The rich history, traditions, and incredible heritage of Turkey make it a sought-after destination for every traveller. The country offers foreign visitors a glimpse of the 2000 years of Europe’s historical evolution.However, to visit this beautiful country, Indian citizens need a visa.Now that the country is offering electronic visa processing systems, obtaining a tourist visa,the process involves filling out an application, subletting necessary documents, and paying a fee.It’s important to plan ahead and understand the requirements to ensure a smooth application process.In this guide, we will provide all the necessary details about the Turkey visa application for Indians and how to apply for it easily.
As an Indian citizen, one of the first things you need to figure out when planning a trip to Turkey is the visa situation. With its stunning landscapes, rich history and cuisine, Turkey has become an increasingly popular destination for Indian travelers in recent years. But before you pack your bags, it’s important to understand the visa requirements to ensure a smooth entry into Turkey.
Do Indians Need a Visa for Turkey?
Yes Indian citizens need a visa to enter Turkey. While Turkey has visa exemption agreements with some countries, India is not on the list. All Indian passport holders are required to obtain an electronic visa (e-visa) or a sticker visa issued by the Turkish government prior to travel.
However, the good news is the process is fairly straightforward as long as you meet the eligibility criteria and have the required documents. Let’s take a closer look at the Turkish visa options available for Indian citizens
Types of Turkish Visas for Indians
There are two main types of Turkish visas that Indians can apply for – the e-Visa and the sticker visa
Turkey E-Visa for Indians
The e-Visa is an easy, quick and convenient way for Indians to obtain a Turkish visa entirely online. To be eligible, you need to have a valid visa or residency permit from select countries like the United States, United Kingdom or a Schengen country.
The Turkey e-Visa usually takes just a few minutes to obtain and permits a stay of up to 30 days. It allows single or multiple entries within 6 months of issuance. You can apply for the Turkey e-Visa through the official website www.evisa.gov.tr.
Turkey Sticker Visa for Indians
If you are not eligible for the Turkey e-Visa, you will need to obtain a sticker visa issued by the Turkish consulate or embassy. The sticker visa can be single or multiple entry, and is valid for 3 or 6 months from the date of issue.
Sticker visas allow you to stay in Turkey between 15 to 90 days depending on the type. The application involves more paperwork and processing time compared to the e-Visa. You have to submit the visa application and documents at the Turkish visa application center in India.
Turkey Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens
To successfully obtain either type of Turkish visa, Indian passport holders need to meet the following visa requirements:
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Valid Indian passport with at least 6 months validity remaining
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Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of stay in Turkey
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Confirmed return flight booking
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Travel health insurance coverage
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Accommodation details in Turkey
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biometrics and photographs
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Visa application forms
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Payment of the visa fees
Make sure to carry both digital and print versions of all the required documents while traveling as immigration officials may ask to see them.
How to Apply for a Turkish Visa from India
The process of applying for a Turkish visa differs slightly depending on whether you are opting for an e-Visa or sticker visa.
Applying for a Turkey E-Visa
Here are the steps for getting a Turkey e-Visa as an Indian citizen:
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Go to www.evisa.gov.tr
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Fill out the online visa application form
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Upload digital copies of your passport, passport photos etc.
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Make the visa payment using a credit or debit card
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Download the e-Visa PDF once approved
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Print out the e-Visa document and carry it when traveling to Turkey
The entire process can be completed in as little as 10 minutes if you have all the documents handy!
Applying for a Turkey Sticker Visa
To get a sticker visa, you will need to go through an authorized visa application center. Here is the process:
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Find your nearest Turkish visa application center
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Schedule an appointment for visa submission
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Pay the visa application fee
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Collect the required documents for your visa category
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Attend the in-person appointment and submit your visa application
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Wait for processing and passport return with visa
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Check your visa once you get your passport back
This process takes at least 4-10 business days for tourist visas as applications have to be sent to the Turkish consulate for approval.
Turkey Visa Cost for Indians
Turkish visas don’t come cheap for Indian citizens. Expect to pay fees of around Rs. 12,000 to Rs. 30,000 depending on the type of visa applied for.
Here are the typical Turkish visa costs from India:
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Single entry e-Visa: Rs. 12,285
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Multiple entry e-Visa: Rs. 14,273 (for 6 months)
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Single entry sticker visa: Rs. 12,285
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Multiple entry sticker visa: Rs. 30,273 (for 6 months)
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Multiple entry sticker visa: Rs. 32,260 (for 12 months)
Additional charges apply for services like courier delivery, lounge access and application center fees.
FAQs on Turkey Visa for Indians
Does Turkey offer visa on arrival for Indians?
No, India is not eligible for visa on arrival in Turkey. All Indians must get an e-Visa or sticker visa before traveling.
Can I get a Turkey transit visa as an Indian?
You don’t need a transit visa if you are transiting through Istanbul and not leaving the airport. But if you plan to exit the airport, you need to apply for a regular tourist visa.
How soon can I apply for a Turkey visa as an Indian?
You should apply no earlier than 2 months and no later than 2 weeks before your date of travel to Turkey.
What is the maximum duration of stay in Turkey with a tourist visa?
The tourist e-Visa allows a maximum stay of 30 days. With a multiple entry sticker visa, you can stay up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
Do I need travel insurance to visit Turkey from India?
Yes, having travel medical insurance valid in Turkey is a requirement to obtain both the e-Visa and sticker visa.
Plan Your Turkish Holiday with Visa in Hand!
While Turkish visas involve more time, cost and documentation for Indian citizens compared to some other destinations, the incredible experience of visiting Turkey makes it worthwhile!
Now that you know the Turkey visa requirements and process, you can apply for the appropriate visa well in advance and have one less thing to worry about. With your visa in hand, look forward to enjoying Turkey’s dynamic culture, mouth-watering food, stunning vistas and famous historical sites!
Processing Time and Fees for Turkish e-Visa
The cost of applying for Turkish e-Visa varies depending on your nationality and the processing time you want.
E-visa offers three options for processing your application:
- Standard processing: Your Turkey eVisa will be ready within 24 hours at a lower price.
- Rush processing: If you need your eVisa sooner, you can choose this option and receive it in just 4 hours at a relatively fair price.
- Super Rush processing: This option is perfect for those who need their eVisa urgently. Youll receive it in just 30 minutes at a higher price.
Its important to note that there is no government fee for the Turkey eVisa, the only payment required is the e-Visa processing fee, which comes with numerous benefits.
What is a Turkey eVisa for Indians?
A Turkey e-Visa for Indians is an official document that grants the right to enter and travel in Turkey.Previously, Indian nationals obtained a Turkey Visa on Arrival soon after landing in the country.It is an electronic alternative to visas issued at the missions and at the ports of entry.Every Indian citizen or resident wishing to visit Turkey for a brief period can apply for the visa onlineif they meet certain conditions, such as having a valid visa or residence permit from Schengen countries, the US, the UK, or Ireland. The e-Visa is valid for tourism and short business trips..
The application process is entirely online, and the e-Visa is sent to the applicant via email. Upon arrival in Turkey, Indian citizens are required to present their e-Visa along with their passport.