air

After you arrive at the airport, walk towards passport control and baggage claim. 

At the immigration, present your passport, boarding pass and your Turkey e-Visa soft copy or print. 

The immigration officer may ask you a few questions about your trip such as whether it’s your first time in Turkey, how long you plan to stay, etc. You may be asked to show your return/onward ticket and your hotel booking.

If you are traveling on a one-way ticket, make sure to carry proof of your onward ticket .

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE I entered Turkey at Sabiha Gokcen International Airport in Istanbul. I was asked to show my Turkey e-Visa. I showed my approved Turkey e-Visa PDF on my phone. No other questions were asked and my passport was stamped. 

Leaving Turkey by air

Leaving Turkey is a breeze. Simply present your passport and boarding pass at passport control. 

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE I left Turkey from Istanbul International Airport. I was not asked any questions. 

Turkey offers visa exemption, e-Visa and Visa on Arrival to many nationalities. A tourist visa from the embassy is necessary if you are not eligible for visa exemption, e-Visa or VOA.

About 30 nationalities are eligible for Turkey e-Visa. About 21 nationalities can also obtain an e-Visa if holding a visa or residence permit from any Schengen country, US, UK or Ireland. 

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

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Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

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If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

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Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

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LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Tourist Visa In Turkey: A Simple Guide

Imagine wandering through the bustling bazaars of Istanbul, floating in the hot air balloons over Cappadocia, or soaking up the sun on the Aegean coast. All you need is the tourist visa. Need assistance in getting it? Don’t Worry! We’ve got you covered!

Your gateway to these unforgettable experiences starts with obtaining a tourist visa for Turkey. This guide is your compass to navigating the visa process , ensuring your journey to this crossroads of culture and history is as smooth as Turkish coffee.

Let’s dive in!

What Is A Turkish Tourist Visa?

A Turkish Tourist Visa is an authorization to enter Turkey and stay here for a specific amount of time for purposes related to tourism such as sightseeing, vacations, visiting friends or family members, etc.

A Turkey Tourist visa can be obtained in two forms, according to your nationality:

• E-visa for tourism purposes.
• Turkish Sticker Visa for tourists.

Note that if you are eligible for the first, which is easier and cheaper, you do not need to apply for the second.

Do You Need A Turkey Tourist Visa?

Turkish is quite welcoming when it comes to tourists. In recent years, the country has been trying to increase the number of visitors, which stagnated after a failed coup and several terrorist attacks. 

As a result, nationals of many countries can travel visa-free to Turkey, and many others can apply for an e-visa, which is quick and easy to get.

On the other hand , Russian passport holders can enter Turkey visa-free and stay here for up to 90 days within half a year without exceeding a maximum of 60 days per visit.

Nationals of Azerbaijan, Belarus, Brunei, Costa Rica, Latvia, Macao, Mongolia, Thailand, and Turkmenistan can stay in Turkey for up to 30 days per visit and 90 days per six months.

What Are Turkey Tourist Visa Purposes Of Entry?

When applying for a Turkey Tourist Visa, you should pay attention to the purpose of your trip to Turkey, as there is a list of only a few purposes eligible for application.

Find the acceptable purposes for applying for a Turkey Tourist visa listed below:

• Touristic Visit: Suppose you plan to travel to Turkey for sightseeing, vacation, and other similar purposes.
• Business Meeting/Commerce: Suppose you want to attend a business meeting or other unpaid commerce-related activity in Turkey.
• Conference/Seminar/Meeting: When planning to participate in a conference, seminar, meeting, or other similar activity in Turkey.
• Festival / Fair / Exhibition: If you want to participate in a fair, festival, exhibition, etc., in Turkey.
• Sportive Activity: Suppose you want to travel to Turkey to attend a sporting activity, either as a sportsperson or a fan.
• Cultural/Artistic Activity : If you plan to become part of a cultural or artistic activity.
• Official Visit: When traveling to Turkey as a part of an official delegation representing your country’s government or other public institutions.
• Visit The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus: If you plan to travel to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus for any of the above reasons.

How Do You Apply For A Turkish Tourist Visa?

To apply for a Turkey Sticker visa for tourism, you will need to complete several steps, as given below. 

Make sure you follow the guidelines and meet the specified requirements in the given order:

• Check when to apply.
• Find out where to apply.
• Complete the online Turkish tourist visa application form.
• Compile the required documents.
• Attend the interview.

When To Apply?

It is essential to apply on time for your Tourist Visa for Turkey. 

