Your trip to Turkey starts with the right visa. For Indian citizens who dream of Istanbul’s charming streets or the natural wonders of Cappadocia, here are the Turkey visa for Indians requirements you have to comply with.
From eligibility to necessary documents and how to apply, let’s have a look at the different Turkey visas for Indian passport holders.
Do Indians Need Visa For Turkey? Key Points Explained
Yes, Indians visa for Turkey is a must.
Whether you’re planning to discover the ancient ruins, enjoy the local cuisine or conduct business, visa for Indian in Turkey is mandatory.
Good news is you get several possible options, like the e-Visa or the tourist visa.
For Turkey visa for Indian citizens, this e-visa will allow you to save time and is actually pretty easy to obtain as long as you meet the requirements.
Consider this for later – Many Indians are curious about the visa requirements for visiting Indonesia and Cambodia. If you’re planning a future trip to these countries, check out these guides: Indonesia Visa For Indians Requirements and Cambodia Visa For Indians Requirements.
Most Common Reasons Indians Need Visa For Turkey
The rich history, stunning landscapes and lively culture attract many Indians in Turkey each year.
Whether it’s for tourism, business meetings or cultural exchanges, you will absolutely need a visa to visit Turkey with an Indian passport.
And the reasons to visit are numerous : Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia, the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, the beaches of Antalya… All of these iconic sites deserve your attention.
And if you’re looking to extend your stay beyond the tourist visa duration, here again you’ll have to adhere to the visa requirements.
Is It Hard For Indians To Get a Turkey Visa ?
It is not as long as you meet the requirements. The e-visa, for example, can be applied for exclusively online !
So if you want to know more about the Turkey visa for Indian passport holders, then don’t hesitate to read our article further !
Turkey Visa for Indians Types
Indian citizens looking to visit Turkey have several visa options available.
Here’s a brief overview of the most common types :
Turkey Tourist Visa for Indians
The Turkey tourist visa for Indians is designed for people traveling for leisure, sightseeing, visiting friends or family or participating in short-term cultural exchanges.
You can obtain this visa as an e-visa or a sticker visa depending on your eligibility. Considering the long-term, we recommend applying for the Turkey Digital Nomad Visa.
Turkey E-Visa for Indians
The Turkey e-visa for Indians is an electronic visa that simplifies the application process. It can be applied for exclusively online.
It’s available for tourists and business visitors who meet some criteria and it offers a quick and convenient way to gain entry into Turkey for short stays.
Here is where you can find more information about the Turkey eVisa application process.
Turkey Visa On Arrival for Indians
If you meet specific requirements, the Turkey visa on arrival for Indians provides a last-minute visa option.
You’ll have to hold a valid visa or residence permit from some countries in order to apply. Here you can find further information about obtaining a visa on arrival for Turkey.
Turkey Transit Visa for Indians
Travelers passing through Turkey en route to another destination will need a Turkey transit visa for Indians.
This visa will allow you to leave the airport during your layover in Turkey.
If you don’t wish to leave the airport and visit Turkey during your layover, then you don’t need any Istanbul transit visa for Indian passengers. Here, discover Turkey’s transit visa details.
Turkey Visa Requirements For Indian Citizens
We often receive questions like this, so let us clarify these points first…
- Do Indians need a visa for Turkey ? Yes, Indian nationals planning to visit Turkey must obtain a visa before their travel.
- Do Indian need visa for Istanbul ? No matter if you plan to visit the whole country or only Istanbul, you will absolutely need a visa.
Here’s an overview of the requirements to apply for the Turkey or Istanbul visa for Indians :
- Have a 6 months valid passport
- Complete itinerary with your detailed travel plans
- Subscribe to comprehensive travel insurance
- Get an onward ticket
- Be able to show a proof of accommodation
- Show proof of sufficient funds or be sponsored
- Be invited by a Turkish citizen (depending on the type of visa)
- Travel for tourism or business
Turkey Visa for Indians Documents
You will need to prepare and submit a comprehensive set of documents to apply for a Turkish visa for Indians.
Here’s the list of all the documents you’ll have to present for an Indian passport Turkey visa application :
- Visa application form : complete with blue or black ink, including one photograph and your signature.
- Valid passport : must be valid for 6 months beyond the intended stay, with 2 blank pages. Include copies of the first and last pages.
