We are receiving conflicting information about the visa needed in Turkey and where/how to obtain one. We are being dropped in Istanbul by our cruise line at the end of a Greek Island tour. We plan to stay in Istanbul for three nights and then fly to Athens. Some websites require an application, some information says just have US cash in hand and we will receive a stamp...the LA consulate just sends us to a site that is not operating...yikes!
Posted by
Camarillo, California
3120 posts
When you debark you will be processed through a Passport Control/Immigration desk and you will pay a $20 fee for the stamp in your passport. It's simple and straightforward. You may be given an information card to fill out so be sure to have it in hand, completed, with your passport and a $20 bill.
Don't worry.
Posted by
Honolulu/Seattle, HI/WA, USA
2788 posts
$20 in US funds were required on May 23.
Posted by
Duluth 🛶
6274 posts
The visa window (FYI, it's not really a typical "visa" - more of a tourist tax) is off to one side of the area where you go through immigration. Double-check where you're going - I got a little confused and was in the wrong line at first. And yes, all you need is cash - $20.
You can apply for it in advance online, but it costs a whole lot more and there is absolutely no need to do so. Just buy it when you get there - it will take all of about 60 seconds.
Posted by
Boston
1 posts
Lee posted that "You may be given an information card to fill out so be sure to have it in hand". Who
gives out the card, someone on the airplane or someone in the airport??? Thanks for the info, I'll be going to Turkey soon.
Posted by
Camarillo, California
3120 posts
I've had it go both ways. Sometimes there will be someone on the ground to hand them out as you enter the immigration area if you didn't get one on the plane.