Turkey Visa for US Citizens
United States citizens need a visa to travel to Turkey. United States citizens who are coming to Turkey for tourism and business purposes can apply for a multiple-entry visa online if they meet all the eligibility requirements.
Do Americans need a Visa for Turkey?
Yes, American citizens require a Turkey visa to travel to Turkey, even for short stay visits. American citizens can apply for a Turkey visa in the three (3) following ways:
- Online
- On-arrival
- At the Turkish Embassy in the USA
The citizens of the United States, visiting Turkey for tourism, business or transit purposes, are recommended to apply for a Turkey online visa, from the comfort of their home or office, without the need of presenting any paperwork at the Turkish Embassy or Consulate in the USA and attending any interview, or standing in line at the airport to get a visa on arrival
The Turkey online visa is a multiple-entry visa online valid for upto 3 months for USA travellers. The visa has a validity of 180 days and can be used for entry, multiple times, within that period. However, the period for each stay must not exceed 90 days.
Applying for a Turkey visa online is the easiest and the most convenient way of applying for a visa to Turkey. The entire process will be completed online and the applicants can fill out the form using a smartphone or any other device with a reliable internet connection. The Turkish visa will be sent via email.
Information about the Turkish Visa for US Citizens
The Turkey online visa is a multiple-entry visa online valid for upto 3 months for USA travellers, provided they are travelling for tourism, business and transit purposes. The visa has a validity of 180 days and can be used for entry, multiple times, within that period. However, the period for each stay must not exceed 90 days.
Note: The US citizens who wish to stay in Turkey for more than 90 days for every 180-day period, or for purposes other than business, tourism or transit, will be required to obtain a Turkish visa through the Turkish embassy in the USA.
Turkish Visa requirements for American citizens
The Turkey visa online can be easily and quickly requested online. The citizens from the United States to meet the Turkish visa online requirements, need the following documents:
- US passport valid for a minimum of 150 days from the date of arrival in Turkey.
- A valid and active email address to receive the Turkey visa online, and the notifications regarding the Turkey visa.
- A valid Debit or Credit card to pay the Turkey visa fee
Note: Travellers from the USA need to meet the eligibility criteria to apply for the Turkey visa online. The Turkey Visa Application Form will have questions that verify the US citizen's eligibility to travel with an electronic visa. They additionally cover the purpose of the visit, availability of funds, and passport validity of the applicant.
How to get a Turkey Visa from US passport holders?
Turkish electronic visa applications are easy and quick to complete, and US citizens who match the online visa eligibility requirements can complete and submit the Turkey Visa Application Form in just minutes.
US citizens can apply for a Turkey visa by following the 3 steps given below:
- Duly fill out and complete the online Turkey Visa Application form for US citizens:
- You will be required to fill out the form with the required information:
- personal data
- passport details
- travel information
- The form-filling out process will take around 5 minutes
- Make sure to obtain other required documents for Türkiye, including the
- COVID-19 Form for Entry
- Embassy registration (if eligible)
- Make sure to pay the Turkey Visa application fee, and submit the visa request. Please make sure to review the information, before paying the visa processing fee with a debit or credit card. The following payment methods are accepted:
- Visa
- Mastercard
- American Express
- Maestro
- JCB
- UnionPay
- All transactions will be made securely
- You will receive the approved Turkey visa
- The approval Turkey visa will be confirmed by SMS
- The applicants will receive the approved Turkey visa via email
- The majority of the applications are approved within 48 hours
Note: Please make sure to take a printout of the approved Turkey visa after receiving it via email, and keep the hard copy with you while travelling. The hard copy of the approved Turkey visa has to be presented on arrival at the border, along with the US passport.
How long does it take to get a Visa to Turkey from the USA?
Turkish electronic visa applications are easy and quick to complete, and US citizens who match the online visa eligibility requirements can complete and submit the Turkey Visa Application form in just minutes.
The Turkish visa applications are usually processed quickly and most American applicants receive the visa within 48 hours from the time of submission. However, in some cases, more time might be required for the visa to get approved and delivered. Hence, American citizens are recommended to allow extra time in case of any delay.
