Many visitors to Istanbul need a visa, and for most of them the easiest way to get one is the Turkish e-visa, an official online visa issued by the Republic of Turkey. Others can enter without a visa at all. Which group you are in depends on your nationality, so the first step is always to check the official e-visa website, www.evisa.gov.tr.
This guide explains what the e-visa is, how to apply, what you need and how to avoid the most common mistakes. It is general guidance only: rules can change, and the official site is the final word.
What is the Turkish e-visa?
The e-visa is an electronic visa you apply for and pay for online before you travel. It was introduced by the Turkish government to replace queuing for a visa at the border or at an embassy. Once approved, the e-visa is sent to your email address as a document you can download and print.
A Turkish e-visa is valid for the whole country, not just Istanbul, so you can use it to visit Cappadocia, Ephesus or the coast on the same trip. It is intended for tourism and business visits; study, work and longer stays need a different visa from a Turkish embassy or consulate.
Do I need an e-visa for Istanbul?
Visa rules for Turkey vary by nationality. Some nationalities can visit without a visa for a limited period, some can use the e-visa, and some must apply at a Turkish embassy or consulate. The conditions, such as how long you can stay and how many entries are allowed, also differ from country to country.
To find out what applies to you, go to www.evisa.gov.tr, select your country of nationality and your travel document, and the site will show whether you need a visa and the conditions for your passport. Check this well before you book your flights, and again shortly before you travel.
How to apply for a Turkish e-visa
- Go to the official website www.evisa.gov.tr. The site is available in several languages.
- Choose your nationality and travel document, then your expected arrival date.
- Check the conditions shown for your nationality and confirm that you meet them.
- Fill in your personal and passport details exactly as they appear in your passport.
- Pay the fee online by card.
- Download the e-visa from the link sent to your email, and print a copy or keep it on your phone.
You can apply up to three months before your travel date. Most applications are processed quickly, but it is sensible not to leave it to the last day.
E-visa requirements
The documents and conditions depend on your nationality, and the website lists them once you select your country. In general you will need:
- A valid passport: it should be valid for at least 60 days beyond the end of your permitted stay; some nationalities need longer validity, so check the condition shown for your passport.
- A valid email address to receive the e-visa.
- A credit or debit card for the online payment.
- For some nationalities, additional conditions such as a return ticket or a hotel booking.
E-visa fees and payment
The e-visa fee depends on your nationality and type of travel document, and it can change. The exact amount is shown on www.evisa.gov.tr when you start your application, so check it there.
Payment is by credit or debit card only, and Mastercard, Visa and UnionPay are accepted. The card does not have to be in your own name, so one person can pay for the whole family or group.
Tips to avoid problems
- Use only the official government site. Other websites may look official but charge an extra service fee for the same e-visa.
- Double-check your passport number, dates and spelling before paying; a mistake can make the e-visa invalid.
- Travel with the same passport you used for the application.
- Keep a printed or digital copy of the e-visa with you when you travel.
- Consider insurance before you go; see our guide do you need travel insurance for Turkey.
For more planning help, read our things to know before visiting Turkey, how to get to Turkey and our Istanbul travel tips. Once your paperwork is sorted, browse our Istanbul tours to plan your days in the city.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I apply for a Turkish e-visa?
Only on the official Republic of Turkey website, www.evisa.gov.tr. Other sites may charge extra service fees for the same document.
Do all nationalities need an e-visa for Istanbul?
No. Some nationalities can enter Turkey without a visa, some can use the e-visa and some must apply at an embassy or consulate. Check the requirements for your nationality on www.evisa.gov.tr.
How far in advance can I apply for a Turkish e-visa?
You can apply up to three months before your travel date. It is wise to apply at least a few days before you travel.
How much does the Turkish e-visa cost?
The fee depends on your nationality and travel document and can change. The current amount is shown on www.evisa.gov.tr when you apply.
Is the e-visa valid for all of Turkey?
Yes. The e-visa covers the whole country, not only Istanbul, for tourism and business visits within the conditions shown for your nationality.
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