Last updated: September 2024`
Located right between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, Turkey is always on the list of international travelers. Depending on the purpose, it may be important either for business or leisure travel. Some nationals require a Turkish Visa, which simply allows them to pass through Turkey en route to another country. This guide will outline everything you need to know about the transit visa: who needs it, how the application goes, and other requirements.
An Overview of a Turkish Transit Visa
A Turkish Transit Visa is usually issued for a limited period to travelers who travel through Turkey en route to another country. The transit Visa permits foreign visitors to stay in the airport's transit area and, depending on the visa type and length of stay, can also leave the airport for a limited period. There are two types of transit visas:
- Airport Transit Visa: This is for travel through the international zone of an airport in Turkey, without entry into the country. It normally implies a need for passengers on connecting flights who will not leave the airport.
- Transit Visa for Short Stays: In this case, it shall be permitted for passengers to leave the airport and for some period of time remain in Turkey for purposes such as visiting the city or waiting for their connecting flight.
Who is required to obtain a Turkish transit visa?
Not all travelers require a transit visa to pass through Turkey. Whether or not you need one depends on your nationality and the travel circumstances. Here's a breakdown:
- Visa-free Transit: Citizens of most European Union member states, Japan, South Korea, the United States, and Canada are allowed entry into Turkey for the purpose of transiting, provided their stay is in the transit area. Nationals of the following citizens who are eligible for a Turkish e-Visa can get an e-transit visa from countries like India, China, and others.
- Countries Requiring a Transit Visa: A transit visa is required by certain nationalities even if they will just be transiting through and not leaving the international zone of the airport. These are generally the same nationalities from countries like Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh.
Application for a Transit Visa of Turkey
It is relatively easy to obtain a Turkish transit visa application from various Turkish embassies and consulates, or in some cases, online using the e-Visa system. Here is how to apply, step by step.
Apply for E-Visa-for Eligible Nationalities
|
Step |
Description |
|
Visit Official E-Visa Website |
Go to the official e-visa website and check if your nationality is eligible for an e-Visa. |
|
Fill Out the Application Form |
Enter your personal details, passport information, travel dates, and destination country. Ensure you select the purpose for a transit visa. |
|
Pay for the Visa Fee |
Use a credit or debit card to pay the visa fee, which varies by nationality. |
|
Get and Print Your E-Visa |
After approval, your e-Visa will be emailed to you. Print a copy and present it to immigration authorities at your Turkish point of entry during your transit. |
Application Through the Embassy or Consulate
All nationals who cannot use the e-Visa system should apply in person at an embassy or consulate of Turkey.
|
Step |
Description |
|
Make an Appointment |
Contact the nearest Turkish embassy or consulate to schedule an appointment for your visa application. |
|
Application Form |
Complete the visa application form, which can be obtained from the consulate or downloaded online. |
|
Required Documents Submission |
Submit the necessary documents. The specific details for each document will be provided in the subsequent section. |
|
Interview (if required) |
Some applicants may need to attend a personal interview or provide additional details, depending on their travel plans and the consulate's requirements. |
|
Waiting for Approval |
After submission, the consulate will process your application, which generally takes between 5 to 15 business days depending on the type of visa and workload. |
Documents Required for Transit Visa to Turkey
Many of the following are required whether through an e-Visa or via an embassy for your application to a Turkish transit visa.
|
Document |
Description |
|
Valid Passport |
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Turkey. |
|
Filled-out Visa Application Form |
Complete the form online for an e-Visa or get it from the consulate for a sticker visa. |
|
Passport-Sized Photos |
Recent, color passport photos that meet visa photo standards. |
|
Onward Flight Itinerary |
Provide proof of onward travel, such as flight tickets showing your travel from Turkey to your final destination. |
|
Valid Visa for Final Destination |
If your final destination requires a visa, you must show proof that you have already obtained it. |
|
Proof of Financial Means |
Submit bank statements or other financial documents showing you have sufficient funds for your transit stay in Turkey. |
|
Travel Insurance |
Although optional, travel insurance is recommended to cover medical or travel emergencies during your time in Turkey. |
|
Additional Documentation |
Depending on your nationality and travel details, the embassy or consulate may request further documentation to support your visa application. |
Duration and Validity of a Turkish Transit Visa
The Turkish transit visa is usually issued for 24 to 72 hours, depending upon the case and nature of the transit visa applied.
Single or Multiple Entry: Most of the transit visas are issued for single entry, meaning that you will be able to pass through only once in Turkey en route to your destination. If your journey will involve more than one stop in Turkey, a different approach should be considered-namely, applying for a multiple-transit visa.
Turkish Transit Visa Fee
The cost of Turkish transit visa will vary depending on your nationality and whether you're applying for an e-Visa or a consular visa.
The consular visa fees depend on individual consulates but are usually similar in price to e-Visa. Expedited processing may incur an additional cost, as may extra services.
It is always advisable to check with the local Turkish embassy or consulate for the most accurate fee information.
Exemptions for Turkish Transit Visa
Some categories of travelers are exempt from the requirements of transit visas, which include:
- Passengers not leaving the international transit area of the airport: If your layover in Turkey is less than 24 hours and you don't leave the international transit zone, generally you will not need a transit visa.
- Visa-exempt nationals: Citizens of visa-exempt countries can transit through the country, with no need for a visa, even in the case of leaving the airport temporarily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Citizens of most countries can get a Turkish transit visa; however, specific eligibility criteria may vary with your nationality and the duration of your transit.
The processing time for a Turkish transit visa depends on the workload of the embassy and the specific situation concerning your application. Generally, it is advised that you should apply in good time before planned transits.
A Turkish transit visa's validity is dictated by the period of time you intend to transit and the type of visa applied for. It is usually valid for a very short period, just enough to cover your layover.
You might be issued a Turkish transit visa upon your arrival at the airport, depending on your nationality or how long it will take you to transit. However, this is best checked with the relevant Turkish authorities or the airline. More precisely, this has been most helpful for tourists.
The prices of a Turkish transit visa are subject to a person's nationality and the type of visa he applies for. You can check these detailed fees from official Turkish government websites or online visa checkers.
A transit visa obtained from Turkey is solely meant for transit, which may not allow sightseeing or activities outside of the airport. Such cases are subject to the terms and conditions described on the visa itself.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general guidance and subject to change. For current information, refer to the official websites or the official Turkish e-Visa portal before lodging an application. Please note that this page was last updated in September 2024; thus, some visa rules might change.