Turkey Residence Permits: A Complete Guide in 2025

If you plan to stay in Turkey for more than 90 days, you need a Turkey residence permit. Without it, you risk fines, deportation, or being barred from re-entry.

A residence permit is a legal requirement that allows foreign nationals to live in Turkey beyond a tourist visa. It grants access to essential services like healthcare and education and can lead to Turkish citizenship.

In 2025, new rules made the process stricter and more detailed. This guide breaks down every permit type, its benefits and costs, and how to apply step by step.

This guide will cover:

• What is a Turkey Residence Permit?
• Who needs a Turkey Residence Permit
• Turkey Residence Permit types
• Turkey Residence Permit benefits
• How to apply for a Turkey Residence Permit
• Turkey Residence Permit Costs

What is a Turkey Residence Permit?

A Turkey residence permit is an official document issued by Turkish authorities that allows foreign nationals to live in Turkey legally beyond the standard 90-day visa limit. It is required for any stay exceeding 90 days within a 180-day period.

Different permits are available depending on the purpose, such as tourism, education, work, or family reunification. A residence permit ensures legal status in Turkey and is often a prerequisite for accessing services like healthcare or enrolling in educational programs.

Who Needs a Turkey Residence Permit

Any foreign national intending to stay in Turkey for more than 90 days within 180 days must obtain a Turkey residence permit. This includes:

• Tourists planning extended stays
• Students enrolling in Turkish educational institutions
• Foreigners working or conducting business
• Individuals receiving long-term medical treatment
• Family members joining relatives who are Turkish citizens or residents
• Property owners living in Turkey
• Applicants under humanitarian or international protection

Turkish Residence Permit Types

Turkey offers several types of residence permits based on the purpose and duration of stay. Understanding the correct permit for your situation ensures compliance with Turkish immigration law and maximizes your legal benefits.

Short-term residence permit

The short-term residence permit is ideal for individuals staying in Turkey for tourism, property ownership, business, or participation in Turkish language or cultural programs. It is valid for up to 2 years and is renewable.

Common uses include:

• Property owners
• Tourists seeking long-term stays
• Attendees of Turkish language courses
• Participants in student exchange or in-service training programs
• Persons looking to apply for Citizenship

Family residence permit

The family residence permit is issued to spouses, minor children, and dependent family members of Turkish citizens or foreign residents with a valid permit. It is valid for up to 3 years and grants access to healthcare and education.

Eligible applicants include:

• Foreign spouses of Turkish citizens
• Dependent children under 18
• Foreigners legally married to permit holders

Student residence permit

The student residence permit is required for foreigners enrolled in primary or secondary education, university programs, or student exchange programs in Turkey. Its duration matches the length of the academic program.

Holders can:

• Legally stay during studies
• Access public services like healthcare
• Work part-time under certain conditions (in higher education)

Long-term residence permit

The long-term residence permit is granted to foreigners who have resided legally in Turkey for at least 8 years without interruption. It provides indefinite validity and is similar to permanent residency.

Requirements include:

• 8 years of uninterrupted legal residence
• No history of receiving social assistance in the last 3 years
• Stable income and valid health insurance

Humanitarian residence permit

The humanitarian residence permit is issued under exceptional situations where standard permits are not applicable. This includes:

• Applicants in emergency situations
• Individuals awaiting decisions on international protection or temporary protection
• Victims of domestic violence or serious hardship
• It is granted by the Turkish Ministry on a case-by-case basis and is usually short-term but renewable.

Residence permit for victims of human trafficking

This special residence permit is issued to confirmed victims of human trafficking. Initially valid for 30 days, it can be extended for 6 months at a time, with a maximum duration of 3 years.

Benefits:

• Access to medical and legal support
• Temporary legal stay while under protection
• Exemption from standard permit criteria during the recovery period

Turkish Residence Permit Benefits

Holding a Turkish residence permit offers a range of legal and practical advantages for foreign nationals staying in Turkey long-term:

• Legal Residency: Stay in Turkey beyond 90 days without violating visa regulations.
• Healthcare Access: Enroll in public or private health insurance schemes and receive medical treatment.
• Education Opportunities: Enroll in public or private schools and universities, including primary or secondary education.
• Work Authorization: While not a work permit itself, certain permits make it easier to apply for a valid work permit.
• Financial Services: Open a bank account, apply for a tax registration certificate, and conduct financial transactions.
• Driver’s License: Apply for a Turkish driver’s license once you are a legal resident.
• Property Ownership: Buy real estate and qualify for a real estate residence permit.
• Path to Citizenship: Apply for Turkish citizenship once you have received the residence permit, provided other criteria are met and you have made the required investment. Alternatively, if you’re investing in property or business, you may qualify through Turkey’s Citizenship by Investment Program.
• Travel Flexibility: Freely travel in and out of Turkey without needing a tourist visa for re-entry.

