Manuel Garrido Turkey is a beautiful, culturally rich, and popular destination for American tourists. Whether you’re interested in exploring the ancient ruins of Ephesus or soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of Istanbul, there is something for everyone in Turkey.
However, before you pack your bags and head to one of the most popular tourist locations, it’s essential to understand the type of Turkish visa for US citizens you require.
In this guide on the Turkish visa for US citizens 2025 you will learn about:
Do US Citizens Need a Visa for Turkey?
US citizens with an ordinary passport are not required to obtain a visa for travel purposes if their stay is for less than 90 days with in a 180-day period. While most nationalities require an e-visa, US citizens are exempt. However, official passport holders (service, diplomatic, official passports) are required to obtain a Turkish visa to enter the country.
For work or study purposes, US citizens are required to obtain a sticker visa. This permits a long stay in Turkey for US citizens.
Turkish Sticker Visa for US Citizens
The sticker visa is a traditional visa affixed to your passport and is typically used for extended stays. If US citizens plan to stay in Turkey for more than 90 days within 180 days, they must obtain a sticker visa, along with a residence permit.
Types of sticker visas in Turkey
Student visa: This is a type of sticker visa specifically for students coming to Turkey to study. If you’re enrolling in a Turkish university, you must apply for a student visa before entering Turkey.- Work visa: The Turkish work permit and visa is specifically for those who are planning to live and work in Turkey with valid employment in the country.
Student visa: This is a type of sticker visa specifically for students coming to Turkey to study. If you’re enrolling in a Turkish university, you must apply for a student visa before entering Turkey.There are other Turkish visas available for categories such as tour operators, medical treatment, family unification, and documentary purposes. However, if you intend to film a documentary, conduct research, or carry out an archaeological excavation, you must obtain special permission from the Turkish authorities.
For Americans looking to obtain a second citizenship or who are interested in moving to Turkey, the Turkey citizenship by investment program is a fantastic option. Here, US citizens can invest $400,000 into Turkish real estate or $500,000 into one of the other investment options like a bank deposit or fixed capital investment in exchange for Turkish citizenship.
How to apply for a Turkish sticker visa?
To apply for a sticker visa, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Gather all required documents.
- Step 2: Fill out the application form for the stick visa online.
- Step 3: Schedule an appointment at the Turkish Consulate nearest to you.
- Step 4: Attend your appointment and submit your valid visa application and supporting documents at least one month before travel.
- Step 5: Pay the visa application fee
Requirements for the Turkish sticker visa
The requirements for a Turkish sticker visa will vary based on the visa type, but generally they include:
- A valid US passport with at least six months of validity remaining
- A completed visa application form
- Passport-style photographs
- Proof of your travel itinerary or the purpose of your visit.
It is important to note that the visa application process can take several weeks, so it is advisable to apply for your visa well before your planned travel dates.
Read our Turkey Citizenship by Investment Guide
Turkish Visa Requirements for US Citizens
Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Turkey. There must be enough space for the entry stamp when you arrive and an exit stamp when you leave.- Completed application form: You can start with the Turkey Visa Pre-Application System online and then complete the sticker visa application form in person at your nearest Turkish Embassy or Turkish Consulate.
- Passport-style photograph
- Proof of travel arrangements: Proof of your travel arrangements, such as flight tickets or a travel itinerary.
- Proof of accommodation: Proof of accommodation for the duration of your stay in Turkey, such as student accommodations or hotel booking.
- Proof of financial means: Have sufficient financial means to cover your stay in Turkey, such as bank statements or proof of employment.
- Letter of invitation: If you are traveling to Turkey for business purposes, you may need to provide a letter of invitation from your host company in Turkey.
- Pay the visa fee
Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Turkey. There must be enough space for the entry stamp when you arrive and an exit stamp when you leave.How to Apply for a Turkish Visa as a US Citizen: Step-By-Step Guide
- Determine the type of visa you need: The first step is to determine the type of visa you need to enter Turkey. This will depend on the purpose of your visit, such as tourism, business, or education. You can find detailed information on the Turkish government’s official visa website.
- Prepare your documents: Once you have determined the type of visa you need, you will need to gather the necessary documents.
- Visit the nearest Turkish consulate: You can’t apply for a Turkish sticker visa online, you will need to physically visit your nearest Turkish consulate or the Embassy if you are in Turkey.
- Wait for processing: After submitting your visa application, you must wait for it to be processed.
- Receive your visa: Once it has been processed, you will receive your visa.
