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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Turkey - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution when traveling to Turkey due to terrorism and arbitrary detentions. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel To:

• Sirnak province, Hakkari province, and any area within six miles (10 kilometers) of the Syrian border due to terrorism.

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Turkey.  Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Security forces have detained tens of thousands of individuals, including U.S. citizens, for alleged affiliations with terrorist organizations based on scant or secret evidence and grounds that appear to be politically motivated.  U.S. citizens have also been subject to travel bans that prevent them from departing Turkey. Participation in demonstrations not explicitly approved by the Government of Turkey, as well as criticism of the government (including on social media), can result in arrest.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Turkey.

If you decide to travel to Turkey:

• Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Stay at hotels with identifiable security measures.
• Monitor local media and be prepared to adjust your plans quickly.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive travel alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report for Turkey.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Sirnak Province, Hakkari Province, and Any Area within six miles (ten kilometers) of the Syrian Border – Level 4:  Do Not Travel

Do not travel to Sirnak province, Hakkari province, or any area within six miles (10 kilometers) of the Turkey/Syria border due to the continued threat of attacks by terrorist groups, armed conflict, and civil unrest.  Terrorist attacks, including suicide bombings, ambushes, car bomb detonations, and improvised explosive devices, as well as shootings, and illegal roadblocks leading to violence have occurred in these areas. U.S. government employees are subject to travel restrictions in the entire provinces of Sirnak and Hakkari, and any areas within 10 km of the Syrian border.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Six months beyond date of entry

One page for entry and exit stamps

Not required for stays under 90 days

25,000 Turkish lira or 10,000 euros (or equivalent)

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy ankara.

1480 Sok No:1 Cukurambar Mah  Cankaya 06530, Ankara Turkey Telephone: +(90) (312) 294-0000 (emergencies only) Fax: +(90) (312) 232-7472 Contact American Citizen Services Ankara

U.S. Consulate General Istanbul Istinye Mahallesi, Üç Şehitler Sokak No.2 Istinye 34460 – Istanbul, Turkey Telephone: +(90) (212) 335-9000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(90) (212) 335-9000 Fax: +(90) (212) 335-9102 Contact American Citizen Services Istanbul

U.S. Consulate Adana Girne Bulvari No. 212, Güzelevler Mahallesi, Yüregir Adana, Turkey Telephone: +(90) (322) 455-4100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(90) (322) 455-4100 Fax: +(90)(322) 455-4141 Contact American Citizen Services Adana

U.S. Consular Agent - Izmir Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(90) (312) 455-5555 [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey  website for the most current visa and residency permit information.

• In Turkey, contact the nearest Directorate General of Migration Management office to obtain a residence permit.

Obey all Turkish visa regulations and maintain valid residence permits at all times.  The U.S. Embassy is unable to assist with Turkish immigration or visa-related matters.  Turkish authorities enforce immigration laws.

• Passports must be valid for six months beyond your entry date.  You will be  denied entry  into Turkey if there is not enough space for  entry and exit stamps  in your passport.
• Official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye .
• Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
• Get entry and exit stamps . You must have a Turkish entry stamp to fly domestically.  Get an exit stamp in your passport when leaving the country  or you may face  difficulties re-entering Turkey in the future  and  a fine .
• If you are planning to  work, study, or conduct academic or scientific research  in Turkey, you must receive a visa from a Turkish embassy or consulate before arriving in Turkey. Visit  “Living in Turkey”  on the U.S. Embassy’s website.

Syria:  See the  Syria travel advisory.  The U.S. Embassy in Damascus suspended operations in February 2012.  The Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens against all travel to Syria.  At this time, the Turkey-Syria border is closed except in cases of urgent medical treatment or safety from immediate danger as defined by the Government of Turkey.

Iraq:  See the  Iraq travel advisory .  The Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens against all travel to Iraq.  The Turkish Government tightly controls entry and exit on the border.

HIV/AIDS restrictions:   The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Turkey.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  The potential for terrorist attacks in Turkey, including against U.S. citizens and interests, remains high.

• Terrorists have previously attacked U.S. interests in Turkey, including the U.S. Embassy in Ankara, the U.S. Consulate General in Istanbul, and the U.S. Consulate in Adana.
• Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Turkey. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas. Terrorists have also previously targeted Western tourists and expatriates.

Under laws passed in 2018, Turkish security forces have an expanded legal ability to stop and search individuals and to  detain individuals without charge.

For your own safety:

• Carry a passport or identity document at all times.
• Follow local news sources during your stay to remain abreast of any potential areas, dates, or times of concern.
• Exercise caution and good judgment, keep a low profile, and maintain a high level of vigilance.
• Avoid demonstrations, which may become violent and unpredictable.
• Obey the instructions of Turkish security personnel at all times.

There have also been threats and acts of violence targeting religious minorities, groups, institutions, and places of worship in Turkey. The level of anti-Israeli and anti-Semitic sentiment remains significant.

Protests and gatherings:  Public gatherings are common in Turkey and can include protests or demonstrations, holiday celebrations, family events, sporting events, and political events in the lead up to elections and following the announcement of election results. U.S. citizens should

• Avoid demonstrations and gatherings, as they may become violent and unpredictable. 
• Be aware celebratory gunfire is common in some areas and has resulted in deaths in recent years. 
• Follow local authorities instructions, police may take action to disperse the group, including possibly using teargas or detaining participants, even when the government has approved gatherings.

Crime:  Overall street crime in Turkey is low; however, you should use the same precautions you would take in the United States. The following types of crime have been reported in Turkey:

• Pick-pocketing ,  purse snatching , and  mugging.  Carry only necessary items when in tourist areas. 
• Residential crime  occurs more often in major cities, with criminals targeting ground floor apartments for theft.
• Sexual assault  has occurred in Turkish baths ( hamams ) or spas, in taxis, and when traveling alone at night. Assaults involving  date rape drugs  have also been reported.
• Confidence schemes  occur where travelers are tricked into ordering food or drinks at a restaurant, and then are charged incredibly high prices. Patronize well-established restaurants and ask to see a menu with prices before ordering anything.
• Scams  are common in Turkey, particularly internet scams involving people who met online. Typically, the person in Turkey asks the other person to wire large sums of money to provide financial assistance.  Do not send money to someone you have never met in person.  Exercise due diligence when purchasing jewelry, rugs, or real estate. See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Eastern and Southeastern Turkey: We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens reconsider travel to specific areas in eastern and southeastern Turkey, and do not travel to areas near the Syrian or Iraqi borders.

U.S. Government employees are subject to travel restrictions  to the provinces of Batman, Bingol, Bitlis, Diyarbakir, Gaziantep, Hakkari, Hatay, Kilis, Mardin, Sanliurfa, Siirt, Sirnak, Tunceli and Van.  Mount Ararat , in Agri province, is a special military zone, and  access permission must be obtained before coming to Turkey  from a Turkish Embassy or Consulate.

The following incidents and activities have taken place in eastern and   southeastern Turkey :

• Terrorist attacks:  Terrorist groups, including Da’esh, also referred to as The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) or The Islamic State of Iraq and ash Sham (ISIS), and the PKK (the Kurdistan Workers’ Party), have conducted large-scale attacks in the area, including suicide bombings, ambushes, and the detonation of car bombs, improvised explosive devices, and other homemade weapons. The PKK has attacked Turkish military and police personnel in the eastern and southeastern provinces, occasionally harming bystanders.
• Restricted access:  Turkish security forces control access to the southeastern provinces of Hakkari, Mardin and Sirnak along the Iraqi border, and the entire Turkey-Syria border.  Do not photograph or video Turkish military operations or attempt to enter military installations anywhere in Turkey.
• Shootings:  Turkish towns located along the border with Syria have been struck by bullets and artillery rounds that originate in Syria, some resulting in deaths or injuries.
• Roadblocks:  Use commercial air travel whenever possible while traveling to southeastern Turkey.  If road travel is necessary, drive only during daylight hours and on major highways.  The Turkish  Jandarma  (rural police) monitors checkpoints on roads. Cooperate if stopped at a checkpoint. Be prepared to provide identification and vehicle registration. Remain calm, do not make any sudden movements, and obey all instructions.  We strongly discourage the use of public transportation in the southeastern region.
• Demonstrations:  Violent clashes have taken place between Kurdish groups and Turkish police resulting from organized demonstrations.
• Curfews:  The Turkish Government has instituted temporary curfews in cities throughout the southeast due to blockades of certain neighborhoods by the PKK. Adhere to any locally imposed curfews.

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local police by dialing 155 and contact the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime. See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . We urge U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault to contact the U.S. Embassy or closest consulate.

 We can:

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• help you find resources for accommodation and flights home
• replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance and visit the  Embassy webpage  for resources.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.

• Always carry with you a form of official government photo identification, such as a residence permit or copy of your passport.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.  Turkish authorities may not inform U.S. officials of dual nationals arrested in Turkey.  See our  webpage  for further information on arrests.

• Insulting the State:  It is illegal to show disrespect to the name or image of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, or to insult the Turkish Government, flag, President, or security forces,  including on social media . Erase any sensitive photos, comments, or other materials from your social media pages, cameras, laptops, and other electronic devices that could be considered controversial or provocative.
• Drug offenses:  Turkish law enforcement is  very aggressive  in combating illegal drugs. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs are very strict, and include heavy fines and jail sentences between four and 20 years.
• Cultural artifacts:  Turkish law has a broad definition of “antiquities” and makes it a crime to remove any from the country. If you buy antiquities, use authorized dealers and get museum certificates for each item. Failure to have a receipt and certificate at departure can result in  your arrest , and  jail time . Contact the  Embassy of the Republic of Turkey  in Washington for specific information regarding customs requirements.
• Male dual nationals over the age of 18 may be subject to Turkish conscription and compulsory military service. Consult officials at Turkish Embassies or Consulates with any questions before entering Turkey.
• Counterfeit goods:  Do not buy counterfeit or pirated goods, even if widely available. They are both illegal to bring back into the United States and to purchase locally.
• Religious proselytizing:  There is no law against religious proselytizing.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  Homophobia, transphobia, and intolerance towards homosexuality are widespread throughout Turkey. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) individuals are  not protected by anti-discrimination laws  and have been the targets of violence in recent years. References in the law relating to “offenses against public morality,” “protection of the family,” and “unnatural sexual behavior,” are sometimes used as a basis for abuse by law enforcement officials. In addition, the law states that “no association may be founded for purposes against law and morality,” a clause which has been used by authorities in attempts to shut down or limit the activities of associations working on LGBTI matters.

See   our  LGBTI Travel Information   page and section 6 of our Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:   The Turkish constitution prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in the provision of state services, employment, education and access to health care. However, access to buildings and public transportation for the disabled in most cities is quite limited, and generally, accessibility for people with disabilities in Turkey is poor. Airports and metro stations are typically accessible, but other forms of public transport (buses) are not.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  The Embassy is aware of multiple sexual assaults against U.S. citizens in Turkey, including assaults against tourists traveling alone or in small groups, and at spas and  hamams.

• If you are sexually assaulted, please seek immediate help from the Turkish National Police, Turkish Health Services, or nearest hospital if you feel safe doing so.
• We urge you to contact the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance.

See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Earthquakes:  Earthquakes occur throughout Turkey. Make contingency plans and leave emergency contact information with family members outside Turkey. General information about natural disaster preparedness is available from the  U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)  and at  Ready.gov. For more information on disaster preparedness, please click on the following links:

• U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
• FEMA: Earthquakes
• FEMA for Kids: Emergency Preparedness
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Earthquake Preparedness

Medical care provided in Turkish hospitals varies greatly. Though new private hospitals in Ankara, Antalya, Izmir and Istanbul have modern facilities, equipment, numerous U.S.-trained specialists, and international accreditation, some still may be unable to treat certain serious conditions. Health care standards are lower in small cities in Turkey.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance   to cover medical evacuation.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the government of Turkey to ensure the medication is legal in Turkey. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. Some medications may be unavailable in Turkey.

For U.S. citizens who live in Turkey , please see the Embassy’s website for  information on the Turkish General Health Insurance (GHI) law . If you are considering enrolling in Turkish GHI, carefully research what is and is not covered. Once you enroll in GHI, your coverage can only be cancelled if your residence permit expires or if you no longer reside in Turkey.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Roads in Turkey range from single-lane country roads to modern, divided motorways. Highways in the tourist-frequented western, southwestern, and coastal regions of Turkey are generally in good condition and are well maintained, while conditions in other areas vary.

Be extremely cautious while driving at night.  Driving after dark, especially in rural areas, requires extra caution due to dangers such as livestock on the road or narrow unmarked or unpaved roads.

In case of an  accident  or  car trouble :

• Pull to the side of the road, turn on hazard lights, and use reflector triangles.
• For accidents with only vehicular damage, exchange insurance information, take photos of the accident before moving the vehicles, and depart if both sides agree. Turkish law requires drivers to fill out a Turkish-only form and provide pictures of the damage. Non-Turkish speakers should call and wait for the police.
• For accidents with injury  or a disagreement, remain at the site of the accident.  Do not move the vehicle  – even out of the way – until the Traffic Police arrive. Report the accident to the Traffic Police (dial 155) or Jandarma (dial 156). Get a certified copy of the official report from the Traffic Police office (this can take several days).
• The owner of the damaged vehicle should also apply to the customs authority with his passport and accident report before attempting to repair the vehicle or leave the country without the vehicle.
• When in doubt, it is best to call the Traffic Police or the Jandarma in the event of an accident.

Traffic Laws:  Drive defensively at all times. Drivers routinely ignore traffic regulations, including driving through red lights and stop signs, and turning left from the far right lane. These and other similar driving practices cause frequent traffic accidents.

• Penalties for  driving drunk  (blood alcohol levels at or above 0.05 percent) include a  fine  and the individual’s license being confiscated for  six months .
• Using cell phones while driving is  illegal  and can lead to a  fine .

Driver’s license requirements include:

• For stays up to 180 days : A valid U.S. driver’s license or an International Driving Permit and a U.S. driver’s license is acceptable.
• For stays longer than 180 days : Obtain a Turkish driver’s license from the Turkish Security Directorate, Traffic Department (Emniyet Müdürlüğü, Trafik Hizmetleri Başkanlığı).
• A vehicle can be brought into Turkey for up to six months. Find information at the Turkish Touring and Automobile Club.

Public Transportation:  Major cities in   Turkey have extensive public transportation options including taxis, subways, ferries, trains, buses and mini-buses. Licensed cabs are metered. Between cities, Turkey has bus routes, train, and air services.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:   The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Turkey’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Turkey’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Turkey should also check U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings website  - select “broadcast warnings”.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Turkey . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Web sitemizi ziyaret edenlerin kişisel verilerini 6698 sayılı Kişisel Verilerin Korunması Kanunu uyarınca işlemekte ve gizliliğini korumaktayız. Bu Web Sitesi Gizlilik ve Çerez Politikası ile ziyaretçilerin kişisel verilerinin işlenmesi, çerez politikası ve internet sitesi gizlilik ilkeleri belirlenmektedir.

Çerezler (cookies), küçük bilgileri saklayan küçük metin dosyalarıdır. Çerezler, ziyaret ettiğiniz internet siteleri tarafından, tarayıcılar aracılığıyla cihazınıza veya ağ sunucusuna depolanır. İnternet sitesi tarayıcınıza yüklendiğinde çerezler cihazınızda saklanır. Çerezler, internet sitesinin düzgün çalışmasını, daha güvenli hale getirilmesini, daha iyi kullanıcı deneyimi sunmasını sağlar. Oturum ve yerel depolama alanları da çerezlerle aynı amaç için kullanılır. İnternet sitemizde çerez bulunmamakta, oturum ve yerel depolama alanları çalışmaktadır.

