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 the airport, it’s essential to understand the visa requirements for going to Turkey from the USA.
In this guide 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, work, or study purposes. If you plan to stay in Turkey for more than 90 days within 180 days, or if you plan to work or study in Turkey, you must obtain a sticker visa, along with a residence permit.
How to apply for a Turkish sticker visa?
To apply for a sticker visa, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Gather all required documents. The documents required for a sticker visa vary depending on the purpose of your visit, so be sure to check the Turkish Consulate website for specific requirements.
- Step 2: Schedule an appointment at the Turkish Consulate nearest to you.
- Step 3: Attend your appointment and submit your visa application and supporting documents.
- Step 4: Pay the visa fee, which varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for.
- Step 5: Visit the nearest local police department to register for your stay.
Requirements and fees for the Turkish sticker visa
The requirements and fees for a Turkish sticker visa differ depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Generally, you will need:
- 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.
Turkish E-Visa
The Turkey e-visa is an electronic visa that can be obtained online before you travel to Turkey. The Turkish e-visa is available for stays of up to 90 days and is typically used for tourism or business purposes.
How to apply for a Turkey e-visa?
To apply for a Turkey e-visa, foreign nationals must follow these steps:
- Step 1: Visit the official Turkey e-visa website at www.evisa.gov.tr.
- Step 2: Fill out the online application form, providing all required information, and upload a passport-style photograph.
- Step 3: Pay the Turkey e-visa fee.
- Step 4: Once your application is approved, download and print your Turkey e-visa to present to immigration officials upon arrival in Turkey.
US passport holders are exempt from the e-visa and are free to travel to Tukey for 90 days within a 180 day period.
Requirements and fees for a Turkey e-visa
To apply for a Turkey e-visa, you will need:
- A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining
- A credit or debit card to pay the Turkey visa fee
- Passport photos.
Turkey E-visa tourist and business rush (multiple) visa
The Turkey e-visa tourist and business rush (multiple) is an electronic visa that allows multiple entries into Turkey for up to 90 days per visit. This type of Turkey visa is ideal for those who travel to Turkey frequently for business or pleasure.
How to apply for an e-visa tourist and business rush (multiple) visa
To apply for an e-visa tourist and business rush (multiple) Turkey visa, follow the steps outlined in the previous section on applying for an e-visa. The only difference is that you must select the “rush processing” option when completing the online application form.
Requirements and fees
The conditions and fees for an e-visa tourist and business rush (multiple) are the same as those for the standard Turkey e-visa. However, the rush processing option comes with an additional Turkey visa fee.
E-visa tourist and business standard (multiple)
The e-visa tourist and business standard (multiple) is another type of electronic visa that allows multiple entries into Turkey for up to 90 days per visit. This type of Turkey visa is ideal for those who travel to Turkey occasionally for business or pleasure.
How to apply for an e-visa tourist and business standard (multiple) visa
To apply for an e-visa tourist and business standard (multiple) visa, follow the steps outlined in the previous section on applying for an e-visa. You must select the “standard processing” option during the online application process.
Requirements and fees
The requirements and costs to obtain a tourist and business standard (multiple) e-visa are the same as those for the rush processing option, except there is no additional fee for standard processing.
It is important to note that the Turkey e-visa tourist and business rush and standard (multiple) options are only available to for tourism or business purposes. If you plan to work or study in Turkey, you must obtain a sticker visa.
Turkey Citizenship by Investment
If you’re planning to move to Turkey long term, the Turkey citizenship by investment program may be the ideal option. Launched in 2017, the Turkish citizenship by investment 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: Minimum investment of $400,000 in Turkish property.
- Bank deposit: Deposit at least $500,000 into a Turkish bank account.
- Government bonds: Invest a minimum of $500,000 into Turkish government bonds.
- Fixed capital investment: Invest $500,000 in a Turkish business.
- Investment fund shares: Invest at least $500,000 into a venture capital fund or real estate investment.
- Job creation: Start a company that provides 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.
Read our Turkey Citizenship by Investment Guide
Step-By-Step Guide on How to Apply for a Turkish Visa as a US Citizen
- 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. This may include a valid passport, a passport-style photograph, and supporting documents such as a letter of invitation or proof of accommodation.
