If you’re a South African citizen planning a trip to Turkey, there are some important visa requirements that you need to be aware of. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about the various types of visas available for South African citizens travelling to Turkey. We’ll also discuss the process of applying for a visa and some tips on how to make sure your application goes smoothly. Turkey Visa for South African Citizens
Overview of Turkey Visas for South African Citizens
Turkey has a visa policy of issuing visas to South African citizens at their ports of entry. However, it is advisable for South Africans travelling to Turkey to obtain a visa from the Turkish Embassy or Consulate in South Africa before departure.
Visas can be obtained from the Turkish Embassy or Consulates in Pretoria, Johannesburg or Cape Town. The website of the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs contains a list of these offices.
The cost of a visa varies depending on its type and duration, but is generally around R350 for a single-entry visa valid for up to 60 days, or R500 for a multiple-entry visa valid for up to six months. Transit visas are also available, and are cheaper than tourist visas.
It is important to note that, as of 2017, Turkey has introduced an e-visa system for certain nationalities, including South Africans. This means that it is now possible to apply for and obtain a Turkey visa entirely online, without having to visit a Turkish diplomatic mission in person.
Types of Turkish Visas
Turkey offers a range of visas for South African citizens, depending on the purpose and duration of their stay. Turkey Visa Types
– Tourist visa: valid for up to 90 days, for tourism or business purposes.
– Student visa: valid for the duration of your studies, up to one year.
– Work visa: valid for up to one year, for employment in Turkey.
– Permanent residency visa: granted after four years of continuous residence in Turkey.
How to Apply For a Turkish Visa
South African citizens need a visa to enter Turkey. Visas can be obtained from any Turkish embassy or consulate. The application process is simple and straightforward.
First, you will need to fill out an application form. You can find the form online or at your local Turkish embassy or consulate. Be sure to complete the form in its entirety and include all required documentation.
Next, you will need to submit your application form, along with your passport and two passport-sized photographs, to the Turkish embassy or consulate. You may be required to pay a visa fee at this time.
Once your application has been processed, you will be issued a visa that is valid for up to 90 days. This visa allows you to enter Turkey for business or pleasure. Be sure to keep your visa documentation safe and accessible; you will need it when exiting the country.
Required Documents
When applying for a Turkish visa, South African citizens will need to submit the following documents:
-A completed and signed visa application form. This can be obtained from the Turkish consulate or embassy, or downloaded from their website.
-A passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Turkey, with at least two blank pages for visas.
-Two recent passport photographs (35mm x 45mm), taken against a white background.
-Proof of travel insurance that covers medical expenses and repatriation in case of emergency.
-A flight itinerary or booking confirmation, showing dates and flight numbers for your journey to and from Turkey. If you are entering Turkey by land or sea, you will need to provide proof of this as well.
-Proof of financial means, such as bank statements or payslips, to show that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in Turkey. Credit cards are also accepted as proof of financial means.
-If you are planning to work or study during your stay in Turkey, you will need to provide additional documentation related to your job or course of study.
Processing Times and Fees
processing times and fees for turkey visas vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your nationality. turkish embassies and consulates can provide more information on specific requirements and processes.
The standard tourist visa (type C) allows for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The processing time for this visa is typically 10 working days, but may be longer during peak travel periods. The fee for this visa is 80 Turkish Lira (approximately R325).
Visas for business purposes (type D) allow for multiple entries and exits from Turkey over a period of up to one year. The processing time for this visa is typically 15 working days, but may be longer during peak travel periods. The fee for this visa is 160 Turkish Lira (approximately R650).
For those planning to study in Turkey, student visas (type S) are available with a maximum duration of one year. The processing time for this visa is typically 15 working days, but may be longer during peak travel periods. The fee for this visa is 160 Turkish Lira (approximately R650).