Rules of entry to Turkey for Ukrainians

What documents do Ukrainians need to enter Turkey?

• A valid passport with a validity period of at least 150 days after the day you plan to leave
• or an ID card
• booked round-trip airline tickets
• hotel rental agreement
• proof of financial security
• health insurance policy with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros

⚠️ Turkey is now checking more frequently for compliance with the terms of previous stays and the actual purpose of entry. Particular attention is paid to tourists who frequently or stay in the country for a long time without obtaining the appropriate migration status.

👉 If you are planning a long stay, it is worth considering legal options in advance and consulting with a Visit Ukraine immigration lawyer.

Is insurance required for Ukrainians in Turkey?

You need to have health insurance - it is a mandatory document for a tourist trip to Turkey. In addition to the fact that the policy must be presented when crossing the border, the availability of health insurance can protect the tourist from unnecessary cash costs in an emergency.

💡 Tip: Remember that a reliable insurance policy is the key to your confidence while traveling. Do not risk your own finances and health, choose insurance with a guaranteed payment and let your travels leave only pleasant memories.

How much money do you need to cross the border?

There are no fixed requirements regarding funds, but for a comfortable trip to Turkey, it is recommended to have about 50–70 USD per day. Cash or currency valuables exceeding 10,000 EUR or the equivalent must be declared upon entry into the country.

How can Ukrainians extend their stay in Turkey?

The permitted period of visa-free stay is up to 90 days within 180 days. To extend the period of stay in Turkey, Ukrainian citizens need to apply to the Migration Service of the Republic of Turkey and obtain a residence permit in Turkey (tourist, humanitarian) or International Protection Status. This status is provided free of charge, allows you to legally stay in Turkey for 1 year, get free housing (dormitory), life insurance for 1 year, free medical services in public clinics for 1 year, etc.

💡 Tip: To ensure a successful trip to a new country, take advantage of expert advice. Our qualified specialists with legal education will help you avoid unpleasant situations during your stay abroad.

Information for those traveling from Ukraine by car to Turkey:

Remember that you need to have a Green Card to drive your own car outside of Ukraine.

✅🚘 To take out insurance, you will need the following documents:

- Passport of a citizen of Ukraine;

- international passport;

- car registration certificate.

It takes a few minutes to apply for an insurance policy. All you need to do is follow the link, provide the necessary data, and pay for the service.

If your foreign passport is about to expire

Starting October 29, 2025, Ukraine will no longer have a rule that allowed people to extend the validity of their foreign passports or add their children to them.

Now, you can only travel abroad with a valid biometric passport.

This means that if your passport has been extended or information about your children has been added to it, you will need to obtain a new document.

Where to apply for a new passport

• In Ukraine — at any branch of the State Migration Service, at the Administrative Services Center, or at a branch of the State Enterprise “Document.”
• Abroad — at the embassy or consulate of Ukraine, as well as at branches of the State Enterprise “Document” if they operate in your country.

If you are abroad with an “extended” passport

If you are not allowed to leave the country or are not accepted upon entry into Ukraine because of an “extended” document, contact the nearest Ukrainian embassy or consulate.

There you can obtain an identity card for returning to Ukraine — the so-called “white passport”.

It is issued on the day of application:

• free of charge — for children under 16;
• for a consular fee — for adults.

Are you planning a trip to Turkey but are not sure about the requirements for documents or the length of your stay? For example, violation of the visa-free regime rules or lack of proper health insurance can cause problems with local authorities.

💡 Visit Ukraine lawyers are ready to help you understand all the rules, prepare the necessary documents and avoid unpleasant situations while traveling. You can choose a consultation for 30 or 60 minutes, where you will receive clear advice from our specialists.

If you need help with more complex issues, we offer full legal support. Our team will help you at all stages: from consultation and preparation of documents to obtaining an entry permit. We work to make this process as simple and stress-free as possible so that you can focus on preparing for your trip!

