Are you planning an unforgettable trip to Turkey, home to stunning coastlines, vibrant bazaars, ancient ruins, and world-class cuisine? Before you pack your bags, ensure your Turkey tourist visa application is in perfect order.

This blog will walk you through the step-by-step Turkey visa checklist, ensuring you have all the required documents and understand the process before submitting your application.

General Instructions for Visa Application

Before we break down the document checklist, keep in mind the following:

• Applications must be submitted in person, including for children and infants. Unless you are from a country that allows for an e-visa application.

• You must present original documents plus one copy of each.

• No documents will be returned to you, except your passport.

• Ensure all documents are accurate, complete, and up-to-date to avoid rejection.

Turkey Sticker Visa Checklist for Tourist Visa

1. Visa Application Form

• Completed and signed the visa application form.

• Must be typed or filled in clearly in capital letters.

• Parents/guardians must sign for minors.

2. Valid Travel Document (Passport)

• Be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of entry.

• Have at least 2 blank pages for visa stamps.

• Be issued within the last 10 years.

Also required:

Photocopies of all pages of your passport, including previous visas and blank pages.

3. Proof of Legal Residence (If applicable)

• For non-Turkish nationals: proof of residency in Turkey, valid for at least 3 months beyond the planned departure from Turkey. This is for a residence permit, work visa, or other similar purposes.

4. Passport Photo

• One recent passport-size photograph (taken within the last 6 months).

• Must meet ICAO standards (clear, in colour, on white background, no accessories).

• Size: 50 mm x 60 mm is typical for Turkish visa photos.

5. Proof of Travel Plans

Flight Reservation

• Round-trip flight booking or reservation. This does not need to be a paid ticket, just a verifiable itinerary.

Proof of Accommodation

• Hotel reservation or invitation letter from a host in Turkey. Must cover your entire stay.

Travel Itinerary

• A day-by-day plan of your trip (cities to visit, activities, etc.).

6. Proof of Financial Means

You must show you can financially support yourself during your stay.

Accepted documents:

• Bank statements for the last 3 months.

• Salary slips or proof of regular income.

• Pension certificate (if applicable).

• Credit card statements or foreign exchange slips.

• Minimum recommendation: $50 per day per person.

7. Employment/Occupation Documents

Depending on your profession, you must submit:

For Employees:

Employer’s leave approval letter, stating:

• Applicant’s job title, duration of employment, and salary.

• Approval for leave.

For Company Owners:

• Trade registry certificate

• Tax certificate

• Chamber of Commerce registration

• Activity certificate

For Students:

• Student certificate from your institution or YÖK (Higher Education Council) for university students.

For Retirees:

• Pension statement or retirement certificate.

For Farmers:

• Certificate from the Chamber of Agriculture.

8. For Minors (Under 18 Years)

If travelling alone or with one parent:

• Notarised parental consent from non-travelling parent(s).

• Or a court custody document proving legal guardianship.

• A birth certificate and proof of relationship may also be required.

9. Travel Health Insurance

You must have travel insurance that:

• It is valid in Turkey and covers the entire duration of your travel.

• Provides minimum coverage of €30,000.

Covers:

• Emergency medical treatment

• Hospitalization

• Medical repatriation (including in case of death)

10. Visa Fee Payment

• Pay the non-refundable visa fee at the time of application.

• The amount may vary depending on your nationality and visa type.

• Keep the receipt as proof of payment.

11. Visa or Entry Permit to Final Destination (If applicable)

If Turkey is a stopover, you may be required to present a visa or residence permit for your final destination.

Turkey e-Visa Checklist

If you are applying for your Turkey visa through Atlys, then here are the Turkey e-visa requirements for Indians:

• Passport: A scanned copy of your passport, valid for at least 6 months from arrival in Türkiye.

• Valid visas: A valid visa from a Schengen country, the United States, or the United Kingdom is required. The Schengen Visa must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of application and cover the entire duration of the planned trip.

Where to Apply for a Turkey Tourist Visa

• At the Turkish Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence.

• Alternatively, for eligible nationalities, apply online.

Final Thoughts

The key to a successful Turkey tourist visa application lies in thorough preparation and accuracy. Take time to carefully review each of your documents, ensuring that everything you provide is complete and clear to avoid confusion or delays. Each document must be genuine and accurately reflect your circumstances, as misleading or incorrect information could lead to visa rejection. It's equally crucial to submit your application well ahead of your intended travel date, allowing ample time for processing and addressing any unforeseen complications.