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Web sitemizi ziyaret etmeniz dolayısıyla elde edilen kişisel verileriniz aşağıda sıralanan amaçlarla T.C. İçişleri Bakanlığı tarafından Kanun’un 5. ve 6. maddelerine uygun olarak işlenmektedir:

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Web sitemizi ziyaret etmeniz dolayısıyla elde edilen kişisel verileriniz, kişisel verilerinizin işlenme amaçları doğrultusunda, iş ortaklarımıza, tedarikçilerimize kanunen yetkili kamu kurumlarına ve özel kişilere Kanun’un 8. ve 9. maddelerinde belirtilen kişisel veri işleme şartları ve amaçları kapsamında aktarılabilmektedir.

Çerezler, ziyaret edilen internet siteleri tarafından tarayıcılar aracılığıyla cihaza veya ağ sunucusuna depolanan küçük metin dosyalarıdır. Web sitemiz ziyaret edildiğinde, kişisel verilerin saklanması için herhangi bir çerez kullanılmamaktadır.

Web sitemiz birinci ve üçüncü taraf çerezleri kullanır. Birinci taraf çerezleri çoğunlukla web sitesinin doğru şekilde çalışması için gereklidir, kişisel verilerinizi tutmazlar. Üçüncü taraf çerezleri, web sitemizin performansını, etkileşimini, güvenliğini, reklamları ve sonucunda daha iyi bir hizmet sunmak için kullanılır. Kullanıcı deneyimi ve web sitemizle gelecekteki etkileşimleri hızlandırmaya yardımcı olur. Bu kapsamda çerezler;

İşlevsel: Bunlar, web sitemizdeki bazı önemli olmayan işlevlere yardımcı olan çerezlerdir. Bu işlevler arasında videolar gibi içerik yerleştirme veya web sitesindeki içerikleri sosyal medya platformlarında paylaşma yer alır.

Teknik olarak web sitemizde kullanılan çerez türleri aşağıdaki tabloda gösterilmektedir.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Türkiye travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: August 7, 2024 16:58 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, türkiye - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Türkiye due to the threat of terrorist attacks and the possibility of demonstrations throughout the country.

Borders with Iraq and Syria - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to within 10 km of the borders with Iraq and Syria, due to the unpredictable security situation and the threat of terrorism.

Earthquake-affected provinces - Avoid non-essential travel

• Kahramanmaraş

Southeastern provinces - Avoid non-essential travel

• Bingöl

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Protests related to the situation in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip

Since October 17, 2023, protests have been taking place throughout Türkiye due to the ongoing situation in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. Some protesters have targeted and vandalized popular Western-branded businesses and foreign diplomatic missions in Ankara, Istanbul and Adana, especially those of the United States and Israel. The protests have led to confrontations between protesters and security forces, road closures and traffic disruptions.

Additional protests at various locations cannot be ruled out and could pose a risk to your safety, regardless of your nationality.

Turkish authorities have employed enhanced measures to respond to demonstrations, including:

• deploying additional security forces
• using crowd dispersal methods

If you are near an affected area:

• exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings at all times
• expect heightened security measures
• avoid all demonstrations and gatherings
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• plan and use alternative routes

Armed attacks

Turkish authorities remain on alert following armed attacks in Istanbul at the Italian Santa Maria Catholic Church on January 28, 2024 and the Caglayan Courthouse on February 6, 2024.

If you are in Istanbul, you should:

• exercise increased caution
• expect a heightened security presence
• monitor local media

Borders with Iraq and Syria

Despite counter-terrorism operations conducted by Turkish and Iraqi security forces, a threat of terrorism subsists at the border between Türkiye and Iraq. Violent attacks on sites held by terrorist groups or against Turkish and Iraqi security forces occur frequently.

Extremist groups have carried out attacks at border crossings and other locations in Syria close to the Turkish border. The Turkish government has declared some areas in villages along the border with Syria special security zones as part of cross-border military operations.

Foreigners and individuals associated to Western countries are targets for kidnappings and violence by terrorist groups in border areas with Iraq and Syria.

Border areas with Iraq and Syria are subject to extremely dangerous military activities, such as:

• drone attacks
• heavy gunfire
• improvised explosive devices (IEDs) explosions

If you travel near the border with Iraq and/or Syria despite the advisory in effect:

• exercise extreme caution
• expect a heightened military presence and movement restrictions
• avoid travelling after dark
• monitor local and international media to stay informed on current clashes
• follow instructions from local authorities and security forces

Southeast region 

Terrorist groups have launched deadly terrorist attacks against Turkish security personnel in several cities and regions in the south and southeast of the country.

• Remain vigilant
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local and international media

There is a risk, particularly to foreigners, of kidnapping in the area (see Kidnapping, below). Maintain a high level of vigilance at all times.

Avoid overland travel. If you must, drive during the day and stay on major roads. Don’t use public transportation.

There is an ongoing threat of terrorism from domestic and international terrorist groups in Türkiye. Many attacks have occurred throughout the country. Although most have occurred in the south and east, some also took place in major cities like Istanbul and Ankara.

Attacks have targeted:

• Turkish military and government facilities
• places of worship
• tourist attractions and popular public places
• nightclubs and entertainment venues
• public transportation

Further attacks may occur, and terrorists may also target:

• crowded places
• places with high pedestrian traffic and where foreigners may gather
• commercial establishments
• local government offices
• public transit stations
• busy streets
• long queues at tourist attractions

Turkish security officials may set up roadblocks or close streets when they receive reports on specific threats. It is common to have a proactive police presence.

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times in public places
• Avoid large crowds
• Follow the instructions of local authorities at all times

Mountaineering and hiking

Mount Ararat, between the eastern provinces of Agri and Igdir, is designated a special military zone. You must hire the services of a locally licensed guide agency if you intend to hike in the area. A licensed company will obtain the necessary permits and assign you a registered Mountaineer to accompany you throughout your hike.

If you intend on engaging in mountaineering or hiking:

• never do so alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• ensure that you’re properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back to camp
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
• obtain detailed information on trekking routes or ski slopes before setting out and do not venture off marked trails

Accurate information on mountain conditions can be difficult to obtain. Weather in mountainous areas can also be unpredictable.

Identification

Random ID checks and ‎roadblocks may take place in large cities and on intercity roads.

Cooperate during ID checks and always carry your passport and visa or residence permit. Failure to produce these documents or non-compliance with Turkish officials during identity checks could result in fines, detainment or deportation.

Turkish authorities have detained and prosecuted large numbers of people over social media posts criticizing the government, state officials, president, military operations, etc. You could be subject to scrutiny if you posted similar comments, even if a post was published years ago or outside of Türkiye.

• Keep in mind the sensitivities
• Think twice before posting or reacting to online content criticizing the government
• Restrain and limit your social media footprint

There is a threat of kidnapping-for-ransom along Türkiye’s borders with Syria and Iraq. Extremist groups take advantage of porous borders and an unpredictable security situation to carry out operations and use kidnapping as a means of raising funds.

They may target the local population, foreigners and even foreign aid workers.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, can occur throughout Türkiye.

• Avoid showing signs of affluence
• Ensure that your belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times
• If travelling by car, keep valuable belongings out of sight, windows closed and doors locked

Muggings, assaults and sexual assaults occur.

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery. Do not accept food and drinks from strangers, even if the wrapping or container appears intact.

Don’t go to down-market bars and neighbourhoods. One scam, particularly common in Istanbul, involves locals inviting tourists to bars for food and drinks and then forcing them to pay a steep bill.

Don’t accept letters, parcels or other items from strangers. Drug traffickers sometimes attempt to convince foreigners to deliver packages and messages into and out of Türkiye.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

If you’re travelling to Türkiye to meet someone you’ve only met online, or the person in Türkiye asks to wire money, you may be the victim of a scam. Don’t send money to someone you have never met in person.

Overseas fraud

Women’s safety

There is a risk of sexual assault.

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Be aware of your surroundings.

Dress conservatively, especially in areas outside major cities and coastal resorts.

Advice for women travellers

Stray animals

There are numerous stray dogs and cats in Türkiye. Dogs often travel in packs and could attack pedestrians and joggers.

Don’t attempt to feed or pet stray animals.

Road safety

Türkiye has a modern road network. However, uneven surfaces and poorly marked lane changes near construction zones, are common.

Exercise caution, especially when driving in the rain. Severe weather conditions may seriously affect road conditions.

Ensure that your vehicle is in good repair. Avoid driving after dark outside of major cities or major roads.

Accidents are common. You may face the following hazards when driving in the country:

• reckless driving
• vehicle breakdown due to poor maintenance practices
• dangerous road conditions
• inadequate lighting
• poor signage
• high-volume traffic congestion

If you come across an accident, don’t slow down or stop to observe.

If you are involved in an accident, lock your doors and windows and call 112 to notify the police.

Don’t move your vehicle until advised to do so by the police, even if your accident results in:

• blocked traffic routes
• injuries to those involved
• a disagreement
• a crowd starting to form

You may be permitted to move your vehicle after communicating with the police if you are on a busy road, once you have taken pictures of the scene.

Although pedestrians officially have the right of way, it may not be the case in practice.

General Directorate of Highways

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from Turkish authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the duration of stay indicated on your visa, e-Visa, visa exemption or residence permit.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Work visa: required Tourism visa: not required for stays of up to 90 days in a 180-day period Business visa: required Student visa: required Medical visa: required

If you are travelling to Türkiye to seek medical services, apply for a medical visa through the HealthTürkiye online portal. You should also consult our advice on medical tourism under the  Health  section before applying for a medical visa.

If you are travelling to Türkiye and need a visa, use the official Turkish government site to apply online and purchase an e-visa before entering the country. Be cautious of third-party websites that offer help in getting any type of visa, as they may charge additional fees to provide information and submit applications for you. They do not operate on behalf of the Government of Türkiye.

If you plan to study or work in Türkiye, you must obtain a visa at a Turkish embassy or consulate before arriving in Türkiye. If you intend to work remotely from Türkiye, you must first obtain a ‘’Digital Nomad’’ visa by submitting the requested documentation on the government of Türkiye’s digital nomads online portal. If your documents are validated, you will receive a Digital Nomad Identification Certificate that you must present at a Turkish embassy, consulate or visa center to receive your visa.

To qualify for a subsequent visa-exempted entry for a 90-day period in Turkiye, you must leave the country for at least 90 days before being allowed to re-enter for another 90 days.

If you wish to remain in Türkiye for longer than 90 consecutive days, you must obtain a residence permit from the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management in the province in which you reside. If you overstay, you might be fined, deported or banned from future travel to Türkiye for a specific period of time.

• E-visa application system  – Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye
• Residency permit applications – Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Türkiye
• HealthTürkiye online portal – Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye
• Digital nomads online portal – Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Türkiye

Entry stamp

Ensure Turkish immigration officials stamp your passport on arrival. Failure to produce a stamped passport is punishable by a fine, detention and deportation, and can lead to significant delays at departure.

Dual citizenship

Dual Turkish-Canadian citizens must present a valid Turkish passport or piece of identification to enter the country.

• Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a viral disease that can cause fever, pain and bleeding under the skin.  In some cases, it can be fatal.  It spreads to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, or from the bite of an infected tick.  Risk is generally low for most travellers. Celebrations which include the slaughtering of animals and contact with their blood and/ or tissues may increase the risk of exposure to the virus.  

Protect yourself from tick bites and wear gloves or other protective clothing if you are in contact with the blood and tissues of  animals, particularly livestock. There is no vaccine available for Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical tourism

Medical tourism is common in Türkiye. Canadian travellers have had serious health complications following surgeries abroad. The Turkish government recommends that all travellers seeking medical services select healthcare providers authorized by the Turkish Ministry of Health.

Before leaving for medical travel, you should do your research, especially on:

• the health and financial risks
• medical facilities performing the intended procedure
• language barriers, which can lead to misunderstandings about your medical care and conditions
• travel insurance that includes coverage for the type of medical procedure you will be undergoing

The Turkish authorities established the HealthTürkiye online portal, which provides information to foreigners about medical tourism in Türkiye.

You should discuss your medical plans with your primary healthcare provider in Canada before travelling. 

• Make sure that the healthcare providers you choose are authorized by the Turkish health authorities.
• Ask to see the credentials of the healthcare providers
• Obtain a written agreement detailing the proposed treatment or procedure.
• Receiving medical care outside Canada
• If you become sick or injured while travelling outside Canada or after your return
• Authorized healthcare providers  - Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye (In Turkish)
• International Health Services Call Center  - Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye
• HealthTürkiye – Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye

Universal health coverage

Foreigners with residency permits must register for universal health coverage under Turkish Social Security (SGK). Although Canadian citizens are exempt, you may enroll if you have no other coverage and you have been a resident in Türkiye for at least one year.

Universal Health Insurance  - Türkiye's social Security Institution

Medical services and facilities

Modern medical care is available in major cities but may not be in remote areas. Immediate cash payment is often required.

Most provincial and territorial health care programs are extremely limited in the coverage offered abroad. 

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Authorities can request to see your ID at any time. If you fail to present valid identification documents upon request, you could face:

• deportation
• entry ban for future travel into Türkiye

During your stay:

• carry the original version (not only photocopies or digital versions) of a valid government-issued ID, such as your passport, at all times.
• keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents in case it is seized or lost
• follow the instructions of the local authorities requesting the documents

If you are temporarily in Türkiye, you should carry a valid passport that contains a Turkish entry stamp and a valid visa.

If you reside in Türkiye, you should carry your Turkish resident ID (Kimlik and/or Ikamet) and a valid passport that contains a Turkish entry stamp and a valid visa.

The use of illegal drugs is prohibited. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

Don't agree to carry any baggage that is not yours.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Lèse-majesté

It is illegal to denigrate, desecrate or insult the following:

• the name or image of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye
• the president of the Republic of Türkiye
• the Turkish flag and the national anthem
• Turkish currency
• State organs and institutions and its judicial bodies
• the police and the military

Religious proselytism

Although religious proselytism is not illegal, some activities may be considered illegal and could lead to detention.

Political discussions

Avoid discussions (including on social media) on historical and religious issues as well as on politics.

• Restrain/limit your social media footprint.

Online activities

Turkish authorities have detained and prosecuted people over social media posts criticizing the government, state officials, president, military operations. You could be subject to scrutiny even if a post was published years ago or outside of Türkiye.

Authorities have also targeted people and groups for:

• publishing statements
• organizing news conferences
• organizing or participating in nonviolent activities
• critical writing and online activism protesting the government, its policies, decisions and actions

Even if a case does not go to trial or ends in acquittal, people can be labelled as terrorism suspects and face adverse consequences due to investigations and criminal proceedings, including possible loss of employment and social exclusion.

Photography

It is forbidden to photograph military or public installations. Avoid photographing public demonstrations or members of police or security forces. Cameras may be confiscated. Do not photograph people without their permission.

Turkish antiquities and other cultural artifacts that are considered of historical value or of national importance cannot be exported. Seek advice from Turkish authorities prior to departure from Türkiye. If the item can be exported, you will require a sales receipt and the official museum export certificate issued by the Turkish customs office.

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Turkish law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely socially accepted.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Türkiye.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Türkiye, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Türkiye.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Türkiye, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Turkish court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Türkiye to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Dress and behaviour

Islamic practices and beliefs are closely adhered to in many parts of the country.

In all places of worship, women should cover their head with a scarf and all visitors should cover their arms and legs.

• Dress conservatively, especially in areas outside major cities and coastal resorts
• Behave discreetly
• Respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities

In 2025, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 28.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

The currency of Türkiye is the Turkish lira (TRY).

Earthquakes

In February 2023, severe earthquakes struck several provinces in southeastern Türkiye resulting in tens of thousands of casualties and significant damage to critical infrastructure, buildings and private houses. There are reports indicating that most of the affected local populations live in temporary shelters or settlements awaiting reconstruction.

