As of July 2023, a Turkish passport ranks 95th in the global hierarchy based on the VisaGuide Passport Index. This positioning allows citizens of Turkey to venture into 77 global destinations without a prearranged visa. However, for any travel beyond these countries, Turkish passport holders must organize and secure a visa in advance.

Visa-Free Destinations for Turkish Passport Holders

As of the midpoint of 2023, Turkish citizens enjoy the privilege of visa-free entry into 77 countries and territories. These destinations include:

Keep in mind, visa-free does not mean paperwork-free; travelers must carry a valid passport, typically valid for at least six months beyond their intended departure date. Depending on the destination country, travel health insurance might also be necessary.

ID-Only Travel for Turkish Citizens

For certain countries, Turkish citizens need nothing more than an ID card for entry. This applies to the following countries,Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina , Georgia, Moldova, Serbia.

Countries Offering eVisa to Turkish Citizens

An increasing number of countries are moving toward the digital realm and offering electronic visas or eVisas. Turkish passport holders can apply for an eVisa for the following countries:

The process of obtaining an eVisa mirrors the traditional visa application but with added convenience. You can manage the entire process online, including fee payment. Upon approval, you'll receive an email containing your visa status and a document that you need to print and carry when traveling. Although your visa information is registered online, it is always best to have a physical copy in case of any requests by immigration officers.

Countries Providing Visa on Arrival to Turkish Citizens

Certain nations offer the comfort of visa-on-arrival (VOA) to Turkish passport holders, meaning you can secure a visa upon reaching your destination. The countries offering this service include, Armenia, Bahrain ,Bangladesh ,Burundi ,Cambodia ,Cabo Verde ,Comoros ,Guinea-Bissau ,Kuwait ,Laos ,Lebanon ,Madagascar ,Maldives ,Marshall Islands ,Mauritania ,Mozambique ,Namibia ,Nepal ,Palau ,Rwanda ,Samoa Seychelles ,Sierra Leone ,Somalia ,Sudan ,Taiwan ,Tajikistan ,Tanzania ,Timor-Leste ,Togo ,Tonga ,Tuvalu ,Zambia ,Zimbabwe.

VOA typically requires you to apply and pay for your visa at a designated counter in your arrival airport.

Countries Requiring Pre-arranged Visa for Turkish Citizens

Visiting any of the following 105 nations will necessitate Turkish citizens to procure a visa in advance:

Visa Application Process for Turkish Citizens

To apply for a visa, Turkish citizens must follow these steps:

• Schedule an appointment: Start by contacting a local visa application center in Turkey to schedule an appointment. This can sometimes take months, so early planning is advised.
• Prepare necessary documents: Gather all required documents for Turkish Citizens , such as your passport, application form, health insurance, etc. Some of these might need verification with an apostille stamp or certification by a foreign office.
• Submit your application: Attend the visa interview and submit your application. The translation of your documents as required by the embassy or consulate, and an apostille stamp verification if necessary, will pave the way for application submission. It can take several weeks for a decision on your visa application.

Remember, if you already hold a multi-entry visa, a new visa application is not required.

Visa Application Essentials for Turkish Citizens

When applying for a visa, Turkish citizens must provide certain documents. The exact requirements can vary by country, but the following are commonly required:

• Valid Turkish passport and a photocopy
• Completed visa application form
• Recent passport-sized photos (not older than six months)
• Travel health insurance coverage for the entire stay
• Receipt for the paid visa fee
• Detailed travel itinerary
• Letter of invitation (if applicable)
• Proof of return flight booking
• Proof of accommodation booking
• Proof of sufficient funds for the trip
• Civil status documents (e.g., marriage certificates, birth certificates)

Do note, a past criminal history can lead to a visa application being rejected.

Dual Citizenship for Turkish Nationals

In the world of global mobility, dual citizenship offers an extra layer of convenience and flexibility. Turkish law allows dual citizenship under specific conditions. However, the other citizenship's country must also accept dual citizenship. If you're a Turkish citizen and considering dual citizenship, you should investigate the benefits and obligations it may entail.

Tips for Hassle-Free Travel

Traveling abroad, whether for leisure or business, should ideally be a stress-free experience. Beyond the standard travel tips, consider the local customs, traditions, and social norms of the countries you'll be visiting. Make it a point to learn a few key phrases in the local language. Not only can this make your travel more interesting, but it also shows respect towards the local culture.

Temporary Resident Permits

Many countries offer temporary resident permits or visas for longer stays, usually for employment, study, or business purposes. If you're planning a longer stay in a country that requires a visa for Turkish citizens, you should inquire about the process of obtaining a temporary resident permit.

Traveling with Children

When traveling with minors, the requirements can sometimes be different. Some countries require additional documentation to prevent international child abduction. If you plan on traveling with children, make sure you are aware of all the extra requirements.

International Driving Permit

If you plan to drive while abroad, you might need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your Turkish driving license. Many countries don't recognize foreign licenses, but an IDP is accepted globally and can be used as proof of your driving abilities.

Travel Alerts and Warnings

Stay up-to-date with the latest travel alerts and warnings issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkey. These alerts provide valuable information about safety and security concerning international travel.

Vaccination Requirements for Travel

Some countries require specific vaccinations before entry. Always check the health information and vaccination requirements of the countries you intend to visit.

Travel Insurance

Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost luggage, flight accidents, and other losses incurred while traveling internationally.

Emergency Services for Turkish Citizens Abroad

It's crucial to be aware of the consular services available to you in case of emergencies. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkey can provide assistance in emergencies, including lost passports, accidents, or illness while traveling.

FAQ

What is the global ranking of the Turkish passport?

As of July 2023, the Turkish passport is ranked 95th in the world according to the VisaGuide Passport Index.

How many countries can Turkish passport holders visit without a visa?

Turkish passport holders can travel visa-free to 77 countries and territories.

Which countries can Turkish citizens enter without a passport, using only an ID card?

Turkish citizens can enter Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Moldova, and Serbia with only an ID card.

What are some countries that issue eVisas to Turkish citizens?

Countries like Benin, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Guinea, Kenya, Lesotho, Montserrat, Myanmar, Uganda, and the United Arab Emirates issue eVisas for Turkish passport holders.

What countries provide visa on arrival for Turkish passport holders?

34 countries, including Armenia, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Burundi, Cambodia, among others, issue visas on arrival to Turkish passport holders.

What is the process of applying for a visa as a Turkish citizen?

The visa application process involves making an appointment at a visa center, preparing necessary documents (like passport, application form, health insurance), and then submitting the application, possibly followed by an interview and submission of biometrics.

What documents do Turkish citizens need to apply for a visa?

Necessary documents include a valid Turkish passport, a filled visa application form, passport pictures, travel health insurance, proof of paid visa fee, detailed travel itinerary, a letter of invitation (if applicable), proof of return ticket and accommodation booking, proof of sufficient funds, and civil status documents.

Is dual citizenship allowed for Turkish citizens?

Yes, Turkish law permits dual citizenship under specific conditions. However, the regulations of the other country regarding dual citizenship must also be considered.

Do Turkish citizens need an International Driving Permit to drive abroad?

Yes, an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with the Turkish driving license may be required to drive in a foreign country.

Where can Turkish citizens get updates about travel alerts and warnings?

Turkish citizens can stay updated about travel alerts and warnings through the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkey.