A Comprehensive Guide to Entering Turkiye Via Land Borders

For people who love to travel the world, the usual route is a flight to the major cities of the various countries. Further, those who have taken a trip across Europe might have availed of the railway system. However, there is a much more scenic and affordable route for a trip to Turkiye: via land. If Turkiye is your next destination, then apply for a Turkiye tourist visa and get started on your itinerary.

Overview of Turkiye’s Land Borders

With its strategic location between Asia and Europe, a flight to Istanbul is not the only way to reach Turkiye. For adventure lovers who have visas for multiple destinations and are attempting cross-border travel, entering via Turkiye’s land borders is an excellent option. Further, if you are from a neighboring country, this might be an option for you.

Countries Sharing Land Borders with Turkiye

Turkiye shares its land borders with the following countries:

• Greece  
• Bulgaria  
• Georgia  
• Armenia
• Iran  
• Iraq  
• Syria

One important thing to note is that the borders of Armenia and Syria have been closed due to political disturbances.

Major Land Border Crossing Points

To cross over via the land border, here’s the list of countries and the respective checkpoints:

• Greece: Kastanies – Pazarkule & Kipi – İpsala
• Bulgaria: Andreevo – Kapkule Kapitan, Lesovo – Hamzabeyli & Trnovo – Aziziye Malko
• Georgia: Sarp, Türkgözü & Aktaş
• Iran: Bazargan – Gürbulak & Sero – Esendere
• Iraq: Zeyt& Habur

Among these, Kapkule Kapitan (Turkey-Bulgaria) is the busiest European entry point. Further, for people who want to enter from Western Europe, Ipsala (Turkey-Greece) is the checkpoint for them to cross. However, it is important to note that Zeyt and Habur, the checkpoints with Iraq, are often closed or subjected to security checks due to recent conflicts.

Visa and Entry Requirements

While crossing the Turkiye border by land, certain things need to be kept in mind regarding visa policy and documentation. 

Visa Policy for Land Border Entry

There is no visa on arrival for Land Border Entry in Turkiye. Thus, if your country is eligible for an eVisa to Turkey, you need to get one well before your visit. Further, you need to verify if your passport allows visa-free entry to Turkiye. To add, your passport should remain valid for at least 6 months after your stay in Turkiye comes to a close. 

You must produce your Turkiye Visa at the Land Border Checkpoint.

Passport and Documentation Requirements for Turkiye Tourist Visa

You will need the following documents when applying for the Turkiye Tourist Visa online:

• A passport with a validity of at least 6 months remaining after your stay ends.
• A recent photograph that meets the immigration norms.
• Proof of funds to support your plans.
• A travel itinerary.
• Return tickets from Turkiye.
• Proof of accommodation 
• Local contact details
• Police Clearance Certificate

Once you have these in hand, it is time to get started on your Turkiye Tourist Visa.

• Visit the online visa portal.
• Create an account using your office email ID.
• Choose the visa option applicable to you.
• Fill in your details accurately and upload all requested documents.
• Double-check all details entered on the visa form.
• Make payment for your Turkiye Tourist Visa with a valid debit or credit card.
• Submit your visa application for processing.

For the online Turkiye Tourist Visa, the processing time is usually 1-2 days, unless any issues come up.

Customs and Border Control Procedures

Once you reach one of the checkpoints on the Turkiye border, you will have to undergo checks with the immigration officer and the border patrol. Further, it is best to stay apprised of the customs regulations followed by Turkiye.

Immigration Checks and Security Screening

At the border checkpoint, you will be asked to produce your passport, visa, itinerary, and other documents. You may also be subject to security screening by the border forces and asked a few general questions. Further, if you are traveling by car, Border Patrol officials may search your vehicle.

The screening process that takes place at the border checkpoint is fairly similar to that at the airport. So, if all documents are in order, you will usually be allowed entry into the country. However, the border security officials may deny you entry based on the following grounds:

• A threat to the general public, i.e., security, order, or health.
• Any mismatch in the travel documents.
• Concerns about lack of financial support.
• If there’s a chance of overstaying your visa.

Further, there should be enough space on your passport for entry and exit stamps.

Customs Regulations and Duty-Free Allowances

Large quantities of currency or other valuables restricted electronic devices, and food items like fresh meat and dairy products are usually prohibited. To add, you will have to declare any valuables that you are carrying with you, including electronic goods, sporting equipment, and jewelry. Further, if carrying any pets, it is a must to have their medical report from the vet, vaccination certificates, and documents of origin.

Transportation and Connectivity at Land Borders

Connected via highways on both sides, travelers can cross over and reach Turkiye on foot, get a bus, or use a car. With the busiest border checkpoints like Pazarkule, Ipsala, Sarp, and Kapikule being open 24 hours, travelers can cross over at their convenience.

However, before choosing a border to cross, it is important to check the timing for that particular border.

Crossing on Foot vs. By Vehicle

People can reach the border checkpost using public transportation and then cross the border and hail a ride from the other side. Further, they can also use their own vehicles to enter neighboring countries. However, vehicles and drivers need to have insurance coverage and a permit to drive across international borders.

Public Transport and Taxi Options

Buses and taxis are available from Greece and Bulgaria that take you up to the Turkish border. Not only does this offer affordable transportation to travelers, but it has improved connectivity between the countries.

Further, there are trains from Bulgaria, Romania, Georgia, and Iran via train. While the train from Romania and Bulgaria takes you to Istanbul, the ones from Tehran run weekly to Van and Ankara.

Travel Tips for a Smooth Border Crossing

Other than having travel insurance and other documentation on hand for the border patrol, it is also important to know which borders are open to travelers and their respective timings. 

Further, it is important to be wary of people who offer to help you cross the border checkpoint for a fee.

Best Times to Cross and Avoid Delays

To visit Turkiye, spring and autumn are the best times. Not only can you enjoy the scenic route while traveling by land, but you can also avoid the crowds and summer rush. While 24-hour checkpoints are the busiest, you can check for alternative routes that attract fewer travelers.

Safety and Security Considerations

Due to political and regional instabilities, land border checkpoints have more stringent security measures in place. Further, border checkpoints are often closed if there is a security or political disturbance in the area.

For instance, though there are border checkpoints with Syria, Armenia, and Iraq, they are all closed due to regional disturbances and security issues. Thus, be sure to check that the border you are opting for is open and allows entry of travelers holding a Turkiye tourist visa.

Visiting Turkiye: A Hassle-Free Entry

Choosing to travel to Turkiye via land allows you to enjoy the scenic route along the highways. Plus, they are also affordable when compared to flights. This makes them an attractive option for many travelers, especially those touring multiple countries.

So for your next trip, do look into the merits of using the land border. Simply apply for the Turkiye tourist visa and produce your approved Turkey visa at the Land Border Checkpoint.