The entry point to Turkey had much more security. There were large metal gates opening and closing behind every bus that went through. Armed guards on plastic chairs were holding big guns on their laps. We waited about 20 minutes for two other busses in front of us to re-load their passengers and drive off, before the metal gates rattled open for our bus.
Things You Need: Passport and Visa for Turkey
We took all of our belongings off our bus to bring to the immigration building. We lined up in front of one immigration officer, and I gave him my passport and printed Turkish E-visa.
Get your Turkish E-Visa from here.
The immigration agent examined my passport, looked up at me and asked, “Erika?” When I replied, “Yes, sir,” he nodded approvingly. He stamped it without asking any more questions and I was free to enter Turkey.
In the next room both my bags were scanned. One woman was looking at her phone behind the X-ray screens, and didn’t say anything as I took my bags off the belt. When I left this room there was a small seating area, but right outside was our bus, waiting for the passengers to get back on.
Purchasing an Emergency Visa at the Turkish Border
One American woman who was in front of me in the immigration line had entered the wrong dates on her Turkish E-Visa. She was told by the officer that she could only enter Turkey at midnight using her visa, so wait at the border to get stamped at midnight, or buy a new visa.
Luckily you can purchase an E-Visa on the spot at the Turkish border (not sure if the option is available at all times of the day though!) She was able to purchase a new visa then and there, and continue on the bus with us without any delays.
Great post and tips also! Enjoy your travel more! 🙂 Have safe trips!