turkey tourist visa for indians

Turkey, a nation bridging two continents with a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty, has become an increasingly popular destination for Indian travelers. Whether for a leisurely holiday or a crucial business meeting, securing the appropriate Turkey tourist visa for Indians is a mandatory step. This detailed, pointwise article will outline the various types of visas available, the essential documentation required, the application process, associated fees, and specific considerations for business visitors, providing a comprehensive guide for prospective travelers.

1. Understanding the Types of Turkey Tourist Visa for Indians

For Indian citizens, the path to obtaining a Turkey tourist visa for Indians largely depends on their existing travel history and the convenience they seek. Turkey offers two primary visa options for short-term stays:

• e-Visa (Electronic Visa): This is the most convenient option, available for Indian citizens who meet specific criteria.

  • Eligibility: To qualify for an e-Visa, Indian passport holders must possess a valid (or currently active) visa or residence permit from one of the following countries:

    • Schengen Area countries

       

       

    • USA

    • UK

    • Ireland

  • Purpose: The e-Visa is strictly for tourism and short-term business purposes.

  • Validity & Stay: Typically issued for a single entry, allowing a stay of up to 30 days within a 180-day validity period.

     

     

  • Application: The entire application process is online and usually fast, often processed within 24-48 hours.

• Sticker Visa (Traditional Visa): For Indian citizens who do not meet the e-Visa eligibility criteria (i.e., do not hold a valid visa/residence permit from the specified countries), a traditional sticker visa obtained through a Turkish Embassy or Consulate in India is necessary.

   

   

  • Purpose: Covers tourism, business, transit, and other short-term purposes.

  • Application: Requires a more involved process, including physical document submission and possibly an interview at a visa application center.

  • Validity & Stay: Can be issued for single or multiple entries, with typical stays of up to 30 or 90 days within a 6-month validity period, depending on the consular decision.

Important Note: A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond the intended stay and at least two blank pages is mandatory for both e-Visa and Sticker Visa applications.

2. Essential Documents for Turkey Tourist Visa for Indians (Common Requirements)

Whether applying for an e-Visa or a Sticker Visa, certain core documents are universally required for a Turkey tourist visa for Indians:

• Valid Indian Passport: As mentioned, with at least 6 months validity from the date of entry and a minimum of two blank pages. All previous passports, especially those with past travel history, should also be presented.

   

   

• Photographs: Two recent biometric passport-sized photographs (typically 2.5 x 2.5 inches or 5x5 cm) with a white background, showing 80% face coverage.

• Confirmed Flight Tickets: Round-trip flight itinerary showing entry and exit from Turkey.

   

   

• Proof of Accommodation: Confirmed hotel reservations for the entire duration of stay in Turkey. If staying with a host, a formal invitation letter from the host (including their contact details, address, and Turkish ID copy) and proof of their residency in Turkey are required.

   
   

   

• Financial Solvency Proof: To demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your expenses in Turkey. This usually includes:

   

   

  • Original bank statements for the last 3-6 months, stamped and signed by the bank, showing a minimum balance of at least ₹1,00,000 per person.

  • Last 3 months' salary slips (if employed).

     

     

  • Income Tax Return (ITR) acknowledgments for the last 2-3 years.

  • If sponsored, a notarized sponsorship letter from the sponsor, their financial documents, and proof of relationship.

• Cover Letter: A signed cover letter from the applicant detailing the purpose of the visit, precise travel dates, a day-by-day itinerary, and an assurance of returning to India.

   

   

• Travel Medical Insurance: A mandatory requirement for the Sticker Visa, it is highly recommended for e-Visa as well. The policy should provide medical coverage of at least EUR 30,000 (approximately USD 50,000 or INR 41,00,000) and cover emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and repatriation.

   

   

3. Application Process and Fees for Turkey Tourist Visa for Indians

The application process and associated fees for a Turkey tourist visa for Indians differ based on the chosen visa type:

A. e-Visa Application Process (for Eligible Indians):

1. Visit the Official e-Visa Portal: Access the electronic visa application system.

2. Fill Application Form: Complete the online application form with accurate personal, passport, and travel details.

    

    

3. Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your passport's bio page and the valid Schengen/USA/UK/Ireland visa/residence permit.

4. Pay Fee:

   • The e-Visa fee for Indian citizens typically ranges from $15 USD to $40 USD. This is payable online via credit/debit card.

   • The exact fee can vary, so always check the official e-Visa portal at the time of application.

5. Receive e-Visa: The e-Visa is usually processed and sent to your registered email within 24-48 hours. Print a copy to carry with you.

