Turkey Embassy & Consulate Guide
Key highlights
- Official gateway for sticker and long-term Turkish visas
- Mandatory pre-application via the online portal
- Standard 15-day processing for most visa categories
- Biometric data collection required at most locations
- Comprehensive travel insurance is a strict requirement
- Specific requirements for business, work, and education visas
- Personal interviews may be requested by the consular officer
Processing time
7-15 working days
Processing times can vary significantly based on the applicant's nationality and the specific consulate's workload. Work permits may take up to 30 days.
Estimated cost
$100 - $320
- Standard Visa Fee$60 - $200 (varies by nationality)
- Service Provider Fee$30 - $90 (varies by location)
- Mandatory Medical Insurance (approx.)$15 - $30
Requirements
- Passport must have at least two blank pages available.
- Applicants must not have any travel bans or active legal issues in Turkey.
- Proof of accommodation must cover the entire duration of the stay.
- Financial means must typically exceed $50 per day of stay.
- The application form must be filled out in capital letters and signed.
- Photographs must be 'Biometric' (taken within the last 6 months).
- Minors must have notarised consent from both parents if travelling alone.
- No-objection letter from current employer or educational institution.
- Proof of residence in the country where you are applying.
- Clear criminal record verification (if requested for specific visa types).
Documents you'll need
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity from entry date
- Completed and signed visa application form
- Two recent biometric photos (5x6cm, white background)
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements for the last 3 months)
- Confirmed round-trip flight bookings
- Hotel reservation or notarised invitation letter
- Travel medical insurance valid for Turkey
- Employment verification letter or business registration certificates
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Online Pre-Application
Visit the official Turkish Consular Procedures website to complete the online pre-application and upload digital copies of your documents.
- 2
Book an Appointment
Select your nearest embassy or authorized visa center and choose an available date and time for your biometric appointment.
- 3
Gather Documentation
Print your completed application form and compile all original documents into a tidy folder according to the embassy checklist.
- 4
Attend the Interview/Biometrics
Attend the consulate or visa centre in person. You will submit your documents, have your fingerprints scanned, and potentially have a brief interview.
- 5
Payment of Fees
Pay the visa and service fees in the currency and method specified by your local mission (often cash or debit card).
- 6
Wait for Processing
Your application is forwarded to the embassy for review. You can usually track the status online using your reference number.
- 7
Passport Collection
Once a decision is made, you will be notified to collect your passport or it will be mailed back via recorded delivery.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure your biometric photos exactly meet the 5x6cm size requirement; standard passport photos are often rejected.
- Double-check that your names on the application form match your passport exactly, including middle names.
- Provide a stamped bank statement; printed internet screenshots are rarely accepted as proof of funds.
- If staying with a friend, the invitation letter must be notarised in Turkey by the host.
- Do not book non-refundable flights until your visa has been approved and issued.
- Keep a printed copy of your appointment confirmation to show at the entrance of the consulate.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.