A Turkey visa application is the process of requesting authorization to enter Türkiye for tourism, business, work, or study. Most travelers can apply online through the eVisa system at evisa.gov.tr in about three minutes, while others must submit their application at a Turkish embassy or consulate. This guide explains the full application process, required documents, fees, and common mistakes to avoid.
What Is a Turkey Visa Application?
A Turkey visa application is a formal request submitted by a foreign national to obtain permission to enter and stay in Türkiye. The application captures your personal information, passport details, travel dates, and the purpose of your visit. Once approved, the visa allows you to enter Türkiye through any port of entry – land, sea, or air.
Turkey offers two distinct application pathways depending on your nationality and travel purpose:
- Online eVisa application: Submitted through the official portal at evisa.gov.tr. The entire process takes approximately 3 minutes and the approved eVisa arrives as a downloadable PDF sent to your email.
- Embassy/consulate application: Required for nationalities not eligible for the eVisa, or for travel purposes beyond tourism and commerce (work, study, research). Applications are submitted at a Turkish embassy, consulate, or authorized visa application center.
The eVisa system was launched on April 17, 2013 by the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and currently serves citizens of over 100 countries. It is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, from anywhere with an internet connection.
For a complete overview of the eVisa system itself, see our Turkey eVisa guide.
Who Needs to Apply for a Turkey Visa?
Whether you need to submit a Turkey visa application depends on your nationality. The Turkish government classifies countries into three groups:
| Category | Description | Example Countries |
|---|---|---|
| Visa-exempt | No application needed – enter with passport or national ID | Germany, France, Brazil, Argentina, Japan, South Korea |
| eVisa eligible | Must apply online before travel | United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, India |
| Embassy visa required | Must apply in person at a Turkish consulate | Certain African and Asian nationalities |
United States citizens must submit a Turkey visa application but can do so entirely online. The eVisa costs $50 USD, allows multiple entries, and permits stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day validity period.
United Kingdom citizens are also eVisa-eligible, with a fee of approximately $20 USD and similar multi-entry, 90-day conditions.
Indian citizens can apply for the Turkey eVisa online, though additional supporting documents may be required depending on current diplomatic agreements.
Australian citizens are currently visa-exempt for touristic visits and transit travel for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
To check your eligibility, visit evisa.gov.tr, click “Apply,” and select your country. The system immediately tells you whether you qualify for an eVisa and what conditions apply.
How to Apply for a Turkey Visa Online (eVisa)
The online Turkey visa application through the eVisa system is the fastest and most convenient method. Here is the complete step-by-step process:
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Go to www.evisa.gov.tr and click the “Apply” button on the homepage. You will be directed to the application form.
Step 2: Select Your Country and Document Type
Choose your country or region of travel document from the dropdown menu. Select your document type – most applicants use an ordinary passport. Enter your planned arrival date in Türkiye.
The system will display:
– The eVisa fee for your nationality
– The validity period and number of entries allowed
– Any additional documents you may need
Step 3: Enter Your Personal Information
Fill in your details exactly as they appear on your passport:
– Full name (first name and surname)
– Date of birth
– Passport number
– Passport expiry date
– Email address
Important: Any discrepancy between your application and your passport can result in denial of entry at the Turkish border. Double-check every field before proceeding.
Step 4: Verify Your Email
After submitting your personal information, you will receive a verification email. Click the verification link within 1 hour to continue your application. If the link expires, you must restart the application.
Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee
Complete the payment using a credit or debit card. Accepted payment methods include:
– Visa
– Mastercard
– UnionPay
– 13+ other international payment networks
Your card must support 3D Secure authentication and be enabled for international transactions. The card does not need to be in your name – you can use a family member’s or employer’s card.
Step 6: Download Your eVisa
Once payment is confirmed, your eVisa is generated instantly. You can:
– Download it directly from the confirmation page
– Access it from the link sent to your email
– Print a physical copy or save the PDF on your phone
Recommendation: Print a physical copy of your eVisa. While Turkish immigration can verify your visa electronically, having a printed copy prevents any issues if technical problems arise at the border.
