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An update from Evaneos
Turkey

Rules for entering Turkish soil

Taking a vacation in Turkey is many a traveller's dream. It's a popular and attractive destination. Turkey has everything a tourist needs without having to cross the globe.

Before you leave

Be forewarned that entry requirements for Turkey vary according to your nationality. A general rule for all - you must be in possession of a valid passport that has an expiry date no less than 3 months after you arrive on Turkish soil. British and American nationals require a visa. The only exception is Brits visiting on one-day cruises. If that's your case, you will only need your passport. Note that UK driving licenses and US ID cards are not acceptable. If you are from a country that does not require a visa, you'll receive an entry permit, which you must keep on you at all times and which must be presented when you depart. You can easily check the regulations for your country by doing a quick internet search. You can apply for a visa before you leave or on arrival - prices vary according to your nationality.

No vaccinations are obligatory to enter Turkey. But it is wise to be innoculated against Typhoid and Hepatitis A.

If you're planning to hire a car during your trip to Turkey, your drivers license may do. But it must bear a photograph and some rental companies plus local police may insist on seeing an International Drivers License. Best to take advice from your local government offices.

On arrival in Turkey

Once there

If you are from a country where you don't need a visa (based on a maximum 3 month stay), there's nothing left to do other than wait in line and file by passport control/customs. Same thing goes if you have obtained your visa in advance. You can apply for a visa on arrival. Expect to pay around 20 -30$/£ and it needs to be in cash.

If you arrive in Turkey by car, you'll need to leave the country in the same vehicle.. There's no way out - your passport will be stamped by way of verification. Note that all vehicle documentation should be in your name. Most nationalities can drive their car around Turkey for up to 6 months, after which it has to leave the country for 6 months before it can be brought back again. If your car is not in your name, you'll need legal authorization from the owner and the car must be insured in your name.

David Debrincat
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