Overview
Turkey replaced sticker visas issued at the border with a fully electronic system back in 2013. Eligible travelers log on to the official portal, evisa.gov.tr, enter their details, pay online, and download their e-Visa — the government states the whole process takes no more than about 10 minutes. It's a genuinely self-service system: no embassy visit and no agent are required for eligible nationalities.
Visa categories
| Tourist e-Visa | Sightseeing and leisure travel; validity and maximum trip length vary by nationality (commonly up to 90 days within a 180-day validity window). |
|---|---|
| Business e-Visa | Short business trips, meetings and trade visits. |
| Transit e-Visa | For travelers transiting through Turkey. |
Purposes such as work, study or long-term stays require a different visa type, applied for at a Turkish embassy or consulate.
Documents checklist
- Valid passport, with at least 6 months' validity beyond your entry date and a clear visa page
- A valid email address to receive your e-Visa
- Credit or debit card, or PayPal, for online payment
- Return or onward flight details (recommended)
- Proof of accommodation (recommended)
Step-by-step application process
1. Check your eligibility
Confirm your nationality qualifies for the e-Visa route on evisa.gov.tr, and note the maximum stay and validity that applies to you.
2. Complete the online application
Enter your passport and personal details on the official form — this typically takes about 5–10 minutes.
3. Pay online
Pay securely by credit/debit card or PayPal.
4. Receive your e-Visa by email
Most approvals arrive the same day; apply at least 48–72 hours before travel to allow a buffer.
5. Carry a copy when you travel
The e-Visa is electronically linked to your passport, but keeping a printed or downloaded copy is recommended in case of connectivity issues at the airport.
Fees & processing time
| Processing time | Often same-day; government guidance recommends applying a few days ahead of travel |
|---|---|
| Fee | Varies by nationality — shown on the official portal before payment; beware third-party sites charging significantly more |
| Validity | Commonly up to 90 days per stay, within a 180-day visa validity window, depending on nationality |
Frequently asked questions
Does every nationality qualify for the e-Visa?
No — eligibility depends on nationality. Some nationals need a traditional visa from a Turkish embassy or consulate instead; check the official portal's eligibility tool before assuming you qualify.
Can I extend an e-Visa once in Turkey?
e-Visas generally aren't extended online; a different process applies for anyone needing to stay longer or change purpose, typically requiring an application to Turkish immigration authorities.
Is the e-Visa the same as a residence permit?
No — the e-Visa only covers short tourist, business or transit stays. Anyone planning to live, work or study in Turkey needs a separate residence or work permit process.
Sources reviewed: evisa.gov.tr (official Republic of Türkiye e-Visa portal), mfa.gov.tr (Ministry of Foreign Affairs). Eligibility, validity and fees vary by nationality — always confirm current details on the official portal before applying.