How to Apply for a Turkey Visa at an Embassy
If you are not eligible for the eVisa, or your travel purpose is work, study, or research, you must apply at a Turkish embassy or consulate. The embassy application process is more involved:
Step 1: Complete the Online Pre-Application
Visit visa.gov.tr to fill out the pre-application form. This generates a barcode and application summary you must print and bring to your appointment.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Embassy visa applications typically require:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay
- Completed visa application form (printed from visa.gov.tr)
- Two biometric passport photos taken within the last 6 months
- Travel insurance covering the duration of your stay in Türkiye
- Round-trip flight reservation or travel itinerary
- Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation
- Proof of financial means – bank statements from the last 3 months
- Employment letter or proof of enrollment (for students)
- Invitation letter (if visiting family or attending a business event)
Additional documents may be required depending on the visa type:
– Work visa: Employment contract and work permit approval from the Turkish Ministry of Labour
– Student visa: Acceptance letter from a Turkish university and proof of scholarship or financial support
– Business visa: Letter from your employer and invitation from the Turkish business partner
Step 3: Attend Your Appointment
Visit the Turkish embassy, consulate, or authorized visa application center (such as VFS Global) on your scheduled date. Submit your documents, provide biometric data (fingerprints), and pay the visa fee.
Step 4: Wait for Processing
Embassy visa processing times vary by location and visa type:
| Visa Type | Typical Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Tourist (sticker visa) | 5-15 business days |
| Business visa | 10-15 business days |
| Work visa | 15-30 business days |
| Student visa | 10-20 business days |
For detailed processing timeframes, see our Turkey visa processing time guide.
Step 5: Collect Your Passport
Once approved, collect your passport with the visa sticker affixed. Verify all details on the sticker – name, dates, visa type, and number of entries – before leaving the consulate.
Turkey Visa Application Fees
Turkey visa application fees depend on your nationality and the application method:
| Nationality | eVisa Fee (USD) | Entry Type | Stay Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | $50 | Multiple | 90 days |
| United Kingdom | $20 | Multiple | 90 days |
| Canada | $60 | Multiple | 90 days |
| Australia | Free (visa-exempt) | – | 90 days |
| India | $20-$50 | Single/Multiple | 30 days |
Key points about fees:
– eVisa fees are always charged in US Dollars, but your bank deducts the equivalent in your local currency automatically
– eVisa fees are generally lower than visa-on-arrival fees at Turkish airports
– Embassy visa fees vary by country and visa type – contact your nearest Turkish consulate for exact pricing
– There are no refunds if your visa application is denied
For a complete fee breakdown by nationality, see our Turkey eVisa fee guide.
Turkey Visa Application Requirements
Before submitting your Turkey visa application, ensure you meet these core requirements:
Passport Validity:
Your passport must be valid for at least 60 days beyond the duration of stay specified on your visa, in accordance with Article 7.1b of the Law on Foreigners and International Protection No. 6458. For example, if your eVisa allows a 90-day stay, your passport must be valid for at least 150 days from your entry date.
Email Address:
A working email is required to receive the verification link and the approved eVisa PDF. You must click the verification link within 1 hour of receiving it.
Payment Method:
A credit or debit card that supports 3D Secure authentication and international transactions.
Supporting Documents (certain nationalities):
Depending on your nationality, you may also need:
– A round-trip ticket or travel itinerary
– Proof of hotel reservation or accommodation
– Proof of sufficient funds (minimum $50 USD per day of stay)
– A valid Schengen, US, UK, or Ireland visa or residence permit
For the full list of requirements and nationality-specific conditions, see our Turkey eVisa requirements page.
Common Turkey Visa Application Mistakes
Avoid these frequently made errors that lead to delays or rejections:
1. Passport name mismatch
Your application name must match your passport exactly. “Muhammad” vs. “Mohammed” or missing middle names can cause problems at the border.
