Schengen Visa Application in Turkey: A Complete Guide

Are you planning to travel to Europe from Turkey? Then you need a Schengen visa. A Schengen visa allows you to travel freely within the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a six-month period. This article will guide you through the Schengen visa application process in Turkey, including the eligibility criteria, required documents, application process, processing time, fees, and tips for a successful application.

Eligibility Criteria for Schengen Visa in Turkey

Before applying for a Schengen visa, you must ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria. The criteria are generally the same for all Schengen countries, but there may be slight differences depending on the country you plan to visit. The eligibility criteria for a Schengen visa are as follows:

1. Travel purpose: You must have a valid reason for your visit, such as tourism, business, or visiting family and friends.
2. Travel itinerary: You must provide a detailed travel itinerary that includes your flight and accommodation bookings, as well as your planned activities during your stay.
3. Financial means: You must have sufficient financial means to cover your travel expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses.
4. Health insurance: You must have valid health insurance that covers medical expenses up to the amount of 30,000 euros.
5. Residence permit: If you are a non-Turkish citizen living in Turkey, you must have a valid residence permit that allows you to re-enter Turkey after your trip.
6. Travel history: You must have a travel history that shows that you have complied with the visa requirements in the countries you have visited.

Required Documents for Schengen Visa Application in Turkey

To apply for a Schengen visa in Turkey, you must submit a set of documents that prove your eligibility and support your application. The required documents may vary slightly depending on the country you plan to visit, but the general list of documents is as follows:

1. Schengen visa application form: You must fill out the Schengen visa application form online or in person at the visa application center.
2. Passport: You must provide a valid passport that has at least two blank pages and is valid for at least three months beyond the date of your planned return.
3. Biometric photo: You must provide a recent color photo that meets the Schengen visa requirements.
4. Travel itinerary: You must provide a detailed travel itinerary that includes your flight and accommodation bookings, as well as your planned activities during your stay.
5. Financial means: You must provide proof of sufficient financial means to cover your travel expenses, such as bank statements, credit card statements, or salary slips.
6. Health insurance: You must provide proof of valid health insurance that covers medical expenses up to the amount of 30,000 euros.
7. Residence permit: If you are a non-Turkish citizen living in Turkey, you must provide a valid residence permit that allows you to re-enter Turkey after your trip.
8. Travel history: You must provide proof of your travel history, such as previous visas, passport stamps, or flight tickets.

How to Apply for Schengen Visa in Turkey

To apply for a Schengen visa in Turkey, you must follow the steps below:

1. Fill out the application form: You can fill out the Schengen visa application form online or in person at the visa application center. Make sure to fill out the form completely and accurately.
2. Gather the required documents: Collect all the required documents that support your application.
3. Book an appointment: Book an appointment at the visa application center in advance.
4. Attend the appointment: Attend the appointment at the visa application center with all the required documents. You will have your fingerprints and photo taken at the center.
5. Wait for processing: Wait for your application to be processed. The processing time may vary depending on the country you plan to visit.
6. Receive the visa: If your application is approved, you will receive your Schengen visa. If your application is denied, you will receive a reason for the denial.

Processing Time and Fees for Schengen Visa in Turkey

The processing time and fees for a Schengen visa in Turkey may vary depending on the country you plan to visit. The processing time is usually between 7 to 15 days, but it may take longer during peak travel seasons. The visa fees are also different for each country, but they are generally around 80 euros for adults and 40 euros for children.

Tips and Suggestions for Successful Schengen Visa Application in Turkey

Here are some tips and suggestions for a successful Schengen visa application in Turkey:

1. Apply early: Apply for your Schengen visa as early as possible, preferably three months before your planned travel date.
2. Be honest: Provide accurate and honest information in your application and during the interview. Any false information can lead to your application being denied.
3. Provide strong supporting documents: Provide strong supporting documents that prove your eligibility and support your application.
4. Show strong ties to Turkey: Show strong ties to Turkey that prove that you will return to Turkey after your trip, such as a job, family, property, or other significant ties.
5. Prepare for the interview: Prepare for the interview by practicing your answers and reviewing your application and supporting documents.
6. Follow the instructions: Follow the instructions of the visa application center and the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit.
7. Be patient: Be patient during the processing of your application, and do not make unnecessary inquiries that can delay the process.

In conclusion, applying for a Schengen visa in Turkey can be a straightforward process if you follow the eligibility criteria, prepare the required documents, and follow the application process. By following the tips and suggestions in this article, you can increase your chances of a successful application and enjoy your trip to Europe.