Turkey Visa for Indians: Requirements, Fees & Application Process (2026)

Critical Information Every Indian Traveler Must Know

Turkey abolished the visa-on-arrival facility for Indian passport holders on April 10, 2014. Since then, all Indian citizens must obtain either an electronic visa (e-Visa) or a sticker visa before entering Turkey. This policy applies to all passport types except diplomatic passports, which enjoy visa exemption for stays up to 90 days.

Who Needs a Turkey Visa?

Visa Required:

• Ordinary passport holders (most Indian travelers)
• Special passport holders
• Service passport holders

Visa Exempt:

• Diplomatic passport holders (up to 90 days)
• Passengers of Turkish origin with foreign passports and Turkish national ID card (Nufus Card)

Key Changes in 2026

The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has maintained consistent visa policies for Indian nationals in 2026, with the following key points:

1. No Visa-on-Arrival: Direct travelers from India cannot obtain visas at Turkish airports
2. E-Visa Eligibility: Conditional on holding valid Schengen/US/UK/Ireland visa or residence permit
3. Mandatory Travel Insurance: Minimum €30,000 coverage required for all visa types
4. Digital Processing: E-visa applications processed 24/7 through official portal
5. Biometric Requirements: Sticker visa applicants must provide biometrics at VFS centers

1. Turkey E-Visa (Electronic Visa)

The Turkey e-Visa is a digital travel authorization that allows eligible Indian citizens to enter Turkey for tourism or business purposes. This is the fastest and most convenient option for those who qualify.

Key Features:

• Validity: 30 days from date of entry
• Stay Duration: Up to 30 days
• Entry Type: Single entry
• Processing Time: 3 minutes to 3 days
• Application Mode: 100% online at www.evisa.gov.tr
• Cost: USD 43 (approximately ₹3,500-₹4,270) + bank charges

Eligibility Criteria: Indian passport holders can apply for e-Visa only if they possess:

• Valid Schengen visa or residence permit, OR
• Valid USA visa or residence permit, OR
• Valid UK visa or residence permit, OR
• Valid Ireland visa or residence permit

Important Note: The supporting visa/residence permit must be valid and can even be on an old/expired passport, provided the visa's validity covers your Turkey entry date. You must carry both old and new passports when entering Turkey.

2. Sticker Visa (Traditional Visa)

Indian citizens who do not hold qualifying Schengen/US/UK/Ireland visas must apply for a traditional sticker visa through Turkish diplomatic missions or authorized visa application centers.

Available Types:

Tourist Visa

• Single Entry: Valid for 3-6 months, allows one entry
• Multiple Entry: Valid for 6-12 months, allows multiple entries
• Stay Duration: Up to 90 days within 180-day period
• Processing Time: 5-15 working days
• Cost: ₹12,290 (single entry) to ₹14,290 (multiple entry)

Business Visa

• Single Entry: ₹12,290
• Multiple Entry: ₹16,100
• Purpose: Business meetings, conferences, trade fairs
• Additional Requirements: Invitation letter from a Turkish company

Transit Visa

• Single/Double Entry: ₹5,210-₹28,460
• Purpose: Transiting through Turkey to another destination
• Stay Duration: Maximum 72 hours

3. Long-Term Visas

For extended stays beyond tourism:

Work Visa

• Cost: ₹15,000-₹20,000 (including work permit)
• Validity: 1 year (renewable)
• Requirements: Job offer from Turkish employer, work permit approval

Student Visa

• Cost: ₹8,000-₹12,000
• Validity: Duration of the study program
• Requirements: Admission letter from a Turkish university

Residence Permit

• Cost: ₹3,000-₹5,000 annually
• Types: Short-term (up to 1 year), Long-term (requires 8 years continuous residence)

Eligibility Check: Do You Qualify?

Before starting your e-Visa application, verify you meet these requirements:

1. Valid Indian Passport: Minimum 60 days validity from entry date (airlines may require 6 months
2. Blank Pages: At least 2 blank pages for entry/exit stamps
3. Supporting Visa: Valid Schengen/US/UK/Ireland visa or residence permit
4. Travel Purpose: Tourism or business only (not for work or study)
5. Payment Method: Credit/debit card for online payment

Step-by-Step E-Visa Application Process

Step 1: Access Official Portal

Visit the official Turkey e-Visa website: www.evisa.gov.tr

Warning: Beware of fraudulent websites. The official portal is operated by the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. No third-party agency is authorized to issue e-Visas.

