From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the serene beaches of Antalya, Turkey is a favorite getaway for many UAE residents. With its rich history, visa options for multiple nationalities, and close proximity, planning a trip is easier than ever, especially when you understand the visa application process from Dubai. Whether you’re traveling for leisure, business, or to visit family, this guide will walk you through every step.
How to Apply Turkey Visa from Dubai
Applying for a Turkey visa from Dubai is straightforward once you identify your visa type and eligibility. UAE citizens can travel visa-free for up to 90 days, but expats residing in the UAE must apply via the e-Visa system or through an authorized visa center depending on their nationality. The process involves submitting an application form, necessary documents, and in some cases, attending an appointment at the visa center.
Determine the Type of Visa You Need
Before applying, it’s important to identify the correct type of visa based on your purpose of travel. Turkey offers several visa categories:
- Tourist Visa: For sightseeing, vacations, or short-term personal travel.
- Business Visa: For attending conferences, trade events, or business meetings.
- Family Visit Visa: For visiting relatives or friends in Turkey.
While UAE nationals don’t need a visa for visits up to 90 days, UAE residents of other nationalities must apply in advance, either online or via a visa application center. Choosing the right category ensures you submit the correct documents and avoid delays.
Choose the Appropriate Application Method
Once you’ve identified your visa type, the next step is selecting how to apply. Turkey offers two main application pathways for UAE residents, depending on your nationality and visa type:
1. e-Visa (Electronic Visa) – For Eligible Nationalities
Many UAE residents holding passports from countries like India, Pakistan, Philippines, and Egypt may qualify for an electronic visa if they meet certain conditions (such as holding a valid visa or residence permit from the US, UK, Schengen Area, or Ireland).
- Where to Apply: Official Turkish e-Visa portal
- Processing Time: Usually within 24 hours
- Requirements:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Valid UAE residence visa
- Supporting visa or permit (e.g., US or Schengen visa)
- Credit/debit card for payment
The e-Visa is issued online and sent via email—no need to visit a consulate or application center.
2. Sticker Visa – For Non-Eligible or Special Cases
If you’re not eligible for an e-Visa or need a visa type that requires more documentation (like long-term stays, business, or family visits), you must apply for a sticker visa through Turkey’s authorized visa application centers in the UAE.
- Where to Apply:
- Steps:
- Book an appointment online
- Prepare your documents
- Attend an in-person appointment (biometrics may be required)
- Pay the applicable visa and service fees
- Processing Time: Typically 5–15 working days
Sticker visas are pasted into your passport and allow multiple entries, depending on your travel purpose.
Important Tip: Always double-check which method you qualify for based on your nationality and residency. Applying via the wrong method can lead to rejection or delays.
Required Documents for Turkey Visa from Dubai
The documents you’ll need to submit depend on whether you’re applying for an e-Visa or a sticker visa. Below is a comprehensive list tailored to both methods:
For e-Visa Applicants (Online Application)
If you’re applying for an e-Visa through the official Turkish e-Visa portal, you’ll typically need:
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival in Turkey)
- UAE Residence Visa (valid for at least 3 months beyond your travel date)
- Valid visa or residence permit from the US, UK, Schengen Area, or Ireland (if applicable)
- Credit/Debit Card for online payment
- Email Address to receive the visa document
You’ll upload documents during the application or just enter your details, depending on nationality and eligibility.
For Sticker Visa Applicants (Via VFS or Gateway Centers)
For those not eligible for e-Visa, or applying for business/family visit visas, these documents are required:
- Completed Visa Application Form
- Downloadable from Turkey Consulate in Dubai
- Original Passport
- Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay
- Include a copy of the bio-data page and previous visa stamps if applicable
- UAE Residence Visa Copy
- Valid for at least 3 months
- Passport-sized Photograph
- Recent (within 6 months), colored, white background, 5×5 cm
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Employer or Sponsor
- On company letterhead, mentioning your job title, salary, and purpose of visit
- Flight Reservation & Hotel Booking
- Proof of return flight and accommodation during your stay
- Bank Statements (Last 3 Months)
- Stamped by the bank, showing sufficient funds for the trip
- Travel Insurance
- Must cover the duration of your stay in Turkey
- Additional Documents for Business or Family Visit
- Invitation letter from host/company in Turkey
- Turkish identity or residency proof of the inviter
Note: Missing or inaccurate documents can result in visa rejection. Ensure all paperwork is clear, complete, and well-organized before your appointment.
Submit Your Application
Once your documents are ready, the next step is to formally submit your application. The process will differ slightly depending on whether you’re applying online or at a visa application center.
For e-Visa Applications
If your nationality qualifies for Turkey’s e-Visa, here’s how to submit it:
- Visit the official e-Visa portal: www.evisa.gov.tr
- Fill out the online application form with your passport, travel, and residency details.
- Pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card.
