Turkey is a country rich in history and tradition. Turkey is also a nation with an eye on the future. Turkey has worked in the last decade to strengthen its democracy and build up its economy which has allowed the country to begin talks with the European Union regarding accession. A visit to Turkey is sure to rich with antiquities and culture.

Turkey Visa / Entry Requirements

Residents of many countries do not need a visa to Turkey, and others are able to apply for a visa upon arrival in the country. Residents of some countries however, must obtain a visa in advance to travel from a Turkish consulate or embassy. The requirements for various countries can be found here.

Turkey Tourist Visa

If you must apply for a Turkey visa in advance, you should do so with at least a month to spare before beginning travel. Contact the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs with your passport to obtain an application. The process should require only a passport and application along with the fee for your country.

If you are allowed to buy a Turkey travel visa at the border or airport, simply have your passport on hand along with the required fee in cash. Turkish visa agents do not accept any form of payment other than cash, and you should have the exact amount. Fees vary by country, but range from $10 to $60 (for Canadians.)

Turkey Business Visa

To work in Turkey, you must apply for a work visa at least one month before travel. Contact the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs in your area with your passport, application and a letter from your employer. Upon arrival in the country, your employer will need to submit additional documents to the government within three days of you beginning employment.

Application Process

If you are applying in advance for a Turkey visa, you must apply in person. You may print your application beforehand from the Ministry website, but to complete the process, you must personally appear one month prior to travel.

For residents of countries such as the United States, Canada, UK, and Australia who require a Turkey visa at the airport or border, the application process is simple. Upon arrival to Turkey, proceed through customs with your passport. As you enter, you will have the opportunity to pay a custom’s official your country’s fee in cash in exchange for a visa sticker. Affix the sticker on the passport and you are ready to explore – there are no forms to be filled out for this type of Turkish visa.

Who Needs a Visa?

Individuals living in countries other than the following require a visa to visit Turkey. This visa may be available at your entry point or arranged in advance depending on your home country. Counties requiring only passports are: Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Iceland, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Sweden and Switzerland.

Maximum Stay Period

The maximum stay varies by country, but ranges from fifteen days to three months.

Turkey Visa Resources

Official Turkey visa website:    http://www.mfa.gov.tr/MFA/ConsularInformation/ForForeigners/VisaInformation/