Turkey eVisa for Nigerian Citizens: Requirements and Application Guide 2026
Nigerian citizens can apply for a Turkey eVisa online in 2026, provided they hold a valid Schengen, US, UK, or Irish visa or residence permit. The Turkey eVisa allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period with multiple entries. Processing takes 1-3 working days and the government fee is approximately USD 50. Check your Turkey visa requirements on Viza and apply today.
Turkey eVisa for Nigerian Citizens: Overview
Turkey has become one of the most popular travel destinations for Nigerian citizens, offering a fascinating mix of ancient history, stunning architecture, vibrant bazaars, and world-class cuisine. Istanbul alone attracts millions of visitors each year, and an increasing number of Nigerian travelers are discovering the country's appeal for both tourism and business.
Nigerian passport holders are eligible for a Turkey eVisa, but with an important condition: you must hold a valid visa or residence permit from a Schengen country, the United States, the United Kingdom, or Ireland. This is a conditional eVisa, meaning Turkey requires proof of a supporting travel document from one of these countries before approving your electronic visa application.
With Viza, you can quickly verify whether you meet the eligibility criteria, see all fees upfront, and start your Turkey eVisa application in minutes.
Here is a quick summary of what Nigerian travelers need to know:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Visa Type | eVisa (conditional) |
| Maximum Stay | Up to 90 days in any 180-day period |
| Entry Type | Multiple entry |
| Government Fee | ~USD 50 |
| Processing Time | 1-3 working days (often instant) |
| Key Requirement | Valid Schengen, US, UK, or Irish visa/residence permit |
| Passport Validity | Minimum 6 months from date of arrival |
| Application Method | Online via Viza or evisa.gov.tr |
Eligibility Requirements
The Turkey eVisa for Nigerian citizens is a conditional eVisa. This means that in addition to holding a valid Nigerian passport, you must also present one of the following supporting documents:
- Valid Schengen visa or residence permit — issued by any Schengen area country (e.g., Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, Spain)
- Valid United States visa or residence permit (e.g., B1/B2 tourist visa, Green Card)
- Valid United Kingdom visa or residence permit (e.g., Standard Visitor Visa, BRP)
- Valid Ireland visa or residence permit
The supporting visa or residence permit must be currently valid at the time of your eVisa application and at the time of your arrival in Turkey. Expired visas or permits are not accepted. Some single-entry nationalities may have additional restrictions, so always verify your specific eligibility on the official evisa.gov.tr portal or through Viza.
If you do not hold any of the qualifying visas listed above, you will need to apply for a standard Turkish visa through a Turkish embassy or consulate in Nigeria, which involves a different and longer process.
Required Documents for Turkey eVisa
Before starting your eVisa application, gather the following documents to ensure a smooth process:
Mandatory Documents
- Valid Nigerian Passport — Must be valid for at least 6 months from your planned date of arrival in Turkey, with at least 1 blank page for the entry stamp. You will need your passport number, issue date, and expiry date for the application.
- Supporting Visa or Residence Permit — A currently valid Schengen, US, UK, or Irish visa or residence permit. You will need to provide details of this document during the application, and it must remain valid throughout your stay in Turkey.
- Email Address — A valid email address where you will receive your approved eVisa. Use an email you check regularly.
- Payment Method — A valid credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, or UnionPay) to pay the eVisa fee online.
Supporting Documents (Recommended)
- Return or Onward Flight Booking — A confirmed round-trip ticket showing your arrival and departure dates within the visa validity period.
- Hotel Reservation — Proof of accommodation in Turkey for the duration of your stay.
- Proof of Sufficient Funds — Bank statements or cash equivalent showing you can support yourself during your visit. Turkish immigration officers may ask for this at the border.
- Travel Insurance — Medical travel insurance covering your time in Turkey is recommended. While not mandatory for the eVisa application, it provides important protection.
Step-by-Step Application Process
The Turkey eVisa application is one of the simplest visa processes available. Many applicants receive approval within minutes. Here is how to apply through Viza:
Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility
Visit Viza's Nigeria to Turkey page to confirm that you meet the eVisa requirements. The platform will check whether your nationality and supporting documents qualify you for the Turkey eVisa.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Have your Nigerian passport and qualifying visa or residence permit (Schengen, US, UK, or Irish) ready. You will need the details from both documents, including passport number, issue and expiry dates, and the details of your supporting visa.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application
Fill in the eVisa application form with your personal information, passport details, travel dates, and supporting visa information. Ensure all details match your passport and supporting documents exactly. Any mismatches can result in rejection.
Step 4: Pay and Submit
Pay the eVisa fee of approximately USD 50 using your credit or debit card. The fee is non-refundable. After payment, submit your application for processing.