The authorities revoked the state of emergency on May 9, 2023. Recovery work is underway, but the situation remains precarious in the following southern provinces affected by the earthquakes:

If you are in the affected area, you can expect:

• continued telecommunication and electricity disruptions
• frequent aftershocks
• limited food, water and hygiene options
• limited accommodations
• extremely limited transportation options from the disaster area

If you are planning to travel near an affected area despite this advisory:

• monitor local media for the latest developments

Avoid non-essential travel to the provinces affected by the earthquakes as our ability to provide consular assistance to Canadians in that area is severely limited. If you need assistance, call the Embassy of Canada in Ankara: 90 (312) 409-2700.

Türkiye is located in an active seismic zone. Landslides are possible in affected areas, and strong aftershocks may occur after the initial earthquake.

Earthquakes - What to Do?

Severe rainstorms occur in various regions around Türkiye, especially in the Black Sea region and coastal areas. Heavy rainfall can cause severe flooding and landslides, resulting in extensive damage to infrastructure and hampering the provision of essential services in the affected areas. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Droughts and snowstorms can also delay travel and disrupt essential services.

Forest fires often occur during the summer months, particularly in provinces on the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts of Türkiye.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of major fire:

• stay away from the affected areas, especially if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Local services

Dial 112 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

Azerbaijan, Georgia. Offering consular services to Canadians in Iran.

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Türkiye, in Ankara, or the Consulate General of Canada to Türkiye, in Istanbul, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Turkey Visa Requirements

Turkish visa policy and entry documents required.

Foreign visitors from many countries need a visa to enter Türkiye. Travelers who meet the Turkey e-Visa requirements can apply online in just a few minutes.

The online visa for Turkey is the quickest and most convenient option for travelers. TurkeyVisaEasy’s application process is 100% online and most travelers receive visa approval within 24 hours. Applicants can also obtain the visa in 1 hour with the priority service.

Full information about Turkey visa requirements is provided below.

Turkey Entry Requirements: Do I Need a Visa for Turkey?

Travelers from many countries need a visa to enter Turkey. Citizens of over 50 nations can get an electronic visa , eliminating the need to visit an embassy or consulate.

Tourists who meet the e-Visa requirements are granted either a single or multiple entry visa , depending on their nationality. The maximum length of stay with the e-Visa varies from 30 to 90 days.

Some nationalities can enter Turkey visa-free for limited periods. These passport holders are called visa-exempt.

Turkey Visa Policy: Who is Eligible for Turkey e-Visa?

Turkey’s visa policy places foreign visitors into 3 groups , depending on their nationality.

• Visa-free countries
• Countries eligible for the eVisa
• Sticker visa required countries

The Turkey Travel requirements for different countries are provided below.

Multiple-entry visa for Turkey

Travelers from the countries listed below can get a multiple-entry online visa for Turkey, provided they meet the other e-Visa requirements. They can stay in Turkey for up to 90 days , or 30 days in some cases.

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Dominican Republic
• Hong Kong BNO
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• South Africa

Single-entry visa for Turkey

Passport holders from the following countries are eligible for a single-entry e-Visa for Turkey. They can stay for up to 30 days .

• Afghanistan
• East Timor (Timor-Leste)
• Equatorial Guinea
• Greek Cypriot Administration
• Palestinian Territory
• Philippines
• Solomon Islands

Special conditions for the Turkey e-Visa

Foreigners from some countries eligible for the single-entry visa need to meet one or more of these special Turkey e-Visa requirements :

• Valid visa or residence permit from a Schengen country , Ireland, the United Kingdom, or the United States. Electronic visas and e-residence permits are not accepted.
• Travel with an airline approved by the Turkey Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Hold a hotel reservation
• Have evidence of adequate financial means ($50 a day)

Travelers must check all the requirements for their country of citizenship.

Nationalities allowed to enter Turkey without a visa

Not all foreigners require a visa for Turkey. Visitors from some countries can enter without a visa for a limited time.

Some nationalities allowed to enter Turkey without a visa are:

• All EU citizens
• New Zealand
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom

Visa-free visits range from 30 days to 90 days per 180-day period, depending on nationality.

Only tourism activities are permitted without a visa. For all other purposes, the relevant entry permit must be obtained.

Nationalities that do not meet Turkey e-Visa requirements

Passport holders from these countries cannot apply for a Turkey visa online. As they do not meet the Turkey e-Visa eligibility requirements, they must apply for a traditional visa through a diplomatic mission:

• Marshall Islands
• North Korea
• Papua New Guinea
• South Sudan

Travelers from these countries should contact the nearest Turkish embassy or consulate to make a visa appointment.

What Documents Are Required for the Turkey e-Visa?

Eligible travelers must fill out the e-Visa application form . To meet the Turkey e-Visa requirements and successfully complete the application, travelers need:

• Passport valid for at least 5 months from the date of arrival
• Email address to receive notifications and the approved e-Visa
• Debit or credit card to pay the Turkey e-Visa fees

Travelers do not need to present documents at a Turkish embassy or consulate. The entire application is online .

Passport Requirements for Türkiye

For foreigners to meet the Turkish visa requirements, their passport must be:

• Valid for at least 5 months after the date of arrival
• Issued by a country eligible for the Turkey e-Visa

The same passport must be used to apply for the visa and travel to Türkiye. The passport and visa information must match exactly.

Papers Required to Travel to Türkiye

Overseas visitors need to have their travel documents ready for inspection by immigration officials at the border. Required papers include:

• Valid passport
• Turkish visa

Travelers receive the Türkiye e-Visa by email. They are advised to print a copy as well as store it on an electronic device.

Turkey Travel Restrictions in 2024

Turkey’s travel requirements are the same as previously. Passengers must follow the standard entry procedures for their nationality.

Those planning a trip to Turkey in 2024 should check Turkey’s travel restrictions to know which documents they need to enter, and whether there are any additional requirements in place at the time of travel.

FAQs About Turkey Entry Requirements

Can i travel to turkey is turkey open to tourists.

Yes, Turkey is open for tourism. Travelers of all nationalities who meet Turkey’s immigration regulations can enter the country following the rules outlined below. As always, foreigners need a passport and a valid visa or a copy of an approved online eVisa to travel to Turkey.

Visitors should check the latest lockdown update and travel advisories. Turkey travel restrictions for tourists are under constant review as the international situation evolves.

What are the requirements for entering Turkey?

The general Turkey travel requirements include having a valid passport and a visa (unless visa-exempt).

Eligible travelers can get their visa easily through TurkeyVisaEasy’s simple e-Visa platform.

Has Turkey lifted COVID-19 restrictions?

Yes, all Turkey travel restrictions for COVID-19 were lifted in 2022. Visitors can now enter the country without any additional COVID-19 documents.

Does Turkey require a COVID-19 test for entry?

No, there is no COVID-19 test requirement for Turkey . This rule was removed in 2022, along with all other COVID-19 restrictions.

Do you need health insurance to go to Turkey?

Visitors do not need health insurance to visit Turkey, although it’s recommended for peace of mind while traveling.

I have a connecting flight in Turkey, do I need an eVisa?

You need a visa to transit in Turkey if you’ll leave the international transit area of the airport.

You can apply for an eVisa if you have a long layover and wish to leave the airport before your connecting flight.

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VISA AND TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

Travel documents, domestic trips.

• Identity card
• Driver’s license
• Passport and/or document used as a passport / legal/official document accepted as a passport by the issuing nation
• Marriage certificate
• Birth certificate (For infants up to one month old, along with parents' identification)
• Photographed, sealed/stamped documents with T.R Identity number, issued by official institution(s)

International trips

You can travel with a passport or passport substitute (accepted for international travel). Your transit or destination country may require a visa.

Because countries may change their visa policies over time, we recommend that you obtain information on the current visa policy for your destination country from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the country’s embassy websites .

You must have a valid passport to travel abroad. If you are obtaining a passport for the first time or renewing it, please remember the process can take several days.

For more information on documents required for the passport application, and to make an appointment, please see Türkiye's Ministry of Interior Passport Services page (link in Turkish).

Visas and other documents

Countries may change their visa policies over time. As such, we recommend that you consult the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and embassy websites to learn about the current visa policy of your destination country.

Private security information (APIS)

Countries require visitors to provide personal information known as Advanced Passenger Information (API) or Advanced Passenger Information System (APIS). This information must be collected by the airline before the passenger boards the flight.

You will need to provide this information during the reservation process to ensure that you can use other self-service check-in options.

Information required for APIS:

• Name and surname (as written in the passport)
• Date of birth
• Nationality
• Passport number
• Passport expiration date
• Passport’s country of issue
• Country of residence
• Address of your accommodation on the first night
• Green Card number (if any)
• Redress Control Number (if any)

How is APIS information shared?

How can apis information be added.

You can add APIS information for your purchased tickets via the Manage My Bookings tab on our website.

According to new regulations, children are no longer permitted to travel on a parent’s passport. Your children must have their own passports and visas.

Important notices

• Check your passport for any damage. Make sure that the passport book is not completely or partially detached from its container, and that the plastic sheet on the photo page is not separated or torn.
• Make sure that there is a blank page in your passport for the entry-exit stamp of your international travels.
• Passport, ID and ticket information in travel documents must be the same. For name changes, it is necessary to renew the passport or submit the official letter (marriage certificate, divorce decree, etc.) to the officer during the trip.
• If your valid visa is in an old passport (expired, no blank pages, old-style passport, etc.), you should contact the consulate of the country you are traveling to.
• Since the validity period of the passport differs according to the country of travel, make sure that the validity period of your passport is sufficient and that your passport is not damaged (torn, scraped, erased, etc.). In addition, the signature box must be signed by the passenger.
• If you have a connecting flight, please review the visa regulations for the transit country, including whether an airport transit visa is required and the exemption conditions for visa-free transit.
• Some Arab countries cannot be entered if there is a valid or invalid Israeli visa or entry-exit stamp in the passport.
• You can also travel to Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia, Azerbaijan and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus with your new Turkish ID card without passport. Child passengers must also have a new type Turkish ID card with a photo. Temporary Ids are not valid to travel to these countries.
• Additional documents (consent letter, etc.) may be required for infant and child passengers traveling with one or both parents/legal guardian.

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Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. The embassy staff cannot travel to areas where FCDO advises against travel to help you in person. Staff can offer support by phone and email.

Turkey-Syria border

FCDO advises against all travel to within 10km of the border with Syria due to fighting and a heightened risk of terrorism.

Sirnak city

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Sirnak city.

Hakkari Province

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Hakkari Province.

Find out more about  why FCDO advises against travel .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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Turkey’s Entry Regulations and Visas (For Tourists) – 2021

This is our complete guide to Turkey's entry regulations. 

Here you will find everything about the necessary documents, visa requirements, and frequently asked questions. 

Follow up your reading with our article about the current Covid-19 Rules in Turkey that will help you travel safely and worry-free.

If you have questions about Customs Regulation in Turkey , we have a guide about that, also.

Let´s start with the most important questions. 

Table of Content 

Do I Need to Buy a Visa?

Step-by-Step guide to find out if you need a visa:

Depending on your your citizenship, you may or may not need to buy a visa for Turkey.

The easiest way to check is to visit the official government e-visa website.

• 1. Select the country/region of your travel document.
• 2. Select your travel document.
• 3. Enter the security verification listed below.
• 4. Click "Select & Continue".
• If you do not need a visa , the following text will appear: " You are exempt from visa" . 
• If  you do need a visa for entry, you will see how long your visa is valid and the visa fee. Press "Save & Continue" to see in the next step and  requirements have to be fulfilled . For example, in some cases you will need a return ticket.

Documents Needed to Enter Turkey

Covid-19 Rules: From June 1, 2021, travelers who will visit Turkey are required to present one of the following documents :

• Proof of vaccination at least 14 days before the date of travel
• Documentation of recovery from COVID-19 in the last 6 months
• A negative rapid antigen test result taken within the last 48 hours before arrival
• A negative PCR test result taken within the last 72 hours before arrival

This applies to all countries except: United Kingdom, Iran, Egypt, Singapore, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Brazil, South Africa, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka.

• Travelers departing from the United Kingdom, Iran, Egypt, or Singapore will be required to present a negative PCR test result which has to be made max. 72 hours before entry.
• Travelers who depart from or have visited Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Brazil, South Africa, India, Nepal, Pakistan, or Sri Lanka in the last 14 days must provide a negative PCR test taken within the last 72 hours prior to arrival. These travelers are required to quarantine for 14 days at locations designated by the governorships. A PCR test will be conducted at the end of the 14th day of quarantine. If the result is negative, the quarantine is terminated.

Please be advised, that additional to normal entry regulations, travelers have to fill out an  entry registration form.  

The following documents are required to enter Turkey.

• Valid travel documet (in most cases valid passport, in some cases temporary passport or ID-Card) 
• If you are traveling with a child, a valid child passport.
• Depending on your citizenship, a visa or E-visa.

C itizens from  15 countries are allowed to enter Turkey with their  national ID-Cards . A couple of these countries include Germany, Ukraine, and the Netherlands. Citizens from other countries must present their passports.

Read more: Official List of Countries that are allowed to enter Turkey with their ID-Card (without Passport).

For most countries, your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Turkey.

In addition, it should have a full blank page for the entry and exit stamp.

In some cases it is possible to enter Turkey with an expired passport . Note, however, that this is not possible at all border crossings and may cause difficulties especially at land borders.

Here is a list of countries that are allowed to enter Turkey with an expired Passport.

Entry Regulations for Children

Since June 26, 2012, children need their own valid passport to enter Turkey.

Entries on their parents' passports are not valid anymore and will not permit them to travel into Turkey.

Children of nationalities who are allowed to enter with a national ID card can also enter with their ID card.

Important: Children Need Their Own Passport to Enter Turkey!

How Long Can I Stay in Turkey with a Tourist Visa?

The length of time you can stay in Turkey depends on the citizenship on your passport. It can vary between 30 and 90 days . 

Citizens from most European countries are able to travel without a visa for visits of up to 90 days within a 180-day period .

This means that a maximum of 180 days is possible in one year. 

Note that  visa runs are no longer possible  to renew your tourist visa. Therefore, leaving Turkey and reentering does not reset the 90 days within the 180 day limit. 

Most tourists are granted a "multiple-entry visa", which allows them to enter and leave the country as long as their visa is valid. There are also "single entry visas ", which allow only one entry to the country.

Travelers who want to stay longer than 90 days can apply for a “ Short Term Residence Permi t ” at the Local Immigration Offices (Provincial Directorate of Migration Administration).

Please note, if you stay longer than your tourist visa allows, you risk a fine and deportation .

E-Visas, Visas upon Arrival, and Visas from an Embassy

E-visas: .

From most countries, it's possible to easily obtain an e-Visa online. The e-Visa application only takes a few minutes .

After filling out the online form and paying the visa fee, you will receive your visa within 3 days . For urgent applications, you will get an e-mail with your e-Visa in about 14 minutes. 

We recommend that you use the official Turkish government site for this purpose. Note that government sites are always recognizable by the suffix ".gov".

See if you are eligible for an E-Visa.  

Visa upon arrival:

Some citizens may obtain a  visa upon arrival at a Turkish airport .  However, tourists who need a visa are strongly advised to apply for an e-visa before their trip, as there are fewer and fewer Turkish airports with visa application centers.

In addition, the fees charged by the official e-Visa website are lower than the fees for visas obtained upon arrival at Turkish airports.

See if you can obtain a visa on arrival.

Turkish Embassy or Consulate:

You can also contact the Turkish Embassy or Consulate in your country to obtain a Turkish visa.

For this type of application, it is best to start applying at least one month before the date of travel and already have all the necessary documents prepared.

