By Md Mostafizur Rahman 
Turkey, known for its unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures, its historical landmarks, and beautiful landscapes, has become an increasingly popular destination for travelers worldwide, including citizens from Sri Lanka. If you are a Sri Lankan citizen planning a trip to Turkey, you will need to obtain a visa before entering the country. In this article, we will outline the various types of Turkish visas available to Sri Lankan citizens, the application process, and the necessary requirements to successfully obtain a visa.
Types of Turkey Visas for Sri Lanka Citizens
Turkey offers several types of visas for international travelers, including those from Sri Lanka, depending on the purpose of the trip. Turkey Visa for Maldivian Citizens The most common visa types include:
Tourist Visa
The Tourist Visa is one of the most common visa types for Sri Lankan citizens visiting Turkey for leisure, sightseeing, or vacations. This visa typically allows travelers to stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is essential to provide proof of travel arrangements, such as flight tickets, hotel bookings, and financial documents demonstrating the ability to cover the expenses during your stay. The Tourist Visa does not permit the holder to engage in any business or employment activities.
Business Visa
Sri Lankan citizens who intend to visit Turkey for business purposes—such as attending meetings, conferences, or engaging in business discussions—must apply for a Business Visa. This visa is usually valid for a short stay of up to 30 days. Applicants must provide a formal invitation letter from a Turkish company or organization, proof of business activities, and evidence of financial stability to support the trip. A Business Visa does not allow the holder to work or earn money in Turkey.
Student Visa
For Sri Lankan citizens who wish to study in Turkey, a Student Visa is required. To apply for this visa, applicants must be enrolled in a Turkish educational institution, such as a university or language school. The applicant must provide an official letter of acceptance from the educational institution, proof of sufficient financial support for the duration of their studies, and valid health insurance coverage. The Student Visa is typically valid for the length of the academic program and may be extended if necessary.
Medical Visa
Sri Lankan citizens who need to undergo medical treatment in Turkey must apply for a Medical Visa. This visa is granted to individuals who have been referred to a medical facility in Turkey for treatment or surgery. Applicants need to provide a letter from the Turkish hospital or medical center confirming the need for treatment, along with relevant medical records. The Medical Visa is typically short-term but can be extended based on the treatment’s duration.
Transit Visa
A Transit Visa is required if Sri Lankan citizens are passing through Turkey on their way to a third country. This visa allows for a short stay (usually up to 72 hours) within Turkey, typically for travelers with a layover in a Turkish airport. When applying for a Transit Visa, applicants must provide evidence of onward travel, such as a confirmed flight to another destination.
How to Apply for a Turkey Visa as a Sri Lankan Citizen
The process for applying for a Turkish visa is relatively straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. Here are the steps to follow:
Determine the Correct Visa Type
The first step in the application process is to determine which visa is appropriate for the purpose of your visit to Turkey. Whether you’re traveling for tourism, business, education, medical treatment, or transit, you must choose the right visa category to ensure your application is processed smoothly.
Complete the Visa Application Form
Sri Lankan citizens can apply for a Turkish visa either through the Turkish eVisa portal (for tourist and business visas) or by visiting the nearest Turkish Embassy or Consulate (for other types of visas). The visa application form must be filled out online or on paper, depending on the application method. Ensure that all information is accurate, as errors can delay the processing of your visa.
Prepare the Required Documents
In addition to the completed application form, applicants must submit various supporting documents. Common documents required for a Turkish visa application include:
A valid passport with at least six months of validity from the date of entry to Turkey
Passport-sized photographs that meet the specified requirements
Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or invitation letter from a host in Turkey)
Flight bookings (round-trip tickets or onward travel tickets)
Proof of sufficient financial means (bank statements or salary slips)
Travel insurance that covers medical expenses during the stay
Specific documents for business, student, or medical visas, such as invitation letters or acceptance letters from institutions
Pay the Visa Fee
Once the application form is complete and all documents are gathered, applicants must pay the required visa fee. The visa fee depends on the type of visa applied for and the processing method. Payment is generally made online for eVisa applications or at the Turkish consulate for visa applications submitted in person.
Submit the Application
For eVisa applications, submit the completed form and documents online via the official Turkish eVisa website. The process is quick and usually takes less than 24 hours for approval. For visas requiring in-person submission (such as student, medical, or business visas), applicants must submit their documents to the nearest Turkish Embassy or Consulate. In some cases, an interview may be required.
Wait for Processing
The processing time for a Turkish visa can vary depending on the type of visa and where the application is submitted. eVisa applications are usually processed within 24 hours, while consulate applications may take several days to process.
Receive the Visa
Once your visa is approved, you will either receive an eVisa via email (for eVisa applicants) or be asked to collect your visa from the Turkish Embassy or Consulate. It’s essential to print a copy of your eVisa and carry it with you during your trip to Turkey. TURKEY VISA FOR SRI LANKA CITIZENS
Conclusion
Obtaining a Turkish visa as a Sri Lankan citizen is a straightforward process as long as you meet the necessary requirements and follow the steps outlined above. Whether you are visiting Turkey for tourism, business, study, medical treatment, or transit, Turkey offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for travelers from Sri Lanka. With the proper documentation and planning, you can enjoy your journey to this fascinating country.