Whether you are an individual planning to relocate, an expat family making Turkey your new home, or a multinational company managing the relocation of your employees, obtaining a residence permit in Turkey is the essential first step. For major global brands, this process is a critical business operation that demands professional oversight, and we provide that same level of expertise to every client. This guide is designed to offer a clear and practical roadmap for both individual and corporate applicants.
The Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Navigating the Turkish immigration system is straightforward when you follow a clear, sequential path. Here is the step-by-step process that every applicant will follow.
Step 1: Gathering the Essential Documents Before you even begin the online application, you must gather your core documents. This includes a passport valid for at least 6 months, recent biometric photographs that meet specific criteria, and proof of your address in Turkey. This foundational step is critical, as any missing or incorrect documents will cause delays.
Step 2: Getting a Valid Turkish Health Insurance Policy Turkish law requires most foreign residents to have a valid health insurance policy for the duration of their requested permit. It is important to note that general travel insurance is typically not accepted; you must obtain a policy from an insurance company based in Turkey that explicitly covers the requirements for a residence permit.
Step 3: Making the Online Application All applications begin through the official e-İkamet (e-Residence) system on the website of the Presidency of Migration Management (goc.gov.tr). You must carefully fill in all personal, contact, and travel information, upload the necessary documents, and select an appointment date at your local provincial immigration office.
Step 4: The Appointment at the Migration Office (Göç İdaresi) On your scheduled appointment date, you must submit your printed application form and the original copies of all your supporting documents to an immigration officer at the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management. The officer will review your file and may ask you questions about your purpose of stay.
Step 5: Evaluation Period and Receiving Your Card After your appointment, your application enters an evaluation period. If your application is approved, your official Turkish Residence Permit card will be printed and mailed to your registered address in Turkey via the national postal service (PTT).
Required Documents: A General Checklist
While the exact documents can vary slightly based on the permit type, the following checklist covers the essential items for most short-term applications:
- Residence Permit Application Form: The signed form from the e-İkamet online system.
- Passport: The original passport, plus a color photocopy of the main information page and the last entry stamp page.
- Biometric Photographs: Four (4) recent, biometric photos with a white background.
- Valid Health Insurance: The policy document for a Turkish health insurance plan covering your stay.
- Proof of Address: A notarized copy of your rental agreement. If staying in a hotel, a reservation document.
- Proof of Sufficient Financial Means: A bank statement or similar document showing you can support yourself financially during your stay.
Types of Residence Permits in Turkey
In essence, Article 30 of the Law on Foreigners and International Protection Law (No:6458) regulates the following types of residence permits. The type of residence permit you should apply for depends entirely on your purpose of stay in Turkey. Each category has its own unique set of requirements and conditions. Below, we break down the most common types of residence permits available to foreign nationals. Pursuant to Article 31, short-term residence permit in Turkey may be given to the foreigner who:
Short-Term Residence Permit
This is the most common and versatile type of residence permit, granted for a wide variety of purposes.
- Who is it for? This permit is suitable for foreign nationals intending to stay in Turkey for reasons such as tourism, business meetings, scientific research, or for those who own real estate in the country. It is the default category for most initial, non-family-related applications.
- Key Requirements: In addition to the general documents listed above, you must provide specific proof related to your purpose of stay. For example For Tourism: A detailed travel itinerary and proof of accommodation (e.g., hotel reservations), For Property Owners: An official copy of your property’s title deed, Duration & Renewal: It is typically granted for a period of up to one or two years and can be renewed if the conditions for the stay continue.
- For Investors Seeking Citizenship: Foreign nationals who make a qualifying financial contribution, such as purchasing property for $400,000 USD, apply for this type of residence permit as a preliminary step in the popular Turkish Citizenship by Investment program.
Family Residence Permit
This permit is designed to keep families united in Turkey.
- Who is it for? This permit is for the foreign spouse and dependent foreign children (under 18) of a Turkish citizen or a foreigner who already holds a valid Turkish residence permit (the “sponsor”).
- Key Requirements: The application requires documentation from both the applicant and the sponsor. The sponsor must demonstrate:
- Sufficient and regular income to support the family.
- Valid health insurance that covers all family members.
- Proof of registered address in Turkey.
- A clean criminal record.
- Duration & Renewal: It can be granted for a period of up to three years at a time and is renewable as long as the marriage or family connection continues.
Student Residence Permit
This permit is specifically for individuals pursuing formal education in Turkey.
- Who is it for? Foreign students enrolled in a Turkish higher education institution for an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, PhD, or specialized training program.
- Key Requirements: The most critical document is an official acceptance letter or a valid student certificate (öğrenci belgesi) from the Turkish educational institution. Students are not required to obtain a separate private health insurance policy if they register for the state’s General Health Insurance (GSS) within three months of their enrollment.
