Turkey Visa on Arrival VS Online Visa
Visa on Arrival or Turkish eVisa: Which One to Choose?
Turkey, with its rich history, mesmerizing landscapes, and vibrant culture, has become a sought-after destination for travelers from around the globe. However, before embarking on this magical journey, it’s essential to be well-informed about the visa requirements for your trip. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the two main options for obtaining a Turkish visa: the traditional Turkey Visa on Arrival and the modern Turkish e-Visa. By understanding the process and requirements for each, you can choose the most convenient and efficient method to kickstart your Turkish adventure.
Part I: Turkey Visa on Arrival
- What does a ”Turkey Visa on Arrival” mean? The Turkey Visa on Arrival is a visa type that allows travelers to obtain their visa upon arrival at one of Turkey’s international airports. This convenient option eliminates the need for a prior application and visit to a Turkish consulate or embassy. However, it’s crucial to fulfill the necessary requirements to ensure a smooth entry into the country.
- Eligible Countries for Turkey Visa on Arrival: Turkey offers the Visa on Arrival option to nationals from various countries, including Antigua and Barbuda, Dominican Republic, Mauritius, Australia, Canada, and many others. Please note that not all countries are eligible to apply for a visa on arrival in Turkey. It’s essential to verify with your country’s embassy whether you qualify for a on-arrival visa.
- Validity and Duration of Stay: The validity of the Turkey Visa on Arrival varies based on the decision of Turkish consular officers. Generally, travelers are allowed to stay in the country for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This timeframe offers ample opportunity to explore the wonders of Turkey.
- Requirements for Turkey Visa on Arrival: To apply for a Turkey Visa on Arrival, you must present the following documents upon arrival:
- A valid passport with sufficient validity.
- Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation if applicable or other).
- Evidence of sufficient funds to support your stay (bank statements, income proofs, or a support letter).
- Travel itinerary and an onward flight ticket.
- Application Process at the Airport: Once you arrive in Turkey, locate the Visa on Arrival counter at the international airport. There, you will be provided with an application form to complete, along with the required documents mentioned above. Additionally, the visa fees must be paid in cash. After the processing is complete, you’ll receive a visa sticker allowing you to stay in Turkey for the specified period.
- Processing Time for Visa on Arrival: The processing time for the Turkey Visa on Arrival depends on several factors, such as the airport’s efficiency, the number of travelers, and the time of day. In most cases, it takes between 1 to 2 hours to receive your approved visa.
- Extension of Turkey Visa on Arrival: If your travel plans change, and you require an extension of your stay beyond the permitted duration, you can request a visa extension from the Turkish immigration office, police station, or embassy. But this extension is granted based on certain situations.
Part II: Turkey e-Visa
- What is the Turkey e-Visa? The Turkey e-Visa is a digital travel authorization that allows travelers to apply for their visa online before arriving in Turkey. It is a modern, convenient alternative to the traditional Visa on Arrival process, offering speed and simplicity for obtaining a Turkish visa.
- Eligible Countries for Turkey e-Visa: The Turkey e-Visa is available to passport holders from over 50 countries, including the United States, Canada, etc. More countries are eligible for a Turkey evisa than for a visa on arrival.
- Validity and Duration of Stay with e-Visa: The e-Visa is generally valid for 180 days from the date of arrival in Turkey. However, the duration of your stay depends on your nationality and may range from 30 to 90 days. The e-Visa can be either a single-entry or multiple-entry visa, depending on your citizenship.
- Requirements and Documents for Turkish e-Visa: To apply for the Turkey e-Visa, you will need the following documents:
- A passport with a minimum of 60 days validity beyond your departure date
- At least two blank pages on the passport for entry and exit stamps.
- An email address to receive the e-Visa confirmation.
- An online payment method to pay the visa fees.
- The Turkish e-Visa Application Process: The application process for the Turkey e-Visa is incredibly user-friendly and can be completed in just a few simple steps:
- Step 1: Complete the online form with your travel and personal information.
- Step 2: Review all the provided information and proceed to pay the visa fees using a credit or debit card, Venmo, Amazon Pay, or PayPal.
- Step 3: Upload any required documents and submit your application.
- Receiving the Turkish e-Visa: Upon approval of your e-Visa application, you will receive a PDF visa confirmation via email. It is essential to print out a copy and present it to the Turkish authorities upon arrival in Turkey for smooth immigration procedures.
- Turkey e-Visa Processing Times: The processing times and fees for the Turkey e-Visa vary depending on your country of citizenship but usually you can get your Turkish eVisa on 1-2 days.
Turkish eVisa VS Visa on Arrival
There are many essential differences between the Turkey visa on arrival and the evisa, although they serve the same purpose. Still unsure whether to get a visa beforehand or at the airport? Take a look at the comparison below to assist you in making your decision.
Turkey e-Visa:
- You can quickly get the Turkey eVisa online without visiting a consulate or embassy.
- You can apply for the eVisa anytime, making the process more convenient and stress-free.
- The online application process for the Turkey eVisa is straightforward and can be completed in minutes.
- The eVisa allows you to enter Turkey without queuing for a visa on arrival, saving you time (and patience).
- You can avoid the potential stress of not being granted a visa on arrival and being sent back to your home country. With the electronic visa, you’ll arrive ready to visit Turkey!
- You can pay securely online with many options: credit and debit cards, PayPal, Amazon Pay, or Venmo.
- As we do the paperwork, you can focus on planning your trip.
Turkey Visa on Arrival:
- You may have to wait in line at the airport while you deal with the jet lag.
- The Turkish Visa on Arrival requires an in-person application.
- You can only pay in cash.
- There’s no guarantee of an approved visa before you arrive in the country.
While both options have advantages, the Turkey eVisa is the better choice overall. So if you’re planning a trip to Turkey, we recommend applying for the eVisa to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.
Benefits of Getting a Turkey eVisa with us
We simplify your travel! Check out some of the benefits of getting your travel document with us:
- Your form will be completed correctly: We’ll check all your answers for compatibility with Turkish government standards.
- You save time: We provide a platform enabling you to save your progress to complete the form at your own pace. Additionally, you won’t have to go to visa appointments; you can do everything online.
- Simplified form: Unlike the government website, our platform has short and simple forms. We include only the essential questions.
- Support: Contact our customer service team anytime you have questions: [email protected]. They’re always available to help you.
Conclusion
Whether you decide on the traditional Turkey Visa on Arrival or the modern Turkish e-Visa, the wonders of this beautiful country await you. Embrace the beauty of Turkey with confidence and embark on a memorable journey through its enchanting landscapes and captivating history. Safe travels!
Don’t wait until the last minute. Apply now for the Turkey eVisa to enjoy a seamless travel experience!