Türkiye
Travel Requirements
Türkiye travel requirements
If you’re planning a trip to Türkiye, it’s important to know the travel requirements before you go. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for your journey:
COVID-19 Requirements
As of 1 June, all COVID-19 restrictions in Turkey have been lifted, and passengers arriving in Turkey are no longer required to present proof of vaccination or negative PCR test results. However, COVID-19 entry requirements may change at short notice, you should check the specifics with your airline before you travel. Further details are available on Turkish Airlines or Pegasus websites.
If you’re fully vaccinated
Entry requirements for Turkey are the same for all travellers, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status.
You don’t need to provide proof of your vaccination status for entry to Turkey.
Visa requirements
Passport validity
If you are visiting Turkey, your passport should be valid for at least 150 days from the date you arrive and there should be a full blank page for the entry and exit stamps. You can find more detail about the requirements for entry into Turkey on the website of the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
If you are a resident in Turkey, your passport must be valid for six months from the date you arrive.
Check with your travel provider to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements.
Visas
Visitors from certain countries may need to obtain a visa prior to arrival. This can typically be done online through the Turkish government’s e-Visa website. Some countries are also eligible for a visa on arrival, but it’s best to check with the Turkish embassy or consulate in your home country to confirm.
Countries obligated to obtain the eVisa in advance are following:
Antigua and Barbuda
Armenia
Australia
Bahamas
Bahrain
Barbados
HKG British National (overseas)
Canada
China
Cyprus
Dominica
Dominican Republic
East Timor
Fiji
Grenada
Haiti
Jamaica
Maldives
Mauritius
Mexico
Oman
Saint Lucia
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Saudi Arabia
South Africa
Suriname
Taiwan
United Arab Emirates
United States
Health insurance
Not mandatory but it is highly recommended that you have medical travel insurance when traveling to Turkey. While Turkey has a good healthcare system, medical treatment can be expensive for foreigners who don’t have insurance. In addition, medical travel insurance can provide you with coverage for unexpected situations such as medical emergencies, accidents, and trip cancellations.
Before purchasing travel insurance, it’s important to carefully review the policy to ensure that it provides adequate coverage for your specific needs. Some policies may have exclusions or limitations, so make sure to read the fine print and ask any questions you may have before purchasing.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to check with your home country’s embassy or consulate in Turkey to see if they have any recommendations or requirements for travel insurance.
Currency
The currency of Turkey is the Turkish lira, which is abbreviated as TRY. The lira is divided into 100 kuruş. Banknotes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 lira, while coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 kuruş and 1 lira.
You will get approximately 18,94 TRY for 1 USD, or 22,48 for 1 GBP. The exchange rate will vary da by day.
The Turkish lira has a floating exchange rate and its value fluctuates against other currencies, especially the US dollar and the euro. In recent years, the lira has experienced periods of volatility due to political and economic instability in the country. In August 2018, the lira suffered a sharp devaluation against the US dollar, losing nearly 40% of its value in a matter of weeks. Since then, the lira has recovered some ground but remains vulnerable to political and economic developments.
When traveling to Turkey, it’s a good idea to exchange your currency at a reputable exchange bureau or bank. Some hotels and tourist shops may offer currency exchange services, but they may charge higher rates or have hidden fees. It’s also worth noting that some establishments in Turkey may only accept cash payments, especially in rural areas or smaller towns, so it’s a good idea to carry some local currency with you.
Culture and Etiquette
Turkey has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its customs and traditions. Turkish culture is known for its hospitality, warmth, and friendliness towards guests. Visitors to Turkey are likely to encounter locals who are eager to share their culture and way of life.
One of the most important aspects of Turkish culture is respect for elders and authority figures. It’s important to show deference and politeness to older people, and to people in positions of power or authority. In addition, Turks are generally conservative and modest in their behavior and dress, especially in rural areas and traditional communities. Visitors are advised to dress modestly and avoid overt displays of affection or physical contact in public.
Another important aspect of Turkish culture is the emphasis on family and community. Turks place great importance on family ties and often live in multigenerational households. Hospitality is also an important part of Turkish culture, and visitors are likely to be offered tea or coffee as a sign of welcome. It’s considered polite to accept these offers, even if you don’t want to drink anything.
When visiting mosques or other religious sites, it’s important to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. Women should cover their heads with a scarf, and men should avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless shirts. In addition, it’s important to show respect for religious symbols and practices, and to avoid taking photographs without permission.
Summary:
Maximum visit: 90 days Multiple entries: optional Processing: 24 hours Requires: Valid Passport