Turkey has announced that it will allow citizens from six additional European countries to visit the country without the need for a visa. This move aims to enhance diplomatic relations and boost tourism between Turkey and these nations.

Expanded Visa Exemption

Effective from March 2, 2020, Turkey will grant visa-free access to tourists from the following European countries:

• Belgium
• Austria
• the Netherlands
• Poland
• Spain
• United Kingdom (UK)

This significant decision has been made by Turkey's Ministry of Foreign Affairs as part of their efforts to strengthen tourism ties and promote closer commercial, economic, and cultural relations with these nations.

The expanded visa exemption is expected to facilitate easier travel for tourists from these countries, encouraging a boost in tourism and fostering stronger connections between Turkey and its European counterparts. This move aims to create more opportunities for cultural exchange, business collaborations, and mutual growth.

By eliminating visa requirements for visitors from Belgium, Austria, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, and the United Kingdom, Turkey is demonstrating its commitment to enhancing international relations and attracting a broader range of tourists. It is anticipated that this new policy will contribute to the growth of the tourism sector and further diversify Turkey's visitor demographics.

Official Announcement

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, headquartered in Ankara, Turkey's capital city, released an official statement regarding the visa exemption. According to the announcement, citizens of the European Union Schengen area, along with Austria, Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain, Poland, and the United Kingdom, will be allowed to travel to Turkey for tourism purposes for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without the need for a visa.

Benefits and Outlook

By granting visa-free access, Turkey aims to encourage more tourists from these European nations to visit, thereby boosting the tourism industry and fostering stronger ties. This move is expected to have a positive impact on commercial, economic, and cultural relations between Turkey and the aforementioned six European countries.

In summary, Turkey's decision to open its doors to citizens of six more European countries, exempting them from visa requirements, aims to strengthen diplomatic ties and promote tourism. This move is anticipated to bring about increased cooperation and mutual benefits in commercial, economic, and cultural spheres.

Changes in Travel Policies for Citizens of Six European Countries

Turkey is already a popular destination for nationals of many European countries. In 2019 alone, 2.5 million holidaymakers from the UK chose to visit the country, making it a preferred choice for travelers. Located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Turkey ranked as the sixth most-visited country globally, with 51.9 million visitors according to the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).

• Currently, nationals of Belgium, Austria, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, and the United Kingdom are required to apply for a visa before visiting Turkey.
• Starting from 2 March 2020, individuals from these countries visiting Turkey for tourism purposes will no longer need a visa.
• Citizens of Belgium, Spain, and the Netherlands will have the option to travel to Turkey using their ID cards instead of passports.
• Austrian, British, and Polish nationals will still be required to use their passports for travel to Turkey.

The Turkish Foreign Office has provided specific guidance for travelers from Austria, Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain, Poland, and the UK who plan to visit Turkey after 2 March. It advises that passports should be valid for at least six months from the date of entry, and there should be a full blank page available for entry and exit stamps.

Travel Requirements for Non-European Nationals Visiting Turkey

With the recent updates to visa exemption policies, citizens from the majority of European countries can now enjoy visa-free travel to Turkey. However, there are still a few European nationalities that are required to apply for a visa before visiting Turkey.

Countries Requiring Visa Application:

The following European countries still require their citizens to apply for a visa when traveling to Turkey:

• Croatia
• Cyprus
• Ireland
• Malta
• Norway
• Portugal

Convenient Online Visa Application:

Travelers from these countries can easily apply for an eVisa online, eliminating the need to visit an embassy or consulate to obtain a consular visa. The online application process for an eVisa is quick and efficient, making travel preparations hassle-free.

Similar Visa Requirements for Other Countries:

In addition to the aforementioned European countries, citizens from various other nations, including the United States and Australia, also fall into the category of requiring a Turkish eVisa rather than having visa-free entry. These individuals can apply for an eVisa and enjoy a simplified entry process.

Consular Visa Application for Specific Countries:

It is important to note that travelers from a small number of countries, such as Cuba, Palau, and South Sudan, are still required to apply for a traditional consular visa in person to visit Turkey. These individuals should plan accordingly and visit the nearest Turkish embassy or consulate to complete the visa application process.

Check Visa Requirements:

For travelers who are unsure about the specific documentation needed to visit Turkey, it is advisable to consult global visa information or contact the relevant Turkish authorities to verify the visa requirements based on their nationality.

Stay up-to-date with the latest information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience to Turkey.

Reasons behind Turkey's Expansion of Visa Exemption Policy

In a significant move, Turkey has taken steps to open its borders to citizens from EU nations such as Belgium and Austria. This action is part of Turkey's larger initiative to secure visa-free travel to the Schengen Area for its own citizens.

Minister's Announcement

According to the Associated Press (AP), Turkish EU Affairs Minister Omer Celik made an announcement in 2018 stating that Ankara had successfully fulfilled the 72 requirements set by the European body to achieve visa-free access to the Schengen Area.

Current Visa Situation

Despite Turkey's efforts, its citizens are still awaiting visa-free access to most European countries, including those within the Schengen Area. This situation creates a disparity as most European nations already enjoy visa-exemption for their citizens when traveling to Turkey.

Potential for Reciprocity

The recent decision to open Turkey's borders to citizens from EU countries like Belgium and Austria could potentially lead to reciprocity from the EU and Schengen states in the near future. This reciprocity would mean that Turkish citizens might also gain visa-free access to European countries.

Strengthening Turkish-EU Relations

Ibrahim Kalin, the spokesman for Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, expressed optimism regarding the development, stating that it would provide "a new momentum to Turkish-EU relations."

In summary, Turkey's move to allow citizens from select EU nations into its borders aims to secure visa-free travel for Turkish citizens to the Schengen Area. By opening up its borders, Turkey hopes for reciprocal actions from European countries, which would enhance Turkish-EU relations.