When I travelled to Turkey, I applied for the sticker visa myself and found it to be a seamless experience from start to finish. That’s why I’ve put together this detailed guide, so you can navigate the process with ease and focus on enjoying your travels.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the Turkey sticker visa for Indians: eligibility criteria, essential documents, and step-by-step instructions to apply. I’ve also included tips on common reasons for rejection, so you can avoid unnecessary delays. Once your visa is sorted, Turkey’s treasures await, whether it’s soaking in the surreal terraces of Pamukkale, wandering through Istanbul’s lively bazaars, or uncovering hidden gems across Cappadocia and beyond.

Here’s your complete guide to making the Turkey sticker visa process stress-free, ensuring you can dive right into the charm and diversity of this enchanting country.

Do Indians need a Turkey Sticker Visa?

Yes, Indian passport holders are required to obtain a visa to enter Turkey.

While some Indians may be eligible for a Turkey e-visa under specific conditions (like having a valid US/UK/Ireland/Schengen visa), most travellers need to apply for the Turkey sticker visa through the consulate or an authorised visa application centre.

What are the Turkey Sticker Visa requirements for Indians? 

Applying for a Turkey Sticker Visa requires careful preparation of documents. Each paper you submit plays a role in showing your travel intent, financial stability, and credibility as a traveller. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the requirements:

1. Valid Passport

• Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of travel to Turkey.

• It should have at least two blank pages for visa stamping.

• If you have old passports, it’s advisable to carry them as well, especially if they show previous travel history.

2. Completed Visa Application Form

• The form must be filled out accurately and signed by the applicant.

• Ensure that the details in the form (such as your passport number, travel dates, and personal information) exactly match those on your supporting documents. Even small errors can cause delays.

3. Recent Passport-Size Photographs

• You’ll need two recent photographs (generally 2.5 x 2.5 inches or as per biometric standards).

• The photo should have a white background, with your face clearly visible and no shadows.

• Glasses, headgear, or accessories that obscure the face should be avoided (except for religious reasons).

4. Cover Letter

• A cover letter addressed to the Consulate General of Turkey explaining:

  • The purpose of your visit (tourism, business, etc.).

  • Your tentative travel plan (cities you plan to visit, dates, and activities).

  • Who is funding the trip (self or sponsor).

• This letter reflects your seriousness as a traveller and gives authorities a clear idea of your intent.

5. Flight Reservation

• A copy of your round-trip flight reservation is mandatory.

• Authorities require confirmed dates of entry and exit from Turkey.

• Note: You don’t always need to book fully paid tickets; reservations often suffice. 

6. Hotel Bookings or Accommodation Proof

• Proof of where you’ll be staying during your visit. This could include:

  • Hotel reservations (for the full duration).

  • An invitation letter from a host (if staying with family or friends).

• Make sure the bookings match your travel itinerary.

7. Travel Insurance

• You must have valid travel insurance covering the entire duration of your stay in Turkey.

• The insurance should include coverage for:

  • Medical emergencies.

  • Hospitalisation.

  • Repatriation (in case of unforeseen situations).

• This is not just a visa requirement but also a safety net for your trip.

8. Bank Statements

• Submit bank statements from the last 6 months, stamped and signed by the bank.

• The statements should clearly show:

  • Your name.

  • Sufficient balance to cover your expenses in Turkey.

• Some consulates require a minimum balance of INR 1.5–2 lakhs as proof of financial stability.

9. Income Tax Returns (ITR) or Proof of Employment/Business

• ITRs from the last 2–3 years are often required.

• If you are employed:

  • Provide your employment certificate or NOC (No Objection Certificate) from your company.

  • A recent salary slip may also be requested.

• If self-employed/business owner:

  • Submit business registration documents, GST certificate, or company bank statements.

How to apply for a Turkey Sticker Visa from India?

Once you have all the documents in place, you can start with the application process.

1. Fill Out the Application Form

• Download the Turkey visa application form or fill it out online through the official platform.

• Double-check that all details (name, passport number, and travel dates) match the information on your documents. Even small mistakes can delay approval.

• Print and sign the completed form.

2. Book an Appointment

• Turkey visa applications from India are generally processed through the visa application centre.

• Visit their website, select your city, and book an appointment to submit your application.

• Select a date that allows you sufficient buffer time before your travel, ideally 3–4 weeks in advance.

3. Prepare the Required Documents

Make sure you have all documents ready before your appointment. These include:

• Valid passport.

• Completed application form.

• Passport-size photographs (biometric).

• Cover letter.

• Flight reservations and hotel bookings.

• Travel insurance (covering your full stay).

• Bank statements (3–6 months).

• Income Tax Returns (ITR) or employment proof.

Note: Keep both originals and photocopies organised.

4. Submit Your Application

• On the day of your appointment, visit the visa application centre with your documents.

• You will also need to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photograph).

• Pay the visa fee at the centre (cash, card, or demand draft, depending on location).

• Once submitted, you’ll get a receipt with a tracking number.

5. Track Your Application

• Use the tracking ID to check the status of your visa online.

• Processing usually takes 10–15 working days, though it may be longer during peak seasons.

6. Collect Your Passport

• Once approved, you can collect your passport from the visa application centre or opt for courier delivery.

• The Turkey Sticker Visa will be stamped inside your passport, showing its validity, type, and permitted duration of stay.

What is the Turkey Sticker Visa fee for Indians?

As of 2025, the Turkey Sticker Visa fee for Indians depends on the type of visa and service charges by the application centre. 

The visa fee for a Türkiye single-entry visa with a validity of three months is INR 12,513.00. Out of this amount, INR 6,859 must be paid online at the time of booking your appointment.

The remaining balance of INR 10,864 can then be settled at the visa office through cash or POS payment options such as credit card, debit card, or UPI. For example, when applying for a three-month Türkiye visa, the total payable amount is INR 12,513, with the initial payment made online and the rest paid directly at the office.

Fees are non-refundable, even if your application is rejected. Always check the latest fee structure before applying, as it is subject to change.

How does the Turkey Sticker Visa look?

The Turkey Sticker Visa is stamped directly inside your passport. It usually contains:

• Visa type (Tourist, Business, etc.)

• Duration of stay allowed

• Number of entries (single or multiple)

• Visa validity dates

• Applicant details (name, passport number, etc.)

What is the processing time for a Turkey Sticker Visa?

Processing time generally takes 10 to 15 working days from the date of submission. However, it’s best to apply at least 3 - 4 weeks before your travel date to account for any delays or additional document requests.

What is the validity and length of stay for a Turkey Sticker Visa?

The Turkey Sticker Visa for Indians is typically valid for 90 days (3 months), with a maximum stay of up to 30 days in Turkey per visit. Some visas may allow single entry, while others offer multiple entry, depending on your application and the purpose of travel.

Getting the Turkey Sticker Visa for Indians might feel like a detailed process, but with the right preparation, it’s absolutely manageable.

When I travelled to Turkey, I applied for the sticker visa myself, and the experience was smooth and stress-free. Once it was stamped in my passport, I could focus entirely on the adventure, wandering through the bustling streets of Istanbul, soaking in the beauty of Cappadocia, and exploring Turkey’s incredible mix of history, culture, and landscapes.

For those who already hold a valid UK, US, or Schengen visa, getting a Turkey eVisa is extremely easy and can be done online within minutes. However, if you require a sticker visa, I hope this guide helps you navigate the process with ease. Once the formalities are taken care of, Turkey opens up as a truly enchanting country waiting to be explored.