It’s too early, and your application will not be accepted. It’s too late, and you may lose your trip to Turkey due to delayed processing. Therefore, make sure you apply on time.

The earliest you can lodge your application is 60 days before the date of your trip. On the other hand, the latest you can apply is one month before this date.

Where To Apply?

Depending on how the Turkish authorities in your country of residence have regulated visa submission, you will need to submit your application for a tourist visa at one of the following:

• The Turkish embassy or consulate in your country of residence.
• A third-party visa-processing center to which Turkey has outsourced visa submission in your country.

Complete The Online Form For A Turkey Tourist Visa

The first concrete step towards completing your application file for a Turkish tourist visa is filling out the online visa application form on the website of the pre-application system. 

The form contains a few questions, such as your name and surname, date and place of birth, and the reason for application.

The system will come up with the visa type you need to apply for and a list of the primary documents you must submit for your visa application. 

Upon completing the form, you will also receive a date for your visa interview.

What Are The Required Documents You Need To Apply For A Turkey Tourist Visa?

An essential part of the Turkish tourist visa application process is collecting the required documents. These documents prove that you meet the criteria to enter and stay in Turkey for the desired period.

Make sure you obtain every single one of these documents and submit them to the consular officer on the day of your interview :

• The completed Turkish tourist visa application form.
• Your valid passport or another travel document.
• Two photographs by the Turkish visa photograph requirements.
• Proof of income or savings: You should prove you have enough money to support yourself throughout your stay in Turkey. The possession of a minimal amount of 1,506 TRY ( €50) for every day you plan to spend in Turkey must be presented. This can be done through recent bank statements, a letter of support from another person, etc.
• Travel Insurance: It is compulsory to have travel medical insurance to travel to Turkey. The insurance must cover the whole territory of Turkey with minimal coverage of 903,804 TRY (€30,000) .
• Travel Itinerary: Present a booked flight from your home country to Turkey and back, a bus ticket, or any other proof that you intend to leave Turkey after your trip.
• Proof Of Accommodation : You must present a document as proof of accommodation depending on where you will be staying while in Turkey. If you will stay at a hotel, present a hotel reservation. If you have been invited to stay with friends or relatives in Turkey, you need to present a letter of invitation from the host.
• Police Clearance Certificate: This document should be obtained from the relevant authorities in your country of residence and prove that you have not been involved in any criminal activities in recent years.
• Documents regarding the company organizing the travel are required from group travels.
• Documents regarding your employment status .
• If you are employed , you need a guarantee letter from your employer and pay slips for the last 3 months.
• If you are a business owner , your company’s certificate of establishment and registration, trade license, and bank account statement show transactions for the last 3 months.
• If your spouse provides you the same applicable documents as listed above, for your spouse.

Note that the Turkish authorities in charge of visa processing in your country of residence have the right to ask you to submit additional documents besides those listed above.

Turkish Tourist Visa Interview

The visa interview for a Turkish visa is crucial to the application process. The interview helps the consular officer decide whether you should be granted a visa to Turkey.

The interview is a short meeting between you and an interviewer, to whom you also need to submit the required documents you have collected.

What Is The Turkey Tourist Visa Application Processing?

This processing of your application for a Turkey Tourist Visa may take about 15 working days.  

In some countries, this period may be extended; in others, you can receive an answer to your application as soon as three working days after the interview.

If you want to track your application, you can do so at the website of the pre-application system, from where you first started your application.

How To Apply For A Turkish E-visa?

If you are eligible for an e-visa, then you do not need to go through all these processes explained so far. Getting an e-visa to Turkey for tourism purposes is very easy. 

You have to follow the steps below, and you will be done within minutes:

• Complete the online application form on the Turkish eVisa website.
• Confirm Your Application: Within minutes, you must receive an email asking you to confirm that you have started an application for an E-Visa. Click the link you have received, which will take you back to the visa application website.
• Pay The Fee: You must pay the fee for an eVisa application online at the eVisa application website.
• Download Your E–Visa: You will again receive an email with a button that will retake you to the same website, where you will have to download your eVisa.
• Print Your E–Visa: You must present a printed version of your e-visa at the Turkish port of entry.

E-Visa Condition 1

Applicants must hold a valid visa or residence permit from one of these countries:

• Schengen Area country
• United Kingdom
• United States

Electronic visas and residence permits are not accepted. Citizens of Gabon or Zambia or Egyptians under 20 and over 40 years old are exempt from this requirement.

