Tips for a Smooth Turkish eVisa Application

Last updated: January 2025

Planning a trip to Turkey and need to apply for an e-Visa? While the process of the Turkish eVisa is designed to be simple and easy, some preliminary knowledge of the process involved will help you avoid delay or complications. This guide offers tips to ensure a smooth Turkish eVisa application process, right from checking eligibility to successful completion.

Check Eligibility Before You Apply

Before the application process of an eVisa begins, it is important to confirm one's nationality and whether or not it qualifies for an electronic visa. Most countries are qualified for a Turkish eVisa while others can travel visa free; however, certain travelers may require an older, more traditional type of visa or additional documentation.

• Eligibility Check: Log into the official website of the Turkish eVisa, https and use their eligibility tool to validate if your country is among the listed ones in regards to eVisa approval.
• Note for dual citizens: If one holds dual citizenship, he or she needs to declare in advance what nationality makes him or her eligible for an e-Visa in order to avoid delays.

Have Your Documents Ready in Advance

Have all your documents ready in advance so that it saves your time and the application process is painless. Some of the basic documents you will need are:

• Valid Passport: The applicant must possess a passport with six months added validity beyond the date of the proposed period of entry into Turkey. Your correct passport number as entered in the eVisa application should match.
• Email Address: Since any communication, if needed, is to be made through your valid e-mail address, as the visa confirmation is mailed electronically.
• Payment Method: You will need to have your credit or debit card ready with which to pay for the visa. The application for Turkey's eVisa can only make online payments, and you should make sure that your means of paying works for international transactions.

Double-Check Your Information

Accurate input of information is vital in the process of Turkey eVisa application. Small errors may either delay the processing or get rejected. Double-check the following before submission:

1. Personal Details: Ensure your full name, date of birth, and passport number are exactly as they appear on your passport. Even minor errors, such as the absence of middle names or a mistake in the year of birth, might cause problems.
2. Travel Information: Check your intended date of arrival and see if it falls within the validity period of the visa. Most applicants are allowed a stay of a period of 90 days within any period of 180 days under the Turkish eVisa, depending on your nationality.

Apply Early, But Not Too Early

Try to apply for your eVisa no less than a week in advance to avoid last-minute stress. The Turkish eVisa generally takes about 24-72 hours to process, though it may be delayed sometimes for reasons beyond your control.

However, be aware not to apply too far in advance. Your eVisa will be valid from the date of issue, so applying months in advance of your travel may limit your flexibility. Most travelers apply within 30 days of their departure date.

Ensure your eVisa is accessible for Turkish entry

Once issued, your eVisa will be emailed to you. You need to print a copy of your visa confirmation and electronically save a copy on your phone or laptop. You want to make sure you have a printed copy because even though the visa is linked electronically to your passport, border control officials in Turkey might request to see it.

Prepare the entry requirements in advance

Just because you have an eVisa, that does not mean entry into Turkey is guaranteed, so prepare for other border control requirements. Ensure you can provide:

• Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel reservation
• Proof of your travel schedule, for example, return tickets
• Means of subsistence adequate for the period of your stay
• Border officials might request this to verify that your trip conforms with the conditions of your visa.

Your Internet Connection Should be Stable

The process of the Turkish eVisa is completely online. You should ensure you have a stable internet connection during your application. The form may time out and there could be errors on the forms if your connection drops, which could lead to incomplete submissions.

Pro Tip: Save what you have filled out, as you go along, especially if you have a slower or unreliable connection. This may prevent it from getting lost in the event of a technical problem.

Know and Understand the Transit Visa Policy

If you are merely in transit through Turkey and will not be leaving the airport, you may not need a visa; this again depends upon your nationality. However, if you intend to leave the airport at all during this time, then you will need to have a valid visa.

Have Problems? Ask for Assistance

In case of any issues with the eVisa, you can reach out to the Turkish visa support through their official website. They also have a section for frequently asked questions and support for applicants if they are facing any technical glitches or need further clarification regarding the status of their application.