Turkey Visa on Arrival: Who Can Get It and How It Works (2025 Guide)
Traveling to Turkey soon and wondering if you can get a visa on arrival? In this 2025 guide, we break down exactly who is eligible for the Turkey Visa on Arrival, how it works, what documents you’ll need, and what to expect at the airport. Whether you're planning a last-minute trip or looking for the easiest way to enter Turkey, this article has you covered.
What Is the Turkey Visa on Arrival?
The Visa on Arrival (VoA) allows eligible travelers to obtain a visa upon landing at a Turkish airport or other border entry point, rather than applying in advance online or through an embassy. It’s a convenient option for short-term visits for tourism or business purposes, typically for stays of up to 30 or 90 days, depending on your nationality.
However, not everyone qualifies for this option, and in recent years, Turkey has shifted much of its visa process to a more modern e-Visa system.
Who Can Get a Visa on Arrival in Turkey?
As of 2025, only a small number of nationalities remain eligible for the traditional visa on arrival. The most notable are:
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Citizens of Kuwait
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Citizens of Oman
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Citizens of the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
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Some Caribbean and African countries (varies year to year)
Previously, citizens from countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and the UK were eligible for VoA, but they must now apply through the e-Visa platform prior to travel.
👉 Important: Eligibility rules can change, so it's highly recommended to check the official Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or consult your airline before departure.
How Does the Process Work?
If you're eligible for a visa on arrival, here's how it works:
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Arrive at a Turkish airport with your valid passport.
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Head to the Visa on Arrival counter before passport control.
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Present your passport and pay the visa fee (usually in cash, in USD or EUR).
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Receive a visa sticker or stamp in your passport.
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Proceed through immigration with your new visa.
Processing time: Usually 5–10 minutes
Cost: Varies by nationality (typically between $20 and $70 USD)
Documents You’ll Need
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A passport valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry
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Visa fee in cash (some airports may accept cards, but don’t rely on it)
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A return or onward flight ticket (may be requested)
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Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
Final Tips
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Prefer the e-Visa if you're eligible. It's faster, cheaper, and avoids the uncertainty of arrival procedures.
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Always check for updated policies, especially if traveling from a country with changing diplomatic relations.
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Arrive early, especially during peak travel seasons, to allow time for visa processing.
In summary, the Turkey Visa on Arrival is still an option for certain travelers in 2025, but it’s gradually being phased out in favor of online applications. Use this guide to find out if you qualify and how to make your arrival in Turkey smooth and stress-free!
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