Turkey Visa Rejection: Reasons, Rates, & Next Steps

Often, visas get rejected because not all the necessary documents were included, or they were wrong. Many visas get rejected due to documents submitted in the incorrect format.

For example: 

Each country has specific dimensions and background colors for visa photographs. The Turkey visa photo size is 2 inches by 2 inches (50mm x 50mm). Submitting photos that don't meet these criteria can cause your application to be rejected.

Sometimes travellers miss important small requirements because they are not made very clear on the Turkish government websites, etc.

For example: 

Turkey requires passports to be valid for at least six months beyond the intended date of departure. Submitting a passport that doesn't meet this requirement can lead to visa rejection.

You need to prove you have enough money for your stay. Clear proof need to be provided by means of bank statements, pay slips etc.

Turkey doesn't specify a strict minimum amount of money that an applicant must possess to obtain a visa. However, when you apply for a Turkish visa, you're required to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to sustain yourself during your visit to the country. However, for the tourist visa you should have at least USD 50 a day.

Always clearly state why you're visiting – for holiday, business, etc. A vague reason might cause a rejection.

Here's a list of documents that can help demonstrate clear intent:

Cover letter: The cover letter provides additional information to the Turkish embassy or consulate about your visit's purpose

Detailed Itinerary: A day-by-day breakdown of activities, including sightseeing spots, tours, and other planned ventures.

Hotel Bookings: Reservations for the entire duration of the stay can validate your travel dates and destinations within the country.

Flight Tickets: Round-trip flight tickets can show your entry and exit from the country, emphasizing the temporary nature of the visit.

Invitation Letters: If visiting someone, a letter from the host detailing the relationship, purpose, and duration of the visit, along with a copy of their identification, can clarify reasons.

Event Tickets or Registrations: If attending a specific event like a concert, festival, conference, or workshop, proof of registration or tickets can authenticate the purpose.

If your visa form doesn't match your documents, it's a red flag. Double-check everything before submitting. Especially check your personal and passport information.

For example: 

Any mistakes with your passport number or in the spelling of your name made within the application form, have been a great cause for immediate visa denials.

If you had visa issues before, like overstaying, it could affect your new application. A good travel record helps.

For example: 

If someone visited a country on a 30-day visa but stayed for 45 days, this overstay will be flagged in future applications, not just for that country but potentially for others as well.

The consulate wants to know if you'll return home after your trip. Having a job, family, or house in India can help prove this.

​​Here's a list of documents that can help prove strong connections to the home country:

Employment Proof: A current employment contract. Recent pay slips or salary certificates. A leave approval letter from the employer mentioning the duration of leave and the intention of the employee's return to resume work.

Business Ownership: Business registration documents. Tax returns and financial statements if you own or run a business.

Property Ownership: Land deeds. Mortgage agreements. Rental income documentation, if applicable.

Family Ties: Marriage certificate, if married. Birth certificates of children or dependents in the home country. Evidence of family members who are dependent on you, like elderly parents.

Education Commitments: Enrollment certificates or letters if you or your dependents are currently studying in the home country. Payment receipts for ongoing educational courses.

Future Commitments: Future event bookings, appointments, or obligations that require your presence in the home country.

Visas need time to process. It might get denied if you apply too close to when you want to travel. Make sure to provide enough processing time, time for the consulate to make a decision about your visa.

The ideal time frame for applying for a Turkey visa can vary based on the type of visa and the current processing times. However, for tourism or business purposes (short stay):

Recommended Time: It's advisable to apply at least 4 to 6 weeks before your intended travel date. This gives ample time for the consulate to process the visa and allows for any unforeseen delays or requests for additional documents.

During busy times, many people apply for visas. This can mean longer waits and stricter checks. Apply early during peak times.

Apply for your visa early, especially during busy times, to avoid delays. This also gives you extra time to fix any problems or provide more documents if needed, increasing your chances of getting your visa approved quickly.

For your tourist visa you can apply no earlier than 3 months before your travels. For peak times we recommend applying 3 months before your travels.

Applying for a visa can be confusing. That's where Atlys comes in, with expertise and a great success rate. 

Make your Turkey e visa application on Atlys. Here's why Atlys can help increase your Turkey approval chances:

Deep Knowledge: Atlys knows the latest visa rules for Turkey, ensuring your application is up-to-date.

Careful Document Check: Many visas are denied due to minor document issues or small requirements commonly overlooked. Atlys ensures you have all the documents and that the documents are all in the proper format.

Personalized Advice: Every traveler is different. Atlys gives advice that fits your unique situation, making your application shine.

Strong History of Success: Many have gotten visas with Atlys' help. Their Turkey visa rejection rate from India says it all.

Always Improving: Atlys listens to feedback and always works on making our service even better.

To learn more about Turkey tourist visas, read our dedicated Turkey evisa blog and Turkey sticker visa blog.