If you are a South African citizen planning a trip to Turkey, you will need to obtain a visa before your departure. Fortunately, South Africans have the option to apply for a Turkey eVisa, a convenient and efficient electronic travel authorization that allows visitors to enter Turkey for tourism or business purposes. In this guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about the Turkey eVisa application process and requirements.
The Turkey eVisa is an electronic visa that can be obtained online through the official website of the Republic of Turkey Electronic Visa Application System. The process is simple and straightforward, and it allows South African citizens to apply for a Turkey eVisa from the comfort of their own homes or offices.
To apply for a Turkey eVisa as a South African citizen, you will need to provide basic personal and travel information, such as your full name, passport number, and travel itinerary. You will also need to upload a scanned copy of your passport and a recent passport-sized photograph. Additionally, you will be required to pay a fee for the eVisa, which can vary depending on the length of your stay in Turkey.
The processing time for a Turkey eVisa for South Africans is usually within 24-72 hours. However, it is recommended to apply at least 72 hours before your scheduled departure to avoid any delays or complications. Once your application is approved, you will receive an email confirmation with your eVisa attached.
It is important to note that the Turkey eVisa is valid for multiple entries and can be used within 180 days from the date of issue. The maximum length of stay for South African citizens with a Turkey eVisa is 90 days per visit.
In the event that your application for a Turkey eVisa is rejected, you can still apply for a regular visa at the Turkish Embassy in South Africa. However, this process can be more time-consuming and may require an in-person appointment.
The Turkey eVisa offers a convenient and efficient option for South African citizens planning a trip to Turkey. By following the simple application process and meeting the necessary requirements, you can obtain your eVisa quickly and easily, and enjoy your travels in this beautiful country.
Obtaining an Online Visa for Traveling to Turkey from South Africa
South African citizens can conveniently apply for a Turkey visa online. The Turkey e-Visa system is available for citizens of over 50 countries, including South Africa.
Obtaining a Turkey visa from South Africa is a hassle-free process with the online system. It eliminates the need for a visit to the local Turkish embassy or consulate, and the application can be completed from the comfort of home or office in a matter of minutes.
This page provides comprehensive information on the entry requirements for South Africans traveling to Türkiye, including how to apply for a Turkey visa.
With the online system, obtaining a Turkey eVisa for South Africans is quick and simple.
Do South Africans Need a Visa for Turkey?
Yes, South Africans need a visa for Turkey. Regardless of the purpose or duration of their trip, South African citizens must obtain a visa before traveling to Turkey. However, South African tourists and business travelers can conveniently apply for an electronic visa for Turkey through the online eVisa system. This is the fastest and most efficient way to obtain a Turkey visa for South Africans.
The Turkey eVisa for South Africans permits multiple entries and allows for a stay of up to 30 days.
Validity Period of Turkey eVisa for South Africans
The Turkey eVisa for South Africans is a multiple-entry visa that allows for a stay of up to 30 days. The visa is valid for a period of 180 days from the date of issue. This means that South African citizens can enter Turkey multiple times within the 180-day period and stay for up to 30 days on each visit. It is important to note that the 30-day stay limit includes the day of arrival and the day of departure from Turkey. Therefore, travelers must ensure that their stay in Turkey does not exceed 30 days in total within the 180-day validity period of the eVisa.
Applying for a Turkey Visa: Guide for South African Citizens
South African citizens can obtain a Turkey tourist visa by following these three simple steps:
Fill out the online application form:
The first step is to complete the online application form. It is essential to provide accurate and up-to-date information, including personal details, passport information, and travel plans.
Pay the Visa Processing Fee:
After submitting the application, the next step is to pay the visa processing fee using a credit card or debit card. The fee varies depending on the type of visa and processing time.
Receive the Approved eVisa by Email:
Once the application and payment are confirmed, the applicant will receive an email with their approved eVisa attached. South Africans must print a copy of the eVisa and keep it with them while traveling to Türkiye.
The online application process is a convenient and quick way to obtain a Turkey visa for South African citizens. It eliminates the need for lengthy paperwork or in-person visits to the embassy or consulate.