Step 2: Select Nationality and Document Type

• Choose "India" as your nationality
• Select "Ordinary Passport"
• Enter your travel dates
• Click "Apply Now"

Step 3: Verify Eligibility

The system will check if you're eligible for e-Visa. You'll see a message confirming eligibility if you have a valid supporting visa.

Step 4: Fill Application Form

Provide accurate information:

• Personal Details: Full name (as per passport), date of birth, gender
• Passport Information: Passport number, issue date, expiry date
• Contact Details: Email address (you'll receive e-Visa here), phone number
• Travel Information: Arrival date, address in Turkey (hotel name is sufficient)
• Supporting Document: Details of your Schengen/US/UK/Ireland visa

Pro Tip: Double-check all information. Errors can lead to visa rejection without refund.

Step 5: Upload Supporting Documents

• Scan of your valid Schengen/US/UK/Ireland visa or residence permit
• Passport bio-data page (if required)
• Travel itinerary (optional but recommended)

Step 6: Make Payment

• E-Visa Fee: USD 43 (approximately ₹3,500-₹4,270)
• Payment Methods: Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay credit/debit cards
• Bank Charges: Additional charges may apply

Step 7: Receive E-Visa

• Processing Time: Usually within 3 minutes to 3 days
• Delivery: E-Visa sent to your registered email address
• Format: PDF document with QR code

Step 8: Print and Carry

• Print your e-Visa (color or black & white)
• Carry both the printed copy and the digital copy on your phone
• Keep supporting visa documents ready for immigration

E-Visa Validity and Usage

Important Points:

• E-Visa is valid for 180 days from issue date (you must enter Turkey within this period)
• Once you enter Turkey, you can stay for 30 days
• Single entry only - if you exit Turkey, you need a new visa to re-enter
• E-Visa cannot be extended inside Turkey
• Valid only for tourism and business purposes

What to Present at Turkey Immigration

When you arrive at Turkish airports or land borders, immigration officers will check:

1. Valid Passport: With at least 60 days validity
2. E-Visa Printout: Physical or digital copy
3. Supporting Visa: Original Schengen/US/UK/Ireland visa (even if on old passport)
4. Return Ticket: Proof of onward/return journey
5. Hotel Booking: Confirmation of accommodation
6. Travel Insurance: Policy document (recommended)
7. Financial Proof: Bank statements or cash (if asked)

For Indian citizens without qualifying Schengen/US/UK/Ireland visas, the sticker visa is the only option. This process involves applying through Turkish embassies or authorized visa application centers.

Where to Apply: Visa Application Centers in India

Turkey visa applications are processed through Gateway International (formerly VFS Global) at the following locations:

Major Cities:

1. New Delhi - Embassy of Turkey jurisdiction
2. Mumbai - Consulate General jurisdiction
3. Hyderabad - Embassy jurisdiction
4. Chennai - Consulate General jurisdiction
5. Kolkata - Embassy jurisdiction
6. Bengaluru - Consulate General jurisdiction
7. Kochi - Consulate General jurisdiction
8. Chandigarh - Embassy jurisdiction
9. Jaipur - Embassy jurisdiction
10. Gurgaon - Embassy jurisdiction
11. Jalandhar - Embassy jurisdiction

Contact Information:

• Helpline: 022-67866029
• Email: helpline.india@gateway.com.tr
• Website: gatewayinternational.com.tr

Complete Sticker Visa Application Process

Step 1: Determine Visa Type

Choose the appropriate visa category:

• Tourist Visa (single or multiple entry)
• Business Visa
• Transit Visa
• Other specific purpose visas

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Mandatory Documents for Tourist Visa:

1. Passport

• • Original passport with minimum 6 months validity
  • At least 2 blank pages
  • Photocopies of first and last pages

2. Visa Application Form

• • Download from Gateway International website
  • Fill completely in English
  • Sign and date the form