Entering Turkey with a Car

When entering Turkey by car, in addition to the travel documents already mentioned (passport or ID card, visa if necessary), you must also present these documents at the Turkish land border:

•  International driving license
•  License documents for the vehicle
•  International Green Card and insurance to travel on Turkish roads
•  Power of attorney (if the vehicle belongs to someone else)

Car Insurance: Please note that the Green Card insurance is usually valid only up to the Bosphorus.

We therefore recommend that you check in advance whether your insurance policy is also valid for the Asian side of the country.

If you need, you can buy valid insurance at border crossings.

Entering Turkey with a Cruise Ship or Yacht

When entering Turkey by cruise ship, for example in Alanya or Antalya, you do not need to apply for a visa, if you do not stay ashore for more than 72 hours.

We recommend that you ask your tour operator about the necessary documents and current entry requirements.

Health Insurance in Turkey

It's highly recommended to get travel insurance or international health insurance  before traveling to Turkey. 

In the event you need emergency medical treatment, as a tourist, you are more likely to be admitted to a private clinic due to the higher standards.

However, healthcare insurance does not usually cover the full costs of private clinics. The difference must be paid out of your own pocket.

For this reason, it's a good idea to purchase travel insurance or international health insurance in advance. Travel insurance is available for as little as 10 euros per person.

How to Apply for an IKAMET (Long Term Visa)

If you wish to obtain a long-term visa, you must apply for an Ikamet, or “ Short Term Residence Permi t ”.

Your first residence permit can be issued for a maximum of one year on the condition that your passport does not expire earlier.

The application can be made online via the official immigration services website. You will be given an appointment at the immigration office (Directorate of Migration Management), where you will need to submit an application file.

The following documents are required:

• The residence permit application form
• Photocopy of your passport
• Notarized proof of residence (e.g. a rental agreement or a written invitation from a Turkish resident)
• 4 biometric photos 
• Valid health insurance
• Bank slip proving your ability to support yourself financially throughout your stay in Turkey 
• Application fee payment receipts 

Contacts in Turkey

Republic of Turkey Ministry of Foreign Affairs:

• Website:  www.mfa.gov.tr/default.en.mfa
• Phone: +90 (312) 292 10 00
• Address: Dr. Sadık Ahmet Cad. No:8 Balgat / Ankara- Turkey 06100

Antalya Provincial Directorate of Migration Management:

• Website: antalya.goc.gov.tr/
• Phone: 0 242 237 95 50-51-52
• E-mail: [email protected]
• Address: Bayındır Mahallesi Gazi Bulvarı No:2 07030 Muratpaşa/Antalya

Alanya District Directorate of Migration Management:

• Phone:  (0242) 511 17 51
• E-mail:  [email protected]
• Address: Şekerhane Mahallesi Gücüoğlu Sokak No:18, 07400 Alanya/Antalya

Kemer  District Directorate of Migration Management :

• Phone:  (0242) 814 49 36
• E-mail: [email protected]
• Address: Merkez Mah. Yalı Cad. No: 1 İç Kapı : D-E Kemer Bel. Altı Kemer/Antalya

Manavgat  District Directorate of Migration Management :

• Phone:  (0242) 742 84 47
• E-mail:  [email protected]
• Address:  Emek Mah. 3081 sok. İlçe Emniyet Müd. Ek Hizmet Binası No: 6 Manavgat/Antalya

You might also be interested in these articles:

• E-Visa Turkey: How to Apply, Pay, and the Rules

Guide to Customs Regulations in Turkey

Also have look at the links below to plan your trip:

Related Content

June 20, 2021

Turkey’s Entry Regulations and Visas (For Tourists) – 2021

E-visa turkey: how to pay and apply [step-by-step guide], what are safe tourism certified hotels in turkey.

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Planning a trip to Turkey must include several key considerations. Not only do you need to be sure you have a valid passport and proper Turkish visa , but you must also plan ahead for a variety of potential safety and health concerns. That said, with the proper preparations, a trip Turkey can be one of the most enriching and incredible international trips of your lifetime.

Above all, Turkey is a country of contrasts, offering many different things to travelers from all manner of backgrounds. It's a sun and sand destination; a cultural gem with an abundance of ancient history; a place of spectacular scenery and natural beauty, yet home to one of the world's largest cities; and it's a country with some of the friendliest locals you're ever likely to meet. No matter what combination of the aforementioned qualities intrigue you, Turkey will not disappoint!

Required Travel Documents

Traveling to Turkey requires both a valid U.S. passport and an appropriate Turkish visa. Securing these documents as far advance of your travels is the best practice, however, there are options for expediting passports and rushed visas available.

In a hurry? Apply online for expedited visa service

Passport Requirements for Traveling to Turkey

Before departing for Turkey, you must be sure to have a U.S. passport with six months of validity remaining beyond your scheduled date of entry. Your passport booklet must have at least one blank page to accommodate both the entry and exit stamps.

Click for reliable expedited passport courier service .

Turkish Visas

While the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs once allowed visitors to apply for and acquire visas on arrival at airports, this is no longer the practice. Visitors must apply for visas well in advance. Turkey's e-visa application system is the preferred method.

Travel and business visas for visits lasting 90 days or less within a six-month period are available through both the online application portal apply and at Turkish Embassies and Consulates.

Multiple entry e-visas - valid for 180 days - can be bought for USD $50. On the other hand, a tourist or visa applicant may be granted either a single entry or multiple entry visa if they apply at the Turkish Embassy or Consulate. For more, consult our Turkish Visa Information guide .

Travel to Turkey - Back to Top

Currency in Turkey

The Turkish lira is the official currency of Turkey. It is customary to see it abbreviated as either TL or TRY.

Turkish lira is printed in denominations of 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, and 5. Bills can be distinguished by color, but the 5 lira and 50 lira are very close in appearance.

Turkey mints coins (kurus) as well. These operate like cents in the United states with denominations of 5, 10, 24, and 50. There is also a 1 lira coin - the largest face value of any Turkish coin.

Currency conversion to Turkish lira is typically offered with better rates in Turkey than outside of the country. Apart from dedicated currency exchange shops, most banks and travel agencies in Turkey will allow you to convert your U.S. dollars at fair rates. ATMs can be utilized as well (NOTE: Be sure to notify your bank before traveling to avoid having your account frozen for security reasons).

Many tourist centers in Turkey will also accept other currencies, but know that you are likely to be given unfavorable conversion rates. You are better off using Turkish lira whenever possible.

While there are no currency restrictions for entry into Turkey, there is a maximum of 25,000 Turkish lira or 10,000 euros (ore equivalent) when exiting the country. If you need to move large sums of money before departure, consider taking advantage of a foreign exchange (FOREX) company's services before you leave.

Turkish Laws and Regulations

You are always subject to local laws when traveling abroad. Turkey, in particular has several important regulations that the United States Department of State advises that all travelers should be aware of:

• Do not insult the state - It is illegal to show disrespect to the name or image of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, or to insult the Turkish Government, flag, President, or security forces. This includes social media. Before traveling to Turkey, erase any sensitive photos, comments, or other materials from your social media pages, cameras, laptops, and other electronic devices that could be considered controversial or provocative.
• Do not use, possess, or distribute illegal drugs - Turkish law enforcement is  very aggressive  in combating illegal drugs. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs are very strict, and include heavy fines and jail sentences between four and 20 years.
• Do not purchase or transport undocumented cultural artifacts - Turkish law has a broad definition of “antiquities” and makes it a crime to remove any from the country. If you buy antiquities, use authorized dealers and get museum certificates for each item. Failure to have a receipt and certificate at departure can result in arrest, and jail time. Contact the  Embassy of the Republic of Turkey  in Washington for specific information regarding customs requirements relating to antiquities and cultural items.
• Do not buy counterfeit goods - While these items are widely available, they are both illegal to bring back into the United States and to purchase locally.

As with any incidents while traveling abroad, be sure to ask officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately - particularly if you are arrested or detained for any reason.

Crime in Turkey

Most crime travelers will encounter in Turkey falls under the categories of theft and pickpocketing. Assaults occur, but typically are in response to insulting speech or allowing one's self to be led somewhere by a stranger. Respecting local customs, avoiding putting trust in strangers, and maintaining a quiet, polite manner will go a long way in keeping you safe while in Turkey.

That said, women, in particular, should exercise caution while in Turkey. Sexual assaults against U.S. citizens have been reported - particularly while traveling alone and/or while visiting spas or hamams.

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) travelers are also at increased risk for harassment. While not explicitly outlawed, LGBTI individuals do not enjoy any special anti-discrimination protection under Turkish law. Quite the contrary, vague morality clauses in local laws can, in many cases, lead to increased harassment and abuse.

While most of Turkey is relatively safe for travelers willing to keep their wits about them, the situation can change the closer you get to the Syrian and Iraqi borders. Kidnapping and terrorist threats for both locals and tourists aloke rise significantly in these areas.

Embassy and Consulate Access in Turkey

All U.S. citizens abroad must be aware of their nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. There is a U.S. Embassy located in the Turkish city of Ankra as well two other U.S. Consulates spread across the country.

U.S. Embassy Ankara

• Website: U.S. Embassy Ankara
• Address: 110 Atatürk Blvd. Kavaklidere, 06100 Ankara Turkey
• Telephone: +(90) (312) 455-5555
• Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(90) (312) 455-5555
• Fax: +(90) (312) 466-5684
• Web Contact Link: Contact American Citizen Services Ankara

U.S. Consulate General Istanbul

• Address: Istinye Mahallesi, Üç Şehitler Sokak No.2 Istinye 3446 Istanbul, Turkey
• Telephone: +(90) (212) 335-9000
• Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(90) (212) 335-9000
• Fax: +(90) (212) 335-9102
• Web Contact Link: Contact American Citizen Services Istanbul

U.S. Consulate Adana

• Address: Girne Bulvari No. 212, Güzelevler Mahallesi, Yüregir Adana, Turkey
• Telephone: +(90) (322) 455-4100
• Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(90) (322) 455-4100
• Fax: +(90)(322) 455-4141
• Web Contact Link: Contact American Citizen Services Adana

U.S. Consular Agent - Izmir

• Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(90) (312) 455-5555
• Email: Izmir(AT)state.gov

Dual Nationality

Turkey does allow for dual citizenship. Typically, acquiring Turkish citizenship requires proof of at least one parent being a Turkish citizen. That said, an investment program has been established that allows non Turkish descendents to attain citizenship through either a $250,000 (US) real estate investment or a $500,000 (US) investment in other financial assets.

It is worth noting that dual-nationals that find themselves under arrest or in any other type of criminal jeopardy should make it a point to request contact with the U.S. Embassy. Turkish officials will not initiate this contact automatically - whether you have dual citizenship or not.

Health and Medical Issues when Traveling to Turkey

As with any overseas trip, be sure to secure adequate medical insurance coverage before you travel. Do not assume your American policy will cover you abroad.

It is also recommended that you update your vaccinations prior to traveling to India. The most critical of which are:

• Tuberculosis

Medical care provided in Turkish hospitals varies depending upon where you are in the country. There are several newer, private hospitals in Ankara, Antalya, Izmir and Istanbul - all equipped with modern equipment, U.S.-trained specialists, and international accreditation. Regardless, even the newest facilities may be unable to treat certain serious conditions. Health care standards decrease substantially the farther you travel from the major cities.

Top Destinations: 5 Cities in Turkey to Visit

Turkey is home to hundreds of towns and cities. Some quite small, while others are among the largest cities in the world. Each one has something different to offer, but if you're looking for five of the most popular, here's a diverse selection of cities each offering different attractions and experiences.

Turkey's largest city is also its most popular. Istanbul attracts tourists from all over the world for its great varieties of architecture, culture and heritage. However, these attractions stand alongside some of the most modern buildings and facilities in Europe.

Istanbul is located in the northwest of Turkey and is set across the Bosphorus, the stretch of water that connects the Black Sea to the Marmaris. The western side of the city is in Europe, while the eastern side is Asia, resulting in an eclectic blend of Asian and European cultures.

Ankara is the capital of Turkey and its second largest city. It is also home to the U.S. Embassy in Turkey. Ankara doesn't offer quite the same tourist appeal as Istanbul, but there are certainly plenty of sights and experiences to behold..

Located in western Turkey, Ankara took over the honor as the Turkish capital following the fall of the Ottoman Empire in 1923. The city's ancient roots stretch back much farther with thousands of years of history to share. Much like Istanbul, visitors will notice a broad mix, of ancient landmarks, historical buildings, and modern skyscrapers.

Must-see sights include Ataturk's mausoleum, Atakule Tower, the old city and citadel, Roman temples and baths, the Column of Julian, expansive mosques, and interesting museums.

Antalya is far more popular with international visitors. This is in large part to its location. Situated right on the Mediterranean coast of southern Turkey, this ancient city and is very popular today because of its combination of history, culture, great beaches, and exceptional weather.

The city of Fethiye is much smaller than Antalya, but it is almost as popular. Like most cities in Turkey, it offers an intriguing mix of old and new. Fethiye is situated along the Aegean coast and offers excellent seaside beaches.

For cultural tourists, Fethiye is well known for its tombs. Carved right into the hillsides, visitors can visit these spetuacular sites including the most famous of them, the Tomb of Amyntas.

A little way along the coast from the city of Fethiye is Turkey's best known beach, at Oludeniz. The spectacular scenery and the Blue Lagoon rivals any beach in the Caribbean, making this one of the country's top tourist destinations. Oludeniz is also world famous for its paragliding. The beach is flanked by high mountains just above the coastline that give adventure-seekers the chance to soar over some of the world's most beautiful scenery.

Marmaris is located on the Aegean coast in the south west of Turkey in an area known as the Turkish Riviera. While Marmaris also has historical roots, this town is better known as a full blown tourist resort. It is a very popular destination for Europeans seeking a vacation of sun and sand.

Although it is probably the most vibrant Turkish destination for nightlife, Marmaris is still very much a family-friendly resort town. There are two water parks where you can take the children for a fun filled day of sliding and swimming, while the beaches surrounding the town are perfect for swimming and diving. Boat cruises are prevalent from here (and affordable too), and the town is close enough for day trips to some of Turkey's major historical sites including the spectacular Ephesus.

Historical & Cultural Tourist Attractions in Istanbul

Turkey has so many wonderful destinations to explore but by far the most popular destination for international tourists is Istanbul, the country's largest city. Over 8 million tourists come to Istanbul every year and it's easy to see why: Istanbul is an exceptional city, unique and like no other in the world, and whether you enjoy the cityscape or not, this is a city that has to be experienced at least once in your life!

Historic Istanbul

Many of Istanbul's visitors will come first and foremost to experience the historical side of the city.

Try to imagine Istanbul in the year 660BC when the city was first established as Byzantium by ancient Greeks. Other civilizations came and went too, but most significant were the Romans and then the Ottomans, the latter of whom came in 1453 and had the largest influence on the area of the city now known as the Sultanahmet (or historic) peninsula.

For history lovers this is where you will concentrate most of your time because it's home to many of the defining images of Istanbul: Aya Sofya, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar, are all located here, and there are remnants of Roman times too.

Aya Sofya (also known as Hagia Sophia) offers more than 1,400 years of history. It served as a cathedral and was the largest in the world for almost 1,000 years, then as a mosque, and now as a museum. Its vast size is awe inspiring especially considering it was built in just five years, between the years 532 and 537.

Just across a beautiful square of greenery and fountains is another vast landmark of Istanbul, the Blue Mosque. Officially named the Sultan Ahmet Mosque it is around 400 years old and is still used today as one of 3,000 working mosques in the city. Non-Muslims are allowed to enter the mosque outside of prayer times, provided you dress appropriately, and a tour of the building and huge inner courtyard is highly recommended.