B. Sticker Visa Application Process (for Non-Eligible Indians):

1. Online Application Form (Pre-fill): While the final submission is physical, you typically fill out an online visa application form on the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website and then print it.

2. Gather Documents: Compile all necessary documents as per the detailed checklist.

    

    

3. Book Appointment: Schedule an appointment at a designated Visa Application Center (VAC) in India.

4. Attend Appointment & Submit Biometrics: Visit the VAC on the scheduled date to submit your physical documents and provide your biometric data (fingerprints and photograph).

    

    

5. Pay Fees:

   • Visa Fee: The Sticker Visa fee for a single-entry tourist visa for Indians can range from approximately INR 5,210 to INR 6,820.

   • VAC Service Charge: An additional service fee of around INR 2,950 to INR 4,000 is typically charged by the VAC for their services (e.g., handling, biometrics, courier).

   • Total expected cost for a single-entry Sticker Visa can range from INR 8,160 to INR 10,820.

   • Fees are usually paid in Indian Rupees, often a portion online during appointment booking and the remaining balance in cash or via POS at the VAC.

      

      

6. Processing Time: Sticker Visa processing generally takes 10-15 working days after submission at the VAC. During peak season or for complex cases, it may take longer.

    

    

4. Special Considerations for Business Visa for Indians

For Indian citizens traveling to Turkey for business purposes, the visa requirements largely mirror those for tourists, with additional business-specific documentation. These are generally processed as short-term business visas.

• e-Visa for Business: If eligible (holding a valid Schengen/USA/UK/Ireland visa/residence permit), the e-Visa can be used for business purposes like attending meetings, conferences, or trade fairs. The required documents would include a business invitation letter.

   

   

• Sticker Business Visa: For those not eligible for e-Visa, a traditional Sticker Business Visa is required. The general documents (passport, photos, flights, accommodation, financials, travel insurance) apply, along with:

  • Invitation Letter from Turkish Company: An original, formal invitation letter from the inviting company or organization in Turkey. This letter is crucial and must contain:

    • Full details of the inviting company (name, address, contact person, registration number).

    • The precise purpose of the business visit (e.g., attending a specific conference, business meetings, negotiations).

    • The exact dates and duration of the visit.

    • Details of the applicant (full name, passport number, designation).

    • A clear statement on who will bear the travel and living expenses in Turkey (if the Turkish company is sponsoring).

    • Official seal/stamp of the company and signature of the authorized representative. For multiple-entry business visas, the invitation should mention a long-term business relationship.

  • Letter from Indian Employer: An original letter on company letterhead from your Indian employer. This should state:

    • Your designation, date of joining, and salary.

    • The purpose of your business trip to Turkey.

    • The exact travel dates and duration.

    • Confirmation that the company approves the trip and guarantees your return to India.

    • Who will bear the expenses for the trip.

  • Business Itinerary: A detailed schedule of your business activities in Turkey.

  • Company Registration Documents (Indian company): Copy of the Indian company's registration certificate (e.g., GST certificate, MOA, Partnership Deed).

     

     

The processing time for a Sticker Business Visa is similar to a Sticker Tourist Visa (10-15 working days), and the fees are comparable, often around INR 5,210 to INR 6,820 for the visa fee, plus VAC service charges. Multiple-entry business visas may have higher fees (e.g., up to INR 15,620 for a 12-month multiple-entry sticker visa).

5. Important Tips for a Smooth Turkey Tourist Visa for Indians Application

• Apply in Advance: It is highly recommended to apply for your Turkey visa at least 3-4 weeks before your planned travel date, especially for Sticker Visas, to account for any unforeseen delays or administrative processing.

   

   

• Accuracy is Key: Ensure all information provided in your application forms and supporting documents is consistent and accurate. Discrepancies can lead to delays or rejection.

   

   

• Strong Ties to India: For both tourist and business visas, demonstrating strong ties to India (stable employment, family responsibilities, property ownership) is crucial to convince the consular officer of your intent to return.

• Minimum Bank Balance: Ensure your bank statements consistently show the minimum required balance (₹1,00,000 per person) for at least the last three months.

• Keep Copies: Always keep photocopies of all submitted documents and your payment receipts for your records.

In conclusion, obtaining a Turkey tourist visa for Indians can be a straightforward process if the requirements are understood and diligently followed. Whether opting for the convenient e-Visa (if eligible) or the comprehensive Sticker Visa, meticulous preparation of documents and adherence to the application procedures are paramount. For business travelers, similar guidelines apply with the addition of specific corporate documentation. By following this detailed guide, Indian citizens can ensure a smoother visa application experience, paving the way for an enriching visit to Turkey.