Changes to visa applications mean you will have to apply before you travel to Turkey, not when you arrive.
Up until the 29th of October 2018, those travelling to Turkey could apply for a visa when they arrived at the Turkish airport, but new rules will mean that those wishing to travel will need to apply before they leave the UK.
The Turkish government has decided to scrap the visa kiosks and the Wi-Fi areas that allowed visitors to fill out the via form on their smartphones. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has issued a warning stating that "From October 29th, self-service e-Visa kiosks and Wi-Fi areas where visitors can apply for an e-Visa on arrival will no longer be available in Turkish airports. You must apply for your e-Visa before you travel.”
If you have booked your trip to Turkey and have yet to apply for your visa, then you will need to apply on the official Turkish’s e-visa website evisa.gov.tr. Failure to obtain a visa before you travel is likely to cause many headaches for your travel plans. It can invalidate your travel insurance, should you be turned away from the country, as you won’t be able to claim for your trip being cut short as it is your own responsibility to know this. So, make sure you apply in advance of your stay.
An e-visa costs $20 (£12) and you can pay using a credit or debit card. You can apply up to three months in advance of your travel date and are valid for multiple stays up to a maximum of 90 days in a 180 day period.
The great wall
There are also changes ahead for travel to China according to tour operator Wendy Wu. New legislation which came into force in September 2018 means any British passport holders over 14 and under the age of 75 visiting China on holiday must have their fingerprints taken when applying for a visa. Travellers will have to visit Chinese consulates in person in London, Manchester and Edinburgh to complete their applications.
There are some exceptions in the new regulations for brief stopovers in certain regions in China when holidaymakers are flying on to other destinations.
If you are looking at booking a holiday and require assistance with visa information, then give our holiday team a call on 01243 213 213 and they will be delighted to help.
