Turkey, a nation that seamlessly blends ancient history with vibrant modernity across two continents, offers an intoxicating appeal to travelers.¹ From the historical marvels of Istanbul to the lunar landscapes of Cappadocia and the sun-drenched coastlines, a trip to Turkey promises rich cultural immersion and unforgettable experiences. For citizens of Cape Verde planning such an adventure, securing a Turkey Visa for Cape Verde Citizens is a crucial prerequisite. Moreover, understanding the comprehensive Turkey Visa Document Requirements is essential for all applicants to ensure a smooth and successful application process.

The Turkey Visa for Cape Verde Citizens: A Conditional E-Visa Pathway

For citizens of Cape Verde, an archipelago nation off the northwest coast of Africa, the most convenient route for obtaining a Turkish visa for tourism or short business visits is through the electronic visa (e-Visa) system.² However, it's vital to note that Cape Verde is among the countries whose citizens are eligible for a conditional e-Visa.³

What does "Conditional e-Visa" mean for Cape Verde Citizens?

This signifies that while the application is online, Cape Verdean citizens must meet specific additional criteria to qualify for the e-Visa:

• Valid Supporting Document: Applicants must possess a valid (by date) visa OR a valid residence permit from one of the following: Schengen Area countries, the United States of America (USA), the United Kingdom (UK), or Ireland.⁴ This supporting document must be valid on the date you enter Turkey. It is generally understood that electronic visas or electronic residence permits from these regions are NOT accepted as valid alternatives; a physical sticker visa or residence permit in your passport is usually required.
• Approved Airline Travel: Some sources indicate that travelers may be required to travel with an airline that has an agreement with the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs (e.g., Turkish Airlines or Pegasus Airlines).⁵ While this condition might not be explicitly checked during the online e-Visa application for tourism, it's a theoretical requirement for conditional e-Visas.
• Purpose and Duration: The e-Visa is strictly for tourism or trade purposes. It does not allow for employment, study, or long-term residency in Turkey.
• Single Entry and Duration of Stay: The e-Visa for Cape Verdean citizens typically allows for a single entry and a maximum stay of 30 days within a 180-day validity period from the date of issuance.⁶

How to Apply for a Turkey Visa for Cape Verde Citizens (e-Visa):

The application process is entirely online, offering a streamlined digital experience:

1. Access the Official e-Visa Website: It is paramount to use only the official Turkish e-Visa website: www.evisa.gov.tr. Be extremely cautious of third-party websites that may charge excessive fees or provide misleading information.
2. Start a New Application: On the homepage, select your country/region of travel document (Cape Verde), your travel document type (e.g., "Ordinary Passport"), and your intended arrival date in Turkey.
3. Check Eligibility: The system will then confirm if you are eligible for an e-Visa based on your nationality and the supporting document requirement. If you meet the criteria, you can proceed.
4. Fill the Application Form: Complete the online application form accurately and thoroughly. This includes:
   • Personal details (full name, date of birth, place of birth).
   • Passport details (passport number, issue and expiry dates, issuing authority). Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of arrival in Turkey and have at least one blank page.
   • Contact information (email address, phone number).
   • Travel details (purpose of visit - "Tourism," intended arrival date, and duration of stay).⁷
   • Crucially, details of your valid supporting document (Schengen, USA, UK, or Ireland visa/residence permit) – including its type, number, and validity dates.
5. Upload Required Documents: You will typically need to upload:
   • A clear scanned copy of your passport's biographical page (the page containing your photo and personal details).
   • A recent digital passport-sized photograph that meets Turkish visa photo requirements (generally 50x60mm or 2x2.4 inches, plain white background, full face visible, no shadows, high quality).
6. Pay the Visa Fee: Remit the non-refundable e-Visa fee online using a valid credit or debit card. The fee for Cape Verdean citizens for a tourist e-Visa is typically around USD 60 (subject to change by Turkish authorities). Ensure your card has "3D Secure System" enabled and is open for international transactions.
7. Receive e-Visa: Upon successful payment and approval (which often happens within minutes to a few business days), your e-Visa will be sent to your registered email address.⁸ Print this e-Visa and carry it with you. You must also carry the original valid supporting document (Schengen, USA, UK, or Ireland visa/residence permit) that qualified you for the e-Visa, as immigration officials in Turkey may request to see both upon entry.

