Gateways to the Grand Bazaar: Navigating Turkey Visas for Philippines and Pakistan Citizens

Turkey, a land where East truly meets West, offers a captivating blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes.1 From the bustling Grand Bazaar of Istanbul to the surreal fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, its allure is undeniable. For travelers from the Philippines and Pakistan eager to explore this Eurasian gem, understanding the specific visa requirements is the crucial first step. This article will delve into the nuances of obtaining a Turkey visa for Philippines citizens and a Turkey visa for Pakistan citizens, providing a comprehensive guide to facilitate a smooth journey.

Turkey Visa for Philippines Citizens: Conditions and Application

For Philippines citizens, securing a Turkey visa is a mandatory prerequisite for entry.2 While Turkey offers an e-Visa system, the eligibility for Philippine passport holders comes with specific conditions, meaning many will need to opt for a traditional sticker visa.

Eligibility for Turkey e-Visa (for Philippines Citizens):

Philippine citizens are eligible for a single-entry e-Visa to Turkey for tourism or commerce purposes, provided they hold a valid visa or residence permit from one of the following countries:

• Schengen Countries

• USA

• UK

• Ireland

Key Points for e-Visa Eligibility:

• The supporting visa or residence permit must be valid at the time of entry into Turkey. Previously used or unused visas are accepted as long as their validity covers the entry date.

• e-Visas of other countries are not accepted as valid supporting documents.

• If your supporting visa is on an old/expired passport, you must carry both the old and new passports, and the e-Visa should be registered on your current valid passport.

• The original supporting document must be available for presentation to Turkish immigration upon entry.

Application Process for Turkey e-Visa (if eligible):

If a Philippines citizen meets the above criteria, the process for obtaining a Turkey visa for Philippines citizens through the e-Visa system is relatively simple:

1. Visit the Official e-Visa Website: Go to www.evisa.gov.tr. 3Be cautious of unofficial third-party websites.

2. Fill the Application Form: Accurately provide personal details, passport information, and travel dates.4

3. Upload Supporting Documents: This typically includes a scanned copy of your passport's biographical page and details of your valid Schengen, USA, UK, or Ireland visa/residence permit.

4. Pay the Visa Fee: The e-Visa fee for Philippine citizens is usually around USD 27.05 (government fee), subject to change. Payment is made online via credit/debit card.5

5. Receive e-Visa: The approved e-Visa is sent to your email address, typically within a few hours to 3 business days.6 It's advisable to apply at least 48-72 hours before your flight. The e-Visa is generally valid for 180 days and allows a stay of up to 30 days.

Traditional Sticker Visa (for Philippines Citizens not eligible for e-Visa):

For Philippines citizens who do not possess a valid Schengen, USA, UK, or Ireland visa/residence permit, a traditional sticker visa must be obtained from the Turkish Embassy or Consulate General in the Philippines (e.g., Manila). This process is more extensive and requires:

• Online Pre-Application: Start by filling out an application form on the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs visa pre-application system.

• Required Documents: A comprehensive list including original old and new passports (with at least 6 months validity), three recent passport-sized colored pictures, duly accomplished application form, original Certificate of Employment, bank certificate and statements (for the last 3-6 months showing sufficient funds, typically PHP 250,000 balance), income tax return (ITR), NSO original Marriage/Birth Certificates (if applicable), flight itinerary, and hotel reservations. Additional documents may be required for specific cases like honeymooners, students, sponsored travelers, or business owners.

• Appointment and Submission: Schedule an appointment at the Turkish Embassy in Manila or through their accredited visa application center (e.g., TR Agent). Submit your application and documents in person.

• Interview/Biometrics: Personal appearance and biometric data submission may be required.

• Processing Time: Traditional visa applications can take approximately 15 to 25 working days, but may extend during peak season. It is strongly advised to apply at least 1-2 months before your departure.

• Visa Fees: Sticker visa fees can be around USD 160 for a single entry. Service fees by visa centers are additional.