Topkapi Palace sits on the tip of this historic peninsula and like the other two major landmarks in this part of Istanbul, the palace is vast too! It was built from 1459 and served as the home of the Ottoman sultans for an amazing 400 years. Today it is preserved as an important piece of history and its hundreds of rooms and courtyards can be toured.

Though there are numerous other attractions in the historic heart of Istanbul, the Grand Bazaar is the most popular. It is set a little up the hill from the three landmarks mentioned above, and can be reached on foot or by using the tram. The Grand Bazaar really presents the best opportunity to step back in time with its 61 covered "streets" and thousands of stores, it hasn't changed much at all since it was first built over 500 years ago. Whether you want to shop for souvenirs, designer clothes and accessories, Turkish rugs, porcelain, or anything else for that matter, you can find them all here, in one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world!

Enjoying the Bosphorus

The Bosphorus, also known as the Istanbul Strait, helps create Istanbul's magical setting and forms the divide between Europe and Asia. There are two impressive bridges spanning this divide and ferries dart back and forth between the continents. The ferries are a very reasonable form of travel and can be used to go up and down the Bosphorus too, to a certain extent, or there are specific boat cruise companies who provide tours with live commentaries.

Turkey's Climate and the Best Times to Visit

We usually think of Turkey as being a hot and dry country with scorching summer temperatures and mild winters. While this is true in some parts of the country Turkey is so large that the climate really can vary from one end to the other. Summers are generally hot, particularly along the south western coast where you'll enjoy a typical Mediterranean climate. This means hot and dry weather in the summer, and usually mild and wet weather in the winter.

If you're visiting Istanbul, in the northwest of Turkey, things can be quite different. Summers are still usually hot and quite humid, while winters can actually see a fair amount of snowfall.

The interior of Turkey features mountains and the high elevations of the Anatolian Plateau, which cause a continental climate with vast differences between summer and winter.

So, all in all, the ideal time to travel depends on where you're planning to visit. That said, to avoid the hottest seasons, avoid Istanbul and the Aegean coast in the height of summer; opt for May, June, or September in Istanbul; or May, September or October on the Aegean.

Cuisine of Turkey

Across the country there are many regional specialties when it comes to food. As a result, you'll find meat and vegetables may be cooked differently from one region to the next. In general though, Turkish cuisine is a mouth watering mixture of meats, vegetables and sweet dishes. If your travels bring you nearer to the coast, then the fish and seafood is highly recommended.

The name Kabob (or "kebab" locally) applies to all manner of meat dishes, not just the skewered meat that's popular in North America, so there are many different variations to try. Make sure you also try some "meze" (pronounced "mehzay") which is a selection of appetizers including different types of salads and vegetables that are always savory.

Turkey is well known for its sweet dishes too, with popular treats including delicious "baklava", and Turkish delight (called "lokum" in Turkey), and if you visit a pastane (Turkish for patisserie) you'll be greeted by hundreds of different varieties of sweets and pastries that are hard to resist!

5 Popular Events and Festivals in Turkey

Turkey presents numerous different festivals and events across the year, each and every year, from the arts and music, to sport and recreation, and they're held all over the country. With so many to choose from where will you go? Well, here are five very different festivals to try to give you a taste of Turkey!

Camel Wrestling Festival, Near Ephesus, January

Open Door Architecture Festival, Istanbul - May or June

If you're visiting Istanbul in May (which by the way is a lovely time to go!), you should definitely take advantage of the Open Door Architecture Festival that takes place every year. Istanbul is full of the most fabulous architecture, but much of it is usually behind closed doors and inaccessible to the public. During the open door festival however, some of those usually closed doors are opened and you can get to see inside architecturally and historically important buildings.

Open door buildings usually include the Ortakoy Mosque which is set right on the Bosphorus and was built between 1854 and 1856. This mosque is a great example of Ottoman architecture.

Istanbul Music Festival, Istanbul - June/July

The Istanbul Music Festival is one of the city's longest running festivals and the most popular, with visitors from around the world. It celebrates its 43rd year in 2016 and features plenty of classical music as well as opera, ballet and traditional Turkish music. The festival takes spans a number of venues across the city, and often coincides with other theatrical and music events, so there's usually more than one thing going on at a time. In fact, many other cultural festivals in Istanbul span most of the summer That means even if you visit in July, you'll still be able to experience an event.

Kas Lycia Festival, Kas - June

The three day Kas Lycia Festival is held in the town of Kas in the south of Turkey, on the Mediterranean coast. Kas is a popular tourist destination throughout the summer anyway, but this festival towards the beginning of the busy summer season is a must visit for families interested in seeing more of Turkey's culture and heritage.

You can see local and international folk dances in addition to opera performance, ballet and art exhibitions around the town, and combine this with days on the beach, at the water park, or shopping for souvenirs.

Oil Wrestling Championship, Edirne - June/July

You may find this hard to believe but oil wrestling is actually one of the national sports of Turkey! Every year, numerous oil wrestling competitions take place all over the country and each one is very popular, attracting hundreds of competitors and thousands of spectators, but the most famous and revered one takes place in the city of Edirne, right in the far west of Turkey on the border with Greece. This particular tournament is called the Kirkpinar and it's steeped in history having been held here since the year 1346!

Oil wrestling is a knock-out tournament whereby men dress in short black leather pants and douse themselves in olive oil. They then wrestle, aiming to get their opponent onto the ground and held in position.

Turkey Facts: Everything You Wanted to Know About Turkey

If you've never been to Turkey before, the chances are you will have preconceived ideas of what the country is like. Some of these may be true, but many won't, as Turkey is really a surprising country with many different facets to explore. Turkey offers great variety, but one thing you'll find, no matter where you go, is its people are extremely friendly and welcoming, happy to lend a hand if you need one, and always interested to hear where you've come from and where you're going!

• While Istanbul has been the capital of several empires, it is not the current capital of the Republic of Turkey as the city of Ankara was chosen for this honor when the Republic was formed in 1923.
• Turkish is the official language of Turkey and it's renowned as a difficult language to pick up! However, in many of the tourist areas hotel staff and restaurant servers will know a limited amount of English anyway, but if you can learn a few Turkish words and phrases the locals will really appreciate your efforts!
• The Turkish Lira is the official currency of Turkey. As with most currency, the exchange rate fluctuates quite a bit so it is important to check right before your departure date. Credit cards are widely accepted in many stores and restaurants of major towns and tourist areas, and it's easy to change money from US dollars to Lira at the plentiful bureau de change offices.

• Turkey is the 37th largest country in the world with a total area of 302,535 square miles. That means it's larger than any of the US states, except for Alaska!
• Turkey has over 74 million residents and this means there are more people living here than in the states of California and Texas put together.
• Istanbul is by far the largest city in Turkey, and one of the largest in the world. In fact, approximately 18% of the population of the whole of Turkey lives within the Istanbul Metropolitan Area.
• Turkey is neither Asian nor European, it's both!
• The Republic of Turkey was formed in 1923 and its first president was the founder of the Republic, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. October 29 is celebrated each year as Republic Day.
• Turkey has a vast coastline that sits on four different seas: The Black Sea in the north, the Sea of Marmara in the north west, the Aegean Sea in the west, and the Mediterranean Sea in the south.
• The tallest mountain in Turkey is Mount Ararat, situated on the borders with Iran. It stands 16,854 feet and is said to be the point at which Noah's Ark landed.
• Around 96% of the Turkish population identify themselves as Muslim, yet Turkey is a secular state with no official religion. This makes it one of the most liberal Islamic countries in the world.
• There are around 80,000 mosques in Turkey and if you're anywhere near one you'll be treated to the "call to prayer" ("Ezan" in Turkish) over a loudspeaker five times a day.
• Turkey has hundreds of ancient sites, but among these Ephesus is probably the most spectacular and hence popular. It was established in ancient Greek times and later used and developed by the Romans. Its most photographed ruin is the Library of Celsus.
• The ancient theater in Ephesus is massive, and is believed to have been the largest outdoor theater in the ancient world, seating 44,000 people.
• Pamukkale is another popular tourist destination of Turkey, and a World Heritage Site. Its travertine terraces and hot springs have been attracting tourists for hundreds of years.
• Turkey features many beautiful beaches but none more so beautiful than at Oludeniz where the turquoise blue waters and soft sand rival any beach in the Caribbean.
• Oludeniz is also famous as a destination for paragliding and is considered to be one of the best places in the world to do this. The Babadag Mountains above the village are very high, and the views as you glide down are out of this world!

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Passport and visa requirements for entering Istanbul

Getting to istanbul, passport and visa requirements for entering the istanbul, apply for visa.

– What is e-Visa ? An e-Visa is an official document permitting entry into and travel within Turkey. The e-Visa is an alternative to visas issued at Turkish missions and at the ports of entry.

Applicants obtain their visas electronically after entering required information and making payments by a credit or debit card (Mastercard, Visa or UnionPay).

– What do I need for my e-Visa application ? You need to have a travel document valid for at least 6 months from the date you intend to enter Turkey. Depending on your nationality, there may be additional requirements.

You will be informed of these requirements after you select your country of travel document and travel dates. As in the case of other visas, respective Turkish officials at the ports of entry reserves the right to deny entry into Turkey to a holder of an e-Visa without any explanation.

– What are the advantages of e-Visa? An e-Visa can be obtained easily anywhere with an internet connection and it saves time that you would otherwise spend on visa applications at Turkish missions or at the ports of entry into Turkey (if you are eligible).

– Do I need to enter Turkey on the exact date specified in my application? No. The validity period of your e-Visa begins from the date specified in your application. You can enter Turkey on any date within this period.

“Do you know that the Turkish government does not demand from many countries? ”

– I would like to stay in Turkey for a period of time longer than the e-visa permits. What should I do? If you wish to stay in Turkey longer than your e-Visa permits, you must apply at local Police Station for a residence permit. Please note that an e-Visa is granted only for tourism and trade purposes. Application for other types of visa (work visa, student visa etc.) are required to be submitted at Turkish Embassies or Consulates. If you overstay your visa, you might be asked to pay fines, deported or banned future travel to Turkey for a specific period of time.

If you have any questions please comment below. 

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Turkey Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Turkey. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Global Measles July 24, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Benin, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Georgia, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Malaysia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Turkey.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Turkey. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Turkey.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Dogs infected with rabies are commonly found in Turkey.

Rabies is also present in some terrestrial wildlife species.

If rabies exposures occur while in Turkey, rabies vaccines may only be available in larger suburban/urban medical facilities.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see country rabies status assessments .

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Avoid Bug Bites

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Turkey, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Turkey. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Turkey include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Turkey’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Turkey. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Turkey may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Turkey, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Turkey, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Turkey .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Turkey for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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I'm in Turkey right now -- 5 things to know about entering as a US resident

Editor's Note

Before the pandemic, Turkey saw a record number of visitors in 2019. As a traveler here now in a reopened Istanbul , I can see why.

The incredible culture and cuisine are set among a historical and religious backdrop that spans centuries. It's an impressive city -- and not just because its 20 million residents stretch across two separate continents.

But if the pace of big city life isn't for you, the varying regions throughout Turkey offer something for everyone.

If you're a U.S. resident considering a trip -- or have one already planned -- here are five things that you should know about entering Turkey, as someone who has done it twice this summer.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Chris Dong (@thechrisflyer)

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Proof of vaccination gets you in

There are several ways to enter Turkey as a U.S. resident, depending on your vaccination status.

If you're fully vaccinated , as I am, you simply need to present proof at the airport during check-in. You must have been vaccinated at least 14 days before entering Turkey or have had COVID-19 in the last six months.

If you're not fully vaccinated, there is a COVID-19 testing option. You can either show a negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours of entry or a negative rapid antigen test taken within 48 hours of entry.

Related: Why I packed 8 COVID-19 tests to fly to Portugal — and what it's like to enter now

A mandatory health tool acts as a COVID-19 tracker

Before departing from the U.S., you'll have to fill out this health form within 72 hours of travel. Your contact and travel information is the basis for a contact-tracing tool that the Turkish government uses for COVID-19.

A QR code (called a HES code) is generated, which is used nationwide by both tourists and residents alike.

The code isn't just checked upon departure from the U.S. In fact, you're also required to show it at many establishments -- indoor malls, some restaurants, all public transportation, at hotel check-in, and both international and domestic flights.

I had my HES code checked on my phone at each hotel that I arrived at, along with domestic flights and even while shopping at some malls in Istanbul.

In addition, as of Sept. 6, 2021, proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test within the past 48 hours is now required to enter some businesses, such as theaters or cinemas, that are hosting crowded events.

Don't forget your visa

Turkey requires a visa for U.S. passport holders. You have two options: an e-visa or visa on arrival. In my experience doing the e-visa process, it's fairly seamless and you should receive it within an hour of submitting payment. The website is a bit clunky but works in practice.

Two things that you should be aware of:

• Don't fall for scam visa websites offering assistance (there is only one official site ).
• Have a screenshot or printed copy of your e-visa handy if you're going that route. I had to show this not only at check-in but also upon arriving in Turkey.

In addition to the COVID-19 requirements and the HES code, an agent at check-in will also check for your visa.

It'll take time to get through Istanbul Airport

If you're coming from the U.S., chances are high that you'll be flying into the new Istanbul Airport (IST). It's a gorgeous megastructure, but it will require some serious walking from deboarding through to finally exiting the airport. Expect signage that isn't the clearest, either.

Also, know that PCR and rapid antigen testing is available at Istanbul Airport should you need to get it upon departure. Impressively, the testing center is open 24 hours a day. It's in front of Entrance 14 in the arrivals hall. The test fee is 250 TL or about $35.

Related: Deal alert: There's a new option to fly lie-flat business class to Europe for 34,000 miles

Almost everything is open to capacity

From bars to restaurants to entertainment, nearly everything is open to capacity in Turkey. The only services that remain suspended  indefinitely are hookah bars and lounges.

While masks are technically required at all times, I didn't see anyone enforce this. For instance, while most hotel staff are masked up, several taxi drivers I encountered were not.

Bottom line

From Istanbul to Bodrum and beyond, Turkey has been a hot spot for travelers -- and will continue to be, despite the pandemic.

If visiting has been on your list, know that it is very feasible at present. Of course, rules are constantly changing, so keep abreast of the latest both here at TPG as well as the official information at the U.S. Embassy for Turkey website.

Note that Turkey is currently on the State Department's Do Not Travel list .

Search Smartraveller

Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Türkiye overall due to the threat of terrorism.

Higher levels apply.

Turkiye (PDF 895.52 KB)

Europe (PDF 2.62 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 112 or go to the nearest hospital.

In major cities, call 155. English speaking officers aren't always available.

In rural areas, call Jandarma on 156. English speaking officers are rarely available.

English-speaking officers may be available in police departments at:

In Istanbul, call the dedicated Tourist Police unit on (+90) 212 527 4503.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Türkiye overall.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Türkiye overall due to the threat of terrorism.

See Safety .

Do not travel to within 10km of the border with Syria.

Do not travel  to within 10km of the border with Syria due to serious threat of terrorism, violence and acts of war in this area. 

Reconsider your need to travel to the provinces of Hakkari and Sirnak.

Reconsider your need to travel to the provinces of Hakkari and Sirnak due to the unpredictable security situation.

• There's an ongoing high threat of terrorist attacks in Türkiye. Possible targets include tourist areas, transport networks, shopping malls, hotels, places of worship and diplomatic premises. Be alert to potential threats, especially in locations frequented by foreigners. Avoid crowds, keep a low profile and be aware of your surroundings. Monitor the media for updates and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Demonstrations and protests can occur and may turn violent. Avoid protests and large public gatherings. Monitor the media and follow the advice of local authorities.
• There is an ongoing risk of earthquake in parts of Türkiye. Know the dangers of a major earthquake in your area and where your local shelter is.
• There's an increased threat of military and terrorist attacks against Israel and Israeli interests across the region and ongoing military action in the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions in other locations in the region. Demonstration and protest activity may occur, and localised security situations could deteriorate with little notice. Avoid all demonstrations and protests. 

