Turkey holiday alert as tourists told 'you will be denied entry'

The UK Foreign Office has warned that tourists will be "denied entry" to Turkey if their passports do not meet certain criteria. The Government advised that travellers' passports must be valid for at least 150 days beyond their arrival dates, which differs from regulations in the Schengen Area.

Passports also must have at least one blank page on arrival, according to the Government's foreign travel advice page. It advised: "To enter Turkey, your passport must have an 'expiry date' at least 150 days after the date you arrive and at least 1 blank page. If you live in Turkey, your passport must be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive."

It warned: "Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

"You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen."

The FCDO also said those entering at a land border should make sure officials stamp and date their passport at the border crossing.

For the Schengen Area, Brits only need a minimum of three months left on their passport from the date they plan to leave the zone.

British visitors do not need a visa for short visits to Turkey of up to 90 days, within any 180-day timeframe. Those who want to stay for more than 90 days must get a short-term residence permit before the end of their stay.

There are strict rules regarding items that can be taken into and out of Turkey, and about money. While there is no limit on the amount of foreign currency or Turkish lira that can be taken into the country, Turkish lira worth more than $5000 must not be taken out.

Any other currency worth more than $5000 to be taken out of Turkey must be declared to Turkish Customs.