How to Get a Residence Permit in Turkey? (2025 Updated Guide)

Article Content Topics: residence permit, Türkiye residence permit 2025, residence permit for foreigners, residence in Türkiye, e-residence application

✅ What is a Residence Permit in Turkey?

A residence permit is an official document that allows a foreigner to stay in Türkiye legally. Every foreigner who wants to stay in Türkiye for more than 90 days must obtain this permit.

📌 Residence Permit Types (2025 Current)

Residence permits in Türkiye are issued by the Directorate of Immigration Administration. The main types are:

1. Short-Term Residence Permit (most common)

2. Family Residence Permit

3. Student Residence Permit

4. Long Term Residence Permit

5. Humanitarian Residence Permit

6. Human Trafficking Victim Permit

   
   

📝 How to Apply for a Residence Permit?

1. Filling out the e-Residency Application Form

• Enter the official website of the Immigration Administration: https://e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr

• Enter your personal information completely.

• Select the type of residence permit.

• Get an appointment date and keep a printout.

2. Prepare the Required Documents

Documents are different for each type of residence, but generally the following are required:

• Passport (photocopy + original)

• Biometric photo (4 pieces)

• Address declaration in Türkiye (lease contract, hotel reservation, etc.)

• Health insurance

• Fee receipt

  
  

3. Go to Immigration Office Appointment

On the appointment day, go to the provincial/district immigration office with your documents. If there are any missing documents, the process will be delayed.

4. Evaluation of Your Application

The turnaround time for initial applications is generally between 30 and 90 days. If necessary, documentation may be requested.

💡 Special Changes for 2025

• Residence permits for tourist purposes are more difficult to obtain in some provinces.

• Fake leases are serious grounds for rejection.

• Address verification practices have increased – your title deed/lease contract must be real and up to date.

  
  

⚠️ Most Common Mistakes

• Submitting missing documents

• Applying after the legal period of stay in Türkiye has ended

• Short health insurance period

• Making a false address declaration

  
  

🕒 How Long Does It Take to Get a Residence Permit?

• Average: 30–60 days

• In busy cities like Istanbul and Ankara: It may take up to 90 days

  
  

💬 Frequently Asked Questions

Question: I am stuck in Türkiye illegally, can I get a residence permit?

Answer: After the retroactive fines have been paid, recourse may be possible in some cases. Legal support is recommended.

Question: Can I work with a student residence permit?

Answer: No, it is only possible if a work permit is obtained.

Question: My residence permit was rejected. What should I do?

Answer: A lawsuit can be filed with the administrative court within 15 days.

Get Legal Help

If you are having difficulty in the process of obtaining a residence permit in Turkey, getting professional support will speed up the process and prevent rejection. Therefore, you need to get support from an expert lawyer in the field. You can contact us in your native language through our translators who know English, Arabic, Persian, Uzbek and Kurdish languages.