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The bridge between Europe and Asia, Türkiye is a marvel of sun-drenched beaches, stunning landscapes and historic ruins. Not to mention the cosmopolitan megacity of Istanbul. This article explains the entry requirements for travellers with a full British citizen passport and if you need a visa for Türkiye.
Can UK citizens travel to Türkiye without a visa
Full UK passport holders can visit Türkiye without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This can be for business or tourism. If you’re staying longer, you’ll need to apply for a short-term residence permit before the 90 days is up.
British Nationals (Overseas) and other non-standard British passport holders should confirm visa requirements before travelling. You can do that by contacting the Turkish Embassy or Consulate.
What are the Turkish entry requirements for UK citizens?
While you can go to Türkiye without a visa, you’ll still need your UK passport to travel. To be valid on a visa-free trip up to 90 days, your passport must have:
- An expiry date at least 150 days (roughly five months) after the date you arrive in Türkiye
- At least one blank page (so there’s room for any official stamps to prove your entry and exit dates)
If you live in Türkiye, your passport expiry date must be at least six months after the date you arrive.
Do you need a visa to enter Türkiye if you arrive from another country?
The same rules apply for UK passport holders travelling to Türkiye via another country. As long as your passport meets the entry requirements for UK citizens, you can enter Türkiye without a visa from any country. Nor do you need a transit visa for Türkiye.
What Turkish visas can you apply for?
Although you don’t need a visa for Türkiye for a short stay, there are circumstances where you will need one. If you plan to work, study or live in Türkiye you’ll need to apply for the relevant visa at a Turkish Embassy or Consulate before travelling.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Türkiye lists 5 visa categories:
- Tourist and Business Visa. If you’re travelling on holiday, transiting through or attending a work event, such as a conference. Not needed for UK passport holders.
- Official Visa. If you’re travelling to Türkiye on official government business.
- Student Educational Visa. If you’re visiting Türkiye to study in full-time academic programmes, taking a Turkish language course or enrolling on a programme like Erasmus to do an internship.
- Working Visa. If you’re working in Türkiye as an employee of a local or international company with Turkish operations.
- Other visas. This includes a range of reasons for your visit, from carrying out an archaeological dig to shooting a film to having medical treatment.
The 5 best places to visit in Türkiye
Türkiye is a land of great diversity with more amazing things to see than you can count. Here are my five favourite places to visit.
Istanbul
Striding the Bosphorus, Istanbul is a heady, intoxicating blend of Europe and Asia, of old and new. Don’t miss the big attractions – the Byzantine wonder of the Hagia Sophia, the Ottoman decadence of Topkapi Palace. But make plenty of time to absorb modern life too. Sip çay (tea) or Turkish wines in the cool cafés and bars of Kadıköy, Moda and Kuzguncuk. Explore up-and-coming Bomonti. And of course, ride the ferry across the Bosphorus for incredible views of the city.
Turquoise Coast
Türkiye’s Mediterranean-Aegean coastline certainly earns its name, especially in summer. From Çeşme to Alanya, it has been sculpted into incredible beaches and bewitching towns set against a mountainous backdrop. Hike the Lycian Way or sail a gulet along the shoreline to discover remote beaches. Step into the past at the grand ancient ruins of Patara. Take the family or up the romance with a stay in a lavish waterfront hotel. I particularly love the decadent Turkish-owned Maçakizi.
Cappadocia
You’ve gazed in awe at the social media pics, so why not see Cappadocia in person? Do as everyone else does and take to the skies in a hot-air balloon for the best views of Antolia’s geologically jaw-dropping landscapes. Early morning flights are popular for a reason – raising a glass of fizz to the dawning sun is something you’ll remember forever.
Pamukkale
Every bit as Insta-worth as Cappadocia are the striking travertines and bizarre mineral pools of Pamukkale. Formed over millennia, they inspired the ancient spa town of Hierapolis and the many modern spa resorts that now surround them. Once you’ve soaked until you’re suitably wrinkly, take a day trip to the nearby Roman city ruins of Aphrodisias.
Kars
The rugged expanse of Türkiye’s far east is enough to leave you gasping. It’s best enjoyed through the window of the Dogu Express overnight train from capital Ankara to the border city, Kars. Base yourself here to explore the city’s extraordinary Russian-influenced architecture. There’s plenty to see nearby too, from the Armenian ruins of Ani to the atmospheric İshak Paşa Palace.
The foregoing article was last updated on 6th of February 2025. It does not contain legal advice and is for informational purposes only. KAYAK does not guarantee, and accepts no legal liability arising from or connected to, the accuracy, reliability, currency, or completeness of any of the information contained in this article and/or any of the content linked to within it. Always check the official government website of your departure and arrival destinations prior to travel for up-to-date information.
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