United States Tourist Visa
B1/B2 Visitor Visa · For Turkey citizens
Planning a trip to the United States as a Turkish citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the B1/B2 visitor visa application: required documents, current fees of $185, interview preparation, and strategies to improve your chances. Be prepared for lengthy wait times of 5-6 months for interview appointments.
US Tourist Visa for Turkish Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Turkey citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the United States
Complete the online nonimmigrant visa application form (DS-160) at the CEAC website
A recent color photograph meeting US visa photo requirements
Documents demonstrating sufficient funds to cover your trip expenses
Documentation proving your employment status and strong ties to Turkey
Evidence demonstrating your intention to return to Turkey after your visit
In-person interview at the US Embassy in Ankara or Consulate in Istanbul
Recommended (Optional)
Details of your planned activities and accommodation in the US
Application Process
The US visa application requires several steps and significant advance planning due to long wait times for interview appointments.1
1. Complete DS-160 Online Application
Fill out the DS-160 form at ceac.state.gov.1 This comprehensive form collects information about your travel plans, background, employment, and family. Upload a recent passport photo meeting US requirements. Print the confirmation page with barcode.1
2. Pay the MRV Fee
Pay the $185 Machine Readable Visa fee through the ustraveldocs.com website.3 This fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome. Keep your receipt number as you will need it to schedule your interview.5
3. Schedule Your Interview
Create a profile at ustraveldocs.com and schedule your interview at the US Embassy in Ankara or Consulate General in Istanbul.5 Current wait times are approximately 175 days in Ankara and 188 days in Istanbul.4 Book as early as possible.
4. Attend the Interview
Bring your passport, DS-160 confirmation page, photo, appointment letter, and all supporting documents.1 Your fingerprints will be scanned electronically. The interview typically lasts 3-5 minutes and is conducted in English or Turkish.1
5. Wait for Processing
If approved, your passport with the visa will be ready for pickup or delivery within a few days to a few weeks.1 If additional administrative processing is required, it may take longer.1
Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| MRV Application Fee | $185 | Non-refundable |
| Visa Issuance Fee | $0 | No reciprocity fee for Turkish citizens |
The application fee must be paid before scheduling your interview. Payment can be made online or at designated banks in Turkey.5
What You Need to Prove
Under US immigration law (Section 214(b)), you must demonstrate that you:2
- Have a residence abroad you do not intend to abandon2
- Intend to enter the US temporarily for a specific, legitimate purpose2
- Have sufficient funds to cover your trip expenses2
- Have ties to Turkey that will compel you to return2
The burden of proof is on you to demonstrate you are a genuine visitor, not a potential immigrant.
Interview Tips
The visa interview is crucial. Here are strategies to improve your chances:
Be Prepared
- Know your travel dates and itinerary
- Understand why you want to visit specific places
- Have all documents organized and easily accessible
Be Honest
- Never lie or provide false information
- If you do not understand a question, ask for clarification
- Admit if you do not know an answer
Be Concise
- Answer questions directly without rambling
- Provide specific information when asked
- Let the officer guide the conversation
Demonstrate Ties
- Be ready to explain your job and how long you have worked there
- Mention family members remaining in Turkey
- Discuss property, business, or other commitments
Processing Times
Current visa interview wait times in Turkey:4
| Location | B1/B2 Wait Time | Student/Exchange (F,M,J) |
|---|---|---|
| Ankara | 175 days | 33 days |
| Istanbul | 188 days | 81 days |
Wait times fluctuate based on demand and staffing. Plan your trip well in advance and apply as early as possible.
After Your Visa is Approved
Your visa will be placed in your passport. The visa shows:
- Visa type (B1/B2)
- Issue date and expiration date
- Number of entries allowed
At the US Border:
Having a visa does not guarantee entry. The Customs and Border Protection officer will determine your admission and length of stay. Be prepared to show:
- Return flight tickets
- Hotel reservations or host contact information
- Proof of funds
- Travel itinerary
If Your Visa is Refused
Most refusals are under Section 214(b), meaning the officer was not convinced of your ties to Turkey. This is not a permanent ban. You can:
- Reapply at any time if your circumstances change
- Strengthen your application by building stronger ties before reapplying
- Wait for changed circumstances such as a new job, property purchase, or marriage
Each new application requires paying the $185 fee again. Do not reapply immediately unless you have new evidence or significantly changed circumstances.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Weak Ties to Home Country
The consular officer was not convinced you have sufficient ties to Turkey to ensure your return after the visit. This includes employment, family, property, and social ties.
How to avoid: Bring evidence of stable employment, property ownership, family members remaining in Turkey, and ongoing commitments. Be prepared to clearly articulate why you will return.
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Unable to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover trip expenses, or financial documents show unstable income patterns or unexplained large deposits.
How to avoid: Show consistent bank statements over several months with regular income. Demonstrate you can afford the trip without financial strain. Explain the source of any large deposits.
Unclear Travel Purpose
The stated purpose of the trip was vague, inconsistent, or did not make sense given your background and circumstances.
How to avoid: Be specific about your travel plans and why you want to visit the US. If visiting family or friends, know their immigration status and have their contact information ready.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of visa refusals, overstays, or violations in the US or other countries raises concerns about future compliance.
How to avoid: Be completely honest about any previous issues. Explain what has changed in your circumstances since then. Never lie about previous refusals.
Incomplete or Inconsistent Application
Information in the DS-160 form contains errors, contradictions, or does not match supporting documents.
How to avoid: Review your DS-160 carefully before submitting. Ensure all information matches your supporting documents. Correct any mistakes through a new application if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in the US on a B1/B2 visa?
The B1/B2 visa typically allows stays of up to 6 months per visit. The exact duration is determined by the Customs and Border Protection officer at your port of entry. You cannot live in the US through repeated visits.
Can I work on a US tourist visa?
No, the B1/B2 visa does not permit any form of paid employment in the United States. You cannot work, even remotely, for US employers. If you need to work, you must apply for an appropriate work visa.
How long does it take to get a US visa from Turkey?
Current wait times for interview appointments are approximately 175 days in Ankara and 188 days in Istanbul for B1/B2 visas. After the interview, visa processing typically takes a few days to a few weeks.
What is the US tourist visa fee for Turkish citizens in 2025?
The Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee is $185. This fee is non-refundable, even if your visa is denied. Additional fees may apply for certain visa categories.
Do I need to show hotel bookings and flight tickets?
While you should have a general travel plan, you are not required to have confirmed bookings. The US government advises against purchasing non-refundable tickets until your visa is approved.
What happens during the visa interview?
The interview typically lasts 3-5 minutes. The consular officer will ask about your travel plans, ties to Turkey, employment, and financial situation. Answer honestly and concisely. Be prepared to explain why you will return to Turkey.
What if my visa is refused?
You will receive a refusal letter indicating the reason under Section 214(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (most common) or another section. You can reapply at any time if your circumstances change, but you must pay the application fee again.
Is Turkey part of the Visa Waiver Program?
No, Turkey is not part of the US Visa Waiver Program. All Turkish citizens must apply for a visa before traveling to the United States for tourism or business.