If you are planning a trip to Turkey from India, getting a visa is your first foremost step. Most foreigners and Indians also need a visa to enter Turkey. There is no visa-on-arrival facility. Depending on your travel intent like tourism, study, work or business. You must apply in advance either for eVisa or sticker visa.
This guide explains how Indians can successfully apply for a Turkey visa. You will also learn when and how to schedule your Turkey visa appointment and understand every document and process needed.
What Are the Types of Turkey Visas for Indians?
Turkey issues multiple visa categories for Indian citizens. Your choice depends on your purpose of travel:
- Tourist Visa – For sightseeing, vacations or visiting family
- Business Visa – For business meetings, events or conferences
- Student Visa – For attending courses or full academic programs
- Work Visa – For individuals with a job offer in Turkey
- Transit Visa – For passing through Turkey en route to another country
- Family Visa – For visiting relatives legally residing in Turkey
Each visa type has specific documents and eligibility requirements.
Can Indians Apply for a Turkish eVisa?
Yes, but only if you meet one condition: you must already hold a valid visa or residence permit from the US, UK, Schengen states or Ireland. If not, apply through the Turkish consulate in India.
An eVisa permits single-entry stays of up to 30 days and is suitable for tourism or short business visits.
What is the Difference Between eVisa and Sticker Visa?
| Feature | eVisa | Sticker Visa |
| Where to Apply | Online at evisa.gov.tr | Turkish embassy or consulate in India |
| Eligibility | Requires valid US/UK/Schengen visa | Open to all Indian citizens |
| Processing Time | Instant or 1–2 days | 12–15 working days |
| Validity | 30 days (tourism/business) | Up to 90 days depending on visa type |
eVisa is easy if you qualify. Sticker visa is mandatory for study, work, long stays or when eVisa eligibility is not met.
What Documents Are Required for a Turkey Visa?
You must prepare a complete set of accurate documents. Incomplete or mismatched papers may lead to visa denial.
Required documents include:
- Valid Indian passport (6 months minimum validity)
- Recent passport-size photographs (3.5×4.0 cm, white background)
- Filled visa application form
- Flight reservation (not actual ticket)
- Proof of hotel booking or accommodation
- Recent 6-month bank statement
- Travel insurance (min. €30,000 coverage)
- Police clearance certificate
- Purpose-specific documents (like admission letters, offer letters, invitation letters)
Children need extra documents:
- Birth certificate
- Parent/guardian’s passport
- Signed permission letter
How Do I Apply for a Turkey Visa from India?
There are two ways to apply: eVisa (online) or sticker visa (offline).
For eVisa:
- Go to official turkish eVisa gov website
- Fill out the form with correct details
- Pay the visa fee via card
- Receive a confirmation and download your eVisa
For sticker visa:
- Book an appointment at the Turkish consulate or embassy.
- Prepare and carry all required documents.
- Submit your application in person.
- Wait for approval (usually 12–15 working days).
Apply at least 30–60 days before your planned travel.
What Is the Turkey Visa Fee for Indian Citizens?
Visa fees depend on visa type and entry count.
- Single Entry (Tourist/Business): $50–$60 (~₹4,000–₹5,000)
- Multiple Entry: $100–$120 (~₹8,000–₹10,000)
Fees can change due to currency exchange rates. For urgent processing, extra charges may apply.
What Is the Processing Time?
Processing times always vary:
- eVisa: Usually same day or within 1 to 2 days.
- Sticker Visa: Around 15 working days.
- Work or student visa: May take up to 30 days depending on verification and consulate workload.
What Happens If I Overstay in Turkey?
If you exceed your visa duration, you must take a residency permit (Ikamet Vesikasi). Without it you risk fines, deportation or future entry bans. Always track your allowed stay and exit Turkey on time.
What If I Lose My Passport in Turkey?
Contact the Indian embassy in Turkey immediately.
Indian Embassy in Turkey:
77-A, Cinnah Caddesi, Cankaya, 06680-Ankara
Email: chancery@indembassy.org.tr
Fax: (+90) 312-4403 429
They will help you get an emergency travel document.
Can I Track My Visa Application?
Yes. If you applied for eVisa, check the status at the official Turkish eVisa website.
For sticker visa applications, visit the consulate or third-party visa center where you submitted your documents.
Who Can Sponsor My Turkey Trip?
If you are not self-funded, a family member or employer can sponsor you. You will need:
- A signed sponsorship letter
- Sponsor’s ID proof
- Bank statements from the sponsor
- Proof of relationship (if a relative)
This applies to students, minors and dependents.
What Are the Common Visa Rejection Reasons?
Many Indian applicants face rejection due to:
- Insufficient funds in the bank statement
- Mismatched travel plans and accommodation bookings
- Incomplete or missing documents
- Invalid or damaged passport
- Criminal records or visa violations
- Failure to prove intent to return to India
Submit accurate documents and avoid overstatements in your application.
Do I Need to Know Turkish to Travel?
Not mandatory. English is commonly spoken in Istanbul, Ankara, Antalya, and tourist spots. But knowing a few basic Turkish phrases like Merhaba (Hello), Evet (Yes), Hayır (No) can help you. Also Apps like Google Translate or Duolingo can help you.
How Should I Plan My Travel Itinerary?
You must provide:
- Confirmed hotel booking or address of relative
- Return flight ticket
- Day-wise travel plan if asked
- Emergency contact details
These details give a signal to the consulate that your visit is organized and temporary.
What to Keep in Mind Before Flying?
- Keep both print and digital copies of your visa and travel documents.
- Arrive early at airport.
- Carry your passport, visa, flight ticket, hotel booking and insurance together.
- At immigration, answer questions confidently and truthfully.
Can I Work in Turkey with a Tourist Visa?
No. A tourist visa does not permit employment. If you are caught working illegally, you may be deported and banned. Always apply for the appropriate visa based on your real intent.
Final Reminders
Before you start your visa process, make sure your passport is valid for 6+ months. Your documents are complete and book your Turkey visa appointment early. Also, make sure to apply 30–60 days before your travel date. Staying organized will help you get your visa fast and avoid any delays.