What if a Cape Verde Citizen Does NOT Meet Conditional e-Visa Requirements?

If a Cape Verde Citizen does not possess a valid Schengen, USA, UK, or Ireland visa/residence permit, they are not eligible for the e-Visa. In this scenario, they would need to apply for a traditional sticker visa through a Turkish Embassy or Consulate. As there isn't a direct Turkish diplomatic mission in Cape Verde, applicants would typically fall under the jurisdiction of a Turkish Embassy in a neighboring country (e.g., Senegal) or another Turkish mission in a country where the applicant has legal residency.

Essential Turkey Visa Document Requirements (for Traditional Visas)

While e-Visas have simpler document requirements (mainly passport and photo), traditional sticker visa applications require a more comprehensive set of documents. These are generally standard across nationalities, but individual embassies/consulates may have specific nuances.

Mandatory Turkey Visa Document Requirements for all Traditional Applications (Tourist/Business):

1. Original Passport: Valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of departure from Turkey, with at least two blank pages.⁹ Any old passports, especially those with previous visas, should also be submitted.
2. Visa Application Form: Duly filled, accurately completed, and signed by the applicant. This form is usually completed online via the Turkish Consular Services website (www.visa.gov.tr) as a pre-application step.
3. Photographs: Two recent color passport-sized biometric photos (typically 5x6 cm or 2x2.4 inches, white background, matte finish, face covering 80%, ears visible, no cap/sunglasses, not older than 6 months).
4. Cover Letter: A personalized letter from the applicant addressing the Turkish Embassy/Consulate, explaining the purpose, duration, and itinerary of their visit to Turkey.¹⁰
5. Proof of Financial Means:
   • Bank Statements: Original and copy of bank statements for the last 3-6 months, showing sufficient funds to cover all expenses during your stay (generally a minimum balance of approximately $50-100 per day of stay).
   • Bank Solvency Certificate: Original and copy from your bank.
   • Income Tax Returns (ITR) / Pay Slips: Recent copies of your ITRs and/or last 3-6 months' salary slips (if employed).
6. Confirmed Flight Itinerary: Round-trip flight reservations, showing confirmed travel dates. It's recommended to have a confirmed reservation, not a purchased non-refundable ticket, until your visa is approved.
7. Proof of Accommodation: Confirmed hotel booking for the entire duration of your stay in Turkey. If staying with friends/relatives, a notarized invitation letter from the host in Turkey is required, including their contact details, address, and copy of their ID/residence permit.¹¹
8. Travel Health Insurance: Mandatory, with coverage of at least €30,000 (or equivalent in USD) for medical expenses and repatriation, valid for the entire period of your stay in Turkey.¹²
9. Proof of Professional/Employment Status:
   • For Employees: A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer stating your position, salary, date of joining, and approved leave for the travel dates.¹³
   • For Business Owners: Copy of company registration documents, trade license, and company bank statements.¹⁴
   • For Students: Student ID card copy and a letter from your educational institution confirming enrollment and approved leave.
   • For Retired Persons: Documents proving retirement and pension.
10. Proof of Residency (if applying from a third country): If you are a Cape Verdean citizen residing in a different country and applying from there, you must provide proof of your legal residency (e.g., residence permit, long-term visa) in that country.
11. Consent for Minors: If applying for a child, a notarized consent letter from both parents (or the non-traveling parent) and the child's birth certificate are required.

Additional Documents (may be requested based on specific circumstances):

• Police Clearance Certificate.
• Marriage Certificate (if applicable).
• Property documents.
• Detailed travel itinerary outlining daily activities.

Important Tips for Document Submission:

• Organize: Arrange all documents neatly as per the checklist provided by the Embassy/Consulate.
• Copies: Provide both original and photocopies of all documents where required.
• Translations: Any documents not in English or Turkish may need to be officially translated and notarized.
• Appointment: Most Embassies/Consulates require a prior appointment for visa application submission.
• Apply Early: Processing times can vary, so apply well in advance (at least 4-6 weeks before your trip, or more for complex cases).

By understanding the specific conditional e-Visa path for a Turkey Visa for Cape Verde Citizens and meticulously preparing all necessary Turkey Visa Document Requirements, applicants can significantly enhance their chances of a smooth and successful visa application, leading to an enriching experience in Turkey.