Types of Turkish Residence Permits

Under the Turkish tourist visa, the majority of nationalities are restricted to a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period. This duration provides ample time for individuals to decide whether they wish to continue their stay in Turkey. While the Turkish residency permit does not permit work, it does grant the right to reside for the specified duration.

Short-term Residence Permit

Residency permits in Turkey come in two main categories: short-term and long-term, each with its specific subtypes. The widely sought-after Touristic residency permit is the most common type, offering a one-year validity with the option for extension, particularly available for selected nationalities.

Business Permit

Additionally, business residency permits in Turkey are available for a duration of up to one year. To qualify, applicants need to demonstrate adequate financial resources and the capacity to support any accompanying dependent family members. This particular permit affords the holder the opportunity to explore business prospects and/or establish a business within Turkey. Notably, holding this permit sets the stage for eligibility for Turkish citizenship, contingent on the condition of acquiring real estate valued at a minimum of $400,000 USD and maintaining ownership for a three-year period.

Long-term Residence Permit 

Furthermore, various long-term residency permits are accessible to individuals who have maintained uninterrupted residence for a minimum of eight years. Eligibility criteria include demonstrating financial independence, a clean financial record with no reliance on financial support from the Turkish government, and maintaining a clear criminal record.

Student Permit

Student residency permits are available for the duration of studies at accredited Turkish higher education institutions. To apply for this permit, prospective students must present an official acceptance letter from the institution, obtain approved local private health insurance, and provide evidence of financial stability.

Work Permit

Individuals holding work permits with spouses and dependents below the age of 18 have the privilege to apply for an accompanying family residency permit. Upon determining the suitable permit for your situation, it is advisable to initiate the application process promptly, ideally before the expiration of your current valid visa. During the review period of your application, you are entitled to stay in Turkey until both your appointment and application evaluation are completed, even if the initially entered date has lapsed.

How to apply for a Turkish Residence Permit ?

To initiate the application process, familiarize yourself with the necessary documentation and ensure you have everything ready before starting the online procedure on the E-ikamet website, accessible at https://e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr/. The platform is designed to prevent progression if essential items, such as a biometric digital passport photo, are not readily available. It is crucial to thoroughly review all documentation, including spellings, to avert potential issues throughout the application process and for subsequent renewals. Additionally, maintaining private health insurance is mandatory for stays exceeding 90 days in Turkey, and numerous reputable policies are accessible through agents across the city.

Upon successful acceptance of your application in the system, you will receive a notification via text message or email from the Goc Idaresi (Migration Office), specifying the appointment's time, date, and location. This message will include your application number and direct you to submit your paperwork to a provincial immigration agent at a local office. The residency permit fee varies based on your nationality and the type of card you are applying for. If any documentation is found to be missing during the review, you will be notified, and it is expected that you provide the necessary information within a specified timeframe.

Following a successful application, you will receive a confirmation text message from the Goc Idaresi, indicating your approval. They will allocate a foreigner's identification number, commencing with 99, and dispatch your identity card through postal services to the address specified in your application. In the event of any issues, you can reach out to the Directorate of Migration Management by dialing 157. The service provides language options for Arabic, English, Farsi, German, Russian, and Turkish speakers.