2. Insufficient passport validity
Many applicants overlook the 60-day rule. Check your passport expiry date before applying – your passport must be valid for at least 60 days beyond your planned stay duration.
3. Wrong visa type
The eVisa covers only tourism and commerce. If you are traveling for work, study, or research, you must apply through an embassy. Using an eVisa for unauthorized purposes can result in deportation.
4. Expired email verification link
You have only 1 hour to click the email verification link. Check your spam folder if you do not see the email within a few minutes.
5. Payment card issues
Cards without 3D Secure support, cards not enabled for international transactions, or cards with insufficient funds will fail. Test your card’s international capability before applying.
6. Overstaying previous visas
If you have overstayed a previous Turkish visa, your new application may be denied. Overstaying can also result in fines and entry bans.
7. Using unofficial websites
Only evisa.gov.tr is the official Turkish eVisa portal. Third-party websites charge additional service fees and may not deliver valid visas.
What Happens After You Apply
After submitting your Turkey visa application, here is what to expect:
For eVisa applications:
– Approval is typically instant – within 1 to 5 minutes
– You receive an email with a PDF attachment containing your eVisa
– The eVisa is valid from the date you specified as your arrival date
– Present the eVisa (printed or digital) at the Turkish border along with your passport
For embassy applications:
– Processing takes 5 to 30 business days depending on visa type
– You may be asked for additional documents or an interview
– Once approved, your passport is returned with a visa sticker
– You can track your application status through the visa application center’s website
Turkey Visa Application at the Airport
Turkey does not offer visa-on-arrival for most nationalities at airports. If you arrive without a valid visa and are not visa-exempt, you will be denied entry and placed on a return flight.
The only exception is for citizens of a limited number of countries who can purchase visas at Turkish airport immigration counters. However, these on-arrival visas are more expensive than eVisas and involve longer wait times.
Always apply for your visa before traveling. The online eVisa application takes just 3 minutes and eliminates any risk of being turned away at the border.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a Turkey visa application take?
An online eVisa application takes approximately 3 minutes to complete and approval is typically instant. Embassy visa applications take 5 to 30 business days depending on the visa type and your location.
Can I apply for a Turkey visa on my phone?
Yes. The evisa.gov.tr website is mobile-friendly and works on smartphones and tablets. You can complete the entire application, make payment, and download your eVisa from a mobile device.
How far in advance should I apply?
For eVisas, you can apply up to 3 months before your travel date. We recommend applying at least 1 week in advance to allow time for any unexpected issues. For embassy visas, apply at least 6 weeks before your trip.
Can someone else apply on my behalf?
Yes. A family member, travel agent, or employer can submit the application on your behalf. They will need your passport details and can use their own payment card. However, the email verification link must be clicked by whoever has access to the email address provided.
What if my Turkey visa application is denied?
eVisa applications are rarely denied if the information is accurate and you meet eligibility requirements. If denied, you can reapply with corrected information. Embassy visa denials can sometimes be appealed – contact the specific consulate for their appeal process.
Do I need to print my eVisa?
While not strictly required (Turkish immigration can verify your visa electronically), we strongly recommend printing a copy. A printed eVisa prevents issues if the electronic system experiences downtime or connectivity problems at the border.
Is the Turkey visa application free for any nationality?
Yes. Citizens of certain countries, including Australia, Brazil, Argentina, Japan, and most EU nations, are visa-exempt and do not need to apply at all. They can enter Türkiye with just a valid passport or national ID card.
Can I extend my visa after arriving in Türkiye?
The eVisa cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a residence permit at the local immigration office before your visa expires. Overstaying results in fines and potential entry bans. For more information, see our Turkey visa extension guide.
Key Takeaways
- Most travelers can apply online through evisa.gov.tr in about 3 minutes
- eVisa fees range from $20 to $60 USD depending on nationality
- Passport must be valid for at least 60 days beyond your planned stay
- The eVisa covers only tourism and commerce – work and study require embassy applications
- Always use the official portal at evisa.gov.tr to avoid scams and extra fees
- Print your eVisa as a backup before traveling
