Turkey Visa RequirementsFor Ukraine passport holders
Ukrainian citizens can enter Turkey without a visa for stays of up to 90 days, under a bilateral visa liberalization agreement between Turkey and Ukraine. This access is independent of EU Schengen rules and applies to Turkey's territory including Istanbul, Ankara, and Antalya.
Great news! Ukraine passport holders can enter Turkey without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 90 days.
No visa is required. Present your Ukrainian biometric passport at any Turkish port of entry including Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW). You may be asked for proof of accommodation and sufficient funds. The 90-day period is per 180 days; ensure you do not overstay. Turkey is not Schengen, so time spent in Turkey does not count against your Schengen 90-day allowance.
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
Required Documents
Ukrainian Passport
Valid Ukrainian passport with at least 6 months validity. Turkey's visa-free arrangement applies to all Ukrainian passport holders.
Proof of Accommodation
Hotel booking or host address in Turkey.
Return or Onward Ticket
Confirmed departure booking from Turkey within 90 days.
Proof of Sufficient Funds
USD, EUR, or Turkish Lira. Bank card widely accepted in hotels and tourist areas.
Current Travel Situation
Ukraine to Turkey: What You Need to Know
Turkey has occupied a unique position in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, maintaining working relationships with both Kyiv and Moscow while facilitating peace talks and prisoner exchanges. Istanbul has emerged as a critical hub for Ukrainian travelers needing connections to destinations in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa that are inaccessible from EU airports due to airspace restrictions. Many Ukrainians use Istanbul as a layover point. Turkey hosts a significant number of Ukrainians, both tourists and those seeking temporary safety. The visa-free arrangement predates the conflict and has been maintained throughout.
How to Get There
From Istanbul, connections to Dubai, Singapore, Bangkok, Tokyo, New York, and dozens of other destinations are available on Turkish Airlines. The TEM highway and bus services also connect Istanbul to Bulgaria, Greece, and other European destinations. Istanbul-Tbilisi flights are popular for those heading to Georgia or the Caucasus.
Money & Banking
Turkey uses the Turkish Lira (TRY), which has experienced significant volatility in recent years. USD and EUR are widely accepted in tourist areas. ATMs dispense TRY; Euros and Dollars are also readily exchangeable. Turkey is generally good value for money compared to Western Europe.
Practical Tips
Turkish Airlines operates extensive routes from Kyiv (when airspace allows) as well as from Warsaw (WAW), Krakow (KRK), and other Polish cities to Istanbul. Istanbul is one of the world's busiest aviation hubs with connections to virtually every destination globally. For Ukrainians, Istanbul is often the most practical hub for flights to Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Ukrainian citizens need a visa to visit Turkey?
No. Ukrainian citizens can enter Turkey visa-free for up to 90 days under a bilateral visa liberalization agreement between Ukraine and Turkey. This is separate from EU Schengen rules.
Is Istanbul a useful transit hub for Ukrainian travelers?
Yes. Istanbul is one of the world's busiest aviation hubs, served by Turkish Airlines with connections to virtually every global destination. For Ukrainians needing to reach Asia, Africa, or the Middle East, Istanbul is often the most practical and affordable transit point.
How has Turkey positioned itself in the Russia-Ukraine war?
Turkey has maintained a carefully balanced position, maintaining working relationships with both Kyiv and Moscow. Turkey brokered the Black Sea Grain Initiative allowing Ukrainian grain exports, facilitated prisoner exchanges, and allowed Ukrainian naval access through the Bosphorus Strait while also not joining Western sanctions against Russia. Turkey remains a NATO member and a welcoming destination for Ukrainians.
Does time in Turkey count toward the Schengen 90-day limit?
No. Turkey is not part of the Schengen Area. Time spent in Turkey is completely separate from the Schengen 90-day calculation. This makes Turkey useful for Ukrainians who have exhausted their 90-day Schengen allowance and need a destination while waiting to re-enter.
What are the main tourist destinations in Turkey for Ukrainian visitors?
Istanbul (Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, Bosphorus), Antalya and the Turkish Riviera (Alanya, Side, Kemer), Cappadocia (hot air balloons, cave hotels), Bodrum, Pamukkale (thermal springs), and Ephesus are major destinations. Ukrainian tourists have historically been among the most frequent visitors to Turkish Riviera resorts.
What currency does Turkey use?
Turkey uses the Turkish Lira (TRY), which has experienced significant inflation. USD and EUR are widely accepted in tourist areas and often preferred. ATMs dispense TRY. Exchanging USD or EUR at money changers in Istanbul's Grand Bazaar area offers competitive rates.
Can Ukrainians fly from Turkey to Russia?
Ukrainian citizens are advised against any travel to Russia regardless of route. While Turkish Airlines technically operates Moscow flights, attempting to enter Russia with a Ukrainian passport during the active armed conflict is extremely dangerous and strongly advised against by Ukrainian authorities.
Is there a large Ukrainian community in Turkey?
Yes, particularly since 2022. Istanbul and Antalya have grown Ukrainian communities. Turkey offers relatively affordable living costs and warm weather, making it a practical temporary destination for some Ukrainians. The Ukrainian Embassy in Ankara continues to operate and provide consular services.