Turkey is among the top 10 countries for the reception of Ukrainian refugees. And no wonder, because this country has always been close to our citizens, many Ukrainians have expat relatives, friends, acquaintances. Many Turks speak Russian, especially on the south coast, so it is easier for Ukrainians to communicate with Turks than with locals in other countries.

However, since Turkey is not a member of the EU and does not grant Ukrainians temporary protection status, it is difficult for refugees from our country to understand the statuses and rights that our citizens can obtain in Turkey for legal residence.

☎️ Migration Service Hotline: 157 from the Turkish number (there are Russian-speaking operators).

Thus, currently Ukrainians who left for Turkey in connection with the war can receive three types of status: tourist residence permit, humanitarian residence permit and international protection status.

What does each of these statuses mean?

1️⃣ Tourist residence permit (Kısa dönem ikamet izni)

This is the most common and understandable format of a long-term stay in Turkey. Let us remind that Ukrainians can stay in Turkey for up to 90 days under the visa-free regime. For those who plan to stay longer, the Turkish Migration Service issues tourist residence permits for up to 1 year, but for Ukrainians they have started issuing even for 2 years.

In addition to the residence permit for up to 2 years, the tourist certificate entitles to:

📌 insurance treatment at local hospitals (insurance purchased separately)

📌 opportunity to buy a car and get a local driver's license

📌 take out a loan and mortgage

📌 teach a child in a public school

📌 learn English and / or Turkish for free

📌 open a business

❌ Tourist certificate does not provide a permit for employment and work. Employment permit is issued separately, a specific employer will have to submit your documents to the Ministry of Labor

The following documents are submitted for registration of the tourist certificate:

📎 mandatory biometric passport (if you do not have one - you can issue a new or extend the old biometric at the Embassy / Consulate of Ukraine);

📎 child's birth certificate (if any), translated and apostilled

📎 housing lease, notarized. Anna advises to include in the lease agreement all family members who will live in the apartment - this will make it easier to obtain a certificate for them. If one of the spouses is not included in the lease agreement at the time of its conclusion, a marriage certificate translated into Turkish and apostille shall be submitted to the agreement.

If you plan to stay with relatives, friends - you can also certify your apartment with a surety document, where the owners of your residence will confirm your whereabouts.

📎 biometric photos

📎 insurance

📎 certificate of payment of tax for the permit

📎 can additionally request a certificate of registration of one of the utilities - gas, electricity, etc.

📎completed application form on the website of the Migration Service https://e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr/. After filling in, you will receive an appointment (rendezvous) at the Migration Service .

The tourist permit does not restrict you in moving around the country, you can leave Turkey and return without hindrance. However, if your application for a permit is still under consideration and you want to leave Turkey - inform the Migration Service (you can do so even at the airport) so that the service understands that you will return and the issuance of a certificate is relevant for you. Also keep in mind that issuing a tourist permit for one person will cost you from 1000 lira (approximately 2 thousand UAH)

✅ For whom a tourist residence permit is suitable?

- you plan to stay in Turkey for more than 90 days

- you want to travel freely around the country and abroad

- you have a stable income or savings, you do not want to apply for a separate work permit

🚫 Who is not suitable for a tourist residence permit?

- you plan to get a job

- you can't afford to pay for paperwork

- you do not have funds for health insurance and want to be treated at the expense of the state

- you do not have a biometric passport (but now the Consulate General in Istanbul has resumed the issuance of biometric passports, and the Turkish side has promised not to charge fines for delays in visa-free travel. That is, if your visa-free stay is coming to an end, you shouldn't worry and can wait until the passport is ready and apply for a tourist permit after that )

2️⃣ Humanitarian residence permit (insani oturma izni)

The humanitarian residence permit is in fact analogous to a tourist one, is issued for one year. However, it is issued when you want to receive a residence permit but, for some reason, you lack the full package of documents to obtain a tourist permit

.