Full travel advice:   Safety

• Malaria is a risk from May to October in Amikova, Çukurova Plain and the southeast. Consider taking anti-malarial medication. Other insect-borne diseases include leishmaniasis and Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent.
• Foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases include tuberculosis, typhoid, hepatitis, measles and rabies. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked foods.
• Alcoholic drinks could be mixed with toxic substances, including methanol. Drink only at reputable venues. Avoid homemade alcohol. Get medical help straight away if you suspect poisoning.

Full travel advice: Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties for drug offences are severe and include long prison sentences.
• By law, you must always carry a photo ID. You should carry your passport with you at all times. 
• It's illegal to 'insult' Türkiye, the Turkish flag, the President or government, and the country's founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Don't make insulting comments, including on social media.
• It's illegal to photograph military sites.
• Many parts of Türkiye have conservative dress and behaviour standards. Dress modestly, particularly at mosques and shrines. Respect religious and social traditions. Avoid public displays of affection.

Full travel advice: Local laws

You'll need an e-visa for tourism or business if you're staying for less than 90 days in a 180-day period.

• If you're travelling to Türkiye for medical services, you should apply for a medical visa through the  HealthTürkiye  online portal.
• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Türkiye for the latest details.

Full travel advice:   Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy in Ankara , the Australian Consulate in Istanbul, or the Australian Consulate in Canakkale.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the embassy’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

There's an ongoing high threat of terrorist attacks in Türkiye.

Most terrorist attacks have taken place in the southeast of the country, Ankara or Istanbul. 

Attacks could take place anywhere and at any time, including in places visited by foreigners. Possible targets include:

• tourist sites
• public transport and transport hubs
• markets/shopping malls
• government facilities
• diplomatic premises
• hotels, clubs, restaurants
• places of worship
• courts and the judiciary
• political parties
• major sporting and cultural events
• educational institutions

Terrorists have also previously targeted Western interests and places associated with the Turkish security forces, such as military barracks and police vehicles.

Previous methods of attack have included armed assaults, suicide bombings, car bombings, rocket attacks, arson, and improvised explosive devices left in garbage bins, crowded areas, shops, and public transport.

To protect yourself:

• be alert to threats, especially in public places and around significant dates
• keep a low profile and be aware of your surroundings
• report suspicious activity or items to the police
• monitor the media for new and emerging threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities

If there is an attack, leave the affected area immediately if it's safe to do so.

If you plan to travel to Türkiye to commemorate Anzac Day, understand the risks and plan ahead. Read our ' Travel overseas for Anzac Day'  page for further information on attending the event.

Border regions

The threat of terrorist attacks, violence and acts of war is high along the borders with Syria and Iraq. In the past, rockets have been fired from Syria and Iraq into Turkish territory.

South-eastern provinces

The south-eastern and eastern provinces see occasional clashes, particularly between the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) terrorist group and Turkish security forces.

Attacks by the PKK on government institutions, infrastructure and other sites have affected civilians.

More information:

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas while travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.  

Terrorist groups operating in Syria and Iraq kidnap and murder westerners. These groups may extend their operations into Türkiye.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. 

More information:  

• Kidnapping  

Civil unrest and political tension

The security situation in the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning.

Demonstrations and protests

Demonstrations occur regularly in major cities in response to:

• domestic events
• international events
• political developments

Events in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories have led to heightened tensions in the region. Large demonstrations have been reported outside diplomatic missions connected to the conflict in major cities, particularly Israeli diplomatic missions in Ankara and Istanbul. 

There are nearly 4 million Syrian and other refugees in Türkiye. Anti-refugee sentiment can be a source of tension and occasionally violence. 

Demonstrations can happen without warning. 

Extremists have targeted political protests.

Peaceful events can turn violent.

Protests in Istanbul have centred around:

• Taksim Square
• Istiklal Street
• streets surrounding Istikal as far as the Galata Tower and down to Karakoy
• Okmeydani on the European side
• Kadikoy on the Asian side

Protests in Ankara often centre around the Kizilay and Tunali areas. They have targeted diplomatic missions.

Protests also happen in other districts of Istanbul and Ankara and other cities and towns, including:

May Day rallies on 1 May can become violent, particularly in Ankara and Istanbul.

Mass rallies often occur during the Persian New Year, 20 - 21 March.

Police break up crowds using the following:

• water cannons
• plastic bullets

Tear gas can spread to surrounding areas.

Local authorities can ban events, such as public gatherings, celebrations, demonstrations and protests, with little warning. 

They may also impose or extend curfews without warning.

To stay safe during periods of unrest:

• avoid political gatherings, protests and demonstrations
• obey curfews
• monitor the media and other sources
• be alert around key dates, such as 20 to 21 March and 1 May 
• plan your activities to avoid possible unrest on significant dates

Be prepared to change your travel plans. Contact your airline, travel agent or insurer for help if there are transport disruptions.

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Theft and assault

Common crimes include:

• pickpocketing
• bag snatching

Crime is especially common in the tourist areas of Istanbul, including:

• Sultanahmet
• the Grand Bazaar
• the Spice Bazaar

To stay safe, monitor local sources for information on crime and:

• pay close attention to your personal belongings, particularly on public transport and in crowded places
• avoid secluded parks and unlit areas
• avoid ATMs on the street, especially at night
• use ATMs in banks, shops and shopping centres

Drink and food spiking

Foreigners, including Australians, have been drugged by English-speaking strangers who steal their belongings and passports.

Drugs can be present in:

• chewing gum
• confectionery

These drugs can cause you to become disoriented and compliant. You may even become unconscious.

To reduce your risk of food or drink spiking:

• be wary of overly friendly strangers
• don't accept food, drinks, gum or cigarettes from strangers or new acquaintances
• never leave food or drinks unattended

Sexual assault

Women may experience physical and verbal harassment. This is more common in regional and conservative areas.

There's been an increase in violent  sexual assaults  against women travelling alone or in small groups. Assaults have happened in popular tourist areas, including Istanbul and coastal resorts like Antalya. The assailant is often a person the victim has just met.

There have been reports of sexual assaults on minors alone in public toilets.

If you're a woman:

• avoid travelling alone, especially after dark
• avoid isolated locations
• be wary of new friends and acquaintances
• stick with people you trust

If a child in your care needs to use a public toilet, go with them.

• Advice for women
• Sexual assault overseas

Scams  commonly target travellers.

Friendly English-speaking locals may try to scam you out of thousands of dollars.

Typically, these scammers take you to a bar for food or drinks. You're then presented with an inflated bill, often thousands of dollars, and threatened with violence if you don't pay. These scams are regularly reported, particularly in Istanbul.

Scams involving inflated taxi prices or taxis taking longer routes than needed have also been reported. These are particularly common to and from airports in Istanbul. 

Scams are also common among carpet traders.

To protect yourself from scams:

• insist your taxi driver uses the meter
• pay attention to your surroundings
• be wary of deals where your carpet trader arranges to send you goods by post

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes adventure activities such as diving and ballooning.

If you plan to do a tour or  adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts
• if proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Climate and natural disasters

Türkiye experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including:

• earthquakes

If there is a natural disaster or severe weather event:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• keep in contact with friends and family
• monitor the media and other sources, such as the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Bush and forest fires often occur during the summer months, from June to September. Conditions can change quickly. Monitor the local media and follow the advice of local authorities. Read our advice on what to do if you're overseas and  there's a bushfire near you .  

These are most common in heavily forested areas with high temperatures and low rainfall.

Fires have burned close to holiday areas, including:

• the Aegean coast
• the Mediterranean coast
• the Gallipoli peninsula

Earthquakes

Earthquakes  are a constant risk in Türkiye. There have been major earthquakes in recent years, including in February 2023, when 2 earthquakes occurred in Kahramanmaras province, close to Gaziantep, causing mass fatalities.

The North Anatolian fault runs 20km south of Istanbul and is one of the world's most active. Know the dangers of a major earthquake in your area and where your local shelter is.

Large, damaging earthquakes could happen at any time. Aftershocks can continue for days or weeks.

When an earthquake happens, you should drop, cover and hold. If an earthquake is long or strong and you're near the coast or other large body of water, you should go to higher ground immediately.

If you're indoors during an earthquake:

• move no more than a few steps to a heavy, solid object you can get underneath, and hold onto it
• don't try to run outside
• stay indoors until the shaking stops
• stay away from windows, chimneys, and shelves with heavy objects

If you're in bed:

• hold onto the bed and stay where you are
• protect your head and body with a pillow and blankets

If you're outdoors:

• move to the nearest clear spot
• keep away from buildings, trees and power lines
• drop to the ground

If you're in a car:

• drive to a clear place away from buildings, trees and power lines
• stay in the car with your seatbelt on until the shaking stops

If you're in a lift:

• stop at the nearest floor and get out

After the earthquake finishes:

• be aware of possible tsunami risks
• prepare for travel delays
• reconfirm your travel arrangements
• check your accommodation with travel agents and tour operators
• let your family/friends know that you're safe

During a crisis, local authorities are responsible for helping people living or travelling within their jurisdictions.

More information

•  Read our  advice on earthquake risk and response .

Severe rainstorms can cause flooding and landslides across Türkiye. This can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Severe drought conditions can affect the water supply to several cities.

Running water may not be available in many places, including hotels.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location .

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Türkiye. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage 
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Medical tourism.

Each year, many Australians travel for medical tourism. 

Unfortunately, things don't always go as planned. We're aware of several cases in recent years where Australians have experienced serious complications after their procedures in Türkiye.   

If you're considering undertaking medical treatment in Türkiye, you should do your research including on whether your insurance will cover you. Read our advice on travelling overseas for medical tourism before you go. 

The  HealthTürkiye  portal lists the medical providers authorised by the Turkish Ministry of Health .  We can't provide recommendations or endorsements for any particular health providers. You should discuss your plans carefully with your Australian doctor, dentist or hospital specialist before committing to any procedure overseas.

• Health Services General Directorate
• Authorised Healthcare Providers 
• International Health Services Call Center  

Insect-borne diseases

Malaria  is a risk from May to October in:

• Çukurova Plain
• the south-east

There's no malaria risk in the main tourist areas in the west and southwest of the country.

Other insect-borne diseases occur, including:

• leishmaniasis
• Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF)

CCHF is common in:

• central Anatolia to the north
• east of Ankara

Seasonal summer outbreaks of CCHF have been fatal.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Bird flu (avian influenza)

Human deaths from  bird flu (avian influenza)  have been confirmed in Türkiye.

Talk to your doctor about bird flu as part of your pre-travel health checks.

Measles cases routinely occur in Türkiye, with the country experiencing increased measles activity. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel.

• Measles Outbreaks 2019 (Department of Health and Aged Care)
• Measles immunisation service (Department of Health and Aged Care)

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, and other infectious diseases occur, including:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid unpasteurised dairy products
• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help immediately.

Seek medical advice if you have a fever or are suffering from diarrhoea.

• Infectious diseases

Poisoning from alcoholic drinks

Locals and travellers have reported poisoning from alcoholic drinks. Drinks may be contaminated with harmful substances, including methanol.

Locals and travellers have become seriously ill after drinking contaminated alcohol.

Consider the risks when drinking alcoholic beverages, particularly drinks made with spirits.

Labels on bottles aren't always accurate.

To stay safe:

• drink only at reputable licensed premises
• avoid home-made alcoholic drinks

Symptoms of  methanol poisoning  can be similar to the effects of drinking too much. This includes fatigue, headaches and nausea.

If you suspect that you, or someone you're with, has been poisoned, get urgent medical attention. It could save you from permanent disability or death.

• Report suspected cases of methanol poisoning to the police.

Medical care

The standard of medical facilities in Türkiye varies.

Private hospitals with facilities comparable to those in Australia exist in major cities. Services can be limited outside of major cities.

Private hospitals usually need confirmation of insurance or a guarantee of payment before admitting a patient. Costs can be high.

Decompression chambers are available near popular dive sites and major cities in:

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may be able to receive treatment at a private or teaching hospital in Ankara or Istanbul. However, medical evacuation could be necessary. Medical evacuation can be very expensive. Ensure your travel insurance covers this.

Australians who reside in Türkiye for more than 12 months may have access to Türkiye's Universal Health Insurance (UHI).

• Republic of Türkiye Social Security Institution  (in Turkish)

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Following the end of a State of Emergency in 2018, local authorities continue to have increased legal powers.

Authorities have detained thousands of people suspected of having links to alleged terrorist groups. Detainees have limited rights.

Authorities may prevent foreigners and dual nationals from departing Türkiye.

Penalties for using or possessing drugs are severe. They include long jail sentences.

• Carrying or using drugs

Hiking Mount Ararat

Mount Ararat, between the eastern provinces of Agri and Igdir, is designated a 'special military zone'. You must hire the services of a locally licensed guide if you intend to hike in the area. A licensed company will obtain the necessary permits and assign you to a registered Mountaineer to accompany you throughout your hike. Visiting Mount Ararat without the Turkish government's permission is an offence that could incur severe penalties.

By law, you must always carry a photo ID. Carry your passport with you at all times. 

Illegal activities could result in severe penalties including:

• taking photos of military installations
• searching for historical artefacts without authorisation
• defacing or destroying Turkish currency
• failing to comply with Turkish visa conditions or immigration regulations
• supporting terrorist organisations in Türkiye, including expressions of support on social media

It's also illegal to 'insult':

• the Turkish flag
• the Turkish President or Government
• the founder of Türkiye, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk

This includes making insulting comments on social media. Penalties can be severe.

Selling or exporting antiquities and cultural artefacts without a permit is also illegal. You'll need a receipt and an official certificate to export these goods legally.

If you're arrested or detained, you may be deported from Türkiye. This may happen after your court hearings or after completing your sentence. You may be deported even if you're not convicted.

If you're arrested, ask the local authorities to tell the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs  

Dual citizenship

The Turkish government recognises dual citizenship.

However, Turkish-Australian dual nationals are treated as Turkish citizens in legal matters. If you're a dual citizen, this limits the  consular services  we can give if you're arrested or detained.

If you are a male Turkish-Australian dual national, you could be forced to complete military service when you arrive.

Check your obligations with an  embassy or consulate  of Türkiye before you travel.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in many parts of Türkiye. Some regions are more conservative than others.

Avoid offending locals by respecting religious and social traditions.

Dress modestly, particularly at mosques and religious shrines.

If in doubt, seek local advice.

The Islamic holiday month of  Ramadan  is observed in Türkiye. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking in public during the day may not be culturally appropriate in some areas. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. 

Some areas are more tolerant of travellers and locals who don't fast. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Explore our  Ramadan  page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

LGBTQIA+ information

Same-sex relationships are legal but aren't widely accepted in Turkish society.

LGBTQIA+ events and gatherings may be subject to local government bans.

Avoid public displays of affection.

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ t ravellers

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Use the official Turkish government site to  apply for an e-visa  online.

Be wary of using unauthorised websites. They may charge for information on e-visas.

Apply for a medical visa through the  HealthTürkiye  online portal if you're travelling to Türkiye to seek medical services (see 'Health').

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document.

If you're not eligible for an e-visa, you'll need to arrange a visa through an  embassy or consulate  of Türkiye before you arrive. If you don't, authorities may refuse entry.

If you're a tourist and arrive by sea, visiting the surrounding areas for up to 72 hours without a visa might be possible. Check your visa requirements with your travel operator or local authorities at the port of entry, and make sure you get entry and exit stamps in your passport. 