E-Visa Condition 2

Passport holders from conditional eVisa countries must travel with an airline that has signed a protocol with the Turkish foreign ministry. 

Currently, the approved airlines are:

• Turkish Airlines
• Pegasus Airlines

This E-Visa condition applies to all the listed countries except Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and the Philippines.

Visa conditions for each country can vary and are subject to change.

E-Visa Condition 3

Travelers must have a reservation at a hotel in Turkey and proof of sufficient funds—at least 1,418 TRY (USD 50) per day.

What Are Turkey E-visa Types? Single And Multiple-entry Visas

There are 2 types of Turkey visas available online:

• Single-Entry 
• Multiple-Entry.

Passport holders from selected countries receive a multiple-entry visa and can travel to Turkey more than once without reapplying .

What Can You Do With A Turkey E-visa?

The electronic visa for Turkey can be used for these activities:

• Sporting activities
• Cultural activities

Business/Commerce

• Conferences and seminars
• Festivals, fairs, and exhibitions

It suits people on vacation in Turkey or taking a short business trip. For other travel purposes, foreigners need a different visa for Turkey.

Foreigners only need a transit visa for Turkey if they leave the international transit area. To exit the airport, an eVisa for transit is required.

How Long Does It Take To Get A Turkey E-visa?

It’s quick and convenient to request a Turkey visa online. Visitors need to provide just a few personal details, passport data, and travel information.

Processing is also fast. Most Turkey eVisas are processed and approved within 24 hours. There is also a priority service for guaranteed 1-hour processing.

Turkey E-visa Duration Of Stay And Validity

A Turkey eVisa is valid for 180 days . The visa holder must enter Turkey within 6 months of the arrival date indicated.

Citizens of most eligible countries can stay in Turkey for up to 90 days per 180-day period with an eVisa. The maximum stay for certain nationalities, including Mexico or Suriname, is 30 days per 180-day period.

As our guide comes to a close, you’re now equipped with the key to unlocking the treasures of Turkey—a tourist visa. With this visa in hand, the rich tapestry of Turkish history, cuisine, and landscapes is yours to explore.

So, pack your bags, charge your cameras, and prepare for an adventure that promises to be as vibrant and diverse as the country itself. Turkey awaits, and it’s just a visa away.

Adventure Awaits!

But wait! There’s lot more that you might be interested in following:

• Types Of Visas In Turkey
• Tax Refund In Turkey
• Temporary Residence In Turkey

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Do you need a visa to go to Turkey?

Sep 25, 2021 • 2 min read

Escape to Turkey's dreamy coastline © sueleymancoskun / Shutterstock

With its wealth of historic sites and diverse, stunning landscapes, Turkey is a perennially popular destination for travelers, and passport-holders from more than 100 countries can easily enjoy all that it has to offer.

Here’s our guide to Turkey’s entry requirements, with information on visa types and rules around exemptions and extensions.

What you need to know about tourist visas in Turkey

Visitors from Europe (excluding Cyprus), Israel, Japan, New Zealand and much of South America and Central America can enter Turkey without a visa for stays ranging between 30 and 90 days, depending on their country of citizenship.

Tourists from more than 100 additional countries, including Australia, Canada and the USA, are eligible to apply for an e-visa. This requires simply filling out an online application form and paying a fee, which varies by country of origin but generally ranges between $20 and $60.

Travelers who need to apply for an e-visa can do so through a dedicated website run by the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), which includes a detailed FAQ section. Alternatively, visas on arrival are available to citizens of around 30 countries , but, generally, completing the visa application online before traveling is the quicker and easier option.

The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website provides details on visa requirements for all individual countries. All travelers’ passports should be valid for at least 60 days beyond the duration of the visa for which they are eligible.

Tourist visas for cruise ship passengers

Cruise ship passengers who arrive by sea can come ashore for up to 72 hours (three days) without applying for a visa.

Visa extensions and other types of visas

Visa extensions are not available to nationals of any country. Anyone who wishes to stay in Turkey longer than the duration allowed by their tourist visa (90 days within a 180-day period for US citizens, Europeans and some others) must start the process of applying for a residence permit before their visa expires. Overstaying a tourist visa can incur a fine and might even result in a temporary ban on returning to Turkey.

Anyone who plans to work, study or live in Turkey must apply for the appropriate visa at a Turkish embassy or consulate abroad before entering the country.

You might also like: The most incredible ancient sites in Turkey How to drink Turkish coffee like a local Turkey by train: a guide to travelling on the Dogu Express

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Turkey - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution when traveling to Turkey due to terrorism and arbitrary detentions. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel To:

• Sirnak province, Hakkari province, and any area within six miles (10 kilometers) of the Syrian border due to terrorism.

