Are you a Sri Lankan citizen planning to explore the enchanting land of Turkey? To embark on your Turkish adventure, you'll need to obtain a Turkey eVisa.

In this guide, we will provide you with comprehensive information about the Turkey Visa application process, eligibility requirements, essential documents, and tips to ensure a seamless journey from Sri Lanka to Turkey. Join us as we unravel the world of eVisas, making your travel dreams to Turkey a reality.

Is a visa required for Sri Lankan citizens to visit Turkey?

Yes, citizens of Sri Lanka are required to obtain a visa to travel to Turkey, regardless of the purpose and duration of their stay. 

However, there are different visa options available for Sri Lankan nationals, depending on the nature of their visit. This guide will specifically focus on the Turkey eVisa, which is a convenient and popular choice for short stays, including tourism and business purposes.

The Turkey eVisa is a digital travel authorization that allows Sri Lankan passport holders to enter Turkey for tourism and business purposes. Here are some key details:

• Duration: The eVisa permits a stay of up to 30 days in Turkey.
• Online Application: Sri Lankan citizens can apply for the eVisa online, making the process quick and hassle-free.
• Convenience: This option is ideal for travelers who plan to visit Turkey for a short duration and want to avoid the complexities of a traditional embassy visa application.

Information About the Turkey eVisa for Sri Lankan Nationals

When applying for a Turkey eVisa as a Sri Lankan national, it's essential to be aware of the key details that define your travel authorization. Here is the most important information you should know:

• Length of Stay : With a Turkey eVisa, Sri Lankan citizens can stay in Turkey for a maximum period of up to 30 days. This is ideal for short visits, including holidays, sightseeing, or short business trips.
• Number of Entries: The Turkey eVisa for Sri Lankan nationals allows for a single entry into Turkey. This means you can enter the country once during the validity of your eVisa.
• eVisa Validity: The eVisa is typically valid for 180 days from the date of your arrival in Turkey. During this period, you can plan your trip and enter Turkey at any time. It's important to note that your stay in Turkey must not exceed 30 days within this 180-day validity period.
• Permitted Activities: Sri Lankan passport holders can use the Turkey eVisa for two primary purposes:
  • Tourism: You can explore the cultural, historical, and natural attractions of Turkey. Whether you're interested in visiting ancient sites, enjoying the stunning landscapes, or experiencing Turkish hospitality, the eVisa is perfect for a tourist adventure.
  • Business: If you have business-related activities in Turkey, such as attending conferences, meetings, or negotiating contracts, the eVisa allows you to do so within the 30-day stay period.

How can Sri Lankan passport holders apply for a Turkey eVisa?

Sri Lankan citizens can apply for a Turkey eVisa by completing an online application. The entire process can be done from the comfort of your home, eliminating the need to visit a Turkish embassy or consulate. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Select your nationality, in this case, Sri Lanka.
• Fill out the online Turkey visa application form with accurate information.
• Pay the visa fee using a credit or debit card.
• Wait for the eVisa to be processed, usually within a few hours.
• Receive the approved Turkish visa by email

Türkiye e-Visa Application Form for Sri Lankans

The Türkiye e-Visa application process is designed to be straightforward and user-friendly for Sri Lankan travelers. It can be completed from the comfort of your own home using a smartphone, laptop, or any electronic device with an internet connection. Here's a breakdown of the key sections and information required in the e-Visa application form:

Personal Information

• Full Name: Provide your full legal name, ensuring it matches the name on your passport.
• Date and Place of Birth: Specify your date of birth and the place where you were born.
• Contact Details: Include your contact information, including your email address. This is crucial for communication and receiving updates regarding your eVisa application.

Passport Data

• Country of Issue: Indicate the country in which your passport was issued. For Sri Lankan citizens, this will be Sri Lanka.
• Passport Number: Enter your passport number, ensuring it is accurate and matches your physical passport.
• Issue and Expiry Date: Provide the issue and expiry date of your passport. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of departure from Turkey.