3. Photographs

• • 2 recent passport-size photos (35mm x 45mm)
  • White background
  • 80% face coverage
  • No glasses, no headwear (except religious reasons)

4. Travel Insurance

• • Mandatory coverage: Minimum €30,000
  • Must cover entire stay in Turkey
  • Should include medical emergencies, hospitalization, repatriation
  • Policy document in English

1. Flight Bookings
• Confirmed round-trip flight tickets
• Or detailed travel itinerary
• Showing entry and exit dates

5. Hotel Reservations

• • Confirmed hotel bookings for entire stay
  • Or invitation letter from host in Turkey (if staying with relatives/friends)
  • Must include host's address and contact details

6. Financial Proof

• • Last 6 months' personal bank statement (original or bank-attested copies)
  • Minimum balance: ₹1,00,000 per person
  • Last 3 months' salary slips (on company letterhead with signature and stamp)
  • Last 3 months' IT returns
  • For retired persons: Bank statement with minimum ₹1,00,000 balance

7. Employment Documents

• • Employment certificate/letter from employer
  • Stating: Position, salary, years of employment, approved leave dates
  • On company letterhead with authorized signature and stamp
  • For self-employed: Business registration documents, GST certificate

8. Identity Proofs

• • Aadhaar card (copy)
  • PAN card (copy)

9. Undertaking Letter

• • Mandatory for applicants aged 18 and above
  • Download template from Gateway International website
  • Fill, sign, and submit original

Additional Documents for Business Visa:

• Invitation letter from Turkish company
• Company registration documents
• Business profile
• Previous business dealings proof (if any)

Additional Documents for Specific Cases:

• Minors (under 18): Birth certificate, parental consent letter, parents' passport copies
• Students: School/college ID, leave approval letter
• Homemakers: Spouse's employment and financial documents

Step 3: Book an Appointment Online

1. Visit the Gateway International website
2. Create an account or log in
3. Select visa type and location
4. Choosean  appointment date and time
5. Pay online appointment fee: ₹6,859 (partial payment)
6. Receive appointment confirmation via email

Pro Tip: Book appointments well in advance (2-3 weeks before travel) as slots fill quickly, especially during peak season (April-October).

Step 4: Attend Visa Appointment

What to Bring:

• All original documents + photocopies
• Appointment confirmation printout
• Remaining visa fee payment (cash or card)
• Passport-size photos

At the Center:

1. Document verification by visa officer
2. Biometric data collection (fingerprints, photograph)
3. Payment of remaining visa fee
4. Receive acknowledgment receipt with tracking number

Processing at Center: 30-45 minutes

Step 5: Track Application Status

• Use the tracking number provided at submission
• Check the status online at the Gateway International website
• Or call helpline: 022-67866029
• SMS updates available (optional paid service)

Step 6: Collect Passport

Collection Options:

1. Self-Collection: Visit the same visa center with the receipt
2. Courier Service: Paid service (₹500-₹800) - passport delivered to your address

Processing Time: 5-15 working days (can extend to 30 days in some cases)

Visa Decision Outcomes

Approved: Visa sticker affixed in passport with validity dates. Rejected: Passport returned with rejection letter (fees non-refundable). Additional Documents Required: Center will contact you

E-Visa Fees

Sticker Visa Fees (Through Gateway International)

Tourist Visa Fees

Business Visa Fees

Transit Visa Fees

Additional Service Charges

Payment Methods

E-Visa:

• Credit/Debit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay)
• Online payment only

Sticker Visa:

• Online payment (partial): ₹6,859 at appointment booking
• At Center: Cash, Credit/Debit Card, UPI

Important Fee Notes

1. Non-Refundable: All visa fees and service charges are non-refundable, even if the visa is rejected
2. Fee Changes: Fees are subject to change based on exchange rates and government policies
3. Hidden Costs: Budget for travel insurance (₹500-₹2,000), photographs, document attestation

For E-Visa Application

1. Essential Documents:

•  Valid passport (minimum 60 days validity, 2 blank pages)
•  Valid Schengen/US/UK/Ireland visa or residence permit (original)
•  Credit/Debit card for payment
•  Email address for receiving e-Visa
•  Travel dates and Turkey address (hotel name)