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Turkey.  Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Security forces have detained tens of thousands of individuals, including U.S. citizens, for alleged affiliations with terrorist organizations based on scant or secret evidence and grounds that appear to be politically motivated.  U.S. citizens have also been subject to travel bans that prevent them from departing Turkey. Participation in demonstrations not explicitly approved by the Government of Turkey, as well as criticism of the government (including on social media), can result in arrest.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Turkey.

If you decide to travel to Turkey:

• Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Stay at hotels with identifiable security measures.
• Monitor local media and be prepared to adjust your plans quickly.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive travel alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report for Turkey.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Sirnak Province, Hakkari Province, and Any Area within six miles (ten kilometers) of the Syrian Border – Level 4:  Do Not Travel

Do not travel to Sirnak province, Hakkari province, or any area within six miles (10 kilometers) of the Turkey/Syria border due to the continued threat of attacks by terrorist groups, armed conflict, and civil unrest.  Terrorist attacks, including suicide bombings, ambushes, car bomb detonations, and improvised explosive devices, as well as shootings, and illegal roadblocks leading to violence have occurred in these areas. U.S. government employees are subject to travel restrictions in the entire provinces of Sirnak and Hakkari, and any areas within 10 km of the Syrian border.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Six months beyond date of entry

One page for entry and exit stamps

Not required for stays under 90 days

25,000 Turkish lira or 10,000 euros (or equivalent)

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy ankara.

1480 Sok No:1 Cukurambar Mah  Cankaya 06530, Ankara Turkey Telephone: +(90) (312) 294-0000 (emergencies only) Fax: +(90) (312) 232-7472 Contact American Citizen Services Ankara

U.S. Consulate General Istanbul Istinye Mahallesi, Üç Şehitler Sokak No.2 Istinye 34460 – Istanbul, Turkey Telephone: +(90) (212) 335-9000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(90) (212) 335-9000 Fax: +(90) (212) 335-9102 Contact American Citizen Services Istanbul

U.S. Consulate Adana Girne Bulvari No. 212, Güzelevler Mahallesi, Yüregir Adana, Turkey Telephone: +(90) (322) 455-4100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(90) (322) 455-4100 Fax: +(90)(322) 455-4141 Contact American Citizen Services Adana

U.S. Consular Agent - Izmir Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(90) (312) 455-5555 [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey  website for the most current visa and residency permit information.

• In Turkey, contact the nearest Directorate General of Migration Management office to obtain a residence permit.

Obey all Turkish visa regulations and maintain valid residence permits at all times.  The U.S. Embassy is unable to assist with Turkish immigration or visa-related matters.  Turkish authorities enforce immigration laws.

• Passports must be valid for six months beyond your entry date.  You will be  denied entry  into Turkey if there is not enough space for  entry and exit stamps  in your passport.
• Official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye .
• Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
• Get entry and exit stamps . You must have a Turkish entry stamp to fly domestically.  Get an exit stamp in your passport when leaving the country  or you may face  difficulties re-entering Turkey in the future  and  a fine .
• If you are planning to  work, study, or conduct academic or scientific research  in Turkey, you must receive a visa from a Turkish embassy or consulate before arriving in Turkey. Visit  “Living in Turkey”  on the U.S. Embassy’s website.

Syria:  See the  Syria travel advisory.  The U.S. Embassy in Damascus suspended operations in February 2012.  The Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens against all travel to Syria.  At this time, the Turkey-Syria border is closed except in cases of urgent medical treatment or safety from immediate danger as defined by the Government of Turkey.

Iraq:  See the  Iraq travel advisory .  The Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens against all travel to Iraq.  The Turkish Government tightly controls entry and exit on the border.

HIV/AIDS restrictions:   The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Turkey.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  The potential for terrorist attacks in Turkey, including against U.S. citizens and interests, remains high.

• Terrorists have previously attacked U.S. interests in Turkey, including the U.S. Embassy in Ankara, the U.S. Consulate General in Istanbul, and the U.S. Consulate in Adana.
• Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Turkey. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas. Terrorists have also previously targeted Western tourists and expatriates.

Under laws passed in 2018, Turkish security forces have an expanded legal ability to stop and search individuals and to  detain individuals without charge.