Travel Details

• Date of Arrival in Turkey: Specify the exact date you plan to arrive in Turkey. It's important to have your travel itinerary in mind when filling out this information.
• Purpose of the Trip: Indicate whether your visit to Turkey is for tourism or business purposes. This is a critical aspect as it determines the type of activities you'll be allowed to engage in during your stay.

Eligibility Questions

Sri Lankan applicants will also be required to answer some eligibility questions related to their travel history, criminal record, and other relevant information. It's essential to respond truthfully and accurately.

Before submitting the application, ensure that all the provided information is correct and matches your passport details. Any inconsistencies could lead to delays or issues with your eVisa.

What is the processing time for a Turkey eVisa for Sri Lankans?

When applying for a Turkey eVisa as a Sri Lankan national, you have the option to choose from different processing times based on your travel urgency. Here are the processing time options available:

• Normal Processing Time: Under normal processing, most Sri Lankan applicants receive their approved Turkish eVisa within 24 hours after submitting their application. This is the standard processing time and is suitable for travelers who have planned their trip well in advance and do not have immediate travel needs.
• Rush Processing Time: If you require expedited service, you can choose the Rush processing option. With Rush processing, you can expect to receive your approved eVisa within 6 to 12 hours after submitting your application. This is a suitable choice for travelers with moderately urgent travel plans.
• Super Rush Processing Time: For travelers facing urgent and last-minute travel situations, there is the Super Rush processing option. With Super Rush processing, your eVisa will be processed within 1 to 4 hours, ensuring a rapid turnaround. This is ideal for those who need their eVisa almost immediately.

It's important to select the processing time that aligns with your travel timeline. However, it's advisable to apply for your Turkey eVisa well in advance of your planned travel date whenever possible to avoid any last-minute complications.

Documents to Apply for a Turkish eVisa from Sri Lanka

When applying for a Turkey eVisa as a Sri Lankan citizen, it's essential to have the necessary documents ready for a smooth and successful application process. Here are the documents you will need to apply for a Turkish eVisa:

• Sri Lankan Passport:
  • Your Sri Lankan passport is the most crucial document. It should be valid for at least 5 months beyond your intended date of arrival in Turkey. Ensure your passport is in good condition, and all the information is legible.
• Valid Visa or Residence Permit:
  • To be eligible for the eVisa, Sri Lankan nationals must possess a valid visa or residence permit from one of the following countries:
    • Schengen Area countries
    • Republic of Ireland
    • United Kingdom
    • United States
  • Please note that electronic visas (eVisas) or e-residence permits are not accepted for this requirement.
• Reservations and Proof of Financial Means:
  • You need to provide evidence of your travel plans, including:
    • Return or onward flight tickets: These should confirm your plans to leave Turkey after your visit.
    • Hotel reservation: Proof of accommodation for your stay in Turkey.
  • You also need to demonstrate adequate financial means, which typically amounts to $50 per day. This can be proven through bank statements or financial documents.
• Email Address:
  • You will need a valid email address to receive updates and notifications regarding your eVisa application.
• Debit or Credit Card:
  • A debit or credit card is required for payment of the visa fee during the eVisa application process. Ensure your card is valid and has sufficient funds to cover the visa fee.

All of these documents should be scanned or photographed digitally to be uploaded during the eVisa application process. It's essential to ensure that the copies you upload are clear and legible, as any discrepancies or unclear information could lead to delays or issues with your application.

