Touristic Invitation to Turkey

What is a Touristic Invitation Letter for Turkey?

A touristic invitation letter is a formal document written by a Turkish citizen or a legal resident in Turkey. It supports a foreign national's visa application. This letter informs the Turkish consulate that the guest has a guaranteed place to stay and a point of contact during their visit. While it does not guarantee a visa, it significantly strengthens the application by clarifying the purpose of the trip and the financial support available.

Who Needs an Invitation Letter?

Foreigners from countries that do not have a visa-free agreement with Turkey must apply for a visa. Additionally, individuals who previously faced entry bans or have specific restrictions may require an invitation to clarify their intent. The letter is particularly important for those applying for a 'Sticker Visa' at a Turkish embassy or consulate rather than an e-Visa.

Required Information for Individual Inviters

If a person is inviting a guest to Turkey, the invitation letter must be clear and detailed. The Turkish authorities require the following information from the host:

• Turkish Identity Number (T.C. Kimlik No): A copy of the host's ID card is usually attached.
• Full Identity Details: The host's full name and birth details.
• Residence Address: The specific home address where the guest will stay.
• Contact Information: A valid phone number and email address.
• Guest List: The full names and passport numbers of all invited individuals.
• Duration and Purpose: The exact dates of the stay and the reason for the visit (e.g., sightseeing, visiting family).
• Relationship Status: A clear statement of how the host knows the applicant (e.g., friend, relative, or business partner).

Requirements for Corporate and Institutional Invitations

When a Turkish company or institution invites a foreign national for tourism or business-related tourism, the requirements change. The inviting entity must provide:

• Tax Plate (Vergi Levhası): A copy of the current tax registration.
• Official Letterhead: The invitation must be printed on the company's official stationery.
• Authorized Signature: The letter must be signed by a person with the legal authority to represent the company.

Financial Responsibility and Subsistence

The host must explicitly state their financial commitment in the letter. The inviter is required to declare that they will cover the guest's subsistence (food and daily expenses) and lodging (accommodation) for the duration of the stay. Even with this declaration, the Turkish consulate may still require the applicant to show they have sufficient personal funds or a regular income to support themselves during their travel.

The Notarization Process

To ensure the invitation letter is legally recognized, the host should prepare the document through a Turkish Notary (Noter). A notarized invitation confirms the host's identity and signature. This process prevents fraud and ensures that the host is legally accountable for the statements made in the letter. Once notarized, the original document should be sent to the applicant to present during their visa interview.

Important Legal Considerations

Providing an invitation letter carries legal weight. If the guest overstays their visa or engages in illegal activities, the host may face administrative inquiries. It is vital to ensure that all information provided is accurate. If the guest has a prior entry ban (tahdit), the invitation letter must be part of a broader 'special annotated visa' application process to request the lifting of the ban for the duration of the visit.

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