Turkey, a country with a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty, attracts a diverse range of visitors from all over the world.1 For citizens of Afghanistan and Bangladesh, the journey to Turkey begins with a clear understanding of the visa application process. While the visa requirements for both nations share some commonalities, there are also distinct procedures and conditions that must be met. This article provides a comprehensive guide to navigating the process for both the Turkey Visa for Afghan Citizens and the Turkey Visa for Bangladesh Citizens.

The Turkey Visa for Afghan Citizens: A Detailed and Multi-faceted Process

For Afghan citizens, the process of obtaining a Turkish visa is not as simple as for some other nationalities. While there is an e-Visa option, it is only available under specific conditions, and for most, a traditional sticker visa is the necessary route.

The e-Visa for Afghan citizens is a single-entry visa valid for a stay of up to 30 days within a 180-day period.2 However, eligibility is strictly conditional. To qualify for the e-Visa, Afghan citizens must hold a valid visa or residence permit from a Schengen country, the USA, the UK, or Ireland. Without this supporting document, an e-Visa application will not be successful. The application is made through the official Turkish government e-Visa portal, and the process is relatively quick and straightforward once eligibility is confirmed.

For those who do not possess a valid supporting visa or residence permit, a traditional sticker visa is required. The application for this Turkey Visa for Afghan Citizens must be submitted in person at a Turkish visa application center in Afghanistan. This process is more extensive and requires a comprehensive set of documents, including:

• A valid Afghan passport with at least six months of validity from the date of arrival.3

• A completed visa application form.

• Recent biometric photos.

• A detailed flight itinerary and proof of accommodation.

• Proof of sufficient financial resources, such as bank statements.4

• Travel health insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000.

• A letter of invitation from a Turkish citizen or a Turkish company, if applicable.

The traditional visa application process for Afghan citizens may also involve an in-person interview and the submission of biometric data. Due to the detailed nature of the application and the need for in-person submission, it is highly recommended to apply well in advance of the planned travel date, typically at least one month ahead.

The Turkey Visa for Bangladesh Citizens: Conditional E-Visa and Traditional Sticker Visas

The visa process for Bangladeshi citizens is similar to that for Afghan citizens, with a key distinction between those who are eligible for the e-Visa and those who must apply for a traditional sticker visa.

For Bangladeshi citizens, the e-Visa is a single-entry visa valid for a stay of up to 30 days.5 However, just like for Afghan citizens, the e-Visa is only available to those who possess a valid visa or residence permit from a Schengen country, the USA, the UK, or Ireland. This condition makes the e-Visa a convenient option for a specific subset of Bangladeshi travelers. The online application is quick and efficient, requiring a valid passport and a digital photograph.

For the majority of Bangladeshi citizens who do not meet the e-Visa conditions, a traditional sticker visa is the only option. The application for this Turkey Visa for Bangladesh Citizens must be submitted in person at a Turkish visa application center in Bangladesh. The application process is detailed and requires a wide range of documents to be submitted, including:

• A valid Bangladeshi passport with at least six months of validity.

• A completed visa application form.

• Two recent biometric photos.

• Proof of a round-trip ticket and hotel reservations.

• A letter from the applicant's employer or a student ID if applicable.

• Bank statements showing proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay.6

• Travel health insurance.

For business visas, an invitation letter from a Turkish company and a letter from the Bangladeshi employer are also required. The traditional visa application process for Bangladeshi citizens can take a few weeks, and it is essential to submit a complete and accurate application to avoid delays or rejection.

In conclusion, for both Afghan and Bangladeshi citizens, a trip to Turkey requires careful planning and a thorough understanding of the visa requirements. The e-Visa system offers a fast and convenient option for those who meet the strict eligibility criteria. However, for most, the traditional sticker visa process is the necessary route. By preparing all the required documents and following the application procedures meticulously, both Afghan and Bangladeshi travelers can ensure a smooth and successful entry into Turkey, paving the way for an unforgettable experience.