Step 5: Download Your eVisa
In many cases, your Turkey eVisa will be approved almost instantly. You will receive it via email. Download and print a copy of the approved eVisa to present at your port of entry in Turkey. While Turkish immigration has digital records, a printed copy ensures smooth entry.
Fees and Processing Times
Here is a breakdown of costs for Nigerian citizens applying for a Turkey eVisa:
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Turkey eVisa Government Fee | ~USD 50 | $5 slightly; check evisa.gov.tr for current rate |
| Processing Time | Minutes to 3 working days | Most applications approved instantly |
| Viza Service Fee | $5 | Assistance with eligibility check and application review |
The Turkey eVisa fee for Nigerian citizens is approximately USD 50, though the exact amount may fluctuate based on exchange rates and periodic updates by the Turkish government. The fee is charged at the time of application and is non-refundable regardless of the outcome. Most applications are processed instantly or within a few hours, making the Turkey eVisa one of the fastest visa processes available.
Important Tips for Nigerian Travelers to Turkey
Confirm your supporting visa is valid: The most common reason for Turkey eVisa rejection for Nigerian citizens is submitting an expired or soon-to-expire supporting visa. Ensure your Schengen, US, UK, or Irish visa is currently valid and will remain valid throughout your stay in Turkey.
Apply before booking flights: While eVisa approval is usually instant, it is wise to secure your eVisa before making non-refundable flight and hotel bookings, especially if you are unsure about your eligibility.
Passport validity: Your Nigerian passport must have at least 6 months of validity remaining from your date of arrival in Turkey. If your passport is close to expiring, renew it before applying.
Istanbul Card for transport: Purchase an Istanbulkart at any airport or metro station for convenient access to public transportation including buses, metro, trams, and ferries throughout Istanbul.
Currency: The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency. ATMs are widely available and many shops and restaurants accept international credit cards. Exchange rates can vary significantly between exchange offices, so compare rates before converting large amounts.
Respect the 90/180 rule: You can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This is calculated on a rolling basis, so plan your trips accordingly if you intend to make multiple visits.
Practical Travel Information for Turkey
Airports and Points of Entry
Istanbul Airport (IST) is the main international gateway, serving as a hub for Turkish Airlines with extensive connections to Lagos and Abuja. Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW) on the Asian side of Istanbul is another option, often used by budget carriers. Ankara Esenboga Airport (ESB) and Antalya Airport (AYT) also handle international flights. All major airports accept eVisa holders.
Flights from Nigeria
Turkish Airlines operates direct flights from Lagos (LOS) and Abuja (ABV) to Istanbul, making Turkey easily accessible from Nigeria. The flight time is approximately 6-7 hours. Several other airlines offer connecting flights through Middle Eastern and European hubs.
Health and Safety
No specific vaccinations are required to enter Turkey from Nigeria, but routine vaccinations should be up to date. Turkey has an excellent healthcare system with modern hospitals in major cities. Pharmacies (eczane) are widely available. Travel insurance is recommended to cover any medical emergencies during your stay.
Official source: Turkey Official eVisa Portal
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Nigerian citizens need a visa for Turkey?
Yes, Nigerian citizens need a visa to enter Turkey. The easiest option is the eVisa, available to Nigerians who hold a valid Schengen, US, UK, or Irish visa or residence permit. Without a qualifying supporting document, you must apply through a Turkish embassy.
How much does a Turkey eVisa cost for Nigerian citizens?
The Turkey eVisa fee for Nigerian citizens is approximately USD 50. The exact amount may vary slightly based on current exchange rates and government adjustments.
How long does the Turkey eVisa take to process?
Most Turkey eVisa applications are processed instantly or within a few hours. In some cases, it may take up to 3 working days. The eVisa is delivered via email once approved.
What if my Schengen/US/UK visa expires before my Turkey trip?
Your supporting visa must be currently valid at the time of both your eVisa application and your arrival in Turkey. If it expires before your trip, you will need to either obtain a new qualifying visa or apply for a standard Turkish visa through the embassy.
Can I enter Turkey multiple times with the eVisa?
Yes, the Turkey eVisa for Nigerian citizens allows multiple entries within the 180-day validity period, as long as your total stay does not exceed 90 days within any 180-day rolling period.
Do I need a visa to transit through Turkey?
Nigerian citizens can transit through Turkish airports without a visa if they remain in the international transit zone and have a connecting flight within 24 hours. If you wish to leave the airport during a layover, you will need a valid eVisa or transit visa.
Ready to Apply for Your Turkey eVisa?
Turkey is closer than you think for Nigerian travelers, and the eVisa makes the process fast and hassle-free. If you hold a valid Schengen, US, UK, or Irish visa, you can have your Turkey eVisa approved in minutes. Start your Turkey eVisa application on Viza today — check your eligibility, submit your application, and get ready to explore Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya, and everything Turkey has to offer.
