The Foreign Office has issued fresh travel advice for people travelling to Turkey (Turkiye) for the May half term. As families look to momentarily escape the drizzly weather in London, the government has warned parts of popular holiday location Turkey have become more dangerous.
All travel to within 10km of the Turkey-Syria border is being advised against due to a heightened risk of terrorism. Due to the ongoing conflict in Syria, roads in Hatay Province leading towards the border may be subject to closure.
Along with this, the government has warned against all but essential travel the some southeastern parts of the country near the Iraq border. In particular, Sirnak city and Hakkari province have been deemed unsafe for British tourists.
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The UK Foreign Office says: “Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. The embassy staff cannot travel to areas where FCDO advises against travel to help you in person. Staff can offer support by phone and email.”
Visas
The Foreign Office has also updated its advice for Turkey’s visa requirements. Here is what it says: “You can visit Turkey without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, for business or tourism. If you want to stay in Turkey for more than 90 days, you must get a short-term residence permit before the end of your stay.
“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.”
It added: “The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has information on applying for a visa. If you plan to work in Turkey, make sure you have the right permits.”
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