Turkey Visa for South Africa

South African citizens planning to visit Turkey can obtain a Turkey eVisa, which offers a convenient and streamlined way to enter the country for tourism, business, or other travel purposes.

This electronic visa allows South Africans to explore the rich cultural and historical heritage of Turkey. Here, we'll provide detailed information on the application process, eligibility criteria, requirements, and other important aspects of the Turkey eVisa for South Africans.

Do South Africans Need a Visa for Türkiye?

South Africans do need a visa to visit Turkey, and the e-Visa is a popular and accessible option for short stays. Here's a summary of the key points:

• South Africans require a visa for Turkey, even for short stays.
• The electronic visa (e-Visa) is a convenient option for South African tourists and business travelers.
• The Turkey e-Visa is valid for a total of 180 days from the date of issue.
• South African visitors can make multiple entries into Turkey, with each trip having a maximum duration of 90 days within the 180-day validity period.

How can South African citizens apply for a Turkey eVisa?

South Africans can apply for Turkey Visa online. The process is straightforward and can be completed from the comfort of your home or office.

1. Complete the Online Application Form
   • Fill out the online application form with your personal information and travel details.
   • Make sure to provide accurate and complete information to avoid processing delays or rejections.
2. Pay the Visa Processing Fee
   • After completing the application, you will be required to pay the visa processing fee.
   • The payment can be made using a major international debit or credit card authorized for online payments.
3. Receive the Approved e-Visa by Email
   • Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive the e-Visa via email.
   • It's important to check your email regularly, as this is where you will receive your electronic visa.

The application process is designed to be quick and convenient, allowing South African citizens to obtain their Turkish visa without the need for lengthy paperwork or in-person visits.

Turkey e-Visa Application for South Africans

South African applicants must access the Türkiye e-Visa application form and provide the following essential personal data:

• Full Name
• Date of Birth
• Place of Birth
• Nationality
• Passport Details
• Email Address
• Phone Number

Accuracy in providing this information is crucial to prevent processing delays or application rejections. Any errors or discrepancies can result in delays in processing your application.

Do I need to have a certain type of passport to apply?

To apply for a Turkey e-Visa as a South African citizen, you need to have an ordinary passport. Diplomatic, special, service, or official passports are not eligible for an e-Visa application. Ensure that your passport is an ordinary one before starting the application process, as using the wrong type of passport can result in your application being rejected.

Turkey Visa Requirements for South African Citizens

Before starting the e-Visa application process, South African passport holders must ensure they meet the following requirements as specified by the Turkish government:

• Valid Passport: Your South African passport must be valid for at least 150 days (5 months) from your intended date of arrival in Turkey.
• Email Address: You must have a valid email address to receive your e-Visa.
• Debit or Credit Card: A debit or credit card is necessary for paying the e-Visa processing fee.

In addition to these requirements, you should have a stable internet connection and a mobile device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer, for the online application process.

Turkey e-Visa’s processing times for South Africans

The Turkey e-Visa processing times for South African citizens are available in three different options, depending on your urgency and preference:

• Normal Processing (24 hours): With this option, your e-Visa application will typically be processed within 24 hours. It is a standard processing time and is suitable for travelers who have ample time before their intended travel date.
• Rush Processing (6 to 12 hours): The rush processing option expedites the e-Visa processing time, typically taking between 6 to 12 hours. This is a good choice for those who need their e-Visa more quickly, but still have a bit of flexibility in their travel plans.
• Super Rush Processing (1 to 4 hours): If you have very little time before your planned trip to Turkey, the super rush option is the fastest. Your e-Visa can be processed within 1 to 4 hours, making it suitable for urgent travel situations.

Can I apply well in advance of my intended travel date?

Yes, you can apply for a Turkey e-Visa well in advance of your intended travel date. The Turkey e-Visa is typically valid for 180 days from the date of issue. This means that as long as your travel falls within that 180-day period, you can apply for your e-Visa at your convenience, even if your travel date is several months in the future.

Applying in advance is a good practice as it allows you to complete the visa application process without any rush or last-minute complications. This way, you can ensure that you have your e-Visa ready well before your departure date, giving you peace of mind and ample time to plan your trip to Turkey.

What payment methods are accepted for the visa fee?

The Turkey e-Visa accepts a range of secure payment methods for the visa fee, making it convenient for applicants. Accepted payment methods include:

• Visa
• Mastercard
• American Express
• Maestro
• JCB
• UnionPay

These widely-used credit and debit cards allow for secure online transactions, ensuring a smooth and convenient payment process for your Turkey e-Visa application.

What do I do if my eVisa application is denied?

