CONTENT|CONTENU

TRAVEL REPORT
Turkey

1. RECENT UPDATES

Section 2 has been updated (Southeast Region).

See our Global Issue page for information on the H1N1 Flu Virus.

See our Global Issues page for information on avian influenza.

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

There is no Official Warning for this country.

Turkey

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

Most Canadian visitors to Turkey do not experience problems. The security situation is generally stable.

There is a significant level of terrorist threat coming from domestic and international terrorist groups throughout Turkey. Large-scale and small-scale bomb attacks have occurred. Turkish institutions are usually the targets, however, tourist areas have also been targeted. Heightened security measures are in place throughout the country. Canadians should be aware of their surroundings at all times particularly around security, military, and civilian installations, as well as in commercial establishments, public places, and other areas where large numbers of people, including foreigners, may congregate. On July 9, 2008, an attack by gunmen in front of the U.S. Consulate General in Istanbul killed at least six people and injured more than four others.

Southeast Region

The Turkish Armed Forces (TAF) carries out occasional air and ground strikes against identified PKK targets in the Turkish/Iraqi border area. Six temporary security zones were established in the provinces of Hakkari, Siirt and Sirnak to prevent insurgent infiltration. Movement in these areas is strictly limited by the TAF. Failure to follow rules established by the Turkish Government could lead to arrests.

Protests and incidents of civil unrest have occurred in several cities of this region which led to violent clashes between police and protesters. Deaths by gun shots as well as small-scale bomb explosions have also occurred. Injuries, and property damage, have been reported in several incidents.
 
It is strongly advised to avoid crossing the border with Iraq. The Government of Turkey tightly controls entries and exits between the two countries.

Overland travel is not advised. If road travel has to be undertaken, precautions should include driving during daylight hours and staying on major routes. Public transportation should be not used. Canadians are advised to register and keep in contact with the Embassy of Canada in Ankara or the Consulate of Canada in Istanbul.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety. The purpose of this Travel Report is to provide Canadians with up-to-date information to enable them to make well-informed decisions.

Demonstrations and Civil unrest

Public demonstrations occur and can become dangerous. Some have become violent in the past and have caused deaths and injuries, as well as property damage. Canadians are advised to avoid all political gatherings, crowds, and demonstrations and to stay away from areas where they might occur, as they could turn violent without warning. They should also monitor news reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Crime

Petty crime, including pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs, particularly in Istanbul. To reduce the probability of becoming a victim, it is recommended to avoid showing signs of affluence and to ensure personal belongings, passports, and other travel documents are secure at all times.

Muggings, assaults, and sexual assaults have occurred. It is recommended for Canadians not to accept food and drinks from strangers, even if wrappings or containers appear intact, as these may be drugged. Cases of drugging followed by robbery have occurred. Drugs may be administered through drinks, food, chewing gum or others goods.

Unsolicited invitations from strangers to go to down-market bars and neighbourhoods should be declined. Tourists have been invited by friendly locals to bars for food and drinks and then forced to pay the steep bill. This scam is particularly common in Istanbul.

Women’s Safety

There have been reports of physical and verbal harassment towards women. The Department publishes a booklet entitled Her Own Way: A Woman’s Guide to Safe and Successful Travel. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian women and encourage them to travel safely.

General Safety Information

Checkpoints may be set up without warning.

Dial 155 for police, 112 for an ambulance, 110 for firefighters and 154 for police in rural areas.

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4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Turkish authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller's responsibility to check with the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey and its consulates for up-to-date information.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Turkey. The passport must be valid for at least six months following the issuance of the visa. Whatever the purpose of their stay (work, tourism, business, studies), Canadians should be in possession of a visa obtained at the nearest Turkish embassy or consulate or upon arrival at any Turkish point of entry. Those overstaying the duration of their visa should expect to pay substantial fines.

Canadian diplomatic, official, and service passport holders are not eligible to obtain visas upon arrival. They must obtain visas prior to arrival by filling out a form available at any Turkish diplomatic or consular office abroad. 

Entry Stamp

Canadians should ensure that an entry stamp is placed in their passports by Turkish immigration officials upon arrival. Failure to do so could lead to fines, detention, deportation, or serious difficulties upon departure.

Regional Travel

Canadians wishing to travel to Syria have to obtain their visa from the Syrian Embassy in Ottawa prior to departure from Canada. The Syrian Embassy in Ankara does not issue visas for non-residents in Turkey.

The border with Armenia is closed.

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A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s licence, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for this and other destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries or regions do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following addresses:

Turkey - ANKARA, Embassy of Canada
Address: Cinnah Caddesi No. 58, Çankaya 06690, Ankara, Turkey
Tel.: 90 (312) 409-2700
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 00800-14-220-0149
Fax: 90 (312) 409-2712
E-Mail: ankra@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.turkey.gc.ca

Turkey - ISTANBUL, Consulate of Canada
Address: Istiklal Caddesi No. 189/5, Beyoglu, 34433 Istanbul, Turkey
Tel.: 90 (212) 251-9838
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 00800-14-220-0149
Fax: 90 (212) 251-9888
E-Mail: zeyda@mymerhaba.com
Internet: http://www.turkey.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Ankara or the Consulate of Canada in Istanbul and follow the instructions. You may also call the Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa toll-free at the aforementioned number.

Please note that the toll-free number is inaccessible for cellphone users in Turkey.

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6. TRAVEL HEALTH

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada continues to closely monitor and report on occurrences of avian influenza A (H5N1), or "bird flu", in humans and in birds. Further information on avian influenza A (H5N1) and recommendations for travellers can be found on the Public Health Agency of Canada's Travel Medicine Web site as well as on the World Health Organization's Web site. For more information, see our Global Issues page on Avian Influenza.

