TYPES OF TURKİSH VİSAS AND HOW TO APPLY: A DETAİLED GUİDE UNDER LAW NO. 6458

Introduction:
For foreign nationals planning to travel to Turkey, one of the most fundamental considerations is the visa process. Law No. 6458 on Foreigners and International Protection (LFIP) and its implementing regulation comprehensively govern the conditions for entry, stay, and exit from Turkey, while also detailing visa types and application procedures. In this guide, we will explore the visa types you may need, regardless of your purpose for coming to Turkey, and the application steps in light of current legislation. It is important to remember that a visa does not grant an absolute right of entry into Turkey (LFIP Art. 11/3); further checks are conducted at border gates.

1. What is a Visa and Why is it Necessary?
A visa is an official authorization granted by a state to foreign nationals (under certain conditions) for entry into its territory. According to Article 11 of the LFIP, a permit sağlayan (granting) the right to stay in Turkey for up to ninety days or for transit passage is defined as a "visa." As a general rule, citizens of countries not exempt from visa requirements must possess a visa appropriate to their purpose of visit to enter Turkey.

2. Types of Turkish Visas (In Light of LFIP and its Regulation)
Various visa types cater to different purposes of visit to Turkey. Article 11 of the Regulation on the Implementation of the Law on Foreigners and International Protection (Regulation) outlines these types:

• a) Tourist Visa (Regulation Art. 11/1/a): Issued to foreigners intending to visit Turkey for tourism, cultural events, sports activities, participation in fairs or exhibitions, official visits, or business meetings.
• b) Transit Visa (Regulation Art. 11/1/b, LFIP Art. 14): Granted to foreigners誰 (who) will transit through Turkey to another country. This visa allows passage through Turkey within a specified period.
• c) Airport Transit Visa (Regulation Art. 11/1/c, Art. 16): Required in some cases for foreigners誰 (who) will transit through the transit area of a Turkish airport to another country without entering Turkey.
• d) Education Visa (Regulation Art. 11/1/ç): Issued to foreigners intending to come to Turkey for education, study (associate, bachelor's, master's, doctorate), internships, courses, student exchange programs, or Turkish language courses.
• e) Work Visa (Regulation Art. 11/1/d): Granted to foreigners intending to work in Turkey, within the framework of relevant legislation (especially the Law on Work Permits for Foreigners). This visa is usually processed पानी (concurrently) with a work permit.
• f) Official Duty Visa (Regulation Art. 11/1/e): Issued to foreigners appointed to an official post in Turkey or assigned as diplomatic couriers.
• g) Other Visas (Regulation Art. 11/1/f): Covers visa types for purposes other than those listed above, such as archaeological excavations, research, filming documentaries, medical treatment (health visa), accompaniment, family reunification, humanitarian aid, or transportation.

3. The Visa Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
As a rule, visa applications are made to the Turkish consular posts (Embassies, Consulates General) in the foreigner's country of citizenship or legal residence (LFIP Art. 11/4, Regulation Art. 12/1). Online application options may also be available.

• Application Venue: Turkish Diplomatic Missions Abroad.
• Required Documents: While varying according to the visa type, generally a valid passport, biometric photograph, travel health insurance, documents proving financial sufficiency, and documents supporting the purpose of travel (hotel reservation, invitation letter, student certificate, etc.) are required.
• Application Form: Must be filled out completely and accurately.
• Appointment and Interview: Some consulates operate on an appointment basis and may require an interview.
• Processing Time: Visa applications are usually finalized within ninety days at the latest (Regulation Art. 12/4). This period starts from the submission of all required documents.
• Visa on Arrival (Exceptional Circumstance): In accordance with LFIP Article 13 and Regulation Article 15, visas may be issued at border gates under certain conditions (e.g., absence of a consulate, force majeure). However, this is not a general practice.

4. Visa Exemption (LFIP Art. 12, Regulation Art. 13-14)
Citizens of some countries may be exempt from visa requirements for entry into Turkey based on bilateral or multilateral agreements to which Turkey is a party, or by Presidential decree. The duration and conditions of visa exemption vary by country. Additionally, foreigners in certain special circumstances, such as those holding a valid residence or work permit, may also be exempt from visa requirements.

5. Important Considerations for Visa Applications

• Apply well in advance of your planned travel date.
• Ensure all documents are complete, current, and accurate.
• Make sure you are applying for the correct visa type for your purpose.
• Be aware that the consulate may request additional documents or an interview.
• Remember that even if a visa is granted, you may not be permitted entry at the border gate (under LFIP Art. 7).

Conclusion and Legal Assistance:
The Turkish visa process can involve complex procedures requiring care and attention. Correctly and completely submitting your application is crucial to avoid potential rejections. Seeking professional legal advice on visa types, application requirements, or a_venues_ of appeal in case of rejection will facilitate your process and prevent loss of rights.

As SKF Vision Law, we are pleased to offer expert assistance with all your queries and issues regarding Turkish visa applications and foreigners' law. You can contact us for detailed information and consultation.

DISCLAIMER: This article has been prepared for general informational purposes based on the legal provisions in effect at the time of its writing. Foreigners law (or: Immigration Law) is a frequently updated and complex field. Due to potential changes in legislation, it is possible that the information in this article may become outdated. Therefore, before taking any legal action or making any decision, it is of vital importance that you obtain current and personalized consultation from a lawyer specializing in foreigners law (or: immigration law). This article does not constitute legal advice.