Embarking on a new travel adventure is always exciting. If you have a Canadian passport and Turkey is on your bucket list, there’s good news—you don’t need a visa to visit for up to 90 days.
Check out our travel reporter’s airport guides with helpful tips for a smooth journey:
Do Canadian passport holders require a visa for Turkey?
Canadian passport holders do not need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days) for tourism or business purposes. This visa-free policy, implemented in early 2024, makes travel to Turkey even easier.
Canadians do not need a visa to transit through Turkey. You can transit through any Turkish airport without additional documentation beyond your valid passport.
If you’re not a Canadian citizen but hold a passport eligible for the Turkey eVisa, you can apply online.
Required documents for Canadian travelers
Here’s what you need when visiting Turkey from Canada:
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Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure from Turkey and have blank pages for entry/exit stamps.
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Travel itinerary: Be ready to provide details about your travel dates and accommodation.
iVisa tip from our travel journalist: Carry an extra ID, return flight ticket, and proof of accommodation. Immigration officers may request these upon arrival, even if you have a valid passport.
How long can Canadian citizens stay in Turkey?
Canadian citizens can stay in Turkey for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The Turkish authorities count back 180 days from when you leave Turkey and calculate how many days you’ve stayed within that timeframe.
Can I extend my stay in Turkey?
Extending your stay beyond the allowed 90 days is not possible. After 90 days, you must exit Turkey and re-enter later, adhering to the 90/180-day rule.
For longer stays, explore alternative options like residence permits or other visa types suited to your circumstances.
Consequences of overstaying in Turkey
Overstaying can result in:
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Fines and penalties: Overstaying violates Turkish immigration laws, and fines increase the longer you overstay.
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Travel restrictions: Future trips to Turkey and other visa-free destinations may be impacted.
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Deportation and re-entry ban: In severe cases, you may face deportation or a ban from re-entering Turkey.
Plan your stay accordingly and respect the 90-day maximum to avoid these consequences.
iVisa tip: Always check the entry stamp in your passport upon arrival to ensure the correct stay duration is noted. Some travelers have reported miscommunication at entry points.
Preparing for your trip to Turkey
Here are some tips for a smooth trip:
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Valid passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your departure date.
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Research and plan: Explore Turkey’s culture, transportation options, and accommodation before arriving. Whether it’s historical landmarks or hidden gems, having a plan ensures a richer experience.
“Researching in advance helped me discover less-known spots in Istanbul, like the Basilica Cistern, which wasn’t even on my original itinerary.” —Sarah, Toronto.
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Travel insurance: Purchase travel insurance to cover medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost belongings.
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Health and safety: Stay informed about travel advisories and vaccinations. Always follow basic safety practices, like monitoring your belongings.
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Currency: The currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Bring a mix of cash and credit cards, as they’re widely accepted in tourist areas.
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Local customs: Respect Turkey’s customs, especially when visiting religious sites. Dress modestly and follow any posted rules.
“I underestimated how much walking I’d be doing. Comfortable shoes were a game-changer.” —Mark, Vancouver.
Travel restrictions and entry requirements
- Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date before travel.
- Respect your maximum allowed stay of 90 days to avoid fines.
- Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your stay.
For a smooth experience, keep your documents readily accessible and follow instructions from Turkish authorities during ID checks.
If you need more details or assistance with planning your trip to Turkey, our customer service team is here to help! Reach out to us any time via iVisa chat or WhatsApp.