Turkey launches e-visa
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The Turkish Government has launched an online visa system (e-visa) which replaces ‘sticker’ and ‘stamp-type’ visas formerly issued at the border gates and enables tourists from 94 countries to obtain a visa in just a few minutes. The e-visa is effective from April 17, 2013.
Applicants just need to log on to www.evisa.gov.tr, provide the requested information, if the application is approved make online payment and download their e-visa. After a successful application, the e-visa would be e-mailed to the applicant. Applicants must print out their e-visa, show it to airport officials and customs officers and carry it with them at all times during their travel.
Indian citizens can benefit from this new initiative provided that: a) their passport has a minimum of 6-months-validity, b) they hold necessary documents related to their travel purposes (such as a return ticket, hotel reservation, adequate financial means. i.e., minimum U.S. $ 50 for each day), c) they hold a valid Schengen visa or a valid visa from any of the OECD member countries or a valid residence permit in these countries, d) they are traveling for the purposes of tourism or business/ commercial negotiations.
E-visa is only valid when the purpose of travel is tourism or commerce. Other purposes, such as work and study, require regular visas given by the Turkish Embassies or Consulates.