Turkey Visa for Saudi Arabia Citizens and South Africans – A Complete Guide

Turkey is a destination that perfectly bridges Europe and Asia, rich with history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re fascinated by Istanbul’s mosques and bazaars, eager to explore Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, or simply passing through Turkey on a long layover, understanding the visa process is essential. For Saudi Arabia citizens and South Africans, Turkey offers the convenience of the Turkey e-Visa system, which makes travel planning smooth and efficient.

In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about obtaining a Turkey Visa for Saudi Arabia citizens, Turkey Visa for South Africans, and the Transit Visa for Turkey—ideal for travelers planning a short stopover.

Turkey e-Visa: An Overview

The Turkey e-Visa (Electronic Travel Authorization) is a travel document that allows eligible citizens to enter Turkey for tourism, business, or transit purposes. It can be obtained entirely online without the need to visit an embassy or consulate.

• Validity: Up to 90 days of stay, depending on nationality.
• Types: Single-entry and multiple-entry visas.
• Processing time: Typically less than 24 hours (priority service available in 1 hour).

The Turkish government recommends applying at least 72 hours before departure, even though most applications are approved quickly.

Turkey Visa for Saudi Arabia Citizens

For Saudi citizens, Turkey is a highly popular travel destination, both for leisure and business. Fortunately, obtaining a Turkey e-Visa for Saudi citizens is straightforward.

Key Points:

• Saudi Arabian passport holders are eligible for the Turkey e-Visa.
• The visa allows tourism, business, and transit travel.
• Saudi travelers can apply entirely online by filling out the application form, providing passport details, and paying with a debit/credit card.
• The maximum stay allowed is up to 90 days within a 180-day validity period.
• Both single-entry and multiple-entry visas may be available depending on the traveler’s profile.

Requirements for Saudi Citizens:

1. A valid Saudi passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond entry).
2. A working email address to receive the approved e-Visa.
3. Debit/credit card for the visa fee payment.

Once approved, the e-Visa is sent via email. Saudi travelers should carry a printed copy or a digital version when arriving in Turkey.

Turkey Visa for South Africans

Turkey has also become a favored destination for South African citizens seeking cultural immersion, Mediterranean coastlines, or even short business trips.

Key Points:

• South African passport holders must obtain a Turkey e-Visa before travel.
• The process is entirely online, taking only a few minutes to complete.
• Approved visas are delivered via email, usually within 24 hours.
• South Africans are typically allowed to stay up to 30 days per visit with a single-entry visa, but conditions may vary.

Requirements for South Africans:

1. A South African passport with at least 6 months validity.
2. An active email address.
3. Debit/credit card for online payment.

Just like Saudi travelers, South Africans must show their valid visa at Turkish immigration upon arrival.

Information Regarding the Turkish Transit Visa

Many international travelers transit through Turkey, particularly Istanbul, which is one of the world’s busiest hubs. Whether you need a Transit Visa for Turkey depends on your travel plans.

Do I Require a Transit Visa for Turkey?

• If you stay inside the airport transit area during your layover, no visa is required.
• If you plan to leave the airport to explore Istanbul or another city during your layover, you must apply for a Turkey Transit Visa.

This means even if you are only in Turkey for a few hours, leaving the airport requires a valid e-Visa (unless you are from a visa-exempt country).

How to Apply for a Turkey Transit Visa

Applying for a Turkey Transit Visa is simple for eligible travelers:

1. Complete the online application form with personal and passport details.
2. Double-check all information to avoid delays.
3. Pay the visa fee securely online using a debit or credit card.
4. Receive the approved e-Visa by email (usually within 24 hours).
5. Print the visa or keep a digital copy to present at immigration.

Duration & Validity:

• Transit visas are valid for 30 to 90 days, depending on nationality.
• Both single-entry and multiple-entry options are available.
• Istanbul Airport (IST) accepts the Turkish e-Visa for transit.

Turkey Transit During COVID-19

Since June 2022, Turkey lifted all COVID-19 restrictions for travelers.

• No negative PCR test or vaccination proof is required.
• The Form for Entry to Turkey is now optional.

Travelers should always verify updated requirements before departure, but currently, transit is smooth and restriction-free.

Processing Time for a Turkish Transit Visa

• Standard processing: within 24 hours.
• Priority service: within 1 hour (ideal for urgent travel).

Approved visas are sent via email. Travelers should bring a printed copy when leaving the airport to ensure smooth immigration clearance.

Important Notes for Travelers

• The Turkey e-Visa can be used for tourism, business, or transit.
• International travelers must apply for a visa online unless they belong to a visa-free country.
• Nationals who cannot obtain an e-Visa must apply through a Turkish embassy or consulate.
• The maximum allowed stay varies by nationality, generally 30–90 days.

Conclusion

TURKEY VISA FOR SAUDI ARABIA CITIZENS and TURKEY VISA FOR SOUTH AFRICANS traveling to Turkey has never been easier thanks to the Turkey e-Visa system. Whether you’re visiting for leisure, business, or simply passing through on a long layover, the process is quick, affordable, and entirely online.

If you plan to leave the airport during a transit stop, be sure to secure your Transit Visa for Turkey ahead of time. Applying at least 72 hours before your trip ensures a stress-free journey, allowing you to make the most of your time in this fascinating country.

Turkey welcomes millions of international travelers each year—and with a valid e-Visa in hand, you’ll be ready to explore its rich history, culture, and charm with confidence.