Turkey might not be on your radar as a potential home-base for your digital nomad travels—but it should be. As a country that bridges two continents, Turkey has an incredible mix of history and culture alongside modern city life.
Travellers can visit the bustling streets of Istanbul, explore ancient ruins in Ephesus, or relax and enjoy the beaches of Antalya.
If you are planning a long-term trip or working holiday, you may need an e-Visa for Turkey. If you’re unsure if it’s something you’ll require, here is everything you need to know about the e-Visa Turkey.
Why visit Turkey?
With world-famous landmarks like Hagia Sophia, the ruins of Troy, or the incredible rock formations of Cappadocia, it’s no surprise that tourism is a main draw for Turkey. That being said, with a growing economy, international investors and entrepreneurs are also attracted to the region.
With an affordable cost of living and mild climate, relocating to Turkey long-term, for retirement, or short-term as a remote worker, is also an appealing trend.
What is the Turkey e-Visa?
The Turkey e-Visa is an electronic travel authorization necessary for eligible travelers to enter Turkey for business or holiday but without visiting an embassy or consulate. Applicants complete the process online. If approved, they receive a digital visa via email, instead of a physical visa, to be presented upon arrival.
For citizens of certain countries with intentions of visiting Turkey for short stays of up to 90 days, the e-Visa is a requirement.
Who is eligible for a Turkey e-Visa?
- Citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, and a number of countries within South America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, who intend to stay beyond 90 days are eligible to apply.
- Any travellers from visa-exempt countries, including Bahrain, Canada, Oman, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and United States, who will stay fewer than 90 days.
- Official work, study, and long-term stay must be applied for through appropriate visas at a Turkish embassy or consulate.
How to apply for the e-Visa
- Visit the official Turkey e-Visa website. All applications must be submitted and processed through this portal.
- Complete the application with all requested personal details, home country passport information and desired dates of travel.
- Pay the application cost, which varies by nationality but ranges between $20-60.
- Expect to receive approval for the e-visa by email within 24 hours of application.
- Print and download a digital copy of the e-visa to have ready for presentation at immigration upon arrival in Turkey.
e-Visa Turkey: Bonus Tips
While some travellers might receive multiple-entry visas, others only qualify for single-entry visas. Both of which likely allow for stays of 30 to 90 days, depending on the nationality of the applicant.
The e-visa itself is valid for 180 days from the date of issue, though all travellers should confirm the details of their individual visas.
Despite it being an easy and straightforward process, be sure to apply with plenty of time before your trip to avoid any unforeseen last-minute issues.
Ensure that your own passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned arrival date. If you have any intentions of staying beyond that period, be sure to obtain a residence or work permit instead of an e-visa.