For example:

- if a mother left with a child, and the consent of the father on taking the child abroad hasn't been issued. This consent is required to obtain a tourist permit, and, accordingly, if this document is not available - children are issued a humanitarian permit. Mother can get either a tourist or a humanitarian permit. For children, the cost of the permit is reduced by 50%.

- citizens who do not have valid foreign biometric passports and want to get an analogue of a tourist permit in terms of rights and conditions

- humanitarian permit also provides for the presence of residence. But whereas, for example, you won't be issued a tourist permit without a lease agreement or guarantee of another housing, you will be issued a humanitarian certificate. For example, you live in a hotel with which you cannot have any lease agreement - you cannot apply for a tourist card, but you can apply for a humanitarian one. 

The humanitarian certificate also requires a health insurance. You can also move freely within Turkey and travel abroad. And as in the case of tourist permit, the humanitarian permit does not provide for a right to work - for employment a separate work permit must be issued. For registration, you can apply directly to the office of the Migration Service without an electronic appointment.

3️⃣ International protection (refugee status) (Ulusrarasi koruma)

Currently, Turkey gives our citizens one of the subtypes of international protection - secondary protection. In fact, this is the so-called refugee status. This permit is issued for a renewable year and, most importantly, 6 months after applying for the status, you will be able to work without the need for additional work permits. Another nice bonus is that the registration of secondary protection is free.

To obtain secondary protection, you can come to the local branch of the migration service without prior registration - there is a separate Ulusrarasi koruma counter, there are also English-speaking or Russian-speaking staff.

You need to have:

📎 valid foreign passport or other identity document, together with a document on crossing the Turkish border (issued at the border to citizens without a biometric passport)

📎 two biometric photos from each family member.

📎 application. You need to write a handwritten statement with a detailed explanation of why you are applying for international protection status. This statement must contain the following information:

- who is the applicant (individual, family members, if the application is from a family).

- in what city did you live and why did you leave this city

- when did you leave Ukraine

- when and how you entered Turkey

The application must also clearly state that you are requesting international protection status. The application can be written in Turkish, English, Russian. The fastest result will give a statement in Turkish.

📎 confirmation of residence address. Such a supporting document may be:

- rental agreement.

- letter from the hotel if you stay at the hotel.

- If you live with someone, the owner of the apartment must personally confirm this fact and with his permission you will be registered in the system at this address. If the person you live with rents a home, they must bring a rental agreement and you will be registered in the system at this address with the permission of the current owner.

📍 If you have a disability, serious chronic illness or medical condition that requires immediate medical intervention / treatment, you are a victim of trafficking, be sure to mention this, as it is a reason to speed up the decision-making process.

After the interview, you will be issued an "Applicant's Certificate of International Protection Status", which will give you permission to stay and exercise your rights until the final status of secondary protection is granted. The final status will be granted approximately 6 months after the submission of the documents. More about the procedure for granting international protection is described in detail here.

What rights does this status provide?

📌 legal stay for 1 year

📌 the right to work 6 months after receiving the applicant's certificate

📌 free state health insurance

📌 education in public schools

📌 housing assistance if you have nowhere to live

📌 opening bank accounts

❌ However, keep in mind that this status will restrict you from moving around and leaving the country. You will be required to stay within the province in which you have applied for international protection. Departure from the province is possible with the permission of the migration service. Leaving Turkey before final status is given (the first 6 months after submitting the documents) will invalidate international protection to you. The status also provides for periodic monitoring by the migration service - once every two weeks you will have to show up there.

✅ For whom international protection status is suitable?

- you plan to wait for end of the war in Turkey and do not plan to leave it in the next 6 months

- you are in a difficult situation, and you need housing

- it is important for you to use free medicine

- you want to work (in 6 months)

🚫 For whom international protection status is not suitable?

- you plan to travel to other countries and / or receive protection there

- you want to travel often in Turkey

- you are married to a Turkish citizen

Winter in Turkey is not necessarily about the sea, although the sea is also there. It is about warm walks in Istanbul, mountain resorts with good slopes, fog over the Bosphorus, morning coffee in small cafes, and a large number of festive locations, even though the country does not traditionally celebrate Christmas.

