If you’re looking for an interesting travel destination, look no further than Turkey. This country is home to a diverse array of cultures and landscapes, making it perfect for anyone who wants to experience something new.
From the beaches in the south to the mountains in the north, Turkey has something for everyone. And don’t forget the delicious food Turkish cuisine is some of the best in the world. So if you’re itching to explore a new country, head to Turkey!
While it’s an extraordinary country with much to offer tourists, there are some things you should be aware of before visiting, especially the current entry protocol. Turkish authorities may deny entry to foreigners who don’t meet these requirements, so make sure you familiarize yourself with them before your trip.
In general, most travelers will need a valid passport and visa to enter Turkey. Depending on your nationality, you may be eligible for an e-Visa.
Learn more about Turkish entry rules below.
Turkey e-Visa
Currently, travelers of many nationalities can enter Turkey with an electronic visa for short-term purposes. e-Visa for Turkey is an official travel authorization issued by the Turkish Government to travelers from all eligible countries.
Travelers can choose from two types of e-Visa to Turkey. Depending on their nationality, it can be either a 30-day single-entry visa or a 90-day multiple-entry visa. No matter the country of origin of an applicant and visa type, Turkish e-Visa covers tourism or business purposes.
For more information on electronic visas to Turkey and the online application process, visit https://visa-for-turkey.com/.
Covid-related entry rules
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Turkey has implemented additional measures to ensure the safety of tourists and residents. To enter Turkey, overseas visitors need to have the following:
- Form for Entry to Turkey
In March 2021, the Turkish authorities implemented the entry form to control all the incoming visitors to the country and minimize the risk of the COVID-19 spread.
The form needs to be completed within 3 days (72 hours) before the planned trip, but no earlier since all the information provided must be up-to-date. The Form for Entry to Turkey can be completed online.
Upon its completion, every traveler receives an individual HES code, which will be checked upon arrival as well as when traveling around Turkey and accessing various tourist attractions.
- Negative COVID-19 test
Unvaccinated arrivals over 12 years of age need to present a negative COVID-19 test report, which can be either a PCR test performed 72 hours of departure or a rapid antigen test taken 48 hours before the trip.
Fully vaccinated travelers are exempt from the testing requirement as long as they present either vaccination proof confirming that they have received the last COVID-19 vaccination dose at least 2 weeks (14 days) prior to their trip to Turkey.
Recently recovered visitors do not need to take the COVID-19 test if they submit a recovery certificate issued no earlier than within the last 180 days (6 months).
All arrivals may be also subject to random PCR testing on arrival in Turkey.
- Quarantine
Travelers who have been to countries classified as high-risk within the last 14 days before arriving in Turkey are obliged to undergo a 10-day quarantine. They must undergo quarantine at accommodation which was authorized by the Turkish Government.
Other entry restrictions
Upon arrival in Turkey, all arrivals will be subject to brief medical screening, including a temperature check. Symptoms-free arrivals will be allowed to continue their Turkish journey, while those who are COVID-19 symptomatic or tested positive will be treated at a dedicated medical facility.
Children aged 11 or younger can follow the same entry rules as fully vaccinated travelers.
International travelers who only transit through one of the Turkish airports will be exempt from the obligation to submit an HES code issued after completing the Form for Entry to Turkey as long as the traveler is not a Turkish resident or citizen and the transit stop does not exceed 12 hours.
Keep in mind that the requirements may change rapidly, so it’s always best to check with the Turkish embassy or consulate for the latest information. Knowing all the entry restrictions will help you avoid any delays or issues when entering Turkey.
