eVisa’s impacts on travel and tourism: the case of Turkey

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate eVisa applications. eVisa is a service that falls under eTourism, whose growing use can be attributed to its ability to simplify the process of obtaining a visa. The objectives of this study were twofold: to explore the eVisa experience of tourists who have previously visited Turkey by using the service and to analyse the perceptions of stakeholders who have contributed to eVisa. Design/methodology/approach The present research has utilised two methodologies within the context of qualitative research methods. Data were gathered from tourists by using reviews (n = 1690) and in-depth interviews key actors (n = 4), which represent consumers and contributors’ perspectives on the eVisa system, respectively. While consumers dictate the demand of the service, contributors control its supply. The contributors referenced herein are relevant eVisa stakeholders in Antalya. Findings The research findings revealed eVisa facilitation’s positive effects on a destination’s image and tourists’ intentions to revisit destinations compared to when they use traditional visa-obtaining processes. The research findings then present suitable data for destination managers and policymakers regarding eVisa facilitation, followed by this study’s conclusions and implications. Research limitations/implications eVisa facilitation can foster demand for travel and tourism while maintaining bureaucratic elements of the traditional visa procedure. From a psychological perspective, eVisa facilitation can positively affect travel motivation to certain destinations where eVisas are applicable, as well as positively influence intentions to revisit tourist destinations. Originality/value The originality and uniqueness of the present study lies in its contribution to the increasing recognition of the significance and positive impacts of eVisa facilitation on travel and tourism demand.