2. Recommended Documents:

•  Flight booking confirmation
•  Hotel reservation
•  Travel insurance policy
•  Bank statement (last 3 months)

For Sticker Visa Application

1. Mandatory Documents:

•  Original passport (6 months validity, 2 blank pages)
•  Completed visa application form (signed)
•  2 passport-size photographs (35mm x 45mm, white background)
•  Travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
•  Confirmed round-trip flight tickets
•  Hotel reservations or invitation letter
•  Bank statement (last 6 months, minimum ₹1 lakh balance)
•  Salary slips (last 3 months, on letterhead)
•  IT returns (last 3 months)
•  Employment certificate/letter
•  Aadhaar card copy
•  PAN card copy
•  Undertaking letter (signed original, for 18+ applicants)

2. Additional for Business Visa:

•  Invitation letter fromTurkish company
•  Company registration documents
•  Business profile/brochure
•  Previous business dealings proof

3. Additional for Minors:

•  Birth certificate
•  Parental consent letter (notarized)
•  Parents' passport copies
•  Parents' visa copies (if traveling together)

4. Additional for Students:

•  School/College ID card
•  Leave approval letter from the institution
•  Parents' financial documents

5. Additional for Homemakers:

•  Marriage certificate
•  Spouse's employment certificate
•  Spouse's financial documents

Document Specifications

Passport Photos:

• Size: 35mm x 45mm
• Background: White
• Face coverage: 80%
• Recent (taken within last 6 months)
• No glasses, no headwear (except religious)
• Matte finish

Bank Statements:

• Last 6 months' transactions
• Original or bank-attested copies
• Should show regular income/transactions
• Minimum balance: ₹1,00,000 per applicant
• Account holder's name must match applicant

Travel Insurance:

• Coverage: Minimum €30,000 (approximately ₹27 lakhs)
• Validity: Must cover entire Turkey stay
• Coverage areas: Medical emergencies, hospitalization, repatriation, trip cancellation
• Policy document in English
• Recommended providers: ICICI Lombard, HDFC Ergo, Bajaj Allianz, Digit Insurance

E-Visa Application Mistakes

Mistake 1: Applying Without Qualifying Visa Many Indians apply for e-Visa without checking eligibility. You MUST have a valid Schengen/US/UK/Ireland visa or residence permit. Without this, your application will be rejected, and fees are non-refundable.

Solution: Verify eligibility before starting application. If you don't have qualifying visa, apply for sticker visa instead.

Mistake 2: Incorrect Passport Details Entering wrong passport number, name spelling, or dates leads to visa rejection and entry denial at Turkey immigration.

Solution: Cross-check every detail with your passport. Use exact name as per passport (including middle name).

Mistake 3: Using Expired Supporting Visa Your Schengen/US/UK/Ireland visa must be valid on your Turkey entry date. Expired visas are not accepted.

Solution: Check supporting visa validity. If on old passport, carry both passports to Turkey.

Mistake 4: Applying Too Close to Travel Date E-Visa usually processes quickly, but can take up to 3 days. Last-minute applications risk missing flights.

Solution: Apply at least 7-10 days before travel. System recommends applying minimum 12 hours before departure.

Mistake 5: Not Printing E-Visa Some travelers assume digital copy is enough. Turkish immigration requires physical printout.

Solution: Print e-Visa in color or black & white. Carry both printed and digital copies.

Sticker Visa Application Mistakes

Mistake 6: Incomplete Documentation Missing even one document can lead to application rejection or delays.

Solution: Use checklist provided above. Verify all documents before appointment.

Mistake 7: Insufficient Bank Balance Showing less than ₹1 lakh balance per person raises red flags about financial capability.

Solution: Maintain minimum ₹1 lakh balance for at least 3 months before application. Avoid sudden large deposits.

Mistake 8: Poor Quality Photos Photos not meeting specifications (wrong size, background, face coverage) lead to rejection.

Solution: Get professional passport photos from authorized studios. Carry extra copies.

Mistake 9: Fake or Unconfirmed Bookings Submitting fake hotel bookings or dummy tickets can result in visa rejection and future bans.