- Entry to Turkey: Upon arrival in Turkey, you may be asked to present your visa and passport.
If you’re considering the citizenship by investment pathway, speaking with a Turkey citizenship by investment lawyer is highly recommended.
Turkish Visa for US Citizens Cost
The Turkey visa for US citizens fee varies depending on the type of visa and the processing time. Here are the costs for a Turkish sticker visa in 2025:
Item | Cost |
Single-entry stick visa | $64 |
Double entry stick visa | $129 |
Multiple-entry sticker visa | $212 |
It is important to note that these costs are subject to change, and it is always a good idea to check the Turkish government’s official visa website for the most up-to-date information on visa fees.
Turkish Visa for US Citizens Processing Time
The processing time for a sticker visa for US citizens may take 2-4 weeks, depending on the consulate or embassy processing the application. It is important to apply well in advance to avoid any potential delays.
Tips for a Successful Turkish Visa Application
- Start the application process early to avoid any delays
- Gather all required documents
- Check and double-check all your information before applying
- Pay attention to any specific instructions or requirements
- Follow up on your application to ensure it is being processed on time
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Turkish Visa
- Failing to check visa requirements
- Ignoring passport expiration rules
- Leaving out required documents
- Forgetting to pay the application fee
- Not saving copies of your submission
- Applying too close to your travel date
Turkey Citizenship by Investment for US Citizens
Americans planning to move to Turkey long term or looking into a second citizenship, the Turkey citizenship by investment program may be the ideal option. Launched in 2017, the program allows for foreign nationals to invest in the country in exchange for citizenship, offering a pathway to get a Turkish passport.
Here are the investment options:
- Real estate: $400,000
- Bank deposit: $500,000
- Government bonds: $500,000
- Fixed capital investment: $500,000
- Investment fund shares: $500,000
- Job creation: Create at least 50 jobs
Making the choice to invest in Turkey is one of the top ways to obtain citizenship in this stunning culturally rich country. In fact, buying property in Turkey offers a world of opportunity for investors to get into the property market in one of the leading tourist destinations in the world.
How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?
Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments.
We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application.
Frequently Asked Questions about Turkish Visa for US Citizens
Do US citizens need a visa to enter Turkey?
US citizens can visit Turkey for tourism or business without a visa, as long as their stay does not exceed 90 days within a 180-day period. For visits longer than 90 days, a sticker visa is required.
How does a US citizen get a visa for Turkey?
A US citizen can obtain a visa for Turkey by applying in person at a Turkish Consulate. The Turkey visa application process can take several weeks to complete, so planning and applying before your travel dates is essential.
How much is a turkey visa for US citizens?
The cost of Turkish visa for US citizens is $64 for a single entry, $129 for double entry, and $212 for multiple entry.
Is there a Turkey visa on arrival for US citizens?
No, there is no on-arrival visa requirement for US citizens. Ordinary passport holders can travel to Turkey from the US visa-free for 90 days out of a 180 day period.
How long does it take to get a Turkish visa for US citizens?
The processing time for US citizens to obtain a Turkish sticker visa is about one month, but it depends on the application. Ensure everything is complete and all your documents are available to ensure a smooth application process.
Can US citizens extend their stay in Turkey with a tourist visa?
No, while ordinary passport holders do not require an electronic visa to enter Turkey, there is no way to extend the 90 day stay. The sticker visa for Turkey may be eligible for extension but you will need to speak with the Turkish consulate about your specific case.
What are the Turkish visa requirements for US citizens?
- No visa requirements for stays less than 90 days
- Passport must be valid for 6 months
- Enough space in passport for the entry and exit stamps
What are the Turkey evisa requirements?
To apply for a Turkey e-visa, you must be a citizen of an eligible country, hold a valid passport, and meet the criteria set by the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. These include submitting personal and travel details, and in some cases, having a valid visa or residence permit.
How long can I stay in Turkey as a US citizen?
US citizens can stay in Turkey without a visa for a maximum of 90 days within a 180 period. Longer stays are permitted with a sticker visa.
What are the Turkish visa options available for US citizens?
- Student visa
- Business visa
- Official visa
- Family reunification
- Seafarer visa
- Documentary purpose
- Freight visa
- Accompaniment purpose
- Medical treatment purposes
- Tour operator representative
- Archaeological excavation, exploration purpose
Can US citizens drive in Turkey?
US citizens staying for less than 180 days can use their US drivers license. Stays longer that this will require a Turkish drivers license.