Requirements for Obtaining a Turkey Visa for South African Citizens
Prior to initiating the application process, it is important for South African passport holders to ensure they meet the eVisa requirements established by the Turkish government. These visa prerequisites consist of:
- A South African passport, with a validity period of at least 150 days from the planned arrival in Türkiye.
- An email address to receive the visa.
- A debit or credit card to pay for the eVisa processing fee.
Furthermore, South African applicants must have access to a reliable internet connection and a mobile device such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer.
Applying for a Turkey eVisa: Step-by-Step Process for South Africans
To apply for the Turkey eVisa, South African applicants will need to provide their personal details through the online application form. The required information includes -
- The Applicant's Name,
- Date Of Birth,
- Place Of Birth,
- Nationality,
- Passport Details,
- Email Address,
- And Phone Number.
Accuracy is crucial when filling out the application form to avoid any delays in processing times or potential rejection of the eVisa application. Any errors or discrepancies could result in a delay or denial of the eVisa.
South African travelers will also be required to pay a small fee for their eVisa application. The payment can be made through a secure online payment system, which accepts major international debit or credit cards authorized for online transactions.
Processing Times for Turkey eVisa Applications for South Africans
The processing times for Turkey eVisa applications from South African citizens are usually quick and efficient. Once the application has been submitted and the processing fee has been paid, the eVisa will be sent to the applicant via email within 6-12 hours.
However, it is recommended that South African travelers apply for their eVisa at least 48 hours before their scheduled departure to Türkiye to allow enough time for any unexpected delays or complications.
In some cases, the eVisa application may take longer to process, especially if there are discrepancies or errors in the application form. It is important to ensure that all the information provided is accurate and up-to-date to avoid any processing delays.
In the unlikely event that an eVisa application is rejected, South African applicants can apply for a traditional visa at the Turkish Embassy in Pretoria. However, this process can be time-consuming and involves a visit to the embassy or consulate, as well as additional documentation and fees.
Traveling to Turkey with the Turkey eVisa: What South Africans Need to Know
When traveling to Turkey with the eVisa, South African citizens should keep in mind the following:
- Validity: The Turkey eVisa is valid for 180 days from the date of issue, and it allows multiple entries to Turkey for up to 30 days per visit.
- Presentation: South African travelers must present a printed copy of their eVisa upon arrival in Turkey. It is also recommended to keep a digital copy on their smartphone or other device.
- Passport: South African travelers must have a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity from the date of arrival in Turkey.
- Additional Documents: South African travelers may be required to provide additional documents upon arrival in Turkey, such as proof of accommodation, return ticket, and sufficient funds to cover their stay.
- Entry Restrictions: South African travelers must comply with Turkey's entry requirements, including any travel restrictions or COVID-19 related protocols that may be in place at the time of travel.
- Visa Extension: South African travelers can extend their stay beyond the 30-day limit by applying for a residence permit from the local authorities in Turkey.
- Embassy Assistance: South African travelers can contact the South African embassy in Turkey for any assistance or support during their stay. The embassy is located in Ankara and can be reached by phone or email.
Traveling from South Africa to Turkey: Visa Information
The Turkey eVisa offers South African citizens a maximum stay of 30 days in the country.
Air travel is the most convenient way for South Africans to travel to Turkey. Direct flights from Cape Town to Istanbul are available, with a duration of 10 hours and 25 minutes. Alternatively, flights with one stopover are available from Johannesburg to Istanbul, with a travel time of approximately 15 hours.
Some FAQs About Turkish e-Visas:
Yes, South African citizens need a visa for Turkey, even for short stays.
The Turkey eVisa for South Africans is valid for multiple entries and allows for a stay of up to 30 days within a 180-day period.
South African citizens can apply for a Turkey eVisa online by completing the application form, paying the processing fee, and receiving the approved visa by email.
The requirements include a valid South African passport, an email address, and a debit or credit card for payment. The passport must be valid for at least 150 days from the date of arrival in Turkey.
The processing time for a Turkey eVisa for South Africans is typically 24-48 hours, although it can take up to 72 hours in some cases.
No, South African citizens cannot enter Turkey without a valid visa, whether it's an eVisa or a traditional visa obtained from a Turkish embassy or consulate.
South African travelers with an eVisa should ensure they have a valid passport, travel itinerary, and proof of sufficient funds for their stay. They should also be aware of local laws and customs and abide by them.