If you don't abide by your visa or permit terms, you may be fined, deported and banned from re-entering Türkiye.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the  nearest embassy or consulate  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

• Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Turkish Ministry of Tourism and Culture information on COVID-19

Entry into Türkiye

Before travelling to Türkiye, check if you'll be able to return to your country of origin or if you can travel onward to your next destination. Some countries may impose quarantine or other restrictions on travellers coming from Türkiye.

Travel with children

If you're  travelling with a child  aged under 18 years, you may need to provide proof that you're the legal parent or guardian. Check with the  embassy or consulate  of Türkiye before you travel.

Border Crossings

All border crossings from Syria are currently closed.

Crossing the border to or from Iraq is difficult. Military activity in the region is ongoing. The Turkish Government tightly controls entry and exit.

Other formalities

If you enter or leave Türkiye by land or sea borders, make sure immigration authorities process you correctly. This applies even for a short trip, such as visiting the Greek Islands.

Make sure your passport is stamped for every exit and arrival. If you don't, you could face difficulties when departing, including:

• possible fines
• future travel bans
• deportation

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you are just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you are not sure it will be valid long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It is attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing an 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTQIA+ travellers  

The local currency in Türkiye is the Lira (TRY).

Most services accept credit cards, but carry a small amount of cash just in case.

EFTPOS and ATMs are widely available.

Local travel

Anzac cove and gallipoli historical site.

The weather can change suddenly in the Gallipoli region.

Winter storms and heavy traffic seriously affect many coastal roads around Gallipoli. This includes roads in the Gallipoli Historical Site.

• be prepared for a range of weather conditions
• obey safety signs and directions
• don't wander off marked roads and tracks
• don't separate from your tour group

More information: 

• Travel overseas for Anzac Day

Driving permit

You can drive in Türkiye for up to 6 months if you have a valid Australian driver's licence

You must get a Turkish driver's licence if you plan to drive for longer than 6 months after your arrival in Türkiye.

• Turkish Security Directorate (Turkish)

Road travel

Travelling at night on country roads can be hazardous due to poor lighting and local driving practices.

Drink-driving carries a minimum penalty of:

• an on-the-spot fine
• confiscation of your driver's licence

Get to know the local road rules and practices.

Check if your travel insurance will cover you before driving.

In the event of a car accident:

• For accidents with only vehicular damage, exchange insurance information, take photos of the accident before moving the vehicles, and depart if both sides agree. Turkish law requires drivers to fill out a Turkish-only form and provide pictures of the damage. Non-Turkish speakers should call and wait for the police.
• For accidents involving an injury or a disagreement, remain at the site of the accident. Do not move the vehicle – even out of the way – until the Traffic Police arrive. Report the accident to the Traffic Police (dial 155) or Jandarma (dial 156). Get a certified copy of the official report from the Traffic Police office (this can take several days).
• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Avoid using motorcycles due to the poor standard of driving.

Check whether your travel insurance policy covers you for riding a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Use only licensed taxis or reputable limousine services. Arrange these through your hotel.

Taxis in major cities are generally professional, metered and charge according to set rates.

Insist your taxi driver uses the meter.

In rural areas and small towns, you may need to negotiate rates.

Public transport

Türkiye has an extensive inter-city bus and train network. 

• Transport and getting around safely

International and domestic flights fly out of the new Istanbul Airport instead of Ataturk Airport.

Turkish airports and commercial aircraft have been the subject of terrorist attacks. See  Safety

Enhanced security measures are in place at major airports.

Airports are often crowded, and security checks can cause delays.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Türkiye's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when reporting a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For  consular assistance in Türkiye , contact the:

• Australian Embassy in Ankara
• Australian Consulate-General in Istanbul
• Australian Consulate in Çanakkale

You'll need to make an appointment in advance.

Australian Embassy, Ankara

88 Uğur Mumcu Caddesi  Gaziosmanpaşa Ankara  Phone: +90 312 459 9500  Website:  turkey.embassy.gov.au Email:  [email protected] Facebook: Australia in Türkiye X: @AusAmbTürkiye

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

Australian Consulate-General, Istanbul

Süzer Plaza (Ritz Carlton Hotel), Askerocaĝı Caddesi No. 15, Elmadağ Istanbul

Phone: +90 212 393 3300 Email:  [email protected]

Australian Consulate, Çanakkale

Kolin Hotel  Kepez 17100 Çanakkale

Phone: (+90 286) 218 1721  Email:  [email protected]

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Turkey?

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Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

• Consular Info
• For Foreigners
• Visa Information
• General Information About Turkish Visas

It is highly recommended that foreigners, who wish to visit Türkiye, should read the related information about our country’s visa regime. Visa regime for Touristic and Business Purposed visit of a country may differ from Work and Education Purposed visit. Also Türkiye’s visa regime may change according to reciprocity principle. While some applicants may be exempt from visa for their touristic or business visit to Türkiye, the others can obtain an e-Visa. All other applicants will need to obtain a visa through Turkish Representations in the abroad. An information note about visa regime of Türkiye is available in the following address: www.mfa.gov.tr Visa types granted by Türkiye are; 1- TOURIST/BUSINESSPERSON a) Touristic Visit b) Single Transit c) Double Transit d) Business Meeting/Commerce e) Conference/Seminar/Meeting f) Festival/Fair/Exhibition g) Sportive Activity h) Cultural Artistic Activity i) Official Visit j) Visit to Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus 2- OFFICIAL VISA a) Assigned for duty b) Courier 3- STUDENT – EDUCATION VISA a) Internship Visa b) Internship ERASMUS c) Internship AISEC d) Turkish Language Course Purpose e) Course Purpose f) Education Purpose g) Education in Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus 4- WORKING VISA a) Employment Purpose/Special Employment Purpose b) Assigned Lecturers/Academics c) Assigned Sportsperson d) Assigned Artists e) Assigned Free Zone Workers f) Assigned Journalists g) Montage and Repairman Purposes 5- OTHER VISAS a) Archaeological Excavation, Exploration Purpose b) Documentary Purpose c) Tour Operator Representative d) Medical Treatment Purposes e) Accompaniment Purpose f) Family Unification Purpose g) Freight Vısa h) Seafarer Visa PASSPORT VALIDITY In accordance with the article 7.1b of “the Law on Foreigners and International Protection” no.6458, foreigners wishing to enter Türkiye should carry a travel document (passport) with an expiration date at least 60 days beyond the “duration of stay” of their visa, e-Visa, visa exemption, or residence permit. Example A: In order to enter Türkiye having a visa with 90 days “duration of stay”, foreigners should hold a travel document valid at least for an additional 60 days which totals to 150 days (90 days + 60 days) of validity at the time of entrance. Example B: In order to enter Türkiye having a visa with 30 days “duration of stay”, foreigners should hold a travel document valid at least for an additional 60 days which totals to 90 days (30 days + 60 days) of validity at the time of entrance." In accordance with international agreements and special legal provisions, the following categories are exempted from this provision: a) Citizens of countries who are allowed to enter Türkiye with their national ID’s in accordance with “European Agreement on Regulations governing the Movement of Persons between Member States of the Council of Europe”; 1- Germany 2- Belgium 3- France 4- Georgia 5- The Netherlands 6- Spain 7- Switzerland 8- İtaly 9- Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus 10- Liechtenstein 11- Luxembourg 12- Malta 13- Portugal 14- Greece b) Citizens of countries holding passports which are expired but considered as valid for a certain period 1. Germany – Passports expired within the last year / ID’s expired within the last year 2. Belgium - Passports expired within the last 5 years. 3. France - Passports expired within the last 5 years. 4. Spain - Passports expired within the last 5 years. 5. Switzerland - Passports expired within the last 5 years. 6. Luxemburg - Passports expired within the last 5 years. 7. Portugal - Passports expired within the last 5 years. 8. Bulgaria – Valid ordinary passport c) Holders of diplomatic, special and official passports GENERAL INFORMATION - Visitors who are not exempt from entry visa must obtain their visas or schedule an appointment with the Turkish Consular offices via Pre-Application System for Turkish Sticker Visa ( www.visa.gov.tr ). The applicants who meet the requirements will be directed by the Pre-Application System for Turkish Sticker Visa to the e-Visa system ( www.evisa.gov.tr ) In those countries where Türkiye does not have a consular representation can also use online scheduling for appointments with the nearest accredited consular office of Türkiye. - In order to avoid inconveniences that may be caused by delays in processing, it is recommended to apply for visas at least one month in advance before the planned travel. - The visas submitted to foreigners do not guarantee absolute rights of entry to Türkiye. - Visa fees are not refundable in cases where applications are rejected - All applicants are required to have a medical insurance that will be valid during their stay in Türkiye. - The length of stay provided by visa or visa exemption cannot exceed 90 days within each 180 days. The regulation of 90 days of stay within the last 180 days is binding for all foreigners that will travel to Türkiye. - It is not possible for foreigners holding two passports to stay in Türkiye for 90 days each with their two different passports within the last 180 days. - In all types of visa applications, Turkish consular offices may issue visas with a maximum duration of stay of 90 days. The foreigners who wish to stay longer than 90 days in Türkiye, should apply for “Short Term Residence Permit” at the Provincial Directorate of Migration Administration in order to extend their residence. - The residence permit of the foreigners will be cancelled if they stay outside Türkiye for longer than 120 days in total during the last year. - For United Nations (UN) Travel Document (Laissez-Passer) holders who have blue UN travel documents, visa exemption with 90 days length of stay within the preceding 180 days may apply during their official visit to Türkiye if they can certify their official assignment. Red UN Travel Document holders, shall be exempt from entry visa and may stay in Türkiye 90 days within the preceding 180 days regardless of their purpose of visit. General visa provisions shall apply for Blue UN travel document holders subject to regulations specified according to their country of origin. - Visa applications for travels except for touristic or trade purposes (work or study etc.) will need to obtain visa through Turkish Representations in the abroad. - Regardless of the visa regime applied towards the citizens of a country, the travel document holders of that country need to obtain visa from Turkish missions beforehand. - Any applicant under the age of 18 must submit official written approvals from both parents. For those applicants who certify that their parents are officially divorced and prove the parent holding their custody as well as for those with one parent deceased, visas may be issued in accordance with their purpose of visit. - The authorization of processing the residence permit applications submitted by the following persons who enter Türkiye availing visa-free regime and without requirement of obtainment of Student Visas lays with Local Immigration Offices (Provincial Directorates of Migration): Foreigners who arrive in Türkiye upon invitations by universities under Turkish Higher Education Board to study at the associate, undergraduate, graduate, post-graduate, Ph. D levels pursuant to international student exchange programs, cultural programs as well as under EU Education and Youth Programs. - For foreigners wishing to enter Türkiye via naval ports with touristic purposes, visa-free entry permits may be issued by the local governorates. These permits shall have a maximum 72 hours duration of stay and will be only valid for sightseeing purposes in the vicinity of naval ports where they entered the country. This practice, as it intends to facilitate entry for those visitors subject to visa, does not entitle visitors to visa. Passports of these visitors are not retained by the border authorities; however, visitors are given "Harbor City Entry Permit" which is required to be returned to the authorities upon their exits. - Any piece of data submitted here may be processed and stored in database accessible to the relevant Turkish authorities in accordance with their respective mandates. Tourist Visa - If an invitation letter is submitted for a Touristic Visa application, it must include the inviting person's TR Identity Number, clear identity, the list of invitees, permanent address, contact number, length and purpose of stay and the affinity with the applicant must be stated in the letter. If the inviting side is an organization or a company, tax registration certificate of the organization will be required. In the invitation letter it is also required for the inviting person/authority to pledge for covering victuals and accommodation expenses and for taking their own responsibility. The applicant is required to have sufficient and/or regular remunerations. Working Visa: - Foreigners lay their applications for work permit through our consular offices in the country of their residence or nationality. - To work in Türkiye, you must apply to the nearest Turkish mission to obtain work permit and visa. Your passport, visa application form and a letter from your employer are the necessary documents for your application. Other documents should be submitted to the Turkish Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MLSS) by your employer within ten working days after your application. - Work Permit Applications are concluded positively or negatively by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. Work Permits have equivalence to residence permits. Thus, should a working permit is approved by the Ministry, the foreigner is charged an Entry Visa Fee, Work Permit Certificate Fee and Residence Fee by the Turkish consular offices. Since Work Permit Card substitute residence permit in Türkiye, "Work Annotated Visa" issued by these offices can only be used for entrance and for 90 days at maximum. - You may find the list of those documents in the MLSS’s website ( http://www.csgb.gov.tr ). Applications are finalized by the MLSS within thirty days at the latest. Right after your arrival in Türkiye (before starting to work), you should be registered at the local police department within one month to obtain the necessary residence permit. - Work permit is granted to foreigners who will work in Free Zones in our country by the Ministry of Economy, to those to work in units under Ministry of Culture and Tourism by the mentioned Ministry and to foreign national personnel to work in universities by the Higher Education Board. Internship Visa / Work Permit Exemption: - Applicants need to obtain a work permit from the Ministry of Labor and Social Security pursuant to the Law numbered 4817 for private internship applications outside the provisions set forth in the Article 55 "Work Permit Exemption" title of Law Enforcement Regulation about Working Permits of Foreigners. - Article 55 of the Law Enforcement Regulation on Working Permits of Foreigners no. 4817 regulating working permit exemptions, the extent and the lengths of time the foreigners are exempt from working permit are stated. Those who meet the requirements below do not need to obtain a work permit. (1) Without prejudice to the provisions set out in specific laws and on condition that the foreigner and the employer fulfill their obligations resulting from other laws; a) The persons exempted from work visa under the bilateral or multilateral agreements to which Türkiye is a signatory party, b) the foreigners holding permanent residences abroad and wishing to visit Türkiye temporarily with purposes of scientific studies, cultural and artistic activities for a period shorter than a month and with the aim of sporting activities for a period less than four months, c) For the purpose of installation, maintenance and repair of machinery and equipment imported to Türkiye, providing training for their utilization or transporting of defective equipment from Türkiye and provided that they do not exceed the total stay of three months within a year as of the date of entry into Türkiye and verify this condition with the documents that they will submit, the ones coming to Türkiye, ç) For the purpose of training in the use of goods and services exported from or imported to Türkiye and provided that they do not exceed three months totally within a year as of the date of entry into Türkiye and verify this condition thanks to the documents that they will submit, the ones in Türkiye d) Being an entertainer, performer and etc. in charge at fair and circuses which are going to carry out activities outside the borders of certificated tourism establishments and provided that they do not exceed six months as of the date of entry into Türkiye and verify this condition with the documents that they will submit, the ones in Türkiye e) On condition that it does not exceed two years and it will be limited to the period of study, the foreigners coming to state institutions and organizations together with the universities so as to enhance their information and good manners by verifying their state via the documents that they will submit, f) Persons who notified the Turkish authorities on the fact that they will provide important services and contributions socio-cultural and technological fields and educational fields within a period not exceeding six months. g) Persons visiting Türkiye under the programs of the Center for European Union Education and Youth Programs (National Agency), ğ) The foreigners to go on a training under the framework of international trainee programs sanctioned by the Higher Education Board, the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. h) The foreigners who are the representatives of tour operators coming to Türkiye on condition that the term of contract does not exceed eight months, ı) During the contracts of other athletes, trainers, football players whose requests are approved by Turkish Football Federation or General Directorate of Youth and Sports i) By the bilateral protocols signed under the Rule no. I/10 of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, the foreign seafarers serving on vessels which have received " Conformity Approval Certificate" from the related administration and is registered in Turkish International Ship Registry Law and operate outside the cabotage line, j) Foreign experts employed in the projects that are conducted within the scope of Türkiye-European Union Financial Cooperation Programs are not in need of obtaining a work visa during their term of office. - Within the scope of article 55, residence permits of the foreigners coming to Türkiye are given as “Short Term" residence permits by Provincial Directorate of Migration Administration. Exemption periods cannot be extended, the foreigners under this provision can make use of exemption rules only once within one calendar year. However, it is required that it must have been three months as of the expiry date of the residence permit granted to the foreigner with the same purpose in order to exercise this right. In case of the need of working longer than the exemption period allows, the foreigner has to obtain a work visa through the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. Tour Operator Representative Visa - The foreign representatives of tour operators, are exempted from obtaining a work visa for their duties for up to eight months. The applications of the foreigners asking for a residence permit from Provincial Directorate of Migration as the representatives of tour operators are processed under rules regulating touristic visits. Transportation Visa - The foreigners applying for visa for transportation may be given a multiple entry visa valid for one year in case they submit the required documents. - Visa regime for truck drivers of a country may differ from the overall visa regime effective for citizens of that particular country. For further information, please contact the nearest Turkish mission. The Personnel Assigned for Foreign Religious Foundations - The personnel employed officially in foreign religious foundations in Türkiye - Work permits of the foreigners employed in religious foundations are under the framework of exceptional condition. Applications of permission are made via our Ministry and residence permits are issued by the Ministry of Internal Affairs so that they can work in our country. Archaeological Excavation, Exploration, Documentary Purpose Visas - Foreigners who will shoot a documentary film conduct a research or an archeological excavation should get a special permission from the Turkish authorities in advance. - It is necessary that the one should enter Türkiye by obtaining a relevant visa via our foreign representatives for excavation and research. - The foreigners to come to our country for the purpose of movie and documentary shooting should obtain a permit document from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Directorate General of Cinema and the provincial Governorate. - One can directly apply to the related institutions for scientific researches, sound track recording, filming documentaries and movies, photo shooting to be carried out on archeological, historical, geological, sociological and natural issues in Türkiye, on land, in the air, at sea, at river and at lake. Applications on surface explorations to be made on the land registry cadaster records with archaeological excavations and underwater archaeological researches apart from these are made to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs via the applicant's own diplomatic mission in Türkiye and to the Ministry via Turkish foreign representatives abroad on the other hand.

