Sarp/Sarpi Turkey Georgia Border Crossing 2026
Border Crossing from Turkey to Georgia by Land
Up to date guide to crossing between Hopa, Turkey and Sarpi, Georgia. See opening hours, typical wait times, required documents, customs rules, transport options, and step by step procedures in both directions. Everything you need for the Hopa (Turkey) ↔ Sarpi (Georgia) border: hours, wait times, documents, customs allowances, how to cross, and transport from both sides.
Map DirectionOverview
The Sarp/Sarpi Border Crossing serves as the primary gateway between Turkey and Georgia, connecting the Turkish town of Hopa with the Georgian coastal region near Batumi. This is the most popular and convenient border crossing for tourists traveling between the two countries, offering excellent public transportation connections and comprehensive facilities on both sides. The crossing operates 24 hours a day, making it incredibly flexible for travelers with varying schedules. Located along the scenic Black Sea coast, this border point handles both pedestrian and vehicle traffic efficiently. The facility features modern immigration buildings with escalators and long corridors connecting the Turkish and Georgian sides. Both countries have invested significantly in infrastructure here, making it the preferred choice for international tourists. The crossing is particularly busy during summer months when Black Sea tourism peaks, but the continuous operation ensures travelers can always find passage. With duty-free shopping, currency exchange, and transportation hubs on both sides, Sarp/Sarpi represents the most developed border infrastructure in the region.
Public Review Sentiments
Based on total reviews found online, we found a mixed sentiment with notable operational challenges alongside efficient processing times. Positive aspects frequently mentioned include quick processing times for pedestrians (typically 5-10 minutes during off-peak hours), friendly and professional staff on the Turkish side, and excellent transportation connectivity with regular bus services. Many travelers appreciate the 24/7 operation and duty-free shopping opportunities. However, critical concerns dominate reviews regarding severe overcrowding during peak periods, inadequate air conditioning in waiting areas, chaotic queue management especially on the Georgian side, and long waiting times during summer months. Travelers consistently report unprofessional behavior from some Georgian border officials, poor facility maintenance including dirty restrooms, and overwhelming crowds that can extend crossing times to several hours. The Turkish side generally receives better reviews for organization and staff courtesy, while the Georgian side faces criticism for infrastructure and crowd control. Transportation scams targeting tourists are frequently mentioned, though legitimate public transport options are readily available for informed travelers.
Document Requirements
For International Travellers
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Visa requirements vary by nationality – check respective embassy websites
- Most EU, US, UK citizens: visa-free for both countries (short stays)
- Travel insurance recommended
- Proof of onward travel may be requested
- Sufficient funds for stay verification possible
For Local Citizens
- Valid Georgian passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Georgian biometric ID card accepted for Turkish entry
- Visa-free travel to Turkey for up to 90 days within 180-day period
- Purpose: tourism, business meetings, family visits
- Valid Turkish passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Turkish ID card accepted for Georgian entry
- No visa required for stays up to 365 days in Georgia
- Travel insurance recommended but not mandatory
Crossing Procedure
From Turkey Side
- Enter immigration building through “Departing Passengers” entrance
- Follow escalators and long corridors upward through the facility
- Present passport at Turkish immigration counter for exit stamp
- Proceed through duty-free area and continue along connecting corridors
- Complete Turkish exit formalities (typically 2-3 minutes)
From Georgia Side
- Present passport at Georgian immigration counter
- Answer basic questions about visit purpose and duration
- Receive entry stamp in passport
- Proceed to baggage X-ray screening (bags typically scanned but rarely inspected)
- Exit immigration building to Georgian side (1-2 minutes processing)
Special Considerations
Vehicle Imports/Exports: Temporary import permits required for vehicles; customs declarations necessary for valuable items
Goods Allowances: Standard duty-free limits apply (cigarettes, alcohol, gifts up to specified values)
Prohibited Items: Weapons, drugs, large quantities of currency without declaration, certain food products
Currency Restrictions: Amounts over $10,000 USD equivalent must be declared
Known Issues: Severe overcrowding in summer, inadequate facilities during peak times, unofficial “helpers” requesting payment, transportation touts targeting tourists
Accommodations
Hotels and Restaurants near Border Turkey:
Hotel Cihan (minibus departure point)
Various local restaurants in Hopa town center
Basic accommodation options in Hopa (15-20 minutes from border)
