From documents to vaccinations, here’s everything Turkish immigration authorities require for international arrivals to Turkey.
Like most countries, Turkey has a unique set of entry and exit requirements for foreign travelers. Bringing the proper documentation as required by the Turkish government not only smooths your path through customs, it also helps protect the people of Turkey.
Turkey Travel Requirements: Know Before You Go
Turkey Required Documents
- Passport: You’ll need to travel with a valid passport that has at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps. It should also be valid for at least six months beyond the date of travel.
- Valid Visa: With a few exceptions, all foreign nationals are required to have a valid travel visa to enter Turkey, whether it’s a Turkey Tourist Visa, Turkey e-Visa, or Turkey Business Visa. You can typically get a visa within three business days. In some cases, you can apply for a visa online or through the Turkish embassy in your country.
- Entry and Exit Forms: Travelers to Turkey are required to complete an entry form upon arrival. This form is known as the “Turkey Entry Form” or “Passenger Locator Form.” It collects essential information, such as personal details, travel history, and contact information. The form can be filled out online prior to travel or on paper upon arrival at the port of entry. It is important to provide accurate and up-to-date information on the entry form. There are no specific exit forms required for travelers departing from Turkey.
The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ visa requirements may vary by country. Confirm if there’s anything else you need to enter Turkey by contacting Entriva , or your country’s Turkish embassy.
How Do I Obtain a Passport?
If you do not already have a passport, you can apply for one at your local passport office. The process typically takes four to six weeks, so make sure to apply well in advance of your trip. If you already have a passport, make sure to check its expiration date and renew it if necessary.
To get a United States passport, an American citizen needs to follow these steps:
- Fill out form DS-11: The DS-11 form is available online or can be obtained at a passport acceptance facility.
- Gather required documents: You will need to provide proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate) and a government-issued ID (such as a driver’s license).
- Get a passport photo taken: Your photo must meet specific requirements, such as size, lighting, and positioning.
- Pay the application fee: The fee varies depending on the type of passport and the processing time selected. The average processing time for a new passport is four to six weeks, but expedited services are available for an additional cost.
- Submit your application in person: You can submit your application at a passport acceptance facility, which can be found at many post offices, courthouses, and libraries.
- Track your application status: You can check the status of your passport application online or by phone.
How Do I Obtain A Turkey Visa?
You can obtain a visa by applying online through a visa service provider like Entriva, or through the Turkey government’s official website. The application process typically takes a couple of business days, depending on the type of visa you’re applying for. Make sure to apply for your visa well in advance of your trip to allow for processing time.
How Do I Obtain An Entry and Exit Form?
The entry and exit forms can be obtained on the plane or at the airport upon arrival. Make sure to fill it out completely and accurately, as it will be checked by Turkish immigration authorities.
Turkey Health Requirements and Screenings
Monitor local media ahead of your trip for news on health-related issues, and keep an eye out for travel advice and alerts from Turkish authorities. Prior to departure, you should also consider purchasing travel insurance to minimize any potential overseas medical costs. Typically, travel insurance covers everything from essential services at local medical facilities to medical evacuation (if you opt in).
To keep yourself and Turkish citizens healthy and safe upon arrival, whether you’re visiting the major cities or more remote areas, pay close attention to your health—and know your options in case you need to seek medical treatment.
Vaccinations
The Turkish Ministry of Health has no vaccine requirements for American travelers. However, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends being up-to-date on your normal immunizations, such as chickenpox, flu, shingles, and COVID-19.
Other recommended immunizations include Hepatitis A and B, measles (for infants six to 11 months old), rabies (for children and those planning to be around dogs or wildlife), and typhoid (for most travelers). Due to the risk of hantavirus, leptospirosis, tuberculosis, and leishmaniasis and Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever, you should also try to avoid rodents, contaminated water, sick people, and bug bites, respectively.
Prescriptions
If you need to bring prescription medication with you during your trip, you should do the following:
- Check with the Turkish embassy or consulate to confirm that you’re allowed to bring the drug into the country. You don’t want to violate local laws regarding illegal drugs, even inadvertently.
- Carry the medications in their original packing.
- Bring a copy of the prescription or a letter from your doctor.
- Declare your medications at customs to local authorities.
Medical Records
If you’re traveling for medical care on a Medical or e-Medical visa, you’ll need to provide:
- Medical documents related to your condition, diagnosis, and treatment
- A doctor’s letter that explains the nature of your condition and the medical services required
- Documentation of a scheduled appointment with a medical facility in Turkey (if applicable)
- Any other relevant health records
Learn More About Turkey Travel
Obtaining a visa is an essential part of planning your trip. At Entriva, we can easily and efficiently help you with every aspect of getting a Turkey visa. Start your visa application process.
Do you have more questions about travel to Turkey, like how to get Turkish currency or what parts of Turkey are safe to visit? Check out our Turkey content hub for information and guidance on travel restrictions, cultural customs, and more.