Turkey Travel Warning For British Holidaymakers This Summer

British holidaymakers planning on a trip to Turkey this summer have been warned against visiting certain areas of the country.

Around 1.6 million British holidaymakers head to Turkey each year so it is important to know the rules for going there on holiday.

The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) “advises against all travel within 10km of the border with Syria” and “advises against all but essential travel” to the city of Sirnak and the Hakkari province (both in the south of the country, also near the Syrian border).

It also clarifies that “no travel can be guaranteed safe” and anyone visiting Turkey should purchase suitable travel insurance.

While not a huge departure from the previous advice, it highlights the political turbulence in a country already struggling in parts following the 5.6 magnitude earthquake earlier this year.

“The changes to the terrorism section of each Travel Advice page reflects the fact that the global terror threat is now more diverse and not limited to those inspired by Islamist ideologies.”
FCDO

Entry Rules To Turkey For British Citizens

The FCDO said that if you are visiting Turkey, your passport must be valid for at least 150 days from the date you arrive and have a full blank page for entry and exit stamps.

If entering Turkey through a land border, make sure your passport has a dated entry stamp before you leave the border crossing.

The FCDO says people visiting Turkey for tourism or business for up to 90 days in any 180-day period do not need a visa. But if you plan to remain in Turkey for more than 90 days, you need a longer-stay visa or should get a residence permit before the end of your 90-day stay.

Local Laws And Customs

There are local laws that tourists should be aware of. It is illegal not to carry some form of photographic ID in Turkey, and smoking is illegal on public transport and in all indoor workplaces and public places.

It is also illegal to insult the Turkish nation or the national flag, or to deface currency. This can include comments about the Turkish state, and carries a prison sentence of between 6 months and 3 years.

Remember to dress modestly if you’re visiting a mosque or a religious shrine, and do not take photographs near military or official installations.

If you plan to work in Turkey, make sure you have the correct documentation.

If you hold a different type of British nationality, such as British National (Overseas), check visa requirements with the Turkish Embassy or Consulate General before you travel.

Do you have any scheduled trips to Turkey? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.

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