Hi all,
I am going to Azerbaijan (and on) and was thinking of stopping in Istanbul while waiting for the visa. I am wondering if it is a crazy idea to buy a one way ticket to Turkey. I am afraid of getting flagged as someone going to Syria. I probably won't have the visa ready before and I am waiting to get it to buy a flight to Baku.
Does anyone have any recent experience on entering Turkey without any proof that the plan is to travel onwards to other countries?
Thanks for any help/tips.
I always entered Turkey with one way tickets in the last years. Officials just wanted to see the passport, but never asked about the ticket.
I have also been without a ticket out.....last year.No questions asked at all......
I doubt you will have any problems with Turkish immigration.The airline might want to know why you don't have a ticket out though (as they are responsible if you are refused entry).
Is there anything in your background that would give immigration police reason to suspect you of something of that nature?If not then absolutely no problem.Many people arrive on one way tickets because they are planning to do as you are planning.Some intend to go by plane or bus over the north eastern borders,others by ferry to one of the Greek islands etc.,and yet others simply intend to stay long term and apply for a residents visa and so haven't yet bought a return ticket.
You'll be fine and btw,yes,great idea to stop off in Istanbul for a few days.The city is quieter than normal this year so you can visit attractions with no worry about huge crowds or long entrance queues and stuff.Enjoy!
Do be aware that even for a short stay you will need a visa for Turkey and unfortunately it is one of the expensive ones at 45€ or 60USD :(
Thank you for your feedbacks.
There is nothing suspicious in my personal background. Just thought that authorities may be hypervigilent due to the amount of people, including many canadians, who have entered Turkey to later go to fight in Syria. And I don't have great proofs of further traveling if the Azeri visa isn't ready once I enter.
Glad to hear that it is likely excessive worries rather than something that should be an actual preoccupation.
Just show your Azerbaijan and any other visas? I would imagine you have proof of going onwards and that means you arent likely to be stopped.
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