If your Turkey e-Visa application is denied, it can be disappointing, but there are steps you can take to address the situation:

• Review the Rejection Reason: Start by carefully reviewing the reason for the e-Visa rejection provided in the notification. Understanding the cause of the rejection is essential to rectify the issue.
• Correct Any Mistakes: If the rejection was due to incorrect information, such as passport details or personal information, ensure that you have entered the correct data in your new application.
• Reapply: After identifying and correcting any errors, you can reapply for the e-Visa. Make sure that all information is accurate, and double-check your application before submitting.
• Seek Assistance: If you're uncertain about the rejection reason or require further guidance, you can contact the Turkey e-Visa support team for assistance. They can provide clarification and help you with the reapplication process.
• Consider Alternative Visa Options: In some cases, if you repeatedly face e-Visa rejections, it may be worth exploring alternative visa options, such as applying for a traditional visa at the nearest Turkish embassy or consulate. This process may involve submitting a visa application in person and providing additional documentation as required.

It's important to address the reasons for the rejection and take appropriate action before reapplying. Careful attention to accuracy and completeness in your application is crucial to increase your chances of a successful e-Visa approval.

Can I enter Turkey from South Africa with just the eVisa?

Yes, South African citizens can enter Turkey with just the Turkey e-Visa. The e-Visa is an electronic travel authorization that allows you to enter Turkey for various purposes, including tourism, business, or other non-work-related visits.

However, it's essential to ensure that your e-Visa is valid and that your passport is in order. As long as your e-Visa is within its validity period, and your passport is valid for at least 150 days (5 months) from your intended date of arrival in Turkey, you can use the e-Visa as the primary document for entry.

Upon arrival in Turkey, you may be asked by immigration officials to show your e-Visa, passport, and any other supporting documents, so it's important to have these readily available. With a valid e-Visa and the necessary travel documents, you can enter Turkey from South Africa hassle-free.

Can I use a Turkey eVisa for tourism, business, or other purposes?

Yes, you can use a Turkey e-Visa for a variety of purposes, including tourism, business, or other non-work-related visits. The Turkey e-Visa is a versatile travel authorization that allows South African citizens to enter Turkey for the following purposes:

• Tourism: You can use the e-Visa to explore Turkey's rich cultural heritage, historical sites, natural wonders, and vibrant cities as a tourist.
• Business: If you have business meetings, conferences, or other non-work-related business activities in Turkey, the e-Visa is a suitable option for your travel.
• Other Non-Work-Related Visits: The e-Visa is also valid for various non-work-related purposes, such as attending cultural events, visiting friends and family, or participating in short courses or workshops.

It's important to note that the Turkey e-Visa is not suitable for engaging in work, employment, or long-term stays in Turkey. If you plan to work or stay in Turkey for an extended period, you will need to explore other visa options that are appropriate for your specific situation.

Is it possible to modify the visa information after approval?

No, it is not possible to modify the visa information on a Turkey e-Visa after it has been approved. The information provided in the e-Visa application, including your personal details and travel plans, is final once the e-Visa has been issued. Therefore, it's crucial to ensure that all the information you provide during the application process is accurate and matches your intended travel plans.

If you need to make changes to your travel details or other information after your e-Visa has been approved, you would generally need to reapply for a new e-Visa with the correct and updated information.

Visiting Türkiye with the e-Visa

Visiting Turkey with the e-Visa is a straightforward process for South African passport holders. Here's what you need to keep in mind when using your Turkey e-Visa:

• Keep a Copy of the e-Visa on Mobile Devices: South African travelers should have a digital copy of their Turkey e-Visa on their mobile phones or another electronic device. This makes it easily accessible for immigration control.
• Print a Copy: It's recommended to have a printed copy of the e-Visa document as well. While digital copies are acceptable, having a physical copy can be helpful for backup or if requested by Turkish immigration officers.
• Present Both Passport and e-Visa: When you arrive at the port of entry in Turkey, you will need to present both your South African passport and your e-Visa to Turkish immigration control officers. Ensure that both documents are readily available for inspection.

By following these simple steps and having both digital and printed copies of your e-Visa and your passport, you can smoothly navigate the immigration process and enjoy your visit to Turkey.

FAQ

Can South African citizens travel to Turkey?

Yes, South African citizens can travel to Turkey, provided they meet all entry requirements. South African passport holders must have a valid visa for Turkey, and the Turkish e-Visa allows visitors to enter the country for up to 90 days.

Can South African citizens visit Turkey without a visa?

No, South African citizens cannot enter Turkey without a valid visa. They are eligible to apply for the Turkey e-Visa, which is a quick and convenient online application process.

Can South African citizens get a visa on arrival in Turkey?

No, South African citizens are not eligible for a visa on arrival in Turkey. The easiest and recommended way for South Africans to obtain a visa for Turkey is by applying online for the e-Visa.

How much is the Turkey visa fee for South African citizens?

The Turkey e-Visa is a cost-effective way for South African citizens to travel to Turkey. The visa fee is paid securely online during the application process.

How long does it take to get a Turkey visa from South Africa?

Getting a Turkey e-Visa for South African citizens is a fast and straightforward process. The application typically takes just a few minutes to complete, and the approved e-Visa is usually received within 1 working day.