Solution: Use genuine, confirmed bookings. Many hotels offer free cancellation. For flights, use "hold booking" services.

Mistake 10: Not Attending Biometric Appointment Missing scheduled appointment without rescheduling forfeits appointment fee.

Solution: Mark appointment date clearly. Arrive 15 minutes early. If unable to attend, reschedule online.

Mistake 11: Inadequate Travel Insurance Buying insurance with less than €30,000 coverage or not covering entire stay period.

Solution: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage for exact travel dates.

Mistake 12: Applying for Wrong Visa Type Applying for tourist visa when purpose is business, or vice versa.

Solution: Choose visa type matching your actual travel purpose. Provide supporting documents accordingly.

General Mistakes

Mistake 13: Using Unauthorised Agents Many fraudulent agents charge exorbitant fees and provide fake visas.

Solution: Apply directly through official channels: www.evisa.gov.tr for e-Visa, Gateway International for sticker visa.

Mistake 14: Not Checking Passport Validity Passport expiring within 6 months of travel leads to visa rejection and flight boarding denial.

Solution: Renew passport if validity is less than 6 months from travel date.

Mistake 15: Overstaying Previous Visa Previous overstay in Turkey or the Schengen countries can lead to automatic rejection.

Solution: Maintain clean travel history. If you overstayed previously, wait for the ban period to end before reapplying.

For E-Visa Applicants

1. Verify Eligibility First: Don't waste money applying if you don't have qualifying Schengen/US/UK/Ireland visa
2. Use Official Portal Only: www.evisa.gov.tr - avoid third-party websites charging extra fees
3. Double-Check Information: One typo can lead to rejection and wasted fees
4. Apply During Business Hours: If issues arise, you can contact support immediately
5. Save Confirmation Email: Keep e-Visa email in multiple places (email, phone, cloud storage)
6. Print Multiple Copies: Carry 2-3 printed copies of e-Visa
7. Carry Supporting Documents: Even though e-Visa is electronic, carry supporting visa and other documents

For Sticker Visa Applicants

1. Start Early: Begin document preparation 4-6 weeks before travel
2. Maintain Bank Balance: Keep minimum ₹1 lakh for at least 3 months before application
3. Get Professional Photos: Don't compromise on photo quality
4. Organize Documents: Use checklist and arrange documents in order
5. Be Honest: Provide genuine information and documents
6. Attend Appointment Personally: Don't send representatives
7. Dress Professionally: First impression matters at visa center
8. Be Polite: Cooperate with visa officers and staff
9. Keep Copies: Make photocopies of all submitted documents for your records
10. Track Application: Regularly check status online

General Travel Tips

1. Book Refundable Hotels: In case visa is delayed or rejected
2. Buy Comprehensive Insurance: Don't just meet minimum requirement; get good coverage
3. Learn Basic Turkish: Helps at immigration and during travel
4. Keep Emergency Contacts: Turkish embassy in India, Indian embassy in Turkey
5. Register with Indian Embassy: Register at Indian embassy in Turkey after arrival
6. Respect Visa Conditions: Don't overstay or work on tourist visa
7. Keep Documents Safe: Carry photocopies of passport and visa separately
8. Exchange Currency: Get some Turkish Lira before travel
9. Download Offline Maps: Google Maps works well in Turkey
10. Respect Local Customs: Turkey is a Muslim-majority country; dress and behave appropriately

Important Contact Information

Official Turkey Visa Resources

Turkey E-Visa Portal:

• Website: www.evisa.gov.tr
• Available: 24/7 online

Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs:

• Website: www.mfa.gov.tr
• Visa Information: www.mfa.gov.tr/visa-information-for-foreigners.en.mfa

Turkey Visa Application Centers in India (Gateway International)

Helpline:

• Phone: 022-67866029
• Email: helpline.india@gateway.com.tr
• Website: gatewayinternational.com.tr

Major Centers:

• New Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Kochi, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Gurgaon, Jalandhar

Turkish Diplomatic Missions in India

Embassy of Turkey in New Delhi:

• Address: 50-N, Nyaya Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi - 110021
• Phone: +91-11-2688-8532
• Email: embassy.newdelhi@mfa.gov.tr
• Website: newdelhi-emb.mfa.gov.tr