- Passport photos : two recent photos (2.5 x 2.5 inches) with a white background, taken within the last 6 months.
- Leave letter : from the employer or a self-employed individual’s cover letter on business letterhead.
- Covering letter : that outlines the trip plans.
- Travel insurance : subscribe to a travel insurance valid for the duration of the stay.
- Return flight ticket : reservations are accepted as proof.
- Proof of accommodation : hotel or AirB&B reservations for example.
- Sponsorship letter : required if you lack sufficient funds to sustain your stay in Turkey, notarized and excluding immediate family.
- Proof of civil status : Aadhar card, PAN card.
- Financial proof : last three months’ bank statements or pay slips.
- Company registration documents : for employed/self-employed, include GST documents.
- Invitation letter : if visiting a Turkish citizen, include their passport number, full name, a copy of their ID and bank details.
Turkey Visa Application Form For Indian Citizens (Process Step By Step)
Whether you choose an eVisa for convenience or are going through the direct application process for a sticker visa, here’s how to get visa for Turkey for Indians :
Step 1 – Decide the Visa Type
Determine whether the eVisa or a direct application for a sticker visa suits your travel plans better. The eVisa is faster but might have limitations based on your travel purpose.
Step 2 – Turkey eVisa Application
- Visit the official eVisa website. Start your application on Turkey’s official e-Visa portal here, fill in the required details accurately and proceed with the online payment for the eVisa processing fee.
- Download eVisa. Once approved, download your eVisa and print it out for your travel.
Step 3 – Turkey Tourist Visa & Sticker Visa Application
- Complete the required form, either online or in paper format.
- Gather all necessary documents, including photos and supporting materials.
- Schedule an appointment at the nearest embassy or consulate.
- Pay the visa fee.
- Hand in your application and documents at the scheduled appointment.
- Collect your visa at the embassy or consulate.
You may also submit your application for a Turkey visa via an authorized agency. It’s more expensive but easier, even if you’ll still have to attend a face to face appointment.
Renewal Process
The Turkey E-Visa does not offer a renewal option for Indian citizens.
Instead, if the visit extends beyond the allowed 30 or up to 90 days within a 180-day period, you must exit Turkey and reapply for a new visa for any subsequent visits.
This means you’ll have to leave Turkey before the visa expires and apply afresh to return.
How Long Is Valid For ?
The validity depends on the tye of visa you choose to enter Turkey as an Indian citizen :
- Single entry and transit Visas : these visas allow a stay of up to 30 days within a validity period of 3 to 6 months. It’s a great option for short visits or transits through Turkey. The transit visa is valid for 5 days.
- Multiple entry visas : designed for frequent travelers, these visas may permit multiple entries into Turkey, each stay not exceeding 30 days within a 6-month validity period.
- E-Visa validity : Special, Service, or Ordinary Indian passport holders with a valid Schengen, US, UK or Irish visa can obtain an e-visa quickly, valid for 30 or 90 days.
- Student visas : issued for the duration of the educational program, this visa allows students to reside in Turkey for their study period.
Turkey Visa Fees For Indian
Here are the Turkey visa for Indians fees depending on the type of visa you apply for :
- Single Entry Transit Visa : 4270 INR (approximately $51)
- Double Entry Transit Visa : 8540 INR (approximately $103)
- Normal Single Entry Visa : 4270 INR (about $51)
- Normal Multiple Entry Visa : 14220 INR (roughly $171)
The Turkey visa for Indians cost mainly depends on the granted validity. You’ll be able to pay the Turkey visa cost for Indians by card or cash.
How Long Indians Are Waiting To Get Visa For Turkey
The Turkey visa process for Indians depends on the application method chosen.
If you apply offline and submit your application to the nearest visa authority, the expected waiting time is approximately 15 working days.
If you face rejection, you are advised to wait for 15 days before reapplying.
For online applications through the e-visa system, you should receive your visa confirmation via email within just 3 working days.
Bringing Family With You
If you wish to bring your family along, then you need a family visa.
For families applying for an eVisa, some criteria must be met : all family members should be from the same country, possess the same type of travel documents (normal, official, diplomatic) and plan their arrival in Turkey on the same date.
Good news for families though, they have the flexibility to enter Turkey on any date within the validity period, which starts from the first entrance in the country.
