TURKEY VISA FOR YEMEN CITIZENS AND TURKEY VISA FOR SOUTH AFRICANS
Turkey, a captivating bridge between East and West, beckons travelers with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture.1 From the ancient wonders of Ephesus to the bustling bazaars of Istanbul, and the breathtaking beaches of the Turquoise Coast, there's something for every explorer. However, before embarking on this adventure, understanding the visa requirements is crucial for a smooth journey. This article will delve into the specifics of obtaining a Turkey visa for Yemen citizens and a Turkey visa for South Africans, highlighting the different application processes and necessary documentation.
Turkey Visa for Yemen Citizens
For citizens of Yemen, obtaining a visa is a mandatory requirement to enter Turkey.2 While traditionally this involved applying at a Turkish embassy or consulate, the Turkish government now offers an e-Visa option under specific conditions, making the process significantly more convenient for many.3
e-Visa Eligibility and Requirements for Yemen Citizens:
Yemeni citizens are eligible to apply for a Turkish e-Visa primarily for tourism or business purposes, allowing a stay of up to 30 days within a 180-day validity period.4 However, this eligibility comes with specific prerequisites:
Valid Supporting Visa/Residence Permit: A crucial condition for Yemeni citizens to obtain an e-Visa is holding a valid visa or residence permit from one of the Schengen countries, the United States, the United Kingdom, or Ireland. This supporting document must be valid for the entire duration of their stay in Turkey.
Valid Passport: The applicant's ordinary passport must be valid for at least 60 days beyond the duration of their intended stay in Turkey. It is also recommended to have at least one blank page for stamps.
Return Ticket: Proof of a round-trip ticket, often specifically with Turkish Airlines or Pegasus Airlines, is typically required.5
Sufficient Funds: Applicants may need to demonstrate proof of sufficient financial means (e.g., at least $50 per day of stay) to cover their expenses in Turkey.
Valid Email Address: The approved e-Visa is sent electronically, so a valid email address is essential.6
Debit/Credit Card: For online payment of the e-Visa fee.
Application Process for Yemen Citizens (e-Visa):
If eligible, Yemeni citizens can apply for the e-Visa through the official Turkish e-Visa website (www.evisa.gov.tr). The process is generally straightforward:
Visit the official e-Visa website.
Select Yemen as your country/region of travel document.
Fill out the online application form with accurate personal and passport information, ensuring it matches your passport exactly.
Provide details of your valid supporting visa/residence permit (Schengen, USA, UK, or Ireland).
Upload required documents, such as a scanned copy of your passport and potentially your supporting visa/residence permit.
Pay the e-Visa fee using a valid credit or debit card. The fee for Yemeni citizens is typically around $60 (subject to change).
Receive the e-Visa via email. Most applications are processed within a few hours to one day. It is advisable to print a copy of the e-Visa, though it is linked electronically to your passport.
Traditional Sticker Visa for Yemen Citizens:
If a Yemeni citizen does not meet the e-Visa eligibility criteria (e.g., no valid Schengen/US/UK/Ireland visa/residence permit, or planning to stay longer than 30 days, or for purposes other than tourism/business like work or study), they must apply for a traditional "sticker visa" at the nearest Turkish Embassy or Consulate. This process typically involves:
Completing a visa application form.
Submitting original passport and photocopies.
Providing biometric photographs.
Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter).
Confirmed flight reservations.
Proof of financial solvency (bank statements, income documents).
Travel medical insurance.
A police clearance certificate may also be required.
Attending an interview, if requested.
This process is more time-consuming and requires in-person submission of documents.
Turkey Visa for South Africans
South African citizens enjoy a relatively more streamlined process for obtaining a visa for Turkey, as they are generally eligible for the e-Visa without requiring an additional supporting visa from other countries.
e-Visa Eligibility and Requirements for South African Citizens:
South African citizens can obtain a Turkey visa for South Africans primarily for tourism, business, or transit purposes, allowing a stay of up to 30 days within a 180-day validity period.7 The requirements are less stringent than for Yemeni citizens:
Valid Passport: An ordinary South African passport valid for at least 60 days beyond the duration of your intended stay in Turkey.
Valid Email Address: To receive the e-Visa.
Debit/Credit Card: For online payment of the e-Visa fee.
Application Process for South African Citizens (e-Visa):
The application for a Turkey visa for South Africans is quick and entirely online:
Visit the official Turkish e-Visa website (www.evisa.gov.tr).
Select South Africa as your country/region of travel document.
Complete the online application form with accurate personal and passport details.
Pay the e-Visa fee. As of current information, the e-Visa for South African passport holders is often granted free of charge, though it's always wise to check the latest fee on the official e-Visa website.
Receive the e-Visa via email. Most applications are processed within 24 hours.
Important Notes for South African Citizens:
Multiple Entry: The e-Visa for South Africans is typically a multiple-entry visa, allowing several entries within its 180-day validity period, provided each stay does not exceed 30 days.8
Longer Stays or Other Purposes: If a South African citizen intends to stay longer than 30 days or travel for purposes other than tourism/business (e.g., work, study, family reunification), they must apply for a regular sticker visa at the Turkish Embassy or Consulate in Pretoria. The requirements will be more extensive and similar to the traditional visa process outlined for Yemeni citizens.
General Advice for Both Nationalities
Apply in Advance: It is always recommended to apply for your visa well in advance of your travel dates to account for any potential processing delays or unforeseen issues.
Accuracy is Key: Ensure all information provided in your application precisely matches the details in your passport. Even minor discrepancies can lead to rejection or invalidation of the visa.9
Check Official Sources: Visa requirements and fees can change. Always refer to the official website of the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs (www.mfa.gov.tr) or the Turkish e-Visa portal (www.evisa.gov.tr) for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Print Copies: While e-Visas are electronic, it is always a good practice to carry a printed copy of your approved e-Visa along with your passport when traveling.
By understanding these specific requirements and diligently following the application procedures, both Turkey visa for Yemen citizens and Turkey visa for South Africans can be obtained efficiently, paving the way for an enriching and memorable experience in Turkey.