Understanding the Transit Turkey Visa: Requirements and Process
The beautiful land of mosques and ruins, telling tales of the great ancient cities and civilizations, Turkey attracts millions of tourists annually with its rustic charm. From the tales of the Byzantine or the Biblical world or even the great Ottoman Empire, Turkey offers a peek into the most beautiful stories of Western classics.
For anyone wishing to visit Turkey even if you have a layover and plan to explore the city a little, your best option is to apply for a Turkey transit visa. Being a popular spot among millions of tourists and business enthusiasts, Turkey offers various visa and travel options. So, let’s explore all the aspects of Turkey’s transit visa.
What is a Transit Turkey Visa?
Turkey’s e-visa is a digital travel document that allows people to visit the country for over 90 days. It is advised by the Turkey Government that every international traveler must have a relevant visa while entering Turkey and apply for one at least three days before their trip to have a ready and approved visa before they board a flight to Turkey.
A transit Turkey visa is a visa for those on a connecting flight via Turkey who have a layover for a couple of hours. This visa will allow you to stop or even travel around some of the places near the airport while you wait for your next flight.
Who Needs a Transit Turkey Visa?
Every passenger who has to stay and wait in Turkey for their next flight and has a long layover is eligible for a transit visa. There are various things you can do with a transit Turkey visa; especially, the area around the airport is perfectly suitable for transit and transfer passengers who have long layovers in Turkey.
It does not even take an hour to travel between the main city center and the Istanbul Airport (IST). Thus, you can easily spend some time in Istanbul, which is Turkey's largest city. However, go for this only if you have ample time between flights. Regardless of how you choose to spend your time, as a foreigner, it is vital for you to apply for a transit visa in Turkey.
Eligibility Criteria for a Transit Turkey Visa
A transit Turkey visa eligibility criteria are exactly the same as for any other type of visa. If you wish to enter Turkey for tourism or anything else, will also need documents similar to a transit Turkey visa.
To stay or travel in Turkey for transit purposes, you will have to acquire any of these visas:
A Turkish Sticker Visa: This is a physical sticker that is affixed to your passport.
A Turkish e-Visa: This is not a physical sticker, but is linked to your passport number.
Having either of the two will ensure a smooth process.
Key Requirements for a Transit Turkey Visa
A transit Turkey visa needs the same documents as any other Turkish e-visa. It requires some basic proof of your identity, travel, and accommodations. For instance:
Essential Documents for Application
Documents necessary for a Turkish transit visa are:
- Your complete transit visa application form, proof of your occupational status, travel insurance, etc.
- A passport with a remaining validity of a minimum of six months beyond your stay.
- Two recent passport-size photos of yourself as per the Turkish standards.
- Proof of sufficient funds.
- Proof of travel medical insurance.
- The tickets to your next flight or proof of onward travel.
- A visa for the place you will be visiting.
- Your proof of accommodation in Turkey.
- A clearance certificate by the police. This is a document that shows you have a clear criminal history.
No matter how you choose to use your hours in Turkey, it is mandatory for you to have these documents as without them, you will not be allowed inside.
Additional Information for Specific Travelers
Before applying for a Turkey transit visa, it is vital to remember that in some cases, you can be asked to provide some extra documents apart from the ones already listed. This depends entirely upon the country you reside in and your nationality.
An interview will follow. This is a mandatory step for sticker visas that will help you in transit. You must go for the interview as scheduled. In this interview, you will have to meet a consular officer who will be asking you a couple of questions about your trip. However, you must have every necessary document as stated above.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Transit Turkey Visa
The online application process for a Turkey transit visa is very easy. Just follow the few simple steps given below.
Online Application Procedure
It is super easy to acquire a Transit visa for Turkey online. To apply for an e-visa for your transit, all you have to do is visit the site online and follow the simple steps. You will need to fill out your forms, submit the supporting documents and pay the processing fee. With these simple steps, you can easily acquire your transit visa from your comfort place, at a time that's convenient for you.
In the form, you will have to put certain essential biographical details including your name, birth date and place, and your contact details. You will also have to enter your passport number and the date it was issued along with the date it will expire.
Once you are done filling out your form, the most crucial step is to revise everything and double-check all your supporting documents before you make the final submission. This is very important as any discrepancy on your end in the application form can delay the whole process.
Application through Consulates or Embassies
In case you wish to apply for a Turkey transit visa via an Embassy or a consulate, it is a very different process. You must remember a few things. While the Embassy may be suitable for someone applying for a visa for the first time as you can get first-hand guidance, it is a lengthy process. This process not only involves unnecessary investments including your travel cost and time to go back and forth to the Embassy but also takes more time to arrive.
Processing Time and Fees
The processing time for any sort of visa applied via the Embassy will take over 15 days or more. If you are applying for it during the peak seasons or holidays, your visa application may take even more time to process.
However, e-visas are processed quickly. If there are no mistakes on your part, you may even receive your Turkey transit visa within 24 hours of applying. But apply at least 72 hours before your trip is scheduled. Once your visas are approved, it will be sent via your email but you should still carry a printed copy of it.
Tips for a Hassle-Free Transit Turkey Visa Application
Apart from carrying all the documents and filling out your forms right, remember that speed and timing are key. This will help you have a smooth and hassle-free trip where you can enjoy yourself to the fullest.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Despite it being a simple process, people often tend to make certain common mistakes that delay the process unnecessarily. These include:
Late Application:
On-time application submission is very important. Do not leave applying till the eleventh hour. Check their processing time and if a holiday comes between it. Check all dates carefully and apply well within the deadline to avoid a last-minute scramble.
Incomplete documents:
Incomplete documents will for sure lead to a rejected visa. Thus, make sure you submit clear passport photos and have the right sign on your application form. Ensure your photos are recent. Include proof of your travels.
Mistakes in Form-Fillup:
While applying for the visa, ensure you have filled up your forms right. This includes adding the correct personal information, and correct passport numbers. Make sure you have not missed out on a valid field and have used the right format. Double-check all the details before submission.
White you prepare for Immigration at the airport, you must remember to carry a printed copy of all your documents. It is vital for you to follow all the procedures and double-check everything before taking the final step.
Take a Bite of the Turkish delight with eVisas!
Simplify your travel plans and apply for a transit Turkey visa right now. The smooth and easy process ensures your hassle-free trip. All you have to do is fill out the form, follow the above-mentioned steps, and pack your bags to travel back in time!