- Receive your e-Visa by email, usually within 24 hours.
- Print a copy of your e-Visa to present upon entry at the Turkish border.
This is the fastest and most convenient method if you are eligible.
For Sticker Visa Applications via VFS or Gateway
For nationalities requiring a sticker visa, follow these steps:
- Book an Appointment Online
- Use the official VFS Global or Gateway International portal to schedule your visa appointment.
- Attend Your Appointment in Person
- Bring all required documents, including originals and copies.
- Submit your biometric data (fingerprints and photo).
- Pay the visa and service fees (these vary based on nationality and visa type).
- Track Your Application
- Use the application tracking number provided to monitor progress online.
- Wait for Notification
- Processing usually takes 5–15 business days.
- Once approved, you’ll receive a notification to collect your passport.
- Collect Your Visa
- Pick up your passport with the visa sticker affixed at the center or arrange for courier delivery, if available.
Tip: Always double-check appointment dates, fee structures, and document checklists provided by the visa center to avoid delays or rejections.
Processing Time and Visa Fees
Understanding the timeline and costs involved in getting a Turkey visa from Dubai helps you avoid last-minute surprises and plan your trip with confidence.
Processing Time
- e-Visa
- Processing Time: Usually within 24 hours, often within minutes.
- This is the fastest option if you’re eligible, with minimal paperwork.
- Sticker Visa (via VFS or Gateway Application Centers)
- Processing Time: Typically 5 to 15 working days.
- Complex cases or missing documents may cause delays.
- It is recommended to apply at least three weeks before your intended travel date.
Visa Fees
Visa and service fees vary depending on your nationality and visa type. Below is a general estimate:
| Visa Type | Fee Range (Approx.) |
| e-Visa | AED 100 – AED 200 |
| Tourist Sticker Visa | AED 225 – AED 400 |
| Business or Family Visit | AED 300 – AED 500 |
| Service Fee (VFS/Gateway) | AED 120 – AED 180 |
Note: Fees are non-refundable, even if your visa is denied.
Service providers like VFS Global may also offer optional services such as document verification, courier return, and VIP lounge access for an additional fee.
Track and Collect Your Visa
Once you’ve submitted your Turkey visa application, the final steps are to monitor its progress and collect your approved visa. Here’s how it works based on the method you used.
For e-Visa Applications
- After submitting the online application and payment via the official e-Visa portal, your visa will typically be emailed to you within 24 hours.
- There is no need to track the application unless there is a delay.
- Simply download and print the e-Visa to carry with your passport when traveling to Turkey.
For Sticker Visa Applications (via VFS or Gateway)
- Track Your Application
- You will receive a reference number after your appointment.
- Visit the official VFS Global tracking page or the Gateway International tracking system to check the status of your application.
- Updates typically include receipt, processing, and final decision stages.
- Notification for Passport Collection
- You will receive a call, SMS, or email once your passport is ready for pickup.
- Some centers offer courier delivery; check availability when applying.
- Collect Your Visa
- Visit the application center in person with your original receipt and ID to collect your passport.
- Check the visa sticker details (name, passport number, validity dates) before leaving the counter.
Tip: If your travel date is approaching and you haven’t received a response, contact the visa center immediately to avoid last-minute issues.
Final Word: Make Your Journey to Turkey Smooth and Stress-Free
Whether you’re planning a quick getaway to Istanbul or visiting family in Antalya, securing your Turkey visa from Dubai doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the process, knowing your visa options, and preparing the right documents, you can avoid delays and enjoy a hassle-free application. Turkey continues to be a top destination for UAE residents—rich in culture, history, and hospitality—making it well worth the preparation.
Reach Out to Us
Need help applying for your Turkey visa from Dubai?
At The Open World, we specialize in simplifying global mobility. Our experts provide full support with document preparation, eligibility assessment, appointment booking, and follow-up—ensuring your visa process is smooth and successful.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do UAE citizens need a visa to travel to Turkey?
No, UAE nationals can enter Turkey visa-free for tourism or business purposes and stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
2. Can UAE residents of other nationalities apply for a Turkey visa?
Yes. UAE residents who are not UAE passport holders must apply for a Turkey visa, either through the e-Visa system or via an authorized visa application center, depending on their nationality.
3. How long does it take to process a Turkey visa from Dubai?
For e-Visas, processing usually takes less than 24 hours. For sticker visas submitted through VFS Global or Gateway, the typical processing time ranges from 5 to 15 working days.
4. What are the main documents required for a Turkey visa from Dubai?
Key documents include a valid passport, UAE residence visa, recent passport-sized photo, flight and hotel bookings, bank statements, NOC from your employer or sponsor, and travel insurance.
5. Can I apply for a Turkey visa online from Dubai?
Yes. If you’re eligible, you can apply online for an e-Visa through Turkey’s official portal. If not, you will need to apply for a sticker visa through an in-person appointment.