All the Turkish visa applications are reviewed by the Turkish immigration department, and applicants are suggested not to book flights or accommodation ahead of time until they have received confirmation of Turkey visa approval.
The approved Turkey visa will be sent directly to the applicant’s email once it has been approved. Passport control officers can verify the validity of the Turkey visa using their online system.
However, it is recommended to keep an electronic copy of the Turkey visa for US citizens on the applicant’s tablet or phone or bring a printed or hard copy of the Turkey visa, to show immigration officials if necessary.
Applying online for a Turkish Visa for US citizens
Eligible citizens from the United States of America will need to fill in the Turkey Visa Application Form with their personal details, and passport information. Arrivals will be required to fill out the following basic information in the Turkey visa online application form:
- Basic personal information, including:
- Full Name
- Date of birth and Place of birth
- Contact information
- Passport data, including:
- Country of issuance of the passport
- Passport number,
- Passport date of issuance and expiration
- Travel details, including
- Date of arrival in Turkey
- The applicant’s purpose of visit (tourism, business or transit).
Note: The US applicants must be careful while filling out the form. They must make sure their answers are carefully revised before submission, as any errors, including missing information, could delay the visa processing and disrupt travel plans.
The Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP) for US citizens visiting Turkey
STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) is recommended for Americans travelling to Turkey.
If you are travelling outside the United States, you should register for STEP. Travellers can be contacted in the unlikely event of an emergency at home or abroad by providing their details to the US embassy in Türkiye.
In addition, relevant information about their destination can be provided to them.
Getting started with STEP is easy: US citizens can sign up online. You can do this when applying for a Turkey online visa. Typically, the process takes a few minutes.
The majority of Taiwan passport holders prefer to travel to Turkey by plane as it is the fastest and most comfortable option. However, they can also travel by road.
Turkish entry requirements for American citizens
The Turkey visa online can be easily and quickly requested online. The citizens from the United States to meet the Turkish visa online requirements, need the following documents:
- Valid visa to Turkey from the USA
- A US passport valid for at least 150 days (6 months is recommended)
- Covid-19 Form for Entry to Turkey
Visa requirements to transit through a Turkish airport
The citizens of America travelling to Turkey for transit purposes do not need to apply for a Turkish transit visa, provided they are changing flights within a Turkish airport. The only requirements they have is a valid US passport and an onward flight ticket.
Nonetheless, an approved Turkey visa is a mandatory requirement for onward travel to another country via road, rail or sea.
Travelling in Europe after visiting Turkey
Turkey does not belong to the European Union. With its own immigration requirements, it is a separate national entity.
Henceforth, US citizens who are planning to visit an EU destination after exploring Turkey are required to hold the correct travel authorization to enter the Schengen Area, as well as a valid Turkish visa.
Travel to Turkey from the USA
The majority of US passport holders prefer to travel to Turkey by plane as it is the fastest and most comfortable option. The direct flights from the USA to the Istanbul Airport (IST) depart from various US cities such as Boston, Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles.
Alternatively, there are also other flights with one or more stops to several Turkish destinations, namely:
- Adana
- Bodum
- Dalaman.
Note: Turkish border officials verify travel documents. Therefore, receiving an approved visa does not guarantee entry into the country. The final decision lies with Turkish immigration authorities.
The Turkish embassy in Taiwan
Taiwanese citizens visiting Turkey for tourism and business purposes do not need to visit the Turkish Embassy in person to apply for a visa, provided they are staying in Turkey for 30 days.
The Turkey visa application process is completely online and can be filled out from the comfort of the traveller’s home or office.
Passport holders from Taiwan, who do not meet all the Turkish visa online requirements can apply for a Turkey visa through the Turkish Representative Office in Taipei, at the following location:
Room 1905, 19F, 333,
Keelung Road, Sec. 1,
Taipei 110, Taiwan
Note: Taiwanese travellers must make sure to contact the embassy well ahead of their intended departure date.