- Duration & Renewal: The permit is granted for the duration of the educational program, typically issued for one year at a time and renewed annually as long as the student status continues.
Long-Term Residence Permit
This permit provides a more permanent and stable status for foreigners who have made Turkey their home.
- Who is it for? Foreign nationals who have resided in Turkey with a residence permit continuously and legally for at least eight years.
- Key Requirements: Applicants must prove they have:
- Not received social assistance from the Turkish state in the past three years.
- A sufficient and regular income to support themselves and their family.
- A valid private health insurance policy.
- Not posed a threat to public order or security.
- Duration & Renewal: This permit is granted indefinitely and does not require renewal, granting the holder rights very similar to those of a Turkish citizen, excluding the right to vote, run for office, or enter into public service.
What is the difference between a work permit and residence permit in Turkey?
There is a growing consensus that work permit and residence permit have very different meanings. It is, however, striking that there is also a clear connection between those terms. Because of this relationship, a valid work permit as well as work permit exemption confirmation document issued pursuant shall be considered as a residence permit. It necessarily follows that holders of a residence or a work permit are granted to live within a specific period of time in Turkey.
What are the main principles of the legal framework on residence permit in Turkey?
Significantly, the Law on Foreigners and International Protection(No:6458) is intended to provide ‘the principles and procedures with regard to foreigners’ entry into, stay in and exit from Turkey’. The said Law plays a central role in regulating main standards and types for residence permit.
The Law in question is available online Foreigners and International Protection Law.
Managed Immigration Services for Corporate Clients
We understand that for multinational companies and local businesses with foreign talent, managing employee residence permits is a critical operational function. It requires efficiency, predictability, and clear communication to ensure a smooth relocation process for your valuable team members. Pi Legal Consultancy offers a managed immigration service specifically designed to meet the needs of corporate clients, HR departments, and global mobility teams.
Our corporate service framework is built on four key pillars:
- Predictable Timelines & KPIs: We provide a transparent roadmap for every application. Our process includes key milestones—from initial document collection to final card delivery—with clear Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) focused on speed and accuracy. This ensures you always have a predictable timeline for your employees’ relocation.
- A Dedicated Team Structure: Each corporate client is assigned a dedicated case manager who serves as your single point of of contact for all inquiries and reports. This manager is supported by our expert team of Turkish immigration lawyers and paralegals, ensuring that both personalized service and deep legal expertise are applied to your entire case portfolio.
- Proactive & Transparent Reporting: We believe in proactive communication. Your HR team will receive regular, detailed case status reports (weekly or bi-weekly, as needed) that outline the progress of each employee’s application. We can customize reporting formats to fit your internal needs, providing the transparency you require.
- Efficient & Secure Technology: Our firm utilizes modern case management systems and secure digital platforms to facilitate our immigration services. This technology-driven approach ensures efficiency, data security, and a seamless experience for your team and your employees from start to finish.
Can I get a residence permit by property purchase?
Yes you can get a residence permit in Turkey by buying a property here. It is important to note that, as of October 16, 2023, a significant change has been introduced regarding the minimum property value required for foreigners seeking to obtain a short-term residence permit in Turkey through real estate purchase. Pursuant to a new implementation directive issued by the Directorate General of Migration Management, the previous thresholds 75,000 USD for metropolitan cities and 50,000 USD for other provinces have been replaced by a single minimum threshold of 200,000 USD applicable nationwide. This amendment reflects a policy shift aimed at encouraging more qualified and substantial foreign investments across the country.
You can find more analysis of residence permit by property purchase from our article on Residency by Property Purchase in Turkey
You need to find a suitable house above 200.000 USD for obtaining residence permit in Turkey. For our work and all legal services on the matter of real estate, please click our Practice Areas, titled Real Estate
How Long is a short-term residence permit valid in Turkey?
Generally speaking, short-term residence permits may be granted for a maximum of two years. Of course, there are also exceptions and following conditions. The duration in question is not the case for people who do not work but will make an investment in Turkey. Also for those who are citizens of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Five-year duration is given to them.
As for follow-up requirements, residence permits issued for people attending a language course shall only be issued twice.
Residence permits granted to those foreigners who apply within six months upon graduation from a higher education programme in Turkey shall only be issued once with a maximum one-year duration.
What is a long-term residence permit in Turkey?
It is of course possible to obtain a long-term residence permit in accordance with Article 42. Indeed, if you have been residing in Turkey for at least eight years on a permit, you may be found eligible for a permanent residence permit by the relevant authorities. Relevant people should make an application to the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management (İl Göç İdaresi Müdürlüğü). Here is the document check list from the Presidency of the Republic of Turkey Investment Office.
Need guidance on Turkish citizenship? Our Turkish citizenship lawyer is here to help you navigate the process seamlessly.
What are the conditions for a short-term residence permit in Turkey?