Turkey Visa for Pakistan Citizens: Navigating the Requirements

For Pakistan citizens, a Turkey visa is also mandatory for entry.7 Similar to the Philippines, Pakistan passport holders' eligibility for the e-Visa comes with specific conditions.

Eligibility for Turkey e-Visa (for Pakistan Citizens):

Pakistani citizens are eligible for a single-entry e-Visa for Turkey for tourism or business purposes, provided they hold a valid visa or residence permit from one of the following countries:

• Schengen Countries

• USA

• UK

• Ireland

Key Points for e-Visa Eligibility:

• The supporting visa or residence permit must be valid at the time of entry into Turkey.

• e-Visas from other countries are not accepted as supporting documents.

• The supporting document in original must be available for presentation to Turkish immigration upon entry.

• The e-Visa is a single-entry visa valid for 180 days from the date of issuance, allowing a maximum stay of 30 days.

Application Process for Turkey e-Visa (if eligible):

If a Pakistan citizen meets the above criteria, the process for obtaining a Turkey visa for Pakistan citizens through the e-Visa system is straightforward:

1. Visit the Official e-Visa Website: Go to www.evisa.gov.tr.

2. Fill the Application Form: Provide accurate personal details, passport information, and travel dates.

3. Upload Supporting Documents: This includes a scanned copy of your passport's biographical page and details of your valid Schengen, USA, UK, or Ireland visa/residence permit.

4. Pay the Visa Fee: The e-Visa fee for Pakistani citizens is generally around USD 43 (government fee), subject to change. Payment is made online via credit/debit card.8

5. Receive e-Visa: The approved e-Visa is sent to your email address, typically within a few hours to 24-48 hours. It's advisable to apply at least 72 hours before your flight.

Traditional Sticker Visa (for Pakistan Citizens not eligible for e-Visa):

For Pakistan citizens who do not possess a valid Schengen, USA, UK, or Ireland visa/residence permit, a traditional sticker visa must be obtained from the Turkish Embassy or Consulate General in Pakistan (e.g., Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore). This process is more extensive and requires:

• Online Pre-Application: Begin by completing the application form on the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs visa pre-application system.

• Required Documents: A comprehensive list including original passport (with at least 6 months validity), biometric photos, completed visa application form, round-trip flight tickets, confirmed hotel reservations, personal bank statements (e.g., 3-6 months with a minimum balance of PKR 1,000,000 for solo travelers), Income Tax Returns for the last 3 years, travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage), and a consent letter/NOC from employer/school/parents (if applicable). An invitation letter from Turkey may also be required and should be notarized in Turkey.

• Appointment and Submission: Schedule an appointment at the Turkish Embassy/Consulate or their authorized visa application center. Submission is typically in person.

• Interview/Biometrics: Biometric data (fingerprints) submission is usually mandatory.9 An interview may also be required.

• Processing Time: Traditional sticker visa applications for Pakistan citizens can take approximately 4 to 6 weeks, sometimes even longer during peak seasons. It is strongly advised to apply at least one to two months before your intended travel date.

• Visa Fees: Sticker visa fees for a single entry can be around USD 165, and for multiple entry, around USD 190 (excluding service charges from visa centers).

General Important Considerations for All Travelers:

• Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 60 days beyond the "duration of stay" permitted by your visa. For example, if your e-Visa allows a 30-day stay, your passport must be valid for at least 90 days from your arrival date.

• Accuracy of Information: Double-check all information entered in your application form. Any discrepancies between your visa and passport details can lead to entry refusal.

• Print Your e-Visa: Always carry a printed copy of your e-Visa confirmation when traveling to Turkey, as immigration officials may request it.

• Purpose of Travel: Ensure your visa type matches your actual purpose of travel. For purposes like work or study, traditional visas obtained from a Turkish embassy/consulate are required, regardless of e-Visa eligibility for tourism/commerce.

• Overstaying: Overstaying your visa is a serious offense in Turkey and can result in fines, deportation, and a ban from re-entering the country for a period.10

By meticulously following these guidelines, Philippines citizens and Pakistan citizens can confidently apply for their Turkey visa, paving the way for an enriching exploration of this vibrant nation at the crossroads of continents.