Cost Of Living In Turkey
While its cities are pretty affordable compared to their Western counterparts, the cost of living in Turkey varies from one place to another.
Here’s a wrap up about what to expect to pay during your stay in Turkey.
| Accommodation | Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent | 200 to 300 € / $220 to $330 |
| Buy | From 30000 € / From $33000 |
| Hotels | 30 to 60 € / $33 to $66 |
| BnB | 20 to 50 € / $22 to $55 |
| Food | Cost |
|---|---|
| Restaurant | 10 to 20 € / $11 to $22 |
| Groceries | 100 to 200 € / $110 to $220 /month/pers |
| Fast Food | 3 to 10 € / $3,30 to $11 |
| Transports | Cost |
|---|---|
| Train | Around 10 € / $11 per 100km |
| Bus | Around 1 € / $1,10 per trip |
| Taxi | Around 1,5 € / $1,65 per km |
| Car rental | 30 to 40 € / $33 to $44 per day |
| Airplane | 40 to 100 € / $44 to $110 per national trip |
| Leisure | Cost |
|---|---|
| Day excursion | 20 to 50 € / $22 to $55 |
| Nightlife | 10 to 20 € / $11 to $22 |
| Museum / attractions | 2 to 8 € / $2,2 to $9 |
| Outdoor activities | 20 to 80 € / $22 to $88 |
You can also check the Cost of Living in Turkey here.
Which Part of Turkey Indians are Visit the Most ?
Several destinations stand out as favorites.
- Istanbul, which straddles two continents, is a top destination thanks to its historic sites like the Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar.
- Cappadocia is another must see destination for Indian citizens ; it’s famous for its lunar landscape, cave hotels and hot air balloon rides.
- Antalya and Kaleiçi – For some farniente, plan a few days on the Mediterranean coast. You’ll probably love Antalya with its stunning beaches and ancient ruins. Many Indians also visit the old city of Kaleiçi.
Most Common Reasons of Rejection
The Turkey visa rejection rate for Indians is around 20 %.
Common reasons for visa application denial include:
- incomplete documentation
- providing incorrect or misleading information
- failure to meet the financial requirements for the intended stay
Some applicants might also lack a clear travel itinerary or purpose of visit.
If you apply for a Turkey visa for Indian passport, ensure that the passport has sufficient validity and empty pages. Meticulously review your application before submission.
Is Travel Insurance Necessary ?
Yes, you need travel insurance to apply for a Turkey visa. And not only will it allow you to fulfill the visa requirements, it will also provide peace of mind during your travels.
Travel insurance covers unforeseen medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost luggage and other emergencies that might occur while abroad. For Indian citizens, it is mandatory for the duration of your stay in Turkey.
FAQs
Do Indians need transit visa for Turkey ?
Yes, Indians need a transit visa for Turkey if they plan to leave the airport. For airside transits without leaving the airport, no visa is required.
Is Turkey visa on arrival for Indians ?
No, Turkey does not offer a visa on arrival for Indian citizens. Indians must apply for an e-visa or a sticker visa prior to their arrival in Turkey.
Is Turkey visa difficult for Indians ?
No. As long as you meet all the documentation requirements and follow the application process accurately, it can be pretty straightforward.
Do Indians need Schengen for Turkey ?
No, Indians do not need a Schengen visa for Turkey. However, having a valid Schengen visa may facilitate your application for a Turkish e-visa for short stays.
Can Indian travelers extend Turkey visa ?
Indian travelers cannot extend their Turkey visa while in Turkey. They must leave the country upon the expiry of their visa and reapply if they wish to return.
How long can Indian travelers stay in Turkey ?
Indian travelers can stay in Turkey for up to 5, 30 or 90 days within a 180-day period depending on the type of visa obtained.
Is Turkey visa free for Indian ?
No, Turkey is not visa-free for Indian citizens. Indians need to obtain a visa before traveling to Turkey.
Does Turkey have visa on arrival for Indians ?
Turkey does not offer a visa on arrival for Indian passport holders. This is why you have to secure a visa before your travel.
Wrap Up
Keep attention to detail and make sure you adhere to Turkey Visa For Indians requirements.
After choosing the right visa type for you, make sure all your documents are in order and apply either online or in person.
Now is your time to travel to Turkey and discover all the country’s wonders !
