Before packing your bags, it helps to know how to enter the country. This Türkiye (Turkey) visa guide makes sense of the rules, routes, and requirements—so you don’t get lost in paperwork before your journey even begins. From quick e-Visas to embassy applications, Anyvisa walks you through who needs what, how to apply, and how long you can stay in this crossroads of continents.
Understanding Türkiye visa system
Türkiye welcomes millions of visitors each year for tourism, business, education, and work. The country’s visa policy depends mainly on your nationality and purpose of travel.
There are three main ways to enter Türkiye legally:
Visa-exempt entry: Citizens of many countries can visit for short stays without a visa.
e-Visa : The electronic visa system for short stays (tourism or business).
Sticker visa: The traditional visa applied for at Turkish embassies or consulates.
Türkiye visa types
Visa type | Purpose | Typical duration |
Tourism, business meetings, conferences, cultural visits | Up to 90 days within 180 days | |
Transit Visa | For travelers passing through Türkiye to another country | Short stopovers |
Official / Diplomatic Visa | Government or diplomatic missions | As assigned |
Student / Education Visa | Studying, language courses, internships | Duration of study |
Work Visa | Employment, work permits | Duration of contract |
Other Special Visas | Medical treatment, family reunification, research, etc. | Varies |
Most short-term visitors use the Tourist or Businessperson Visa, which is often available through the e-Visa system.
Türkiye e-Visa explained
The Türkiye e-Visa is an official electronic document allowing eligible foreign nationals to enter Türkiye for tourism or business. It is the fastest and easiest way to get permission to travel.
Who can apply for Turkey e-Visa?
The e-Visa is available to travelers from dozens of countries, including the USA, Canada, Australia, and much of Europe. Some nationalities can only apply conditionally; they must also hold a valid visa or residence permit from the US, UK, or Schengen area.
You can check your eligibility here.
Validity and stay duration
Usually valid for 180 days from the issue date.
Allows stays of up to 90 days within 180 days, depending on nationality.
Some e-Visas are single-entry, others multiple-entry.
e-Visa requirements
Before applying, ensure you have:
A passport valid at least 60 days beyond your planned stay.
A credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, or UnionPay) for payment.
A valid email address to receive your approved visa.
Proof of travel (flight booking) and accommodation may be required by border officials.
How to apply for Türkiye e-Visa
Select your nationality and intended travel dates.
Fill out the online form carefully.
Pay the required fee with a valid card.
Receive your e-Visa via email (usually within minutes).
Print or save the e-Visa and present it with your passport upon arrival in Türkiye.
Türkiye Sticker Visa (Embassy Application)
If you’re not eligible for the e-Visa or plan to work or study in Türkiye, you’ll need a sticker visa through the Turkish embassy or consulate.
Application steps for Turkey visa
Choose the right visa category (student, work, official, etc.).
Fill out the visa application form.
Gather all required documents.
Book an appointment and attend in person.
Pay the application fee.
Wait for processing (typically 10–15 working days).
General Turkey visa requirements
Valid passport (minimum 6-month validity).
Completed application form and biometric photos.
Proof of income or bank statements.
Flight and hotel reservations (or invitation letter).
For work visas: job offer and employer’s supporting documents.
For student visas: acceptance letter from a Turkish institution.
How much bank balance is required for Turkey visa?
For a Türkiye visa, you should show proof of sufficient funds—generally around USD 50–70 per day of your planned stay. For example, if you’re visiting for 10 days, you should have at least USD 500–700 available in your bank account. There’s no official fixed amount, but maintaining this balance consistently for the last three months helps demonstrate financial stability and increases your chances of approval.
Türkiye visa duration, entry limits, and extensions
Tourist/e-Visa holders can stay up to 90 days within 180 days.
Work and student visas are valid for the duration of the permit or academic term.
If you need to stay longer, apply for a residence permit from local immigration offices once in Türkiye.
Overstaying your visa may result in fines, deportation, or future entry bans, so always check your permitted stay period.
Türkiye’s visa system is straightforward once you understand which visa you need. For most short-term travelers, the Türkiye e-Visa is the fastest and easiest way to visit the country. Those coming for work, study, or long-term stays should apply for the correct visa type.
By following this Türkiye visa guide, preparing documents early, and using official channels, you can ensure a smooth entry to one of the world’s most beautiful and historically rich destinations.
