What Is a Residence Permit?
A residence permit is the official document that allows foreign nationals to legally reside in Turkey. Foreigners who wish to stay in Turkey for more than 90 days must apply for a residence permit before their visa or visa-free period expires.
Applications are made online through the e-ikamet system (e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr) and appointments are booked via randevu.goc.gov.tr.
2026 Residence Permit Types
| Permit Type | Validity | Who Can Apply? |
|---|---|---|
| Short-Term | 1–2 years | Property owners, investors, tourists |
| Family | 1–3 years | Family of Turkish citizen or permit holder |
| Student | Duration of study | Enrolled students |
| Long-Term | Indefinite | 8 years of continuous legal residence |
| Humanitarian | Max. 1 year | Special circumstances |
Required Documents
Documents Required for All Applications
- Valid passport (at least 60 days + permit duration beyond expiry)
- 4 biometric photos (taken within the last 6 months, white background)
- Address registration document (from mukhtar or notarised rental contract)
- Foreign health insurance policy (valid throughout Turkey, from application date)
- Proof of financial means (minimum 500 USD/month equivalent in TRY)
- Tax identification number
- Fee payment receipt
Additional Documents for Short-Term
- Title deed or notarised rental contract
Additional Documents for Family Reunification
- Marriage certificate (apostilled, with notarised Turkish translation)
- Sponsor's residence permit or Turkish ID
- Sponsor's income documentation
2026 Residence Permit Fees
| Duration | Group A (most countries) | Document Fee |
|---|---|---|
| 1 month | 25 USD (in TRY at TCMB rate) | 964.00 TRY |
| 6 months | 55 USD | 964.00 TRY |
| 12 months | 85 USD | 964.00 TRY |
| 24 months | 145 USD | 964.00 TRY |
Exchange rate: TCMB daily buying rate applies. Certain countries (Serbia, Norway, Fiji) have fixed TRY-based tariffs.
Application Steps
1. Book an Appointment
Use the new Göç Randevu System (randevu.goc.gov.tr, launched June 2024) to book an appointment at your nearest Provincial Migration Office. In Istanbul, appointments are typically available 4–6 weeks in advance.
2. Prepare Your Documents
Collect all documents before your appointment date. Incomplete documents result in rejection and require a new appointment.
3. Pay the Fee
Pay the fee at a tax office, PTT, or via online banking. Keep the payment receipt.
4. Attend Your Appointment
Bring your documents and originals to the Migration Office on the appointment date. Processing takes approximately 30–45 minutes.
5. Receive Your Permit Card
Approved applications receive the residence permit card by post within 4–8 weeks.
Important Notes
Apply before your visa expires: Applications made after visa expiry are subject to administrative fines.
Address changes: Notify the Migration Office within 20 business days of any address change.
Work rights: A short-term residence permit does not grant the right to work. A separate work permit is required.
Related Services: Work Permit · Residence Permit · Turkish Citizenship