Do Canadians Need a Visa for Turkey?

Turkey, officially the Republic of Türkiye, is a popular travel destination for many Canadians. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and famous sites like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, it’s easy to see why so many are eager to visit this Eurasian country. However, before booking your flight to Istanbul, it’s important to understand Turkey’s visa requirements for Canadian citizens.

Visa Rules for Canadians

In the past, Canadians needed to purchase a visa in order to visit Turkey Typically, this was an e-visa that could be obtained online for around $60 USD and was valid for 180 days from the date of issue

However, as of December 2022, Canadians no longer need a visa to visit Turkey for tourism or business purposes. This change came about after Turkey signed an expanded customs deal with the European Union. Now, Canadian citizens can enter and stay in Turkey without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180 day period.

• Canadians can visit Turkey for up to 90 days without needing a visa, as long as you enter and exit within a 180 day timeframe.

• This applies only to tourism and business visits – if you plan to work, study, or live in Turkey longer than 90 days, you will still need to apply for the appropriate visa.

• The 90 day visa exemption does not apply to official Canadian passport holders. They still need to obtain a traditional Turkish visa before arrival.

How to Enter Turkey as a Canadian

Thanks to the recent changes, entering Turkey as a Canadian tourist is now a simple process:

• Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of your intended stay Immigration officials may deny you entry if your passport is close to expiring

• Have proof of onward travel. Such as a flight booking showing you plan to exit Turkey before the 90 day limit.

• Bring travel/health insurance documents. While not mandatory having coverage in case of illness or injury is recommended.

• Arrive at a major airport. Such as Istanbul or Ankara. Smaller land and sea crossings may not have updated visa information.

• Fill out an entry form. You’ll receive this during your flight or upon arrival.

• Proceed through immigration control. Agents will stamp your passport with permission to stay up to 90 days.

As long as you meet the basic requirements and conditions, Canadian tourists can now freely explore Turkey without the need for traditional visas or e-visas. Just be sure to keep track of the 90 day limit.

Long Stays and Residency

For Canadians planning to live, work, or study in Turkey longer than 90 days, you will still need to apply for the appropriate long-stay visa before you arrive.

Some examples include:

• Student visa – For enrolled university or language students

• Work visa – For employees, contractors, freelancers etc.

• Residence permit – For those planning to reside in Turkey long-term

Each visa type has its own application requirements, fees, and processing times. Be sure to plan well in advance if you need to obtain one of these long-stay visas.

The Turkish government’s visa website provides up-to-date information on policies and application procedures for Canadian citizens. Consulting the Turkish embassy in Canada is also recommended when planning an extended stay.

The Bottom Line

Thanks to recent changes, Canadian tourists can now visit Turkey for up to 90 days without needing to purchase a traditional visa in advance. This provides more flexibility and convenience for Canadian travelers eager to explore this fascinating country.

However, the visa exemption applies specifically to short tourist and business visits. Those planning to live, work, or study in Turkey longer than 90 days will still need to apply for the appropriate long-stay visa before arrival. With some advance planning, Canadians can now more easily experience all the history, culture, and beauty that Turkey has to offer.