For your own safety:

• Carry a passport or identity document at all times.
• Follow local news sources during your stay to remain abreast of any potential areas, dates, or times of concern.
• Exercise caution and good judgment, keep a low profile, and maintain a high level of vigilance.
• Avoid demonstrations, which may become violent and unpredictable.
• Obey the instructions of Turkish security personnel at all times.

There have also been threats and acts of violence targeting religious minorities, groups, institutions, and places of worship in Turkey. The level of anti-Israeli and anti-Semitic sentiment remains significant.

Protests and gatherings:  Public gatherings are common in Turkey and can include protests or demonstrations, holiday celebrations, family events, sporting events, and political events in the lead up to elections and following the announcement of election results. U.S. citizens should

• Avoid demonstrations and gatherings, as they may become violent and unpredictable. 
• Be aware celebratory gunfire is common in some areas and has resulted in deaths in recent years. 
• Follow local authorities instructions, police may take action to disperse the group, including possibly using teargas or detaining participants, even when the government has approved gatherings.

Crime:  Overall street crime in Turkey is low; however, you should use the same precautions you would take in the United States. The following types of crime have been reported in Turkey:

• Pick-pocketing ,  purse snatching , and  mugging.  Carry only necessary items when in tourist areas. 
• Residential crime  occurs more often in major cities, with criminals targeting ground floor apartments for theft.
• Sexual assault  has occurred in Turkish baths ( hamams ) or spas, in taxis, and when traveling alone at night. Assaults involving  date rape drugs  have also been reported.
• Confidence schemes  occur where travelers are tricked into ordering food or drinks at a restaurant, and then are charged incredibly high prices. Patronize well-established restaurants and ask to see a menu with prices before ordering anything.
• Scams  are common in Turkey, particularly internet scams involving people who met online. Typically, the person in Turkey asks the other person to wire large sums of money to provide financial assistance.  Do not send money to someone you have never met in person.  Exercise due diligence when purchasing jewelry, rugs, or real estate. See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Eastern and Southeastern Turkey: We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens reconsider travel to specific areas in eastern and southeastern Turkey, and do not travel to areas near the Syrian or Iraqi borders.

U.S. Government employees are subject to travel restrictions  to the provinces of Batman, Bingol, Bitlis, Diyarbakir, Gaziantep, Hakkari, Hatay, Kilis, Mardin, Sanliurfa, Siirt, Sirnak, Tunceli and Van.  Mount Ararat , in Agri province, is a special military zone, and  access permission must be obtained before coming to Turkey  from a Turkish Embassy or Consulate.

The following incidents and activities have taken place in eastern and   southeastern Turkey :

• Terrorist attacks:  Terrorist groups, including Da’esh, also referred to as The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) or The Islamic State of Iraq and ash Sham (ISIS), and the PKK (the Kurdistan Workers’ Party), have conducted large-scale attacks in the area, including suicide bombings, ambushes, and the detonation of car bombs, improvised explosive devices, and other homemade weapons. The PKK has attacked Turkish military and police personnel in the eastern and southeastern provinces, occasionally harming bystanders.
• Restricted access:  Turkish security forces control access to the southeastern provinces of Hakkari, Mardin and Sirnak along the Iraqi border, and the entire Turkey-Syria border.  Do not photograph or video Turkish military operations or attempt to enter military installations anywhere in Turkey.
• Shootings:  Turkish towns located along the border with Syria have been struck by bullets and artillery rounds that originate in Syria, some resulting in deaths or injuries.
• Roadblocks:  Use commercial air travel whenever possible while traveling to southeastern Turkey.  If road travel is necessary, drive only during daylight hours and on major highways.  The Turkish  Jandarma  (rural police) monitors checkpoints on roads. Cooperate if stopped at a checkpoint. Be prepared to provide identification and vehicle registration. Remain calm, do not make any sudden movements, and obey all instructions.  We strongly discourage the use of public transportation in the southeastern region.
• Demonstrations:  Violent clashes have taken place between Kurdish groups and Turkish police resulting from organized demonstrations.
• Curfews:  The Turkish Government has instituted temporary curfews in cities throughout the southeast due to blockades of certain neighborhoods by the PKK. Adhere to any locally imposed curfews.

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local police by dialing 155 and contact the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime. See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . We urge U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault to contact the U.S. Embassy or closest consulate.

 We can:

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• help you find resources for accommodation and flights home
• replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance and visit the  Embassy webpage  for resources.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.

• Always carry with you a form of official government photo identification, such as a residence permit or copy of your passport.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.  Turkish authorities may not inform U.S. officials of dual nationals arrested in Turkey.  See our  webpage  for further information on arrests.

