Desire of Turkish visa from Bangladesh is increasing. The allure of Turkey, a country that straddles the boundary between Europe and Asia, has drawn numerous travellers from around the world, including Bangladesh. With its rich history, diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, Turkey represents an enticing destination for tourists, business professionals, and students alike. However, for Bangladeshi citizens aspiring to visit Turkey, acquiring a Turkish visa is a crucial step in the journey. This essay delves into the nuances of obtaining a Turkish visa from Bangladesh, outlining the types of visas available, the application process, required documentation, and other essential considerations.

Understanding Categories Turkish Visa from Bangladesh

The Turkish government offers various types of visas catering to different purposes of travel. For Bangladeshi nationals, the primary categories include:

Turkey visa from Bangladesh image

1. Tourist Visa: This visa is suitable for individuals intending to visit Turkey for tourism purposes, such as sightseeing, cultural exploration, or visiting friends and family.

2. Business Visa: Aimed at business professionals, this visa allows individuals to participate in meetings, conferences, and trade fairs within Turkey.

3. Medical Visa: The medical visa for Turkey is designated for foreign nationals seeking to access healthcare services within the country. This visa facilitates entry for individuals requiring medical treatment or healthcare consultations from Turkish medical institutions, which are known for their advanced medical technologies and high standards of care. 

4. Student Visa: For those who plan to study in Turkey, the student visa is required, usually following the acceptance into a recognized Turkish educational institution.

5. Work Visa: For Bangladeshi nationals seeking employment in Turkey, a work visa and a valid work permit are necessary.

6. Transit / Double Transit Visa: This visa is for travellers passing through Turkey en route to another country. Passengers who will have to wait at the international airports in Turkey for their next connecting flights are not required to obtain an “Airport Transit Visa (ATV)”. However, should those passengers wish to take a tour at the city or stay over, they have to obtain their transit visas at the Turkey Embassies/Consulates in advance. 

7. Conference and Seminar Visa: The Conference and Seminar visa for Turkey is specifically designed to facilitate the attendance of foreign nationals at academic and professional events held within the country. Applicants must provide pertinent documentation, including an invitation from the organizing entity and proof of accommodation during their stay. This visa not only promotes international collaboration in various fields but also enhances Turkey’s reputation as a host for prestigious conferences and seminars. Processing times may vary, so early application is advisable to ensure timely participation.

8. Festival/Fair/Exhibition Visa: The Festival/Fair/Exhibition visa for Turkey is designed for foreign nationals seeking to attend cultural, artistic, or commercial events within the country. This visa category enables participants, exhibitors, and visitors to engage in various activities related to festivals and exhibitions, facilitating international collaboration and cultural exchange.

9. Sportive Activity Visa: The Sportive Activity Visa of Turkey is a specialized visa designed to facilitate the entry of foreign athletes, coaches, and officials participating in sports events or training programs within the country. This visa aims to promote international sporting exchanges and enhance Turkey’s reputation as a host for various athletic competitions.

10. Cultural/Artistic Activity Visa: The Cultural/Artistic Activity Visa of Turkey is designed to facilitate the entry of foreign artists, performers, and cultural professionals who intend to engage in artistic endeavors within the country. This visa allows individuals to participate in exhibitions, performances, and other cultural activities that contribute to the enrichment of Turkey’s artistic landscape.

Each visa category comes with specific eligibility criteria and requirements, which applicants must adhere to in order to facilitate a smooth application process.

The Application Process of Turkish visa from Bangladesh

Step 1. Application

People who wants to Apply for Turkish Visa from Bangladesh should apply through Reired International Limited (Only authorised visa application center in Bangladesh).  This is an authoritative instruction by Turkey Embassy in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Visit https://www.reired.com and download the “Visa Application Form“.

Step 2. Documentation

Following the application of Turkish visa from Bangladesh, applicants must gather the necessary supporting documents. Although the specific documents vary depending on the visa category.

For tourist visa and standard requirements for all category typically include:

  • A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond the intended date of entry into Turkey and it should have at least 2 empty pages.
  • Passport biodata page photocopies (3 copy) 
  • 3 copies biometric photos with white background that were taken within the last 6 months covering the full-face including ears and all hair, clearly and completely visible without shadow, in size 2×2 matte paper.
  • National ID card or birth certificate photocopy (ID mandatory). 
  • Travel insurance, as per embassy/consulate instructions Turkey incoming health insurance is mandatory. Your Travel Health Insurance is included within the package service fee and it can be done only by REIRED.
  • Proof of financial means, original bank statement up to date covering last 3 months of transactions + Original bank solvency (of the cost bearer).
  • Travel itinerary, including round-trip flight reservations and hotel bookings.
  • Covering letter / Request letter / Forwarding letter.
  • Introduction Letter (Yourself).
  • Trade license attested by notary public (For businessman).
  • Income tax return / TIN attested by notary public (Business person & employee).
  • NOC + Visiting card + Official ID (Only for employee)
  • Membership + Memorandum + Incorporation + Export + Import certificate attested by a notary public (Only for businessman).
  • Applicant aged below 18 travelling with one parent needs to provide a permission letter from another parent.
  • BMDC certificate or Bar Council certificate attested by notary public (Occupation wise).
  • Retirement’s letter for the official personnel who are retired attested by a notary public.