Hotels and Restaurants near Border Georgia:
Limited options immediately at border
Small cafes and exchange offices at crossing point
Tourist information available for Batumi recommendations
Better Options Nearby:
Batumi, Georgia (12 km from border) – Major tourist destination with luxury hotels, restaurants, and entertainment
Trabzon, Turkey (168 km from border) – Larger city with comprehensive accommodation and dining options
Opening Hours
Wait Time & Traffic
Average Wait: Pedestrians: 5-10 minutes (off-peak), 30-120 minutes (peak); Vehicles: 1-4 hours depending on season
Peak Times: June-September (summer tourist season), daily 9 AM – 6 PM, weekends and holidays
Express Options: No official fast-track programs available; early morning crossings (before 8 AM) recommended to avoid crowds
Border Facilities
Immigration Processing: Available – Modern facilities with multiple counters
Customs Processing: Available – X-ray screening and declaration procedures
Health Screening: Limited – Basic facilities available if required
Services:
Turkish Side: ATMs, supermarket, Vodafone store, duty-free shopping, currency exchange, restrooms, taxi stand
Georgian Side: Multiple currency exchange offices, tourist information desk, limited ATM (with surcharges), restrooms
Accessibility: Limited wheelchair access; escalators connect levels but may be challenging for mobility-impaired travelers
Official Resources
Turkey Border Authority:
- Website: www.goc.gov.tr
- Contact: Turkish Immigration Services
Georgia Border Authority:
- Website: www.police.ge
- Contact: Georgian Border Police
Travel Advisories:
- Turkey: www.mfa.gov.tr
- Georgia: www.mfa.gov.ge
- Check respective embassy websites for current requirements
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What are the opening hours of the Sarp/Sarpi border crossing?
The Sarp/Sarpi border crossing operates 24 hours daily, 7 days per week, and is open to international travellers throughout the year. This continuous operation makes it one of the most accessible border crossings in the Caucasus region. Whether you are arriving during early morning hours or late at night, the control point will be staffed and operational. However, expect busier queues during peak travel times, particularly between 7 AM and 8 AM when many local workers and commuters cross the border for employment purposes. If possible, plan your crossing outside these peak commute hours to minimise waiting time.
How long does it take to cross the border at Sarp/Sarpi?
Under normal circumstances, the border crossing process is remarkably efficient. Standard clearance times typically range from 4 to 10 minutes per side, resulting in a total crossing time of approximately 10 to 20 minutes when queues are minimal. However, when queues are present during busier periods, overall crossing time can extend to 20 to 30 minutes. The entire process involves departing through Turkish immigration, walking through the border infrastructure corridor which includes duty free shops, and then presenting yourself to Georgian immigration. Most travellers report the procedure as straightforward and hassle free, provided they carry all necessary documentation.
Do British citizens need a visa to enter Georgia?
British passport holders do not require a visa to enter Georgia for visits lasting up to one year. Your passport must remain valid for the entire duration of your stay in Georgia, though no additional validity period beyond this is required. This makes Georgia exceptionally accessible for British travellers. The Georgian immigration process is generally straightforward, and you will simply be stamped into the country at the border. It is advisable to carry accommodation booking confirmations or proof of onward travel just in case immigration officials ask questions about your intentions, though this is uncommon for British passport holders.
Do British citizens need a visa to enter Turkey?
British citizen passport holders can visit Turkey without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180 day period, for purposes of tourism or business. Your passport must be valid for a minimum of 150 days from your date of arrival in Turkey, and must contain at least one full blank page for entry and exit stamps. This generous visa free allowance makes crossing into Turkey straightforward at the Sarp border. If you plan to stay longer than 90 days or for work purposes, you will need to arrange a longer stay visa or residence permit before your initial 90 day allowance expires.
What transport options are available to reach the Sarp/Sarpi border from nearby towns?
From the Georgian side in Batumi, public transport to Sarpi is readily available and affordable. Line 16 bus departs from Shavsheti station and takes approximately 54 minutes to reach Sarpi, with services departing every 30 minutes and costing just 1 Georgian Lari. Alternatively, taxis are available and the journey takes approximately 20 minutes, costing between 5 and 7 USD. From the Turkish side in Hopa, minibuses (dolmuş) operate regularly to Sarp and cost approximately 50 Turkish Lira per person, with the journey taking about 25 minutes depending on how many stops the driver makes en route.