Turkey, a country straddling Europe and Asia, has a specific visa policy governing the entry of foreign travellers to its territory. Understanding the requirements and procedures relating to tourist visas is essential for planning a trip to Turkey with complete peace of mind. The aim of this guide is to provide clear and precise information on tourist visa requirements for Turkey. We will look in detail at who needs a tourist visa to travel to Turkey, as well as the steps involved in obtaining one. Whether you're a traveller seeking cultural discoveries, a lover of idyllic beaches or a history buff, this guide will help you navigate the visa application process for Turkey so you can make the most of your stay in this fascinating country.
Who needs a tourist visa for Turkey?
When planning a trip to Turkey, it's important to check whether you need a tourist visa to enter the country. Here is a list of countries whose citizens require a tourist visa to travel to Turkey:
- Afghanistan
- Algeria
- Angola
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Armenia
- Azerbaijan
- Bahamas
- Bahrain
- Bangladesh
- Barbados
- Benin
- Belarus
- Belize
- Benin
- Bhutan
- Bolivia
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Botswana
- Brunei
- Burkina Faso
- Burundi
- Cambodia
- Cameroon
- Cape Verde
- Central African Republic
- Chad
- China
- Comoros
- Congo (Brazzaville)
- Congo (Kinshasa)
- Ivory Coast
- Cuba
- Djibouti
- Dominican Republic
- Ecuador
- Eritrea
- Eritrea
- Ethiopia
- Fiji
- Gambia
- Gambia
- Ghana
- Grenada
- Guinea
- Guinea-Bissau
- Guyana
- Haiti
- India
- Indonesia
- Iran
- Iraq
- Jordan
- Jordan
- Kazakhstan
- Kenya
- Kiribati
- Kuwait
- Kuwait
- Kyrgyzstan
- Laos
- Lebanon
- Lesotho
- Liberia
- Libya
- Northern Macedonia
- Madagascar
- Malawi
- Maldives
- Mali
- Marshall Islands
- Mauritania
- Micronesia
- Moldova
- Mongolia
- Morocco
- Mozambique
- Myanmar
- Namibia
- Nauru
- Nepal
- Niger
- Nigeria
- Oman
- Pakistan
- Palau
- Palestine
- Papua New Guinea
- Philippines
- Qatar
- Russia
- Rwanda
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Samoa
- Sao Tome and Principe
- Saudi Arabia
- Senegal
- Serbia
- Seychelles
- Sierra Leone
- Somalia
- South Africa
- South Sudan
- Sri Lanka
- Sudan
- Suriname
- Eswatini
- Syria
- Tajikistan
- Tanzania
However, it should be noted that there may be exceptions or special agreements for certain countries. It is therefore advisable to consult the Turkish consular authorities or official websites for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements.
What are the requirements for a tourist visa for Turkey?
The length of stay permitted in Turkey on a tourist visa varies according to the nationality of the traveller. In general, most travellers are granted a 90-day stay within a 180-day period. This means that you can stay in Turkey for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period from the date of entry.
It is important to understand that obtaining a tourist visa for Turkey is not automatic and may be subject to certain requirements. Common reasons why a visa may be refused include:
- Providing incomplete or inauthentic documents when applying.
- Failure to meet specific selection criteria.
- Lack of proof of financial support for the duration of the stay.
- History of violation of Turkish laws or previous illegal residence in Turkey.
- Proof of reasons for travel that do not comply with tourist visa requirements.
It is therefore essential to comply with the visa requirements and to provide all the required documents accurately and completely when applying, in order to increase the chances of success.
Which visa should I get to travel to Turkey?
When considering applying for a tourist visa for Turkey, it is important to be aware of the types of visa available. The two most common types of tourist visa are :
- Single-entry visa: This type of visa allows a single entry into Turkey. Once you leave the country, the visa becomes invalid.
- Multiple-entry visa: With this type of visa, you can enter and leave Turkey several times during the period of validity of the visa. This can be useful if you plan to make excursions to neighbouring countries and return to Turkey during your stay.
Before applying for a tourist visa for Turkey, make sure you have all the required documents. These may include a valid passport, recent photographs, proof of accommodation in Turkey, return air tickets, travel insurance, bank statements showing your financial solvency, and a covering letter explaining the purpose of your visit.
What is the procedure for applying for a traditional visa for Turkey?
You can submit your tourist visa application online via the official website of the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or you can apply in person at the Turkish embassy or consulate in your country of residence. Please note that the procedure may vary depending on the country and specific requirements.
A visa fee is generally required at the time of application. The amount may vary according to nationality and the type of visa requested. It is important to check the current visa fees with the Turkish consular authorities or on the official website before applying. Accepted payment methods may include online payment by credit card or payment in cash when submitting the application at the embassy or consulate.
The processing time for your tourist visa application may vary depending on a number of factors, such as the volume of applications and the time of year. It is advisable to submit your visa application with sufficient time before your planned trip. You can usually monitor the status of your application using the online services provided by the relevant Turkish authorities. Bear in mind that processing times can vary, so it's important to be patient and plan accordingly.
The e-visa solution for obtaining a visa for Turkey online
The e-Visa is a practical option for travellers from countries that are neither visa-exempt nor visa-required. It is an electronic visa that can be applied for online before you travel to Turkey. The e-Visa allows you to enter Turkey for tourist or business stays of up to 90 days.
Here's how to apply for one:
- Access the official site or a site providing e-Visa services: To apply for an e-Visa, you need to access the official site or a site specialising in online visas.
- Filling in the online application form: You will need to fill in an online application form with personal information such as your name, date of birth, nationality, passport and details of your trip to Turkey.
- Payment of the e-Visa fee: You will need to pay the e-Visa fee using the payment methods accepted on the official website. Fees may vary depending on the nationality of the applicant.
- Receipt of e-Visa by e-mail: Once your application has been submitted and payment has been made successfully, you will receive the e-Visa by e-mail. Make sure you print out a copy of the e-Visa and take it with you when you travel to Turkey.
Apply for a visa for Turkey !
Adeline HARMANT
As a web writer and globetrotter with a passion for travel and tourism, I have acquired in-depth knowledge of the procedures that are essential for travellers. I help travellers to complete all the formalities required for a successful trip, particularly when it comes to obtaining a visa online. With several years' experience in this field, I'd like to offer you some valuable advice to help you discover the world with complete peace of mind.