How to Apply for a Turkey Residence Permit

Applying for a Turkey residence permit involves a structured process overseen by Turkish immigration authorities. Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing, you must follow these steps:

1. Complete the Online Application Form

Visit the official Directorate General of Migration Management (DGMM) portal at https://e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr/ and complete the residence permit application form with your personal and travel details.

2. Schedule an Appointment

The central appointment system will book your biometric submission at the nearest DGMM office.

3. Gather Required Documents

Prepare all necessary paperwork, including a valid passport or travel document, health insurance, proof of sustainable financial resources, and proof of accommodation.

4. Attend the Appointment

Submit your application and biometrics in person. Bring printed copies of the online form, appointment slip, and original documents.

5. Track and Await Decision

Once approved, the residence permit card is typically mailed to your registered address. You may use your registration certificate as interim proof of legal stay.

Required documents for a Turkey Residence Permit

• Residence permit application form (completed and signed)
• Valid passport or travel document (copy and notarized translation)
• Four biometric photos (recent, ICAO standards)
• Proof of accommodation in Turkey (rental contract, deed, or hotel booking)
• Proof of sustainable financial resources (bank statement or income certificate)
• Valid health insurance for the intended period of stay
• Tax registration certificate and fee payment receipts
• Marriage certificate or birth certificate for dependents (if applicable)
• Student registration certificate (for student permits)
• Proof of property ownership (for real estate applicants)
• Additional documents depending on permit type (e.g., humanitarian cases)

All documents should be translated into Turkish and notarized if issued abroad. Present proof of your application with a stamped submission from local authorities when necessary.

Once submitted, you’ll be prompted to schedule an interview through the central appointment system. This step is required for biometric data collection and document submission.

Turkish Residence Permit Renewal

You must submit your residence permit renewal application 60 days before your permit expires, but no later than the last valid day.

To renew a residence permit in Turkey:

1. Complete the renewal form through the official online application system.
2. Prepare updated required documents such as:
   1. Valid passport or travel document
   2. Recent health insurance policy
   3. Proof of sustainable financial resources
   4. Updated proof of accommodation
3. Schedule an appointment using the central appointment system (DGMM).
4. Submit documents in person at the nearest DGMM office.

During the processing period, you can legally remain in the country if you’ve applied on time. Keep a copy of your registration certificate or submission slip as proof of application.

Important Notes:

• You must renew your residence permit before its expiration date—ideally within the final 60 days.
• Staying outside Turkey for more than 120 days a year without a valid reason may invalidate your permit.
• Permits may be cancelled if the holder no longer meets eligibility requirements or fails to meet residence permit validity rules.

Turkey Residence Permit Cost

Additional fees may apply for renewals, dependents, or special processing.

All payments are typically made in Turkish Lira at the nearest DGMM office or designated banks. Ensure you retain all receipts as part of your residence permit application form submission.

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments. 

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Turkey Residence Permit

What are the requirements for a Turkish residence permit in 2025?

Requirements include valid identification, proof of income, health insurance, and accommodation in Turkey.

Do I need health insurance to get a residence permit in Turkey?

Yes, valid health insurance is mandatory for most permit types.

Who is eligible for a short-term residence permit in Turkey?

Individuals seeking to stay for tourism, business, or property ownership purposes.

What is a short-term residence permit in Turkey, and how long is it valid?

A short-term residence permit in Turkey allows foreign nationals to stay for purposes like tourism, property ownership, or cultural programs. It is typically valid for up to 2 years and can be renewed if eligibility conditions are maintained.

How do I renew my Turkish residence permit?

Apply online 60 days before expiration, submit the required documents, and attend an appointment.

What is the process and timeline for Turkish residence permit renewal?

The process mirrors the initial application, typically completed within a few weeks.

Can I stay in Turkey while my residence permit renewal is processed?

Yes, if you apply before your current permit expires, you can legally stay during the processing period.

What are the benefits of having a Turkish residence permit?

Benefits include legal residency, access to services, and opening bank accounts.

Can a residence permit in Turkey lead to citizenship?

Yes, continuous residence for five years may make you eligible to apply for citizenship.

Is a residence permit required for foreigners owning property in Turkey?

Yes, owning property does not exempt you from needing a residence permit for extended stays.

What are the consequences of overstaying a Turkish residence permit?

Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, and bans on re-entry.