Turkey is a vibrant country that attracts visitors and expats from around the world due to its rich history, diverse culture, and strategic location. Whether you are considering a short visit or a long-term stay, understanding the various visa options available is crucial. This guide outlines the different types of visas for Turkey, helping you determine which one suits your needs.
There are five main types of visas you can obtain to enter Turkey:
Tourist/Business Visa
Official Visa
Student/Education Visa
Working Visa
Other Visa
Each visa type has specific requirements and steps for application, detailed below.
The Tourist/Business Visa is one of the most common and straightforward options, available as an e-visa for many countries. It includes several subcategories:
Touristic Visit
Single Transit
Double Transit
Business Meeting/Commerce
Conference/Seminar/Meeting
Festival/Fair/Exhibition
Sportive Activity
Cultural Artistic Activity
Official Visit
Visit to Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus
Complete an Online Application Form: Visit the Turkish e-visa website to fill out the form and provide necessary personal and travel details.
Pay the Fee: Fees vary by nationality; for example, it's $60 for Australians and $20 for US citizens.
Download and Print the e-Visa: After payment, download your e-visa and print it. Border officers can verify it electronically, but a printed copy is recommended.
The e-visa typically allows stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
The Official Visa is designated for individuals assigned for official duties or serving as couriers. It is essential for diplomats and other government officials traveling to Turkey for official purposes.
If you plan to study in Turkey, you need to apply for a Student/Education Visa at a Turkish embassy or consulate before entering the country. This visa has several subcategories:
Internship Visa
Internship ERASMUS
Internship AIESEC
Turkish Language Course
Course Purpose
Education Purpose
Education in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus
Pre-Application Form: Complete the pre-application form available on the Turkish consulate's website.
Submit Documents: Collect and submit required documents, including an admission letter from a Turkish educational institution.
Attend an Interview: Attend an interview at the nearest consulate.
Register in Turkey: Upon arrival, register at the local police department and apply for a residence permit.
To work in Turkey, you must apply for a Working Visa and work permit from outside the country. The visa application should be supported by a job offer or contract.
Employment Purpose/Special Employment Purpose
Assigned Lecturers/Academics
Assigned Sportsperson
Assigned Artists
Assigned Free Zone Workers
Assigned Journalists
Montage and Repairman Purposes
Pre-Application Form: Start with the pre-application form online.
Submit Documents: Your employer must submit the necessary documents to the Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MLSS) within 10 days of your application.
Approval: The MLSS reviews and decides on the work permit application within 30 days.
Once approved, the work permit acts as a residence permit, eliminating the need for a separate application.
Turkey also offers various other visas for specific purposes:
Archaeological Excavation, Exploration
Documentary Purpose
Tour Operator Representative
Medical Treatment
Accompaniment Purpose
Family Unification
Freight Visa
Seafarer Visa
Each visa type has unique requirements and application processes.
If you plan to stay in Turkey longer than your visa allows, you need to apply for a residence permit. Types include:
Short-Term Residence Permit: For tourism, business, education, or medical treatment.
Family Residence Permit: For family members of Turkish nationals.
Student Residence Permit: For students enrolled in educational programs.
Long-Term Residence Permit: For those who have resided in Turkey for eight continuous years.
Humanitarian Residence Permit: For those without a valid visa or facing emergency situations.
Residence Permit for Human Trafficking Victims: For victims of human trafficking.
Turkey offers citizenship by investment through three primary routes: real estate purchase, job creation, and capital transfer. Investing $400,000 in real estate can qualify you for Turkish citizenship within four months. This citizenship allows visa-free travel to around 110 countries.
How long should my passport be valid? Your passport must be valid for at least 60 days beyond your visa, e-visa, visa exemption, or residence permit period.
Can I get an e-visa for study or work? No, e-visas are only for tourism and business. For study or work, you need specific visas.
When should I apply for an e-visa? Apply at least 48 hours before your trip.
Can I complete the e-visa form in another language? Yes, the form is available in English, French, and Spanish.
Can I apply for a new e-visa while in Turkey? No, you must leave Turkey to reapply for an e-visa. However, you may apply for a residence permit if you meet certain criteria.
Navigating visa options for Turkey can be complex. It's crucial to research thoroughly and consult official sources or legal experts. Whether for a short visit or a long-term stay, understanding your visa requirements ensures a smooth and compliant experience in Turkey.
Prepared on the information from enjoyturkiye.com