Türkiye Entry Requirements for Sri Lankan Citizens

Traveling from Sri Lanka to Turkey requires certain documents and compliance with entry requirements. Here's what Sri Lankan citizens need to know:

Required Documents for Travel to Turkey

• Sri Lanka Passport: Your Sri Lankan passport is the primary identification document required for your trip to Turkey. Make sure it is valid and has at least 5 months of validity remaining beyond your intended date of arrival in Turkey.
• Valid Visa for Turkey: Sri Lankan citizens must obtain a valid visa to enter Turkey. The Turkey eVisa is a popular option for short-term visits. Ensure your visa is up-to-date and covers the duration of your stay.
• Visa or Residence Permit from an Approved Country: To be eligible for the Turkey eVisa, you must hold a valid visa or residence permit from one of the following countries:
  • Schengen Area countries
  • Republic of Ireland
  • United Kingdom
  • United States
  • Please note that electronic visas (eVisas) or e-residence permits are not accepted for this requirement.
• Return Tickets and Hotel Reservation: You should have proof of return or onward flight tickets and a hotel reservation to confirm your travel plans in Turkey.
• Proof of Adequate Financial Means: You will need to demonstrate that you have sufficient financial means to cover your expenses while in Turkey. Typically, this is around $50 per day. Bank statements or financial documents can be used to prove this.

Recommendations for Turkey Visa Applicants

• Accuracy is Key: Ensure all the information provided in your Turkey eVisa application is accurate and matches your passport details. Mistakes or missing information can result in the rejection of your application.
• Double-Check the Application: Review your application thoroughly before submitting it for processing to avoid common errors such as incorrect names or passport numbers.
• Avoid Misleading Information: Providing incorrect or misleading information in your application can lead to rejection and future travel complications.

Traveling from Sri Lanka to Turkey

The quickest and most convenient way to travel from Sri Lanka to Turkey is by air. Flights from Sri Lanka to Turkey typically take over 10 hours and may include one or more stops, depending on your chosen route.

The total distance between Sri Lanka and Turkey is approximately 5,775 kilometers. Common flight routes from Sri Lanka to Turkey include:

• Colombo Airport (CMB) to Istanbul Airport (IST)
• Colombo Airport (CMB) to Antalya Airport (AYT)
• Colombo Airport (CMB) to Dalaman Airport (DLM)

Additionally, it's worth noting that the Turkey eVisa can also be used for entry at Turkish land borders and sea borders, providing flexibility for different travel itineraries within the country.

FAQ

What is a Turkey eVisa, and who needs it?

The Turkey eVisa is an electronically issued travel authorization that allows eligible travelers to enter Turkey for short stays, typically for tourism and business purposes. It is required for citizens of countries that do not have visa-free access to Turkey, such as Sri Lankan citizens.

How long is the Turkey eVisa valid for Sri Lankan citizens?

The Turkey eVisa is typically valid for 180 days (approximately 6 months) from the date of arrival in Turkey. During this validity period, you can stay in Turkey for up to 30 consecutive days.

Can I extend my stay in Turkey with a Turkey eVisa from Sri Lanka?

The Turkey eVisa is generally valid for a maximum stay of 30 days within the 180-day validity period. If you wish to stay longer or have specific purposes, such as working or studying in Turkey, you may need to apply for a different type of visa through the Turkish embassy or consulate.

Are there any specific entry requirements for Turkey for Sri Lankan citizens?

Yes, Sri Lankan citizens need to meet certain entry requirements, including having a valid visa or residence permit from specific countries, return tickets, a hotel reservation, and proof of adequate financial means. These requirements can change, so it's important to check the latest Turkish entry requirements before your trip.

What are common reasons for a Turkey eVisa application to be rejected?

Common reasons for rejection include errors in the application, discrepancies between the application and passport information, and providing incorrect or misleading information. It's crucial to double-check your application for accuracy before submitting it.

How should I plan my travel from Sri Lanka to Turkey?

The quickest and most convenient way to travel from Sri Lanka to Turkey is by air. Flights from Sri Lanka to Turkey can take over 10 hours with one or more stops, depending on your chosen route. Make sure to book your flights in advance and plan your travel itinerary carefully.

Can the Turkey eVisa be used for entry at land and sea borders in Turkey?

Yes, the Turkey eVisa can also be used for entry at Turkish land borders and sea borders, providing flexibility for different travel itineraries within the country.