The Turkish embassy in the United States
Travellers from the USA visiting Turkey for tourism and business purposes do not need to visit the Turkish Embassy in person to apply for a visa as the Turkey visa application process is completely online and can be filled out from the comfort of the traveller’s home or office.
However, USA citizens who wish to stay in Turkey for more than 90 days for every 180-day period, or for purposes other than business or tourism, will be required to obtain a Turkish visa through the Turkish embassy or consulate.
Passport holders from the USA, who do not meet all the Turkish visa online requirements can apply for a Turkey visa through the Turkish Embassy in the United States of America in Washington, at the following location:
2525 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W
D.C. 20008
Washington, United States
USA travellers can further apply for a Turkish Visa from the Turkish Consulate in New York, at the following location:
825 3rd Avenue, 28th Floor
NY 10022
New York, United States
The USA travellers can also apply at Turkish Consulates in other parts of the USA, including Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, and Boston.
Note: The travellers from the USA must make sure to contact the embassy well ahead of their intended departure date, to apply for a Turkish visa from the USA as the visa application process is long and more complex
Can US citizens travel to Turkey?
Yes, American travellers can now travel to Turkey, as long as they have the necessary entry permit for Turkey. The most recommended process to avail of a Turkey visa is to apply for it online.
The Turkey online visa is a multiple-entry visa online valid for upto 90 days for US travellers. The visa can be obtained online by simply filling out a quick questionnaire and submitting a digital copy of the US passport.
Do US citizens need a visa for Turkey?
Yes, all visitors from the US are required to be in possession of a valid Turkey visa to be eligible for entry into Turkey. The easiest and the most convenient way to obtain travel authorization to pass through Turkish immigration is with a Turkey online visa.
The Turkey online visa is a multiple-entry visa online valid for upto 3 months for USA travellers. The visa has a validity of 180 days and can be used for entry, multiple times, within that period. However, the period for each stay must not exceed 90 days.
The Turkish visa can be obtained online, from the comfort of the applicant’s home or office, without the need to visit an embassy in person, and the American applicants will usually receive the visa within 24 hours from the time of submission. However, extra time might be required in some cases.
How much is the Turkish Visa from the USA?
The cost of the Turkey visa online depends on the type of Turkey visa the US traveller is applying for, keeping in mind the purpose of the travel (tourism or business) and the expected duration the American citizen plans to stay in Turkey.
The cost of the Turkey online visa for travellers from the USA can also vary depending on the extra services opted for by the individual, such as registration with the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP).
Nonetheless, the US applicants can view the final visa fee after selecting all of their chosen services on the Turkey online visa application system.
Can US citizens get a Visa on arrival in Turkey?
Yes, US citizens qualify to apply for a Turkey visa on arrival. The travellers from the US, applying for a Turkey visa on arrival will, however, have to wait in line and pay the visa fee in cash, US dollars, Euros, or British pounds to get the visa.
Nevertheless, to avoid delays in arrival at the Turkish airport, American citizens are recommended to apply in advance for the Turkey visa online. By applying for the Turkey visa online, before departure, passengers do not have to stress about their Turkish visa application being rejected on arrival.
Correspondingly, the Turkish visa fees will be paid securely online using a debit or credit card.
Can I work in Turkey as an American with a Turkey Visa?
No, US citizens cannot work in Turkey with a Turkey online visa. This is because the Turkey online visa can only be obtained if the American citizen is travelling to Turkey for short business trips and tourism. They will not be allowed to work on a Turkey visa online. to Turkey without applying for a Turkey Visa.
However, in order to seek paid employment in Turkey, US nationals need to contact a Turkish embassy or consulate in the USA and inquire about the necessary residency visas and work permits.
How long can US citizens stay in Turkey?
The Turkey online visa is a multiple-entry visa online that is valid for upto 3 months for USA travellers, provided they are travelling for tourism, business and transit purposes.
The visa allows US citizens to stay in Turkey for a period of 90 days. The visa has a validity of 180 days and can be used for entry, multiple times, within that period. However, the period for each stay must not exceed 90 days.
