The online visa system has revolutionized the visa application process for foreign travelers planning to visit Turkey. The introduction of the Turkey e-visa procedure has considerably reduced the time needed to acquire a visa and eliminated the requirement of embassy visits as dictated by the traditional visa processing rules.

Hence, individuals can now effortlessly apply for a Turkish e-visa from their own homes, utilizing a compatible device and a stable internet connection. In the forthcoming sections, we will discuss the detailed process of obtaining a Turkish e-visa for nationals from your country.

Benefits of applying for an e-visa

E-visas provide a streamlined, cost-effective visa solution. The entire application process is handled online, eliminating embassy visits. Fast approvals are typical within just 1-3 business days. Applicants can complete the process from anywhere with internet access.

E-visa fees are lower compared to traditional paper visas. The digital format ensures easy mobile access when traveling. Flexibility to apply before travel lets travelers complete the process on their own timeline. E-visas enable expedited entry on arrival without lengthy in-person visa procedures. In short, online application, quick processing, reduced cost, and hassle-free entry are the main advantages of electronic visas.

Applying for visas can be a major hassle when planning international trips. Here are some of the major benefits of applying for an e-visa:

Speed and Convenience

In most situations, the Turkey online application only takes about 10 minutes or less to complete. All of the required information can be entered electronically in a streamlined fashion, unlike convoluted paper visa forms. There is no need to collect supporting documents or obtain application fees upfront. 

Lower Cost

Online application fees typically range between $ USD. However, traditional paper visa fees can soar above $ in many cases. E-visas allow you to avoid the costs of traveling to embassies as well as mailing or shipping fees required to submit paper visa applications and documents.

Hassle-Free Experience

You don't need to provide supporting documents or application fees upfront or complete the form in hand. The online system streamlines everything making applying simple. It is easy to understand and carry out the process without any mistakes. 

More Options

E-visas provide access to more destination options that previously required traditional visas or were completely visa-free. The introduction of e-visas has opened up additional countries for travelers that were once unavailable or could only be visited through complicated paper visa procedures. The flexibility and wider access provided by e-visas give you more choices when planning your travels.

When it comes to easy, fast visas for your next trip, e-visas are the obvious choice. Applying online takes the hassle out of travel so you can focus on planning a great trip.

What to see in Turkey?

Here are some top sights and attractions to see in Turkey with more details:

• Hagia Sophia - This iconic landmark in Istanbul has incredible Byzantine architecture and was once a Greek Orthodox Christian church later converted to a mosque. The interior features stunning mosaics depicting Christian icons alongside Islamic art added later. A fascinating look at the intersection of cultures and faiths.

• Topkapi Palace - Also in Istanbul, this grand palace was the residence of Ottoman sultans for 400 years. It contains lavish courtyards and imperial treasures on display. A glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of the Ottoman rulers.

• Ephesus - These well-preserved ancient Greek and Roman ruins include a massive amphitheater, libraries, temples, and more. Walk the ancient marble streets for an immersive experience.

• Pamukkale Thermal Pools - Pamukkale features stunning white terraced travertine pools and calcite formations on a cliff overlooking the plains. You can even bathe in the warm mineral waters.

• Blue Mosque - With its iconic six minarets and blue interior, the Sultan Ahmed Mosque is a stunning example of Islamic architecture. Still functioning as an active mosque today.

Traveling to Turkey from South Africa: Necessary Information and Regulations

The Turkish e-visa allows visitors to stay in Turkey for up to 30 days within a 180 day period and permits multiple entries. When arriving in Turkey, e-visa holders must be prepared to show proof of travel medical insurance and confirmed return or onward travel documents. Passports must have at least 2 blank pages available.

A digital passport photo is required to complete the online e-visa application. By meeting these requirements and conditions, e-visa holders can enter Turkey repeatedly for visits up to 30 days for a 6 month period after the visa is issued.

The multiple entry and extended stay privileges provide substantial flexibility for e-visa holders.

Visa Eligibility Information for South African Citizens

Here are the key requirements and eligibility criteria South Africans need to meet to obtain a Turkish visa for tourism, business, or other permissible travel purposes.

Eligibility for a Turkish visa

• South African passport holders aged 18 years and older
• Citizens holding a regular passport (not diplomatic, official or emergency)
• Citizens with no criminal record
• South African with a valid medical insurance

Types of Turkish visas

Evisa or electronic visa is required for a South African citizen to enter Turkey. A Turkish e-Visa provides a streamlined, digital way to apply for and obtain a visa entirely online in just a few days. It enables short visits to Turkey without having to get traditional paper visas.

