Transition to Electronic Visa System Begins April 10

The Turkish government will replace the current visa-on-arrival program for select nationalities with an electronic visa system on April 10, 2014 and will provide several interim options for travelers who do not have electronic authorization upon arrival. After a certain, yet-to-be announced date, these transitional measures will no longer be available.

For a limited period of time, eligible foreign nationals will be able to obtain electronic travel authorization at interactive kiosks in Turkish airports if they have not obtained authorization prior to entry. Eligible travelers will also be able to obtain electronic travel authorization from authorized airline offices, although the government has yet to confirm whether airline offices abroad or only Turkish airline offices will be authorized. Tour groups will be able to apply for group travel authorizations with a single online payment of the government fee.

The electronic visa system will be available only to select nationalities for business or tourism visits. Visa nationals will still be required to apply for a visitor visa at a Turkish consulate.

Fees for the travel authorization will be lower than the current visa-on-arrival fee, with debit and credit cards accepted as payment. The electronic system offers services in English, French and Spanish. Arabic, Chinese, Dutch, German, Norwegian and Polish language options will be added at a later date.

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen, or send an email to [email protected].