What are the conditions for a short-term residence permit in Turkey? In summary, the involved foreigner is required to fulfill the following conditions regulated in Article 32 of the Law in question. These conditions are:
- The submission of supporting documentation and information regarding the reason of stay in Turkey,
- Not to fall within the scope of Article 7, designed for foreigners who shall be refused to enter into Turkey,
- To live in accommodation conditions that conform to general health and safety standards,
- Upon request, the presentation of criminal record certificate issued by the competent national authorities in his/her country of citizenship or legal residence,
- The submission of information on their address of stay in Turkey.
What are the reasons for refusal, non-renewal or cancellation of short-term residence permit in Turkey?
What are the Reasons For Refusal, non-renewal or Cancellation of Short-Term Residence Permit in Turkey? Under the following situations, a short-term residence permit shall not be granted, shall be canceled if has been issued, and shall not be renewed when,
- One or more of the conditions provided for in Article 32 are not met or no longer apply;
- It is established that the residence permit is used outside the purposes of those it is issued for;
- There is a current removal decision or an entry ban to Turkey in respect to the foreigner.
What are the new rules for residence permit in Turkey for 2024?
Owing to a legislative change on Article 20 of the Regulation on the Implementation of the Law on Turkish Citizenship (No:5901), a new acquisition type of Turkish citizenship enters into force. When foreigners deposit at least USD 500.000 or equivalent foreign currency or Turkish lira in the private pension system with the condition of holding this fund for three years, as attested by Insurance and Private Pension Regulation and Supervision Agency, they may gain Turkish citizenship. Moreover, the minimum amount of investment for home purchase-based citizenship has been increased. The acquisition of Turkish citizenship requires a comprehensive legal guidance by Turkish citizenship lawyers.
The relevant page of the Gazette is available online.
See also our article on Turkish citizenship by investment.
Is digital nomad visa possible for Turkey?
As of October 1, 2024, remote workers can make an application for digital nomad visa to Turkish Embassies and Consulate Generals located outside Turkey. It currently applies to certain country of citizenships for the time being.
You can also read our article titled Conveyancing Lawyer in Turkey that we have previously written.
Meet Our Turkish Immigration & Residence Permit Team
At Pi Legal Consultancy, we believe that successful immigration outcomes are achieved through a combination of deep legal knowledge and dedicated client support. Our immigration practice is built on a team of specialists who are committed to making your relocation to Turkey a seamless experience.
Our Lead Immigration Lawyer: Büşra Dereli
Our immigration law practice is led by Attorney Büşra Dereli. With a deep specialization in Foreigners Law in Turkey, Büşra has extensive experience in managing all types of residence permit applications for individuals, families, and the employees of our corporate clients. She focuses on providing clear, strategic, and practical advice to navigate the complexities of the Turkish immigration system and ensure a successful, stress-free application process for every client.
Supported by a Dedicated Team
Büşra is supported by a dedicated team of associate lawyers and paralegals who are highly experienced in the specific administrative procedures of the Turkish Migration Management offices. This collaborative approach ensures that every detail of your application—from document certification to appointment scheduling and follow-up—is handled with the utmost precision and care.
The Role of an Immigration Lawyer in the Residence Permit Process
While it is possible to apply for a residence permit on your own, the Turkish immigration system is based on a strict legal and administrative framework. A small mistake or a missing document can lead to the rejection of your application, costing you both time and money.
An expert Turkish immigration lawyer provides critical value by:
- Ensuring the Correct Strategy: We advise you on the most suitable type of residence permit for your specific situation, preventing you from applying under the wrong category.
- Guaranteeing a Flawless Application: Our team meticulously prepares and cross-checks every document in your application file to ensure it is complete and fully compliant with the latest regulations.
- Managing the Entire Process: We handle the online submission, schedule your appointment, and manage all follow-up communication with the Migration Office (Göç İdaresi) on your behalf.
- Handling Rejections and Appeals: In the unfortunate event of a rejection, we are prepared to immediately file a legal appeal to challenge the decision in court, protecting your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to some of the most common questions we receive from our clients about the Turkish residence permit process.
Conclusion
Having regard to the aforementioned observations, even the types and legal requirements of short-term residence permit is not simple; albeit very confusing. To conclude, a foreigner should be aware of his/her desire, interest and personal necessities about residence permit. But that is not enough. Accordingly, in order to avoid any unexpected challenges, every single step should be taken carefully. Therefore, a foreigner also needs high-quality and on-the-ground advice by English speaking lawyers in Turkey for a right direction.
Securing a residence permit is the foundational step for any foreign national planning to live and operate in Turkey. For our clients who are also entrepreneurs, investors, or company executives, the next stage often involves navigating the legal framework of commerce. To learn how we support your venture, from company formation to commercial contracts, explore our comprehensive business and corporate law services.