Dual citizen of U.S., Turkey accused of printing classified documents

Aug. 10 (UPI) -- An electrical engineer with dual U.S. and Turkish citizenship has been arrested and charged with mishandling classified documents while working for the U.S. Department of Defense.

FBI agents arrested Gokhan Gun on Friday and accused him of printing more than 250 documents while working at the Defense Department. Many of the documents are labeled "classified."

Federal prosecutors charged Gun with mishandling classified documents in the U.S. District Court in Alexandria, Va.

The FBI says Gun is an electrical engineer who has top-secret clearance at the Defense Department but doesn't have authorization to take classified documents home.

He started printing out documents in May and continued doing so until at least through Wednesday.

Gun became a U.S. citizen in 2021 but was born in Turkey and maintains dual citizenship.

An 11-page FBI complaint says Gun was scheduled to travel to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, on Thursday morning.

Federal investigators obtained a search warrant for his home in Falls Church, Va., and found him as he tried to leave early before his scheduled flight Thursday.

Federal agents searched a backpack Gun was carrying and found a document labeled "top secret."

Gun allegedly had printed at least 155 pages of documents from the Defense Department's network for classified documents and took home thousands of printed pages of unclassified documents since May.

Gun told FBI investigators his supervisor allowed him to print and take home unclassified documents, and said any documents bearing the "Top Secret" designation had expired as classified documents.

Federal investigators said at least one document printed Wednesday still contained its top-secret markings.

Federal prosecutors said Gun is a flight risk due to his planned travel to Mexico and the seriousness of the charges against him.

His public defender said there's no evidence that he attempted to flee the United States and instead only intended to go fishing in Mexico.

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• Importation
• Bringing an Animal into the U.S.
• Bringing a Dog into the U.S.
• Bringing Animal Products into the U.S.
• Bringing Human Remains into the U.S.
• Laws and Regulations
• Documents for Veterinarians to Complete for Importing a Dog into the U.S.
• Information for Airlines on Dogs Being Imported into the U.S.
• View All Home

CDC Dog Import Form  and Instructions

At a glance.

Starting August 1, 2024, the CDC Dog Import Form is required to bring your dog into the U.S.

CDC Dog Import Form

Form: CDC Dog Import Form

Below are instructions on how to fill out the form for dogs coming from dog rabies-free or low-risk countries and for dogs coming from high-risk countries.

Filling out the CDC Dog Import Form

This form should be completed by the person importing (bringing) the dog into the United States (the importer, owner, or shipper). If the person importing the dog has difficulty completing this form such as due to a disability, this form may be filled out by someone else acting on behalf of the importer. After you submit this form, a receipt will be sent to the email address you provided. Please check that the email address is correct before submitting the form.

If the dog is traveling by air, you must show the receipt to the airline before boarding.

You must also retain the receipt and be able to show the receipt to U.S. Customs and Border Protection when the dog arrives in the United States.

Important‎

Dogs coming from dog rabies-free or low-risk countries.

The receipt is valid for one dog to enter the United States multiple times within six months from the date of issuance. Complete another CDC Dog Import Form and obtain another receipt for additional dogs or future entries after six months.

Section A- Person Importing the Animal

Enter information about the person bringing the dog to the United States.

This person may be:

• the dog owner,
• the shipper (consignor),
• a flight parent: a person transporting one or more dogs for the purpose of rescue, resale, or adoption on behalf of another person or an organization
• any other person bringing a dog to the United States

That person’s passport number or driver’s license number, or the air waybill (AWB) number for the dog (provided by the airline) must be entered.

To enter the date of birth, click the calendar, select the month and year of birth and then click the day of birth.

Enter the email address where the receipt for this form should be sent. Ensure this email address is correct as this is where the CDC Dog Import Form receipt will be sent when you submit the form.

Enter the phone number of the person bringing the dog to the United States.

Section B- Animal Information

Enter the dog’s name (required)

The following fields are optional:

• Age of the dog in years or months.
• Sex of the dog.
• Breed of the dog. Select “mixed breed/other” if you cannot find the breed of the dog listed, or if you do not know the breed of the dog
• Color and markings of the dog.

Select the importation purpose (required).

Select “Personal Pet” if the dog is a personal pet or emotional support animal.

Select “Commercial” if the dog is being adopted from another country, sold to a person in the United States, or being brought to the United States by or on behalf of a rescue organization or a business.

Select “Service animal” only for a dog that meets the definition of a service animal used in federal regulations ( 14 CFR 382.3 ), which states a service animal is “a dog, regardless of breed or type, that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a qualified individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability. Animal species other than dogs, emotional support animals, comfort animals, companionship animals, and service animals in training are not service animals for the purposes of this part.” If “Service animal” is selected, the dog must be traveling with the person with a disability whom it is trained to assist.

Select "Government-owned" if the dog is a working dog owned by a U.S. federal, state, territorial, or local government agency, or a foreign government agency, and the purpose of bringing it to the United States is to serve as part of its official duties.

Select "Education, Exhibition, or Research" if the dog is being imported for one of the following reasons:

• teaching of a defined educational program at the university level or equivalent;
• as part of a public display open to the general public during routinely scheduled hours for entertainment in which the dog is trained to perform some behavior or action; or
• for research following a defined protocol and other standards for research projects as normally conducted at the university level.

Section C- Travel Information

Complete the information below for the first trip when you will use the receipt for this form.

Travel Type: Select how the dog will be traveling to the United States (air, land, or sea).

Country or area of departure: Select the country or area from which the dog is departing for the United States. Note that only dog rabies-free and low-risk countries are listed. If the dog is arriving from a high-risk country, or has been in a high-risk country in the last 6 months, please return to the top of the page, select “Yes” to the question “Has the dog been in a country that is considered a high-risk country for dog rabies in the last six months?”

Arrival date: Select the date on which the dog will arrive in the United States.

Section D- Signature

Read the statements in this section carefully. You are making attestations and statements of understanding that may subject you to penalties, including criminal penalties.

If you are completing the form on behalf of an importer who has difficulty completing this form such as due to a disability, read the statements aloud to the importer and confirm they understand the information provided and agree to the Terms of Acceptance.

Check the box indicating one of two options: either 1) you are the importer and you have read the statements and understand that typing your name constitutes a legal signature or 2) you are authorized to act on behalf of the importer, the information on the form was provided by the importer, and the importer acknowledges and agrees to the Terms of Acceptance.

For the signature:

• If you are the importer: Type your name: first (given) name, middle initial if you have one, and last name (surname) into the text box. Enter today’s date as mm/dd/yyyy.
• If you are acting on behalf of the importer: Type [your name] on behalf of [name of importer]. Enter today’s date as mm/dd/yyyy.

Once you are finished entering information and have checked that it is accurate, click the blue box on the lower right that says “Submit.”

An email should be sent to the email address provided in the next 15 minutes with a receipt. That email will come from [email protected]. If it does not arrive in the inbox, the spam folder may need to be checked.

Please retain a copy of your CDC Dog Import Form receipt. You must present the receipt to airline if the dog is traveling by air and U.S. Customs and Border Protection on arrival in the U.S.

Dogs coming from high-risk countries

The receipt is valid for one dog to enter the United States one time. Complete another CDC Dog Import Form and obtain another receipt for future entries or other dogs.

That person’s passport number, driver’s license number, or the air waybill (AWB) number for the dog (provided by the airline) must be entered.

Physical address where the dog will be located in the United States.

Enter the name of the recipient or consignee of the dog. This is the person who will receive the dog in the United States. This may be the same person who is traveling with or transporting the dog.

Enter the street address where the dog will be located after arrival in the United States. For example, this may be the home where the dog lives, or a hotel address if the dog will stay at a hotel. If the dog will be in the United States for a brief period (several hours), enter the address where it will be the majority of the time.

Enter the phone number and email address of the recipient or consignee of the dog.

Enter the age of the dog in years or months.

Enter the sex of the dog.

Select the breed of the dog. Select “mixed breed/other” if you cannot find the breed of the dog listed, or if you do not know the breed of the dog.

State the color and markings of the dog.

Enter the microchip number of the dog. If the dog has multiple microchip numbers, enter the microchip number that is readable and documented on the official veterinary documentation accompanying your dog. Contact your veterinarian for assistance if you cannot find your dog’s microchip number on its medical records.

Attach a photo of the dog showing its face and body (see example below). Only .jpg, .jpeg, or .png files are accepted. Maximum file size is 1mb. If your file is larger than 1mb or in a different format, you must save the file as one of the acceptable file types and reduce the file size. Dogs less than one year old should have this photo taken within 15 days before they will arrive in the United States.

Select the importation purpose.

Select “Commercial” if the dog is being adopted from another country, sold to a person in the United States, being brought to the United States by or on behalf of a rescue organization, or moved to the United States on behalf of a business.

Select “Service animal” only for a dog that meets the definition of a service animal used in federal regulations ( 14 CFR 382.3 ), which states a service animal is “a dog, regardless of breed or type, that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a qualified individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability. Animal species other than dogs, emotional support animals, comfort animals, companionship animals, and service animals in training are not service animals for the purposes of this part.”

If this importation purpose is selected, the service animal must be traveling with the person with a disability whom the dog is trained to assist.

Select "Government-owned" if the dog is a working dog owned by a government agency AND is serving U.S. federal, state, territorial, or local government or a foreign government agency as part of its official duties.

• as part of a public display open to the general public during routinely scheduled hours for entertainment in which the dog is trained to perform some behavior or action and is part of a routinely scheduled show, performance, or exhibition, open to the general public; or

Each question that follows will depend upon your answers.

1. Does the dog have either a Certification of U.S.-issued Rabies Vaccination form or a USDA-endorsed export health certificate?

The Certification of U.S.-issued Rabies Vaccination form must be completed by a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)-accredited veterinarian and digitally endorsed by USDA before the dog leaves the United States. USDA-accredited veterinarians can access the form and its instructions at Veterinary Export Health Certification System (VEHCS) Help Page

If the dog is traveling with a USDA-endorsed export health certificate issued before the dog left the United States, note that it must:

• be digitally endorsed by USDA, and
• contain the dog’s microchip number, and
• list the dog’s current and valid rabies vaccination information, and
• include the dog’s age (showing the dog will be six months of age or older at time of return to the United States),
• have been issued for travel to the high-risk country from which the dog is returning, and
• have been issued no later than July 31, 2025.

If you have either of those documents because the dog was vaccinated in the United States and the veterinarian provided you with copies endorsed by the USDA, select “yes” to that question then proceed to the “travel type” section.

If the dog does not have a current, valid, U.S. document demonstrating the rabies vaccination, select “no” to that question.

2. Do you have a CDC Dog Import Permit?

CDC Dog Import Permits are no longer being issued, but existing permits will be valid through August 31, 2024 or the expiration date of the permit, whichever is earlier.

If " yes" then you should choose the port of entry (POE) in the dropdown that matches the POE listed on your import permit.

If "no" then select no and move on to the next question.

3. If the dog has been in a high-risk country for dog rabies and does not have a U.S.-issued rabies vaccination, or a CDC Dog Import Permit, answer the question: Does the dog have a current and valid Certification of Foreign-Rabies Vaccination and Microchip form that has been endorsed by an official government veterinarian of the exporting country?

This is a required document for dogs that have been in a high-risk country in the six months before entry to the United States that do not have a current U.S-issued rabies vaccination.

If you do NOT have this document, you must obtain it from the dog’s veterinarian and ensure it is endorsed by an official government veterinarian. Select “yes” once you have this required document then proceed to the “travel type” section.

• If the dog is a foreign-vaccinated dog traveling from a high-risk country, you will only be able to select the ports of entry with a CDC-registered animal care facility, all of which are airports. These are the ONLY ports of entry where the dog may enter the United States. You must select the airport with the CDC-registered animal care facility where your dog has a reservation. The only exception to this requirement is for service animals arriving at a U.S. seaport if they meet all entry requirements including a valid rabies serology titer.
• The options in this field depend upon where the dog has been and where/if the dog was vaccinated. If you cannot view the type of travel or port of entry that you were planning to use, this means that the selections you have made on the form do not allow that particular type of travel or arrival location. Please review the requirements at www.cdc.gov/dogtravel .

Country or area of departure: Select the country or area from which the dog is departing for the United States.

• This should be the country or area in which the official government veterinarian has endorsed the documents.

Select all countries and areas the dog has been in during the six months before arriving in the United States.

State: Select the state or Preclearance location where the dog will enter the United States.

• If your dog is eligible to arrive via a Preclearance port (only U.S.-vaccinated dogs or dogs from dog rabies-free or low-risk countries), the Preclearance port will appear in the drop-down menu for “State of Arrival”. You will select it there, then select it a second time in the “Port of Entry” field. For example, if your flight will travel from a dog rabies-free or low-risk country to the United States via Canada, and you will clear U.S. Customs in Calgary, you would select “PRECLEARANCE - CALGARY” in the “State” dropdown and then select USCBP CALGARY PRECLEAR in the “Port of Entry” field.

Port of entry: Choose the port of entry (for example, the airport or land border crossing) where your dog will arrive in the United States or clear U.S. Customs.

Indicate the carrier and flight number for arrivals by air, the license plate information for arrivals by land, or the vessel name for arrivals by sea.

Indicate how the dog is traveling for dogs arriving by air:

• “Cargo” is for dogs traveling unaccompanied and in the cargo hold, “checked baggage” is for dogs that are in the baggage hold and are traveling with an assigned person on the same flight, and “hand-carried” are those dogs traveling inside the cabin with a person.

Check the box indicating one of two options, either 1) you are the importer and you have read the statements and understand that typing your name constitutes a legal signature or 2) you are authorized to act on behalf of the importer, the information on the form was provided by the importer, and the importer acknowledges and agrees of to the Terms of Acceptance.

CDC regulations govern the importation of animals and animal products capable of causing human disease.

For Everyone

Health care providers, public health.