In 2006, four confirmed human deaths were reported in Turkey due to avian influenza, according to the World Health Organization. There have been no deaths reported since then. Travellers should avoid poultry farms, contact with animals in live-food markets, and any surfaces that appear to be contaminated with feces from poultry or other animals.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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7. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

The authorities in Turkey have implemented screening measures at all international airports in response to the H1N1 Flu Virus outbreak. Travellers entering Turkey from countries affected by the H1N1 Flu Virus are subject to a body temperature check and a brief medical examination. In some cases, travellers may be transferred to a hospital to be treated.

Modern medical care is available in major cities but not necessarily in outlying areas. Immediate cash payment is often required.

Drinking tap water is not recommended. Travellers should boil water or drink bottled water, peel all fruits and vegetables, and avoid undercooked meat, dairy products, and most food sold in the streets.

Dehydration is a serious risk due to very high temperatures during the summer months. Preventive action includes ensuring protection from the sun and drinking plenty of water.

There are numerous stray dogs and cats in Istanbul, Ankara, as well as in other cities. Dog attacks on pedestrians and joggers have occurred.

There are decompression chambers near popular diving sites.

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8. LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.

Religion

Islamic practices and beliefs are closely adhered to in many parts of the country. Religious and social traditions should be respected in order to avoid offending local sensitivities.

Identification Documents

Identification documents must be carried at all times. Visitors are advised to leave their passport in a safe place and carry a photocopy for identification purposes.

Dress and Behaviour

Common sense and discretion should be exercised in dress and behaviour. Visitors should dress conservatively, especially in areas outside major cities and coastal resorts (e. g., women should cover their head with a scarf and visitors should cover their arms and legs in all places of worship and in many rural areas).

Discussions on historical issues and politics should be avoided.

It is illegal to desecrate the Turkish flag, government, security forces, currency, or the name or image of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey.

Illegal and/or Restricted Activities

Religious proselytizing is not illegal, however, some activities may considered to be and could lead to detention.

The use of illegal drugs is prohibited. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs can result in lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines. Travellers should not accept carrying bagage that is not theirs as they could contain drugs.

There is a zero tolerance policy regarding drinking and driving. Consequences could include heavy fines payable on the spot.

Homosexual activity is not illegal, but intolerance still remains in some parts of the country.

In public, physical contact (e. g. holding hands) should be avoided.

Turkish antiquities and other cultural artefacts historically valuable or of national importance cannot be exported. In any case, it is strongly advised to seek advice from Turkish authorities prior to departure from Turkey. If the item can be exported, a receipt and official "museum export certificate" (issued by the Turkish antiquities and other cultural artefacts historically valuable or of national importance cannot be exported. In any case, it is strongly advised to seek advice from Turkish authorities prior to departure from Turkey. If the item can be exported, a receipt and official "museum export certificate" (issued by the Turkish customs office) will be required.

It is forbidden to photograph military or public installations. Photographing public demonstrations or members of police or security forces is strongly discouraged. Cameras and film may be confiscated. People should not be photographed without their permission.

Dual Nationality

Dual nationals may be subject to national obligations such as military service. Those affected should enquire at the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey regarding their status. Holding dual nationality may limit the ability of Canadian officials to provide consular services.

The Department publishes a booklet entitled Dual Citizenship: What Travellers Should Know, specifically targeted at Canadians with dual nationality.

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9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY

Other Restricted/Military Zones

Mount Ararat, located in the eastern Agri province, is a special military zone, and mountain climbing is permitted only with prior permission from authorities and you must be accompanied by a professional guide. On July 8, 2008, three German mountaineers were kidnapped while climbing Mount Ararat and subsequently released on July 20, 2008.

Canadians should seek advice from local authorities if they intend to travel outside known tourist areas as access to some areas have been restricted by Turkish authorities and/or have been declared military zones.

Rail Travel

Numerous train accidents occurred in recent years.

Road Travel

Accidents are common, and pedestrians have been involved in several accidents. Reckless driving, perilous road conditions, inadequate lighting, poor signage, and high traffic congestion pose hazards. Pedestrians do not have right of way. Driving after dark should be avoided.

In the event of an accident involving an official (government) vehicle, whether there are injuries or not, the vehicle should not be moved (even though it may be blocking traffic) until the police have made an official report. In all other cases, the vehicles may be moved, and a traffic accident with material damage report completed.

For detailed information on road travel in Turkey, visit the website of the General Directorate of Highways.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.

Air Travel

See our FAQ on transportation in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.

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The currency is the Turkish lira (TL). U.S. dollars, euros and major credit cards are widely accepted. Automated banking machines (ABM) services are widely available. Traveller's cheques in U.S. dollars or Euros can be difficult to exchange.

Check with your bank for information on automated banking machine (ABM) services outside Canada. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ABMs around the world. Verify with your financial institution whether your bank card can be used with ABMs abroad. Some countries use chip and/or personal identification number (PIN) technology for credit cards. Check with your bank to find out if your credit card will be accepted abroad. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ABMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

Turkey is located in an active seismic zone. The north is particularly vulnerable to major earthquakes. Landslides are possible in affected areas, and strong aftershocks may occur up to one week after the initial quake.

Heavy rains may trigger floods and landslides. Droughts, wildfires and snowstorms can also delay travel and disrupt essential services.

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11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Returning to Canada

Traveller's Checklist

Health and Travel Insurance: Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

Adoption: Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child abroad, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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12. ANNEX

N/A

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