- Apply online: Foreign nationals can apply for an e-visa through the Turkish government’s official website. You must complete the online application form, upload your documents, and pay the visa fee. Be sure to double-check all information before submitting your application.
- Wait for processing: After submitting your visa application, you must wait for it to be processed. Processing times can vary depending on the type of visa and the volume of applications, so be sure to plan and apply well before your travel dates.
- Receive your visa: Once it has been processed, you will receive your visa via email if you applied for an e-visa or by mail if you applied for a sticker visa. Be sure to print out your visa and bring it to Turkey.
- Entry to Turkey: Upon arrival in Turkey, you may be asked to present your visa and passport. Be sure to keep your visa and passport safe during your trip.
It is important to note that these steps are general guidelines, and the exact process may vary depending on the type of visa and your circumstances. It is always a good idea to check the Turkish government’s official visa website for the most up-to-date information and instructions.
Application Requirements for Obtaining a Turkish Visa for USA Citizens
- Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Turkey.
- Completed application form: You must complete the sticker visa application form in person at your nearest Turkish Embassy or Turkish Consulate.
- Passport-style photograph: You will need to provide a recent passport-style photograph with a white background.
- Proof of travel arrangements: You must provide proof of your travel arrangements, such as flight tickets or a travel itinerary.
- Proof of accommodation: You will need to provide proof of accommodation for the duration of your stay in Turkey, such as student accommodations or hotel booking.
- Proof of financial means: You must provide 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.
- Credit or debit card for visa fee: You will need to pay the visa fee, which varies depending on the type of visa and processing time.
Turkey Visa Cost for Americans
The cost of a Turkey visa for American citizens varies depending on the type of visa and the processing time. Here are the costs for a Turkish sticker visa in 2024:
- Single-entry stick visa: $64
- Double entry stick visa: $129
- Multiple-entry sticker visa: $21
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.
Time Frame for Getting a Turkish Visa
The processing time to obtain a Turkish e-visa for US citizens with official passports is usually very fast, with most applications being processed within minutes. However, applying at least 48 hours before your departure is recommended to allow for any potential delays or issues.
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.
The processing time is typically very fast for the tourist and business rush (multiple) e-visa and the tourist and business standard (multiple) visa. Most applications are processed within minutes. However, as with any visa application, it is recommended that you apply as early as possible to allow for any potential delays or issues that may arise during the application process.
Turkish Visa Application Process Tips
- Start the application process early to avoid any last-minute issues
- Ensure you have all the required documents and information before applying
- Check and double-check all information before applying
- Pay attention to any specific instructions or requirements the Turkish Embassy or Turkish Consulate outlines
- Use a reliable and secure payment method to pay any fees associated with the application
- 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 provide all required information and documentation.
- Providing incorrect or incomplete information on the application.
- Failing to pay the correct visa fees or using an unreliable payment method.
- Not allowing enough time for the application to be processed.
- Failing to ensure the passport has enough space for the entry and exit stamps and at least six months validity.
- Failing to follow any specific instructions or requirements outlined by the Turkish Embassy or Consulate.
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 with an ordinary passport do not require an electronic visa for Turkey if their stay is for less than 90 days within a 180 day period. Official passport holders will require a visa. Additionally, for those wanting to stay in Turkey for work or study purposes will need a sticker visa to enter Turkey.
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.
What is the cost of a Turkish visa for US citizens?
The Turkey visa cost for US citizens depends on the type of visa being applied for. As of 2024, the sticker visa for Turkey costs $64 for all nationals.
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.
Do US citizens need a visa for Turkey?
Ordinary passport holders from the US do not require a visa for entering Turkey for travel or trade. However, if they plan to stay for longer than 90 days for study or work, a sticker visa is required.
How long does it take for a US citizen to get a Turkish visa?
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?
To visit Turkey, US citizens are required to have at least 6 months validity on their passport and enough space for the entry and exit stamps.
What are the Turkey e visa requirements?
A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival in Turkey. Evidence of accommodation, such as hotel bookings or your host’s address in Turkey. A return ticket or proof of onward travel from Turkey.
How long can I stay in Turkey as a US citizen?
The duration of stay allowed by a visa or visa exemption cannot exceed 90 days within any 180-day period. This 90-day limit within the last 180 days applies to all foreign travelers visiting Turkey.
