Turkey boasts a gorgeous landscape, bustling cities, fascinating ruins, spectacular natural marvels, delectable cuisine, pristine beaches, and imposing mosques. Straddling Europa and Asia, it is one of the few countries that offers a rich cultural heritage along with many contemporary attractions. No wonder the footfalls in this marvelous country have increased a lot in the last few years.
In recent years, the number of US citizens traveling to Turkey for tourism and business has increased multiple folds. Hence, the government of Turkey has introduced an electronic visa (e-visa) that allows US citizens to apply for an online visa before traveling to the country. This eliminates the need to visit the Consulate or Embassy in person to apply for a visa. Here is a detailed guide on how US citizens can apply for a Turkey visa online.
What is a Turkey e-Visa?
Turkey e-Visa was introduced in 2013, which is an online application to get a permit to enter the country. You can apply for a single or multiple-entry visa that allows stays of 30 or 90 days, subject to your nationality. You can apply for different types of Turkey e-visa: transit, tourism, or business.
Do Americans need a Visa to Travel to Turkey?
Yes, American citizens need a Turkey e-Visa to travel to the country for tourism or business. Anyone with this visa can stay in Turkey for a maximum of 90 days. It is valid for 180 days from the date of issue.
Documents Required for a Turkey e-Visa from the USA
The following documents are required to apply for an e-visa for Turkey from the USA.
· A scanned copy of your passport containing at least two blank pages. Your passport must have a minimum validity of 180 days from the date of your arrival in Turkey.
· A valid email address to receive the visa once it is approved and to get any other updates.
· An active debit or credit card to pay the Turkey visa fee.
Note: As of now, no other supporting documents are necessary for American citizens while applying for a Turkey e-visa. However, these rules keep changing , so it is advisable to check the latest rules before beginning the e-visa process.
Steps to Apply for a Turkey e-Visa from the USA
Applying for a Turkey e-visa is a very seamless process for US citizens. You can complete the full process within 10 minutes with just a few clicks.
· Fill out the Turkey visa form online with your details, including full name, date, place of birth, contact details, gender, residential address, passport number, date of issue, date of expiry, and estimated date of arrival in Turkey. You also need to answer a few eligibility questions and check all the information thoroughly. (Passport scan and any other documents must be clear)
· Pay the Turkey visa fees using a valid debit or credit card.
· Once submitted, you will receive updates on your email address about your visa processing.
· After your e-visa is approved, you will receive the Turkish e-visa at the email address provided on the application form.
Note: If, for some reason, your e-visa application cannot be processed, you can visit the nearest Turkish Embassy or Consulate. It is highly advisable to carry a printed copy of the e-visa to show to border officials.
FAQs
What is the duration to process a Turkey e-visa?
A Turkey e-visa processing takes between 3 to 15 days. In case you want it urgently, there is an option to get it within 24-48 hours too. However i is always better to apply for an e-visa well in advance, and most US citizens receive it within a few days.
What is the cost of a Turkey e-visa from the USA?
The Turkey e-visa costs approximately between 50 - 100 USD. It usually depends on the type of visa and processing time.
How long can American citizens stay in Turkey?
You can stay in Turkey for a maximum of 90 days with an e-visa, within a valid duration of 180 days from the date of issuance.
US citizens are also eligible for multiple-entry visas. You can use the visa and enter the country more than once for travel if it is valid.
However, if you wish to stay in Turkey for more than 90 days, you need to apply for an offline visa through a Turkish Embassy or Consulate in the United States.
Can I use the Turkey visa from the USA only for tourism?
You can use the e-visa for tourism and short business trips.
When can I apply for a Turkey e-visa from the USA?
You can apply for an e-visa any time before your travel date. However, it is always better to submit an e-visa application at least 48 hours before your departure to Turkey.
Can I work in Turkey with an e-visa?
No, you cannot work in Turkey with an e-visa. An e-visa is issued only for American travelers to visit Turkey for tourism or short business trips. If you wish to work in Turkey, you must contact the local embassy or consulate and check the process for work permits and residence visas.
Conclusion
Turkey has so much beauty, history, and culture to explore that everyone must visit it at least once in their lifetime. So, apply for a Turkey electronic visa from the USA and enjoy an unforgettable holiday here.
