What was once home to one of the biggest empires in the world - the mighty Ottoman Empire, Turkey stands out on its own. With magnificent cities like Constantinople, Istanbul, Anatolia and so on, it is one of the world’s most visited destinations. The easy Turkey visa policies have made it easier for individuals to visit the country.
The Turkish visa is an endorsement that lets individuals enter the country to take part in a wide range of activities. These can be tourism, trade, work, studies, and so on. Thanks to Turkey’s international relations, a large number of nationals actually do not need a visa to enter. A few other nationals can, in fact, get a Turkey visa on arrival. However, citizens of certain countries including India will need to apply for a visa beforehand. As a result, the Turkey visa for Indians is a necessity. Although, as an Indian, if you hold a valid Schengen, US, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit, you are also eligible for a Turkey e visa (tourism, visiting family, & trade only).
Note:- The e-visa type of the Turkey visa for Indian citizens will not be valid if your UK, US, Ireland permit is also an e-visa.
The application for the Turkish permit from India can be done in multiple ways. The following section will explain the different types in which you can apply. However, before starting any application, you must check that you are eligible to apply for a particular category. You may then proceed as follows -
At Embassy
Note:- Jurisdiction will be explained further in the guide.
At Visa Application Centres
E visa (tourist and business permits only)
Based on the purpose of the visit, Turkish permits can be classified into the following major types. Based on the more finer purpose of visit, there are additional types as well. -
Student/research - These are issued for students who have to visit Turkey to take academic courses or to perform research.
As per the Turkey visa application requirements, the following are the general list of documents you must possess for an application. However, based on the exact type of visa, you will need additional documents. Something to note is that the documentation requirements may vary based on the mission you are applying to.
As per the requirements, the specifications of the photo for applications made from India are as follows -
The processing time for the Turkish sticker visa is normally around 12 working days. However, this can vary significantly based on multiple factors. It can depend on the volume of applications at the embassy/consulate, the number of entries, the type of the permit, your previous travel history, and so on. You are advised to apply well in advance in order to avoid any complications.
The time for the e-visa is usually much shorter. Normally it can be processed in as fast just 48 hours. However, again, to leave a buffer for any delays, it is suggested that you apply at least 2 days in advance.
The fees for the Turkish entry permit depends on a number of factors. It can vary upon the exact type of the visa, number of entries, the foreign exchange rates, and so on. You may also have to pay additional service charges and delivery charges (if applicable). As a result, ensure that you check the exact amount before starting the application.
Entry | Purpose | Stay Duration | Validity | Fees |
---|---|---|---|---|
Single entry Normal | Tourist | 30 days | 6 months | 10013.0 |
Single entry Normal | Study | 30 days | 3 months | 8471.0 |
Single entry Normal | Business | 30 days | 3 months | 8471.0 |
Multiple entry Normal | Business | 30 days | 3 months | 18621.0 |
Single entry Normal | Business | 30 days | 6 months | 3000.0 |
Single entry Normal | Transit | 30 days | 3 months | 8471.0 |
Multiple entry Normal | Tourist | 30 days | 3 months | 18621.0 |
Single entry Normal | Tourist | 30 days | 3 months | 8471.0 |
There are multiple ways in which you can check the status depending upon your mode of application.
Embassy - If you have applied at the embassy/consulate, you can track your application status by clicking here and entering your reference number and passport number.
VAC - If you have applied at a VAC, you can check the status here. Alternately, you can call or email the VAC to know the status.
You can also contact the travel agency you have applied through, to check the status.
The Turkish visas are issued by the Turkish Embassy in New Delhi or the Turkish Consulates in Mumbai or Hyderabad. Even if you have submitted at the VAC, the processing is done by the respected mission only.
If you have applied for the e-visa, once approved, you will receive a link on your email. You can then download the e-permit using the link provided.
Note that the applications to the respective embassy/consulate/VAC must be done according to the jurisdiction:-
You can extend the Turkish permit only in certain limited cases. If you have a good reason to extend your permit, you will have to visit the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management or Police station in Turkey and apply for a ‘short term residence permit’. If you are unable to get it extended, you must leave the country on expiry. The e-visa is non-extendable.
As per the requirements, there is no medical test for most types of Turkish permit. However, in certain cases, you may be asked to provide medical test reports. In either case, you are required to have medical travel insurance valid for Turkey. It is also suggested that you get a medical check-up done before travelling to a foreign nation.
Normally, there is no rule on the exact amount of funds required for the application. As per the requirements, you must submit bank statements that show that you have sufficient funds to support your entire stay duration. However, if you are applying for the e-visa, you are expected to have at least 50 $ for every day of your stay.
Since it takes nearly 12 working days to process the sticker permit, you must apply for the permit at least 2 weeks in advance. However, as per the embassy recommendations, you are advised to apply within 90 days before the travel date. The e-visa application must be done at least 48 hours before your travel date.
The chances of rejection depend on you. It depends on how well you understand the procedure and the document requirements. Usually, applications made directly by the applicant are less successful than when they use professional help. As a result, to ensure that you have a high chance of approval, it is recommended that you apply through a travel agency.