Turkey is changing the way visas are purchased on Monday 29 October. Until this date travellers could buy an e-visa at Turkish airports or in designated Wi-Fi areas.
From Monday, tourists and business travellers will have to apply for an e-visa before they travel.
Kiosks and designated areas to buy the travel document will no longer be available on arrival in Turkey.
The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has updated its travel advice for Turkey accordingly.
“From 29 October 2018, self-service e-Visa kiosks and Wi-Fi areas where visitors can apply for an e-Visa on arrival will no longer be available in Turkish airports,” said the FCO website. “You must apply for your e-Visa before you travel.”
Travellers can get an e-Visa online before travel through the official Republic of Turkey e-Visa website.
An e-visa costs $ 20 (£15.50) and you can pay using a credit or debit card. Tourists can apply up to three months in advance of their travel date.
The FCO warns against being scammed when it comes to purchasing visas on unauthorised websites.
“Some unauthorised websites may charge for information about e-Visas, and for submitting applications,” said the FCO.
“These websites are not endorsed by or associated with the Turkish government.
“Be wary of such sites and businesses, particularly those that seek additional fees for other services. Some unauthorised websites have also issued fake e-Visas.”
Turkish visit visas are valid for multiple stays up to a maximum of 90 days in a 180 day period, explains the FCO website.
It’s recommended travellers print off a paper copy of their e-visa to carry with them, in case of problems with the computer systems in Turkey.
Additionally, make sure passports have a blank page for the visa stamp. If one isn’t available, Turkish authorities will issue an ‘Entry-Exit form’ and put the entry-exit stamp on there.
“You should carry this form with you in Turkey and present it to the border officers when you leave,” advised the FCO.
Tourists should also ensure their passport has at least since months left of validity form the date they enter Turkey.
Cruise ship passengers with ‘British Citizen’ passports will not need an e-visa if their visit to the country doesn’t exceed 72 hours.
Tourists visiting Turkey are also being advised by the FCO to be cautious when buying antiques in souks or markets as taking certain historical items back to the UK could land them in jail.
The FCO is warning Britons on holiday there that possession, sale and export of antiquities is against the law.
Tourists may not be aware upon purchase but such antiques can be found in souks and markets, albeit rarely.
