Turkey, a captivating bridge between East and West, beckons travelers with its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. From the ancient wonders of Istanbul to the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia and the pristine Mediterranean coastline, Turkey promises an unforgettable adventure. For citizens of the Philippines and Pakistan, securing a visa is a crucial step towards experiencing the allure of Türkiye. This blog post will guide you through the process for obtaining a Turkey Visa from Philippines and a Turkey Visa from Pakistan.
Obtaining a Turkey Visa from Philippines
For Filipino citizens, entering Turkey typically requires a visa. There are two primary avenues: the e-Visa and the traditional “sticker” visa. The choice largely depends on whether you meet specific conditions for the e-Visa.
- Turkey e-Visa for Philippine Citizens (Conditional):
The e-Visa is the most convenient option, allowing you to apply and receive your visa online. However, it’s crucial to understand the conditions:
- Eligibility Condition: Filipino passport holders are generally eligible for a Turkish e-Visa only if they possess a valid visa or a valid residence permit from one of the Schengen countries, the United States, the United Kingdom, or Ireland. This supporting document must be valid throughout your stay in Turkey. E-visas from these countries are not accepted as supporting documents.
- Validity and Stay: If eligible, the e-Visa is typically a single-entry visa allowing a stay of up to 30 days within a 180-day period.
- Application Process:
- Visit the official Turkish e-Visa website: www.evisa.gov.tr.
- Fill out the online application form with personal, passport, and travel details.
- Upload scanned copies of your Philippine passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay) and your valid supporting visa/residence permit (Schengen, US, UK, or Ireland).
- Pay the e-Visa fee online using a credit/debit card. The government fee is around USD 27.05.
- Upon approval (usually within hours to a few days), your e-Visa will be sent to your email. Print a copy to carry with you.
- Important Note: If your supporting visa/residence permit has expired, or if you do not possess one, you are not eligible for the e-Visa and must apply for a regular sticker visa.
- Regular “Sticker” Visa for Philippine Citizens:
If you don’t meet the e-Visa conditions, you will need to apply for a traditional visa through a Turkish Embassy or Consulate. In the Philippines, visa applications are handled by accredited third-party companies like International Journeys (TR Agent).
- Application Process:
- Complete the online preliminary application form on the Turkish Consular Procedures website: www.konsolosluk.gov.tr/Visa/Index and print it out.
- Gather all required documents, which are extensive and include:
- Original passport (valid for at least 6 months), old passports (if any).
- Two biometric passport-sized photos.
- Original PSA Birth Certificate and Marriage Certificate (if applicable).
- Latest Income Tax Return (ITR).
- Original Bank Certificate and 6-month bank statements showing sufficient funds.
- Certificate of Employment/Business registration.
- Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings) and confirmed return flight tickets.
- Letter of intent/invitation letter (if applicable).
- Travel insurance.
- Submit your documents (usually in two sets, original and photocopy) and attend a personal appearance at the accredited visa application center.
- Pay the visa fee (e.g., around USD 160 visa fee + mandatory travel insurance + assistance fees through agents).
- Processing Time: This can be lengthy, often 10-25 working days, and is not guaranteed. It’s highly recommended to apply well in advance and not purchase non-refundable tickets before visa approval.
Applying for a Turkey Visa from Pakistan
Pakistani citizens also require a visa to enter Turkey. Similar to the Philippines, the e-Visa is available but comes with specific conditions. If these conditions are not met, a traditional visa through authorized visa application centers is necessary.
- Turkey e-Visa for Pakistani Citizens (Conditional):
The e-Visa is the preferred route for eligible Pakistani travelers due to its speed and convenience.
- Eligibility Condition: Pakistani passport holders are generally eligible for a Turkish e-Visa only if they hold a valid visa or a valid residence permit from one of the Schengen countries, the United States, the United Kingdom, or Ireland. This supporting document must be valid throughout your stay in Turkey. E-visas are not accepted as supporting documentation.
- Validity and Stay: If eligible, the e-Visa is typically a single-entry visa allowing a stay of up to 30 days within a 180-day period.
- Application Process:
- Visit the official Turkish e-Visa website: www.evisa.gov.tr.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload scanned copies of your Pakistani passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay) and your valid supporting visa/residence permit.
- Pay the e-Visa fee online (government fee around USD 67.95, sometimes with additional service charges if using third-party portals).
- Receive your e-Visa via email (often processed within 12-48 hours). Print it out.
- Important Note: Without the specified valid supporting visa/residence permit, Pakistani citizens are not eligible for the e-Visa and must apply for a regular sticker visa.
- Regular “Sticker” Visa for Pakistani Citizens:
If you do not qualify for the e-Visa, you must apply for a traditional visa through authorized Turkish visa application centers in Pakistan, such as Anatolia Travel Services or Gateway Management Logistics Inc.
- Application Process:
- Fill out the preliminary online application form on www.konsolosluk.gov.tr/Visa/Index and print it. Do not book an appointment online through this system.
- Gather extensive required documents, including:
- Original passport (at least 6 months valid), clear CNIC copy.
- 2 recent biometric photos.
- Last six months’ bank statement with account maintenance letter.
- Last three salary slips, job letter/leave sanction (if employed).
- NTN Certificate, Chamber of Commerce certificate (if applicable).
- Confirmed return tickets and hotel bookings.
- Family registration certificate (FRC)/Marriage Certificate (if applicable).
- Travel insurance.
- Mandatory Personal Appearance: You must appear in person at the visa application center for submission and possibly biometrics.
- Pay the visa fees.
- Processing Time: This can be substantial, usually 3 to 4 weeks or more, as the decision rests solely with the Embassy. Do not purchase non-refundable tickets before visa issuance.
General Advice for All Applicants:
- Official Websites: Always use the official Turkish e-Visa website (www.evisa.gov.tr) or consult the websites of the Turkish Embassy/Consulate in Manila or Islamabad for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Beware of unofficial sites that may charge excessive fees or provide misinformation.
- Document Accuracy: Ensure all information and documents are accurate, complete, and match your passport details to avoid rejections or delays.
- Apply Early: Give yourself ample time for the visa process, especially for regular sticker visas, as processing times can be unpredictable.
By diligently following the specific requirements for your nationality, whether it’s a Turkey Visa from Philippines or a Turkey Visa from Pakistan, you can increase your chances of a successful application and soon be on your way to discovering the wonders of Türkiye.