Additional Documents for Business Visa:

  • Letter of introduction from the company (If the visit will be made on behalf of a company).
  • Letter of invitation from an individual or institution in Turkey (Properly signed and directly sent by e-mail or fax to the Embassy).
  • Trade license attested by notary public, Import-Export License, LC (If exist).
  • Other supporting documents if available (Employment agreement, Old Türkiye Visa, Tapu, Inviter residence permit or Visa Copy.

Additional documents for Medical Visa:

  • Patient acceptance letter from one of the hospitals in the republic of Turkey.
  • Medical treatment invitation letter from the Republic of Turkey.
  • Cash receipt indicating prepayment or estimated cost voucher to the hospital The hospital is obliged to email the acceptance letter of patient to the official email of Turkey embassy in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
  • The hospital is obliged to email the acceptance letter of patient to the official email of Turkish embassy in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Additional documents for Work Visa:

  • A letter from employer
  • An agreement signed between employer and employee.

Additional documents for Students Visa:

  • An official acceptance letter from a university in Turkey (Also directly send to the embassy).
  • Results of the university exam for foreigners held by higher education board of the republic of Türkiye (If taken).
  • Photocopy of the all-academic certificates and transcripts attested by the education ministry and foreign ministry.
  • Medical certificate (Including HIV / AID’s test from United Hospital) Bank solvency & statement including sponsor letter of his/her parents.
  • Bank solvency & statement including sponsor letter of his/her parents.

Additional documents for Conference/Seminar Visa:

  • Letter of invitation from an individual or institution in Turkey (Properly signed and directly sent by e-mail or fax to the Embassy).
  • Graduation Certificate attested by a notary public for Graduate Student and NOC from University for Running Students.

Additional documents for Sportive Activity Visa:

  • Player list (If exist).
  • Letter of invitation from an individual or institution in Turkey (Properly signed and directly sent by e-mail or fax to the Embassy).

Additional documents for Cultural/Artistic Activity Visa:

  • Performer list (If exist).
  • Letter of invitation from an individual or institution in Turkey (Properly signed and directly sent by e-mail or fax to the Embassy).

Step 3 : Appear in person at the Visa Application Center

You have to appear in person (12 & above age group) at the Visa Application Center as walk-in without any appointment for submission of your visa application. However, in family visa applications, family members aged from (12 & above age group) have to come and give Fingerprints and Biometric. An undertaking form has to be signed by rest of the family members. For the passport collection time only one of family member can receive the passport. 

Step 4. Visa Fee and Service Charges Payment

The next step of Turkish visa from Bangladesh involves paying the visa application fee, which varies based on the type of visa being applied for. Visa fee and service charges can be paid in both USD and BDT. Total costs are charged in cash, Bkash, Credit card, debit card, master card and visa card.

Step 5. Interview Appointment

After submitting the application and documentation for Turkish visa from Bangladesh, applicants might need to schedule an interview at the Turkish embassy or consulate in Dhaka. During the interview, the consular officer will review the application, verify the documents, and may ask questions regarding the purpose of the visit.

Step 6. Wait for Processing completion

Embassy of the Republic of Turkey normally takes 3 to 4 weeks for visa application process from the date of submission of application at REIRED Visa Application Center. However, in peak season, the visa process time may take up to 4 to 6 weeks. Therefore, we strongly advise to apply Turkey visa at least 5 weeks before the departure date. 

If your visa application is refused by the Embassy then you can re-apply after anytime with fresh documents as well as with new visa fee and service charges. 

Step 7. Visa Collection

Once the application is approved, applicants will be informed when and how to collect their visas.

Essential Considerations for Turkish visa from Bangladesh

While the application process for a Turkish visa may seem straightforward, there are essential considerations that applicants should bear in mind.

Travel Insurance: Although not compulsory, obtaining travel insurance is highly recommended, as it covers unexpected medical expenses and emergencies during the stay in Turkey.

Covid-19 Regulations: As of autumn 2023, many countries have been adjusting entry requirements due to the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Bangladeshi travelers should ensure they are updated on Turkey’s entry restrictions, vaccination requirements, and any necessary health declarations or tests prior to travel.

Cultural Awareness: Understanding Turkish customs and social norms can significantly enhance the travel experience. Visitors from Bangladesh should familiarize themselves with the local customs, traditions, and etiquette to foster respectful and meaningful interactions with locals.

Local Laws and Regulations: It is critical for travelers to be aware of the laws regulating foreign visitors in Turkey. This includes understanding regulations regarding photography, alcohol consumption, and public behavior.

Conclusion

Obtaining a Turkish visa from Bangladesh is a multifaceted process that necessitates careful consideration and preparation. Although the steps involved may seem daunting, clarity and organization can facilitate a successful application journey. As Turkey continues to position itself as a prime destination for tourism, business, and education, Bangladeshi citizens can explore its rich tapestry of history and culture, provided they adhere to the requisite visa protocols. Embracing this process not only opens doors to a myriad of opportunities in Turkey but also enhances cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. With the right preparation, the journey to Turkey can indeed become an enriching experience.