Turkey Visa RequirementsFor Sri Lanka passport holders
Sri Lankan citizens require an e-visa or sticker visa to visit Turkey. The e-visa costs approximately USD 60 and allows stays of up to 90 days. It is applied for online through the Turkish official e-visa portal (evisa.gov.tr).
Sri Lanka passport holders require a visa to enter Turkey.
Apply online at evisa.gov.tr at least 3 days before travel. You will need a valid passport (valid at least 150 days from entry date), a credit or debit card for payment, and an email address for delivery. The e-visa is emailed as a PDF; print it and carry it with your passport. Processing is usually immediate to within a few hours.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Sri Lanka to Turkey: What You Need to Know
Turkey has become an increasingly popular tourist destination for Sri Lankans, offering a blend of European and Asian cultures, world-class historical sites (Istanbul, Ephesus, Cappadocia), affordable prices compared to Western Europe, and excellent cuisine. Istanbul is particularly popular due to its unique position bridging two continents.
Practical Tips
Istanbul Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Cappadocia hot air balloon flights are top attractions. Turkish Airlines offers excellent connections from Colombo via Istanbul to destinations worldwide. Istanbul Ataturk and Istanbul Airport (IST) are major international hubs. Turkey is a good-value destination for Sri Lankans on a European-style holiday budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Sri Lankan passport holders need a visa for Turkey?
Yes. Sri Lankan citizens require a visa for Turkey. The most convenient option is the Turkish e-visa, which costs approximately USD 60 and allows stays of up to 90 days. Apply online at evisa.gov.tr at least 3 days before travel.
How do Sri Lankans apply for a Turkish e-visa?
Visit evisa.gov.tr and complete the online application. You will need your passport details (valid for at least 150 days from entry), an email address for delivery, and a credit or debit card for payment. The e-visa is issued electronically and emailed to you, usually within minutes to a few hours. Print it or have it on your phone to show at border control.
What are the top attractions in Turkey for Sri Lankan tourists?
Istanbul is the headline attraction, with the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, and the Bosphorus. Cappadocia is famous for hot air balloon flights over lunar landscapes. Ephesus near Izmir is one of the best-preserved ancient Roman cities in the world. The Turquoise Coast (Bodrum, Antalya) offers beautiful beaches and resorts.
How do Sri Lankans travel to Turkey?
Turkish Airlines operates extensive connections from Colombo (CMB) to Istanbul (IST) with connections through various hubs. Sri Lanka to Istanbul via a Gulf hub (Dubai, Doha) is also common. Total travel time is approximately 10 to 14 hours depending on routing. Istanbul Airport (IST) is one of the world busiest airports and offers excellent onward connections.