Turkish Visa Exemption and Details for South African Nationals

If a country has a visa exemption, the citizens of that country will not need a visa to travel to the country that exempts it. South Africa is not a part of the visa exemption program of Turkey and it is necessary for the South African citizens to apply for a visa for traveling to Turkey. 

Application requirements

• Completed online application form with biographic data 
• Valid South African passport information
• Contact details including email address
• Travel itinerary showing date of entry to/exit from Turkey
• Scanned copy of bank statements may be requested

Validity duration of the visa

• E-visas permit stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period
• Multiple entries are allowed during the validity period
• Tourist visas allow single entry for up to 30 days or multiple entry for up to 90 days

Visa Extension

The visa of Turkey can not be extended for South African citizens. The visa will be considered invalid once the permit period is over. The validation period of the visa is 180. Once that time is over the applicant will need to apply for a new visa. 

Requirements for a Turkish eVisa

Requirements	Explanation
Visa Passport	You must have a valid South African passport that will not expire for at least 6 months from the date you enter Turkey. Your passport should also have at least 2 blank pages.
Application Form	The online Turkey e-visa application form, must be completed with your personal details, travel dates, passport info, etc.
Valid Email	You must provide a valid email address to receive your approved e-visa electronically.
Pay Visa Fee	The visa fee must be paid online by credit or debit card when completing the application.

Application Process: How to Apply for an e-Visa

The application process is quite easy for an e-Visa. It is much easier, time and cost efficient compared to the sticker visa.The whole process is online and does not require the applicant to be present to the embassy physically. Here is the step by step process of application of an eVisa:

1. Gather Documents

Have your valid South African passport handy along with a digital passport photo and your travel itinerary. Make sure your passport has at least 6 months validity left.

2. Complete Online Application 

Go to www.evisa.gov.tr and fill out the online visa application form with your personal details and trip information.

3. Pay Visa Fee

Pay the visa fee by credit card on the website to complete the application.

4. Submit Application

Double check all your details are correct and submit the completed online Turkish visa application.

5. Get Email Confirmation 

You will receive an email confirmation right away acknowledging receipt of your application.

6. Wait for Approval

Most e-visa applications only take 1-2 business days to process. Check your email for notification of approval.

7. Print Visa

Once approved, you will get an email containing your official electronic visa. Print multiple copies to carry.

8. Travel to Turkey

Bring your printed e-visa, passport, and other supporting documents when traveling to Turkey.

Payment Information and Details

Here are the key details about payment for the Turkish e-visa for South African passport holders:

Maximum Duration of Stay

The maximum duration of stay allowed in Turkey for South African citizens with an electronic visa (e-visa) is:

30 days maximum 

The e-visa permits multiple entries, so South African passport holders can enter and exit Turkey multiple times during the 30 day validity period. 

Visa Validity Information

Validity Period - The Turkish e-visa is normally valid for 30 days from the date of first entry into Turkey. 

Entry Duration - Each entry allows you to stay in Turkey for up to 30 days within a 180 day period. 

Multiple Entries - The e-visa permits multiple entries within the 180 day validity period.

Expiration - The visa expires 180 calendar days after the issue date, regardless of how many days you spend in Turkey.

Extension - There is no option to extend the e-visa once you are in Turkey. You must exit and reapply for a new visa.

Tracking - Keep track of your entry and exit dates as well as total days spent in Turkey to abide by the 90 in 180 day limit.

Passport Validity - Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel to Turkey.

The table outlines the specific visa prices associated with different processing speeds, entry dates, and trip durations.

Processing Time Duration

Several factors influence the processing time duration of the visa. Some of them are seasonal events or time of the year, time of arrival, duration of stay etc.

Urgent Application Process

Turkey offers an express visa service for South African passport holders which takes 1 business day to process. This accelerated Turkish visa option allows South Africans to receive their visa approval more rapidly than the standard processing time of 10 business days.

However, the express service comes with an additional 2 day allowance in case any errors or further security checks are required.

Visa Renewal

Turkish tourist visas for South African passport holders are issued for 180 days and cannot be extended beyond that period within Turkey. Once the 180 day validity expires, the visa is no longer valid and South Africans must exit Turkey. At that point, they would need to apply for a brand new tourist visa if they wish to return to Turkey for another visit.

Entry Permits

• Electronic Visa (e-visa) - This online visa serves as your entry permit for Turkey. 
• Number of Entry - Multiple entries within the validity duration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I apply for a Turkish visa? Q: How long does it take to get an e-visa? Q: How long can I stay in Turkey with an e-visa? Q: Can I extend my e-visa while in Turkey? Q: Is my South African driver's license valid in Turkey? Q: Do I need travel insurance?