In December and January, Turkey lives at a leisurely pace: comfortable weather, moderate tourist traffic, and pleasant prices after the peak of summer and autumn. For many, this is a chance to see the country “out of season,” without crowds and heat.

Winter in Turkey 2025–2026: what to expect

The winter season in Turkey varies considerably depending on the region:

• in Istanbul, it is +5...+12°C, with rain, fog, and cozy streets;
• on the Mediterranean coast, it is +12...+18°C and sunnier;
• in the mountains, there is a full ski season from January to March.

The coastal towns are quieter than in summer, but most cafes, promenades, some hotels, and all the key attractions are open. And Istanbul in winter has a unique atmosphere: no heat, fewer tourists, and a lot of coziness.

Festive locations and events of the winter season

Istanbul on New Year's Eve

There are no European fairs here, but the atmosphere is felt everywhere:

• festive lights are turned on on Istiklal Street;
• Nisantasi is decorated with light garlands and installations;
• shopping centers such as Zorlu Center, Istinye Park, and Kanyon feature decorations, photo zones, and small seasonal events.

New Year's Eve in Istanbul is usually celebrated:

• in restaurants overlooking the Bosphorus;
• on cruises with dinner and shows;
• on city terraces with a view of the fireworks.

Many restaurants require advance reservations — popular places fill up in a matter of weeks.

Festive programs in tourist areas

On the coast (Antalya, Alanya, Belek):

• hotels organize New Year's dinners, shows, and festive tables;
• promenades, cafes, and some shopping centers are open;
• light installations without “religious” connotations are set up in tourist areas.

Events in Ankara, Izmir, and Bursa

These cities have more local winter festivals, street decorations, and concerts, but they are less touristy. This is a good option if you want to see the everyday life of the country in winter.

Winter activities and routes

Ski resorts

Turkey has several destinations that are very well suited for winter trips.

• Uludag (near Bursa)

A well-known resort for those who want to ski for 2-3 days. There are “green” and “blue” slopes, many beginners, convenient schools, and rentals.

• Palandoken (Erzurum)

Considered the best in the country for confident skiers — long slopes, stable snow, modern lifts.

• Kartal (near Istanbul)

An ideal option for those who live or are staying in Istanbul and want to ski for a day.

The season at the resorts starts in late December—early January and lasts until March.

👉 Ski trips always involve additional risks — from injuries to transportation delays due to weather.

Insurance for winter activities is the easiest way to avoid high costs if you need to see a doctor in Turkey.

Cappadocia in winter

Winter Cappadocia is a social media sensation: snow-covered enchanting valleys and hot air balloons against the backdrop of white slopes. What you should know:

• Balloon flights in winter are highly dependent on the weather → cancellations are common;
• There are fewer tourists than in peak season;
• It is better to bring a warmer jacket and shoes — snow and stone surfaces can be slippery.

Istanbul in winter

• walks through the historic peninsula without queues at museums;
• ferries between the European and Asian parts of the city;
• tea on the embankments of Uskudar or Kadikoy;
• warm desserts and local cuisine, which tastes different in winter.

Practical tips for traveling in winter

1. The weather is changeable: sun in the morning, rain or fog in the evening. It is worth having a light jacket handy.

2. Hotels on the coast are partially open — many seasonal complexes are closed, but all the main tourist areas and cafes are operating as usual.

3. New Year's Eve in Istanbul — high demand for accommodation, restaurants, promenades → it is better to make reservations in advance.

4. In the mountains, there may be transport delays due to snow.

5. Shopping centers are more crowded in the evening and on weekends — it is better to go shopping in the morning.

6. Boat trips may be canceled due to waves or fog.

👉 In winter, tourists often encounter sudden temperature changes (outdoor weather → air-conditioned rooms).