• Insulting the State:  It is illegal to show disrespect to the name or image of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, or to insult the Turkish Government, flag, President, or security forces,  including on social media . Erase any sensitive photos, comments, or other materials from your social media pages, cameras, laptops, and other electronic devices that could be considered controversial or provocative.
• Drug offenses:  Turkish law enforcement is  very aggressive  in combating illegal drugs. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs are very strict, and include heavy fines and jail sentences between four and 20 years.
• Cultural artifacts:  Turkish law has a broad definition of “antiquities” and makes it a crime to remove any from the country. If you buy antiquities, use authorized dealers and get museum certificates for each item. Failure to have a receipt and certificate at departure can result in  your arrest , and  jail time . Contact the  Embassy of the Republic of Turkey  in Washington for specific information regarding customs requirements.
• Male dual nationals over the age of 18 may be subject to Turkish conscription and compulsory military service. Consult officials at Turkish Embassies or Consulates with any questions before entering Turkey.
• Counterfeit goods:  Do not buy counterfeit or pirated goods, even if widely available. They are both illegal to bring back into the United States and to purchase locally.
• Religious proselytizing:  There is no law against religious proselytizing.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  Homophobia, transphobia, and intolerance towards homosexuality are widespread throughout Turkey. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) individuals are  not protected by anti-discrimination laws  and have been the targets of violence in recent years. References in the law relating to “offenses against public morality,” “protection of the family,” and “unnatural sexual behavior,” are sometimes used as a basis for abuse by law enforcement officials. In addition, the law states that “no association may be founded for purposes against law and morality,” a clause which has been used by authorities in attempts to shut down or limit the activities of associations working on LGBTI matters.

See   our  LGBTI Travel Information   page and section 6 of our Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:   The Turkish constitution prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in the provision of state services, employment, education and access to health care. However, access to buildings and public transportation for the disabled in most cities is quite limited, and generally, accessibility for people with disabilities in Turkey is poor. Airports and metro stations are typically accessible, but other forms of public transport (buses) are not.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  The Embassy is aware of multiple sexual assaults against U.S. citizens in Turkey, including assaults against tourists traveling alone or in small groups, and at spas and  hamams.

• If you are sexually assaulted, please seek immediate help from the Turkish National Police, Turkish Health Services, or nearest hospital if you feel safe doing so.
• We urge you to contact the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance.

See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Earthquakes:  Earthquakes occur throughout Turkey. Make contingency plans and leave emergency contact information with family members outside Turkey. General information about natural disaster preparedness is available from the  U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)  and at  Ready.gov. For more information on disaster preparedness, please click on the following links:

• U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
• FEMA: Earthquakes
• FEMA for Kids: Emergency Preparedness
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Earthquake Preparedness

Medical care provided in Turkish hospitals varies greatly. Though new private hospitals in Ankara, Antalya, Izmir and Istanbul have modern facilities, equipment, numerous U.S.-trained specialists, and international accreditation, some still may be unable to treat certain serious conditions. Health care standards are lower in small cities in Turkey.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance   to cover medical evacuation.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the government of Turkey to ensure the medication is legal in Turkey. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. Some medications may be unavailable in Turkey.

For U.S. citizens who live in Turkey , please see the Embassy’s website for  information on the Turkish General Health Insurance (GHI) law . If you are considering enrolling in Turkish GHI, carefully research what is and is not covered. Once you enroll in GHI, your coverage can only be cancelled if your residence permit expires or if you no longer reside in Turkey.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Roads in Turkey range from single-lane country roads to modern, divided motorways. Highways in the tourist-frequented western, southwestern, and coastal regions of Turkey are generally in good condition and are well maintained, while conditions in other areas vary.

Be extremely cautious while driving at night.  Driving after dark, especially in rural areas, requires extra caution due to dangers such as livestock on the road or narrow unmarked or unpaved roads.

In case of an  accident  or  car trouble :

• Pull to the side of the road, turn on hazard lights, and use reflector triangles.
• For accidents with only vehicular damage, exchange insurance information, take photos of the accident before moving the vehicles, and depart if both sides agree. Turkish law requires drivers to fill out a Turkish-only form and provide pictures of the damage. Non-Turkish speakers should call and wait for the police.
• For accidents with injury  or a disagreement, remain at the site of the accident.  Do not move the vehicle  – even out of the way – until the Traffic Police arrive. Report the accident to the Traffic Police (dial 155) or Jandarma (dial 156). Get a certified copy of the official report from the Traffic Police office (this can take several days).
• The owner of the damaged vehicle should also apply to the customs authority with his passport and accident report before attempting to repair the vehicle or leave the country without the vehicle.
• When in doubt, it is best to call the Traffic Police or the Jandarma in the event of an accident.

