Visa requirements
Turkey Visa Requirements 2026: e-Visa System Guide
Quick answer: Most Western travelers (US, UK, EU members, Australia, Canada) need a Turkish e-Visa, costing ~$50. Apply at the official evisa.gov.tr site — takes 5 minutes, receive approval by email. Some EU citizens (Germany, France, Italy, Spain) get 90 days visa-free.
Visa-free countries
Citizens of Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Greece, Bulgaria, and many other EU/EEA members get 90-day visa-free entry.
e-Visa countries
Most Western non-EU countries (US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand) need an e-Visa. Cost: $50 (varies $20-50 by nationality). 90-day stay validity. Multiple entry.
How to apply for e-Visa
Visit the official Turkish e-Visa portal at evisa.gov.tr (the only legitimate site — avoid third-party sites that charge more). Fill in passport details + travel dates. Pay by credit card. Receive PDF approval by email.
Documents required
Passport valid 6+ months from entry date. e-Visa printout (or saved digital PDF). Onward ticket (sometimes requested). Hotel address (sometimes requested).
90-day stay
e-Visa allows up to 90 days within 180-day period. Can leave and re-enter Turkey multiple times during the 180 days. Cannot work.
Beyond e-Visa
Longer stays or work require pre-arranged visa from Turkish embassy. Residence permit available for longer stays + work.
Common issues
Some travelers buy from unofficial third-party sites at 3-5x markup. Only use evisa.gov.tr. Some travelers receive approval immediately, others wait up to 72 hours. Apply at least 1 week before travel.
E-Visa vs Visa on Arrival
Turkey discontinued Visa on Arrival in 2014. Now everyone needs either e-Visa or pre-arranged visa. No exceptions at the airport.