Note: The US citizens who wish to stay in Turkey for more than 90 days for every 180-day period, or for purposes other than business, tourism or transit, will be required to obtain a Turkish visa through the Turkish embassy in the USA.
Are US citizens allowed to visit Turkey?
Yes, US citizens are now allowed to visit Turkey, provided they have a valid Turkey visa and a valid US passport.
Some additional requirements will also be applied, including the requirement of filling out a health declaration form, presenting a vaccine certificate or negative test result
Do American cruise passengers need a Visa to Turkey?
Certain special arrangements are in place for US passengers on cruise ships reaching a Turkish port. The US cruise ship travellers heading to Turkey can go ashore for a day's visit without a Turkey visa.
However, to stay in Turkey, a Turkey visa online is required.
How can US Green Card holders get a Visa for Turkey?
The US Green Card holders will be eligible to apply for a Turkey visa online, provided they hold a passport issued from an eligible country.
The process will be completely similar to as when applying with an American passport. However, depending on the traveller’s nationality, they may only be eligible to get a single-entry document. The length of stay, additionally, may also vary.
Holding a US residence permit allows passport holders from conditional visa countries to apply for the Turkey visa online.
Nationals of some countries including Egypt, Kenya, and Zimbabwe can get a Turkey visa online, provided they have a valid visa or residence permit from the US, UK, Ireland, or a Schengen State.
What are some important points to remember while visiting Turkey from the USA?
The following are some important points that USA travellers should remember before entering Turkey:
- American citizens require a Turkey visa to travel to Turkey, even for short stay visits. American citizens can apply for a Turkey visa in the three (3) following ways:
- Online
- On-arrival
- At the Turkish Embassy in the USA
- The citizens from the United States to meet the Turkish visa online requirements, need the following documents:
- US passport valid for a minimum of 150 days from the date of arrival in Turkey.
- A valid and active email address to receive the Turkey visa online, and the notifications regarding the Turkey visa.
- A valid Debit or Credit card to pay the Turkey visa fee
- The travellers from the USA entering Turkey are required to carry the following 3 documents mandatorily to be eligible for entry into the country:
- Valid visa to Turkey from the USA
- A US passport valid for at least 150 days (6 months is recommended)
- Covid-19 Form for Entry to Turkey
- The USA applicants must be careful while filling out the form. They must make sure their answers are carefully revised before submission, as any errors, including missing information, could delay the visa processing and disrupt travel plans.
- US citizens qualify to apply for a Turkey visa on arrival. The travellers from the US, applying for a Turkey visa on arrival will, however, have to wait in line and pay the visa fee in cash, US dollars, Euros, or British pounds to get the visa.
What are some places USA citizens can visit in Turkey?
If you are planning to visit Turkey from the USA, you can check our list of places given below to get a better idea about Turkey:
Cleopatra Beach, Alanya
The picturesque Cleopatra Beach is located at the base of the majestic, ancient Alanya castle. After Cleopatra liked swimming in the area's sea, it is believed that she herself brought the smooth sands to this enticing beach.
Whether or not you believe the legend, spending an afternoon on the beach in the shadow of the ancient castle can feel like travelling back in time. There is even a pirate ship from the film Pirates of the Caribbean parked here to add to the authentic setting.
Although the Mediterranean Sea in this area is calm enough for swimming, there are still enough large waves to make participating in water sports enjoyable. Grab a drink and enjoy a leisurely lunch if you'd like something a little more tranquil.
Ovabükü
The charming Ovabükü bay on the Datça peninsula truly has it all: cobalt blue oceans, stunning natural scenery, and soft sandy shingle. There are a few locally owned eateries on the beach that serve bread, fresh fish, and salads under the shade of the nearby pines.
The beach is full of jaw-droppingly gorgeous charm. Additionally, there are several adorable tiny pensions nearby, allowing you to stay a night or two and take in the true beauty of Ovabükü beach.
Ovabükü offers the chance for a true slice of isolation, away from the duties of contemporary life, despite the fact that the beach itself may be relatively tiny and surrounded by the freshness of the forested hillside and concealed inside this rocky enclave.
