Travellers from the United States, Canada, and the European Union, among others, can easily obtain a Turkish visa upon arrival. While there is a 90-day stay restriction, this option remains a convenient alternative for those who prefer not to complete an online form and pay in advance.
Arriving in Turkey and realizing you don’t have a visa can be stressful. But there’s no need to panic – you may still be able to get a visa on arrival depending on your nationality. Here’s everything you need to know about getting a Turkey visa on arrival
Overview of Visa On Arrival in Turkey
A visa on arrival allows travelers to obtain a visa when they arrive in Turkey rather than applying in advance It’s a convenient option for last-minute trips or when you’ve accidentally forgotten to arrange your visa
Turkey offers visas on arrival to citizens of certain countries at most major airports and land border crossings. The visa is valid for up to 90 days and allows you to travel freely within Turkey.
To be eligible, you’ll need to meet the basic requirements:
- Be a citizen of a country that’s eligible for visa on arrival in Turkey. Check the full list below.
- Have a valid passport with at least 60 days validity remaining
- Have proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay
- Arrive by air or land (you can’t get a visa on arrival if arriving by sea or rail)
The visa costs varies depending on your nationality, ranging from $30-80 USD payable in cash on arrival. Processing is usually very quick, taking just a few minutes once you reach the visa desk.
Which Nationalities Can Get Visa On Arrival in Turkey?
Citizens of the following countries are eligible for visas on arrival in Turkey:
- Australia
- Mexico
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Japan
- United States of America
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- Albania
- Germany
So if you hold a passport from any of those countries, you’re all set to apply on arrival without needing to arrange anything in advance.
Unfortunately citizens of some other countries like India, China, and Russia aren’t eligible for visas on arrival and will need to apply through the Turkish consulate before traveling.
Where Can I Get Visa On Arrival in Turkey?
Visas on arrival are available at most major international airports and land borders in Turkey. However there are a few exceptions, so check if your entry point allows visas on arrival before turning up without one!
The main airports offering visas on arrival are:
- Istanbul Airport
- Sabiha Gökçen Airport (Istanbul)
- Antalya Airport
- Esenboğa Airport (Ankara)
- Adnan Menderes Airport (Izmir)
You can also get visas at land border crossings with Bulgaria, Greece, Georgia, Iran, Iraq, and Syria.
Note that you can’t get a visa on arrival at seaports or at Dalaman Airport.
Are There Any Restrictions With Turkey Visa On Arrival?
Turkey’s visa on arrival program is quite straightforward for citizens of eligible countries. But there are a couple of small restrictions to be aware of:
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Multiple entry – The visa on arrival is valid for a single entry only. If you leave Turkey and wish to return within the 90 day validity, you’ll need to apply for a multiple entry visa in advance.
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Duration – Although the visa is valid for up to 90 days, the maximum initial stay is 30 days. If you want to stay longer you’ll need to apply for an extension at a local immigration office in Turkey before the 30 days are up.
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Purpose – Visas on arrival are for tourism and commerce only. If you need to visit Turkey for other reasons like work or study, you’ll need to arrange the appropriate visa type in advance.
As long as your visit is for leisure, business or a short-term conference, the visa on arrival has you covered. Just be aware you may need to extend if staying over 30 days, and it doesn’t allow re-entry.
Step-By-Step Guide To Getting Visa On Arrival
If you’re arriving at the airport/border with no Turkish visa, follow these steps for a smooth on-arrival visa process:
1. Disembark and proceed through passport control – Join the line for foreigners and present your passport when called forward. Say you need to get a visa.
2. Complete application form – The officer will provide a short visa application for you to complete with your personal details. Have a pen ready to fill this in promptly.
3. Show travel documents – In addition to your passport, have ready: your return ticket/onward travel confirmation, proof of hotel booking or letter of invitation if staying with Turkish friends/family, and proof of funds (at least $50 per day).
4. Pay visa fee – Fees are around $30-80 depending on nationality, payable in US dollars or other major currencies. Check the exact cost beforehand and have small bills ready for easy payment. Credit cards may not always be accepted.
5. Get passport stamped – Once approved, the officer will stamp your passport with the visa sticker and you’re all done! The whole process usually takes less than 10 minutes.
6. Proceed through customs – Continue through to baggage claim and customs clearance. Check no further documentation is needed here before exiting to meet your transfer or start your Turkish adventure!
And that’s all there is to it. With the visa secured in your passport, you can now freely travel around beautiful Turkey for up to 30 days. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about getting a visa on arrival in Turkey:
Do I need to apply for anything in advance?
No, with the visa on arrival program there is no need to submit an application before traveling. Just turn up at the Turkish border prepared with the required documents.
How long does the visa on arrival last?
It’s valid for a single entry within the next 90 days, for a maximum initial stay of 30 days. Extensions are possible for longer trips.
Where can I pay the visa fee?
Payment must be made at the visa desk on arrival, before getting your passport stamped. Be sure to bring US dollars or other major currency in cash.
Can I enter Turkey from any border?
No, visas on arrival are only available at major airports and designated land crossings. Check if your entry point allows them before arriving without a visa.
Can I get the visa online?
No, there’s no option to apply for the visa on arrival in advance. It must be obtained in person upon entering Turkey.
Do I need a return ticket?
Technically no, but having an onward or return ticket is recommended to show proof of plans to exit Turkey and support your visa application.
The Bottom Line
Hopefully this guide has provided all the key details you need to successfully get a visa on arrival in Turkey. With a little preparation and knowledge of the process, it’s a quick and easy way to enter for eligible nationalities.
Just remember to double check your passport validity, travel documents, and entry requirements to avoid any issues. And once you breeze through and score that visa, you’ll be ready to start enjoying magical Turkey!
Validity Duration of Turkish Visas on Arrival
The Turkish visa obtained upon arrival remains valid for a period of 180 days, allowing flexibility for travellers. However, within this timeframe, the stay in Turkey is limited to a maximum of 90 days.
The visa is classified as multiple-entry, granting the flexibility to enter and exit the country as often as needed, as long as the cumulative stay adheres to the 90-day limit within the 180-day period.
Visa on Arrival at Istanbul Airport in November 2023
Explore the beauty of Turkey with its captivating landscapes, architecture, delectable cuisine, and warm hospitality. Taking a trip to this enchanting country has become even more accessible with the newly introduced visas on arrival for select nationalities.
Whether youre drawn to the historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant culture, Turkey welcomes visitors with open arms, making it an ideal destination for diverse interests.
The Istanbul Airport, in November 2023, serves as a convenient gateway for travellers benefiting from the streamlined visa on arrival process, facilitating a seamless start to an unforgettable Turkish adventure.