Traffic Laws:  Drive defensively at all times. Drivers routinely ignore traffic regulations, including driving through red lights and stop signs, and turning left from the far right lane. These and other similar driving practices cause frequent traffic accidents.

• Penalties for  driving drunk  (blood alcohol levels at or above 0.05 percent) include a  fine  and the individual’s license being confiscated for  six months .
• Using cell phones while driving is  illegal  and can lead to a  fine .

Driver’s license requirements include:

• For stays up to 180 days : A valid U.S. driver’s license or an International Driving Permit and a U.S. driver’s license is acceptable.
• For stays longer than 180 days : Obtain a Turkish driver’s license from the Turkish Security Directorate, Traffic Department (Emniyet Müdürlüğü, Trafik Hizmetleri Başkanlığı).
• A vehicle can be brought into Turkey for up to six months. Find information at the Turkish Touring and Automobile Club.

Public Transportation:  Major cities in   Turkey have extensive public transportation options including taxis, subways, ferries, trains, buses and mini-buses. Licensed cabs are metered. Between cities, Turkey has bus routes, train, and air services.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:   The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Turkey’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Turkey’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Turkey should also check U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings website  - select “broadcast warnings”.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Turkey . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Turkey Tourist visa

A Turkey Tourist Visa is a visa issued to applicants allowing them travel to Turkey for touristic purposes. The Turkey Tourist Visa allows travelers to enter Turkey for touristic visits, including for fairs, festivals, exhibitions, sports activities, cultural or artistic activities, and visits to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. The Tourist Visa for Turkey also allows entry into the country for those who would like to explore Turkey while in transit, or while there on business for meetings, commerce, conferences and seminars.

The Turkey Tourist Visa can be issued as a regular Sticker Visa or as an e-Visa depending on the applicant’s nationality and its corresponding application requirements. The Turkey Tourist Sticker Visa is applied for by physically visiting your nearest Turkish embassy or consulate, while the Turkey Tourist e-Visa can be fully applied for online. Turkey Tourist e-Visas are the easiest and quickest way to obtain a Turkey visa. With the Turkey e-Visa, you can apply instantly from any device with an internet connection.

Table of contents

What is a turkey tourist e-visa, categories of turkey tourist e-visa.

Depending on the applicant’s nationality, there are two categories of Turkish tourist e-Visas, in terms of the number of times the visa holder can enter Turkish territories using the same e-Visa. The two categories are:

• Single entry – this permits exactly 30 days in Turkish territory.
• Multiple entry – this permits up to 90 days in Turkish territory.

All Turkish Tourist e-Visas remain valid for 180 days starting from a traveler’s date of entry into Turkey. A Turkey Tourist e-Visa holder can only stay in Turkey for the number of days stipulated on their Turkey e-Visa, and they must not exceed their permitted number of days on Turkish territory.

Note that travelers of some nationalities that only need to submit the basic Turkey e-Visa requirements, may only be allowed in Turkish territory for 30 days despite having a multi-entry e-Visa. Others may be required to submit additional requirements to obtain a single entry Turkish e-Visa that permits a maximum of 30 days in Turkey. You can find out the number of days you are allowed to enter Turkish territory, while filling out the Turkey e-Visa application form.

Who is Eligible for the Turkish Tourist e-Visa?

The Turkey Tourist e-Visa is available to all eligible applicants, specifically the applicants who need to submit the basic requirements, as well as the applicants who need to submit both basic and additional requirements. This does not apply to nationals from visa-exempt countries, nor nationals from countries who are not eligible for an e-Visa and must apply for the Turkey Tourist Sticker Visa through an official Turkish embassy or consulate abroad. The Turkey Tourist e-Visa is an excellent option, as it allows passport holders in over 50 countries to travel to Turkey, without having to apply for the Turkish visa in person at a Turkish embassy or consulate.

Citizens of countries eligible to apply for a Turkey Tourist e-Visa:

How to Apply for a Turkish Tourist e-Visa

• Fill out the Turkish e-Visa Application Form
• Pay the e-Visa Fee

After completing these steps, you should receive a confirmation to the email address you provided, informing you that your application has been received and your Turkey tourist e-Visa is being processed. Once your Turkey tourist e-Visa has been approved, you will receive the Turkish e-Visa directly to your email inbox. Download it or print it, and present the soft or hard copy of your Turkish tourist e-Visa, together with your travel document, at your point of entry into Turkish territory.