Spending a few days exploring this region of the peninsula and the nearby bays of Haytbükü and Kzlck will give you the much-needed break you require.
Orfoz, Bodrum
One of Turkey's most popular travel spots in Turkey is Bodrum. It's no surprise that this coastal city draws superyachts, cruises, and international celebrities with its stunning beaches, pristine water, exciting nightlife, and top-notch restaurants.
Orfoz is the restaurant in Bodrum that sticks out among all the others. Orfoz has continuously been rated as one of Turkey's best dining destinations thanks to its breathtaking scenery and mouthwatering cuisine.
One of the best-tasting menus in Turkey can be found at Orfoz. The main courses are plenty to fully satiate you, though you can tack on extras. There is nothing quite as relaxing as eating delicious parmesan oysters (parmesanli istiridye) and sipping award-winning sparkling Kavaklidere Altn köpük wine while watching the sun go down.
Make sure to try out their homemade chocolate because it tastes better than it sounds!
Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum
One of the most renowned sights in southeast Turkey is the city of Gaziantep, where you can spend a few days indulging in the region's world-famous baklava and exploring the Old Town neighbourhood's backstreets. However, the most well-known site in this area is the Zeugma Mosaic Museum in Gaziantep.
One of the largest and most renowned mosaic collections in the world is housed in the Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum.
The Zeugma Greco-Roman remains, which are currently only partially submerged as a result of the construction of the Belichick Dam, are where the majority of the Hellenistic and Roman floor mosaics on display here were found.
The mosaics provide visitors with a taste of Greco-Roman artistry since they have been carefully curated and are organised so they can be seen from the best angles.
Even though it is one of the smallest works, The Gypsy Girl in the collection is the most well-known mosaic among the massive mosaics on display here. dramatically positioned in a room with low lighting to help viewers better appreciate the intricate craftsmanship of the object.
Pamukkale
The pristine white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, often known as Cotton Castle in English, tumble down the slope and seem out of place in the surrounding greenery. They are one of Turkey's most well-known natural beauties.
The enormous and sprawling ruins of Greco-Roman Hierapolis, an ancient spa town, are spread across the crest of this calcite hill. The travertines themselves are a highlight of a journey to Turkey!
After viewing the ruins of the city's agora, gymnasium, necropolis, and massive gates, as well as the ancient theatre with its views of the surrounding countryside, you may take a dip in the historic pool's mineral-rich waters, which helped make this spa town famous in antiquity.
After that, descend the travertine slope to the small modern settlement by wading through the water-filled top terraces.
Konya
Konya, a sizable city in Turkey's Central Anatolia Region, is one of the oldest cities in the world and is well known for its amazing Seljuk architecture and Whirling Dervishes. Under the Seljuk Dynasty, Konya flourished as a capital city in the 12th and 13th centuries.
There are some beautiful structures from that time period that can be seen today, such as the Alaeddin Mosque, which contains the tombs of various sultans. The Ince Minare Medrese, which is now a museum and houses artefacts from the Seljuk and Ottoman periods, is another well-known illustration
The Seljuk Palace is equally worthwhile to visit despite being in ruins. One of Turkey's biggest skyscrapers and a modern architectural marvel is the Seljuk Tower, which has a rotating restaurant on its top two floors.
Rumi, a Persian mystic and theologian, lived in Konya in the 13th century. A must-see location in Konya is his mausoleum, the Mausoleum of Rumi, which is next to the Melvana Museum.
The Mevlevi Order, commonly known as the Whirling Dervishes due to their renowned religious rituals in which they spin around and around on the left foot while dressed in white, billowing gowns, was created by Rumi's devotees. Weekly viewings of these Sama rites are possible at the Mevlana Cultural Center.
Additionally, Konya has gorgeous parks and natural areas, including Alaeddin Hill in the heart of the city as well as the Japanese Park, which features lovely pagodas, waterfalls, and ponds.
Konya is one of Turkey's more conservative cities, thus there aren't as many bars and clubs there. But some hotels and cafes do serve alcoholic beverages.