Breaking News: New Visa regulations rescinded

The recent visa changes that were announced by Turkey have been rescinded, at least for the time being, following representations from the British Ambassador to Turkey.

We provide below the text of a notice that has been distributed to British Embassy and Consulate offices across Turkey.

There are still a few loose ends to tie up, such as, what happens to those who have already received the new visa stamp.  Also, we note that the message says that the changes have been delayed, so perhaps there will be a new date set for implementation.

It is worth noting that the British Ambassador in Turkey took up this issue, following the expressions of concern made by many British nationals.  It would appear as though those who were vociferous in opposing the change, have had their concerns listened to, and acted upon.

As an aside, it seems that the subject of visas was on David Cameron's agenda, in his meeting with his Turkish counterpart, however because the matter had been dealt with last Thursday/Friday, the item was dropped from the agenda.

Here is the British Embassy in Turkey announcement in full:

A visitor's visa valid for 90 days is issued to British Citizens at the port of entry on payment of £10 (English notes only).　British diplomatic/official passport holders must apply for a visa before travelling to Turkey.　　

We recently received reports that Turkish immigration procedures for British visitors (and the nationals of 62 other countries) had changed from 14 July. The change meant that British visitors were being issued with visas which were valid for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.　 Visitors with this type of visa had to wait until the 181st day before applying for a new visa.

Following these reports, the British Ambassador called on the Turkish Minister of the Interior on 22 July to seek clarification. The Ambassador raised the difficulties that the implementation, without warning, would cause many British people in Turkey, and to the citizens of other countries affected. The Minister said that no change in rules would be taking place.　

The Ministry of Interior has now confirmed that the proposed change has been delayed. All ports of entry have been informed and visa procedures will revert to those in place before 14 July. British nationals will once again be able to enter Turkey on 90 day visas.

We are following up with the Ministry of Interior to establish if a new implementation date is proposed and what action, if any, those with 180 day visas need to take. New information will be posted here when we have it.

Staying in Turkey beyond the date of your visa is taken seriously by the Turkish Authorities.

If you overstay you will be fined upon departure.　 Fines vary according to the length of time you overstay.　If you overstay and are fined, you　must apply for your next visa at a Turkish Embassy or Consulate overseas before you travel. You may also be banned from re-entering Turkey for a period of time as follows:-　　

Overstay　1-15 days  - no ban.

Overstay from 16-90 days - banned for up to three months.　　　　

Overstay for more than 90 days i.e. from the 91st day, banned for up to six months.

British Consular Services Turkey

26 July 2010

The British Embassy in Turkey website has now been updated to reflect the shift in position.  Click here to go to the British Embassy website update