Turkey Tourist Visa Processing Time

Turkey visa faq, do i need a visa to travel to turkey as a tourist, can i apply for a turkish visa online.

Certain foreign nationals may be eligible to apply for a Turkish e-Visa online. Nationalities not on the list are not eligible to apply for a Turkey visa online and must apply for a Turkish sticker visa. If your nationality is among the list of countries above, you are eligible to apply online for the Turkey e-Visa.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Turkey set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact Turkey’s UK embassy or consulate .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Turkey.

Passport validity requirements

If you are visiting Turkey, your passport must:

• be valid for at least 150 days from the date you arrive
• have a full blank page for entry and exit stamps

If you are a resident in Turkey, your passport must be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive.

If entering Turkey through a land border, make sure your passport has a dated entry stamp before you leave the border crossing.

Visa requirements

If you’re visiting Turkey for tourism or business for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, you do not need a visa.

If you plan to remain in Turkey for more than 90 days, apply for a longer stay visa or get a residence permit before the end of your 90-day stay. If you plan to work in Turkey, make sure you have the right permits.

If you hold a different type of British nationality, such as British National (Overseas), check visa requirements with the Turkish Embassy or Consulate General before you travel.

Applying for a visa

The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has information on applying for a visa .

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need on TravelHealthPro .

Travelling with children

If leaving Turkey with a dual British-Turkish national child who is 18 or younger, you may need to show permission to travel from the Turkish parent.

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• Consular Info
• For Foreigners
• Visa Information
• Pre-Application System for Turkish Sticker Visa

Beginning from 5 January 2016, all kinds of applications for Turkish visas will have to be made through the Pre-Application System of Turkish Sticker Visa (Please check on the web site www.visa.gov.tr whether Turkish sticker visa applications are received through visa application center. If the visa application is received through the visa application center, please contact the relevant visa application center).

Data required for visa applications will be uploaded to the system by the applicants or visa application center. Following the online application, the applicants should apply to the Turkish Missions to complete the procedures including submission of their visa application forms duly signed and their passports as well as original copies of the application documents that have been already uploaded on the system.

In countries where internet connection is weak or if the applicants experience difficulties in filling in the application form, applications can still be made directly to our relevant Turkish Missions.

The applicants who meet the requirements will be directed by Pre-Application System for Turkish Sticker Visa to the e-Visa system ( www.evisa.gov.tr )

An information note concerning the visa types granted by Türkiye is available in the following address: ( http://www.mfa.gov.tr/visa-information-for-foreigners.en.mfa ).

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Turkey Drops Visa Requirements for U.S. Travelers

“2023 was the best year ever for American tourism to Türkiye, and with the cancellation of the visa requirement, 2024 is expected to be even bigger.”

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American tourists traveling to Turkey will no longer need a visa, making it easier to visit.

The new visa rules, which apply to both American and Canadian travelers, went into effect at the beginning of the month, tourism officials shared with Travel + Leisure . Previously, travelers needed to apply for an e-visa in advance of visiting to the tune of $51.50.

“Americans vacationing in Türkiye no longer require a visa to visit what has become one of America’s favorite overseas travel destinations,” Go Türkiye wrote in a statement shared with T+L. “2023 was the best year ever for American tourism to Türkiye, and with the cancellation of the visa requirement, 2024 is expected to be even bigger.”

Travelers who visit will still need a valid passport that doesn’t expire within six months of their entry into the country and with enough space for entry and exit stamps, according to the U.S. Department of State . Visa-free entry applies to ordinary passport holders who stay for up to 90 days in a 180-day period.

Last year, Istanbul welcomed more than 16 million foreign visitors in the first 11 months, according to Turkey’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism . In the month of November alone, travelers from the United States made up the fourth most visitors to the city.

Of course, while Istanbul is one of the coolest and most popular places to visit in Turkey thanks to its history, impressive architecture, and dizzying array of markets , there’s also plenty to do outside the city from the ancient ruins of Turkey’s Lakes Region to the glittering coast of Bodrum . 

While Turkey dropped visa requirements for U.S. travelers, Brazil is adding them. Starting April 10, travelers from the U.S. will be required to obtain an electronic visa to enter the South American country, the Brazilian Tourist Board shared with T+L. The e-visa will cost $80.90 per person and will be valid for 10 years.

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