Planning a trip to Türkiye? Whether it’s the bazaars of Istanbul, the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, or the beaches of Antalya, Indian travelers need a Turkey visa before entering the country. This guide explains everything in simple terms — visa types, fees, processing time, requirements, and the exact process to apply. All information below is updated and suitable for MusafirBaba’s travel audience.
Do Indians Need a Visa for Turkey?
Yes, Indian citizens must obtain a pre-approved visa before travelling to Turkey.
Türkiye does not offer a visa-on-arrival for Indians. However, a Turkey e-Visa is available only for Indian travellers who meet specific eligibility criteria (explained below).
Most travellers from India will apply for a sticker visa through VFS Global or the Turkish Embassy.
Types of Turkey Visa for Indian Travellers
Turkey offers several visa types based on the purpose of travel:
Tourist Visa – For leisure trips, sightseeing, vacations, and visiting friends/family.
Business Visa – For meetings, exhibitions, and business activities.
Transit Visa – For Indian travellers transiting through Turkey for more than 12 hours.
Student Visa – For long-term educational programs.
Work Visa – For employment in Turkish companies.
For most Indian travellers, the Turkey Tourist Visa is the primary option.
Turkey Sticker Visa (Consular Visa)
This is the most common visa for Indian visitors.
You must apply through VFS Global, submit biometrics, provide documents, and wait for approval from the Turkish Embassy.
Who should apply for a sticker visa?
Anyone travelling for tourism or business
Those not eligible for a Turkey e-Visa
Travellers who don’t have visas/residence permits from US, UK, Ireland, or the Schengen area
Turkey e-Visa for Indians – Eligibility Explained
India is not a general e-visa eligible country.
However, Indians can apply for a Turkey e-Visa if they meet all these conditions:
Hold a valid visa or residence permit from:
USA
UK
Ireland
Schengen countries
Travel to Turkey only for tourism
Travel on airlines approved by the Turkish government
Have a return ticket, hotel booking, and proof of adequate funds
The Turkey e-Visa grants a single-entry stay of up to 30 days.
If you don’t meet these conditions, you must apply for a sticker visa.
Turkey Visa Requirements for Indians
Indian travellers must submit the following documents:
A passport valid for at least six months from the date of arrival
A completed visa application form
Two recent passport-sized photographs
Round-trip flight booking
Hotel reservation or invitation letter
Six months’ bank statements (stamped and signed)
Income tax returns (last 3 years preferred)
Occupation proof (salary slips, business license, student ID, etc.)
Travel insurance covering the full duration of stay
Visa fee payment receipt
Submitting complete documentation increases the chances of fast approval.
Turkey Visa Fees for Indian Travellers
The visa fee varies slightly depending on the application centre and type of visa.
A Turkey Tourist Sticker Visa generally costs between ₹7,000 to ₹9,000, including submission fees, VFS charges, and convenience fees.
A Turkey e-Visa (for eligible Indians) costs around USD 60.
These charges may vary due to currency fluctuations and service changes.
Turkey Visa Processing Time
For most Indian applicants, Turkey visa processing takes 7 to 12 working days after submission.
During peak seasons, holidays, or additional verification, it may take up to 15 working days.
To avoid delays, apply at least one month before your travel date.
How to Apply for a Turkey Visa from India
Here’s the complete step-by-step process:
1. Fill the online form on the Turkey Pre-Application system.
2. Book an appointment with VFS Global.
3. Prepare your documents (bank statements, bookings, insurance, passport, etc.).
4. Visit the VFS centre for biometric submission.
5. Pay the visa fee at the centre.
6. Track your application through VFS.
7. Collect your passport once the visa is approved.
This process applies to travellers applying for the sticker visa.
Turkey Visa Validity and Stay Duration
A typical Turkey Tourist Visa allows:
Single entry
A stay of up to 30 days
Visa validity of 180 days
You must enter and exit within the allowed period mentioned on the visa sticker.
Is Travel Insurance Mandatory?
Yes.
Travel insurance is compulsory for Turkey visa applicants.
It must cover:
Health emergencies
Hospitalization
Travel delays
Repatriation
Minimum recommended coverage: USD 30,000.
Tips for Indian Travellers Visiting Turkey
Book hotels and flights before visa submission.
Carry financial proof for immigration checks.
Keep printed copies of your visa and bookings.
Respect dress codes while visiting mosques and heritage sites.
Learn basic Turkish phrases — it helps in local markets.