Medical insurance helps you avoid unnecessary expenses in case of colds or injuries — especially during activities or long journeys.

Conclusion: how to prepare for a winter trip to Turkey

Winter in Turkey means quiet Istanbul without the heat, mountain resorts with good snow, Cappadocia covered in white, and peaceful seaside towns where you can relax without the summer hustle and bustle. The country is comfortable, affordable, and very diverse depending on the type of vacation you want.

For a comfortable trip, you should:

- book tickets and accommodation in advance, especially if you are planning to visit Istanbul for New Year's Eve;

- take out insurance that covers medical expenses and winter activities;

- check the opening hours of hotels and locations, as some establishments on the coast are closed in winter;

- allow extra time for travel to mountainous areas.

155 - police

110 - fire service

112 - ambulance

1. 🚌 By direct bus to Turkey

1. Odesa - Istanbul: the most popular direct bus route from Ukraine to Turkey. Departures are made several times a week. The travel time depends on the conditions at the border and can range from 20 to 24 hours. The route passes through Moldova or Romania, depending on the carrier.
2. Kyiv - Istanbul: the trip takes about 27-30 hours. Buses are equipped with all the necessary amenities, including air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and power outlets.

💡 Where to buy  bus/train tickets  from Ukraine to Turkey?

2. 🚆 Train routes with transfers

3. 🚘 By car to Turkey

• Odesa - Varna - Istanbul: one of the most popular routes through Bulgaria. The journey from Odesa to Istanbul is about 1000 km, which can be covered in 16-20 hours. The road passes through beautiful landscapes and provides an opportunity to visit Varna.
• Kyiv - Bucharest - Istanbul: A longer route through Romania. The total distance is about 1500 km.

4. ✈️ Traveling by plane through neighboring countries

• Odesa/Kyiv - Chisinau - Istanbul: You can get to Chisinau by bus or train, and from there take a plane to Istanbul. This is one of the most convenient options.
• Kyiv - Warsaw - Istanbul: Another convenient option with a stopover in Poland. From there, there are direct flights to Istanbul and Antalya.

✅ Tips for travelers to Turkey

1. Make sure your biometric passport is valid. 
2. Before traveling, it is recommended to take out health insurance that covers possible risks during your stay abroad.
3. It is best to bring euros or dollars to exchange for Turkish lira at local exchange offices. It is also convenient to use bank cards.

Transit is possible if there is an appropriate transport connection.

Duty-free import permit

Restrictions on tobacco products

Restricted to travelers aged 18 and over. All of the following:

600 cigarettes

100 cigarillos

50 cigars

250 grams of shredded tobacco (from 200 cigarette sheets);

250 grams of pipe tobacco.

Import of alcohol

Restricted for travelers over the age of 18. Both of the following types of alcohol:

• 1 liter over 22% alcohol;
• 2 liters up to 22% alcohol by volume.

Cash limit

• There are no restrictions on importing currency into Turkey.

Other goods

Personal items such as clothing, personal electronics, musical instruments, sports equipment and toys.

• 5 bottles of up to 120 ml each of perfume, cologne, essence or lotion.
• 1 kg of tea, instant coffee, coffee, chocolate, sugar.
• Personal jewelry not intended for resale, up to the value of USD 15,000.
• Gifts of a non-commercial nature worth up to 430 euros for travelers aged 15 years and older.
• Gifts of a non-commercial nature with a value of up to 150 euros for travelers under the age of 15.

Prohibited items

• All drugs and their derivatives.
• Organic fertilizers used for agricultural purposes.
• Police speed control devices.
• Home-made alcoholic beverages.

Restricted items

• 2 pets or 10 aquarium fish can be imported per traveler. Pets must be accompanied by a certificate of vaccination, an official veterinary certificate, and a veterinary passport or identity card. Pets are subject to examination by a veterinarian upon arrival.
• Products of animal and plant origin may be subject to veterinary control at the border and may require a certificate of conformity.