Indian citizens can now apply for an electronic visa to visit Turkey. The Turkish e-Visa system is fast, efficient, and 100% online. This guide provides detailed information on obtaining a Turkey visa for Indian citizens.
Do Indians Need a Visa for Turkey?
Yes, citizens of India need a visa to visit Turkey. However, the process has been simplified with the introduction of the Turkey e-Visa system. Indian citizens who meet the e-Visa requirements can apply for the travel permit online, eliminating the need to visit a Turkish embassy or attend an interview. The online Turkey visa for citizens of India allows stays of up to 30 days for tourism and business purposes.
How to Get a Turkish Visa for Indians
Obtaining a Turkish visa for Indian passport holders involves three straightforward steps:
- Complete the Electronic Visa Form: Fill out the online application form with your personal details and passport information.
- Pay the Turkey e-Visa Fees for Indians: You will need a debit or credit card to make the payment.
- Send the Application for Approval: Once you have completed the form and paid the fees, submit your application for processing.
Most Indian applicants receive their e-Visa within 24 hours. However, it's advisable to allow extra time for processing in case of any unforeseen delays. If you require the visa urgently, there is a priority service option that guarantees processing within 1 hour.
Turkish e-Visa Requirements
To be eligible for a Turkish eVisa, Indian citizens must meet the following criteria:
- Have a valid visa or residence permit issued by one of the following countries: Schengen Member State, the United States, the United Kingdom, or Ireland.
- Intend to visit Turkey for tourism or business purposes with a maximum stay of 30 days.
If you do not meet all these requirements, you will need to apply for a visa through your nearest Turkish Embassy.
Documents Required by Indian Citizens
To apply for Turkish visa online, Indian citizens will need the following documents:
- Indian passport valid for at least 5 months beyond the date of arrival in Turkey.
- A Schengen, US, UK, or Irish visa or residence permit.
- Debit or credit card for paying the eVisa fees.
- A valid email address to receive the approved visa electronically.
Turkey e-Visa Application for Indians
When filling out the Turkey e-Visa application form, Indian citizens will need to provide the following information, applicable for both business and tourist visas:
- Given name and surname
- Date and place of birth
- Passport number
- Passport issue and expiry date
- Email address
- Mobile phone number
It is crucial to double-check all the information before submitting the application to avoid processing delays and disruptions to your travel plans. The final step involves making the payment for the eVisa fees using a credit or debit card.
Types of Turkish Visas for Indians
Several types of Turkish visas are available to Indian passport holders:
- Turkey Tourist/Business Visa: Indian citizens can apply for this visa electronically. It is suitable for those visiting Turkey for vacation or business activities, allowing a single-entry stay of up to 30 days.
- Transit Visa: Indian passengers in transit do not need a visa if they remain in the transit lounge at the airport. Those wishing to leave the airport during transit must apply for a transit visa.
- Student/Education Visa: Indians traveling to Turkey for educational purposes, such as exchange programs or courses, can apply for a student/education visa through the Turkish Embassy, with supporting documents required.
- Working Visa: Indian academics, athletes, journalists, and other professionals seeking employment in Turkey need to apply for a working visa.
- Other Types of Turkish Visas: Various other types of Turkish visas are available for Indians with specific travel purposes, including medical treatment, seafarer visas, and archaeological excavations. These visas are obtained through a diplomatic mission.
Visit Turkey from India
Indian travelers should print at least one copy of the approved Turkey visa. They must enter Turkey within 180 days of the arrival date provided during the application process. The visa's validity period is indicated on the approved document.
The most convenient way to reach Turkey from India is by air. There are direct flights to Istanbul from major Indian cities such as New Delhi and Mumbai. For example:
- Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (DEL) to Istanbul Airport (IST): 7 hours 15 minutes.
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai (BOM) to Istanbul Airport: 6 hours 50 minutes.
While it's technically possible to travel from India to Turkey by road, this option is not commonly chosen due to the substantial distance between the two countries, which exceeds 4,500 kilometers. Flying is the preferred and more practical method of travel.
This comprehensive guide outlines the process for Indian citizens to obtain a Turkish visa, including requirements, application steps, and visa types, making it easier for Indian travelers to plan their visit to Turkey.