Consulate General of Turkey in Mumbai:

• Address: Jolly Maker Chambers II, 8th Floor, Nariman Point, Mumbai - 400021
• Phone: +91-22-2283-4302
• Email: consulate.mumbai@mfa.gov.tr
• Website: mumbai.cg.mfa.gov.tr

Consulate General of Turkey in Hyderabad:

• Address: Plot No. 5-9-22/B/1, Saifabad, Hyderabad - 500004
• Phone: +91-40-2323-2040
• Email: consulate.hyderabad@mfa.gov.tr

Indian Diplomatic Missions in Turkey

Embassy of India in Ankara:

• Address: Cinnah Caddesi No: 77/A, Çankaya, Ankara, Turkey
• Phone: +90-312-438-2195
• Email: cons.ankara@mea.gov.in
• Website: www.indembassyankara.gov.in
• Emergency: +90-533-973-9503

Consulate General of India in Istanbul:

• Address: Şair Nedim Caddesi No: 10, Beşiktaş, Istanbul, Turkey
• Phone: +90-212-243-5131
• Email: cons.istanbul@mea.gov.in
• Website: www.cgiistanbul.gov.in
• Emergency: +90-532-263-9502

Travel Insurance Providers

Recommended Companies:

1. ICICI Lombard: www.icicilombard.com | 1800-2666
2. HDFC Ergo: www.hdfcergo.com | 1800-2575
3. Bajaj Allianz: www.bajajallianz.com | 1800-209-5858
4. Digit Insurance: www.godigit.com | 1800-258-4242
5. Care Health: www.careinsurance.com | 1800-102-4488

Emergency Numbers in Turkey

• Police: 155
• Ambulance: 112
• Fire: 110
• Tourist Police: 153
• Indian Embassy Emergency: +90-533-973-9503 (Ankara), +90-532-263-9502 (Istanbul)

Obtaining a Turkey visa as an Indian citizen in 2025-2026 is straightforward if you follow the correct process and meet all requirements. The e-Visa option offers quick processing for those with qualifying Schengen/US/UK/Ireland visas, while the sticker visa route is available for all other travelers through authorized visa application centers.

Key Takeaways:

✅ No Visa-on-Arrival: Indians must obtain visa before travel
✅ Two Options: E-Visa (conditional) or Sticker Visa (for all)
✅ E-Visa Requirement: Valid Schengen/US/UK/Ireland visa or residence permit
✅ Processing Time: E-Visa (instant to 3 days), Sticker Visa (5-15 days)
✅ Costs: E-Visa (₹3,650-₹4,670), Sticker Visa (₹12,290-₹16,290)
✅ Mandatory Insurance: Minimum €30,000 coverage required
✅ Stay Duration: 30 days (e-Visa), up to 90 days (sticker visa)
✅ Non-Refundable: All fees are non-refundable regardless of outcome

Final Recommendations:

1. Start Early: Begin visa process 3-4 weeks before travel
2. Check Eligibility: Verify if you qualify for e-Visa before applying
3. Use Official Channels: Apply through www.evisa.gov.tr or Gateway International only
4. Prepare Documents: Follow checklist carefully and provide genuine documents
5. Maintain Financial Proof: Keep minimum ₹1 lakh bank balance
6. Buy Insurance: Get comprehensive travel insurance with adequate coverage
7. Be Honest: Provide accurate information in application
8. Keep Copies: Maintain photocopies of all documents
9. Track Application: Monitor status regularly
10. Respect Visa Terms: Don't overstay or violate visa conditions

Turkey is a beautiful destination with rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. With proper visa preparation and documentation, your journey to Turkey will be smooth and memorable. Safe travels!

Disclaimer: Visa regulations can change without notice. Always verify current requirements through official Turkish government sources before applying. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Last Updated: December 2025

Content Accuracy: This comprehensive guide has been compiled based on extensive research of official government sources, verified travel information, and real experiences of Indian travelers who have successfully obtained Turkey visas.

Expert Contributors: BTW Visas experts team with 15+ years of industry experience, with a 99% visa success rate, and have processed more than 4 lakh+ Visas.