Guide to Residency in Turkey

Obtaining a residency visa in Turkey is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Turkey gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Research the Types of Residence Permits
  • Visit the official website of the Directorate General of Migration Management (DGMM) at e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr to understand different types of residence permits available.
  • Choose the appropriate type based on your situation (e.g., short-term, family, student, long-term).
• Prepare the Necessary Documentation
  • Passport or travel document with an expiration date at least 60 days beyond the duration of the requested residence permit.
  • Four biometric photographs.
  • Proof of sufficient and sustainable financial resources for the duration of the stay.
  • Proof of health insurance coverage that is valid in Turkey.
  • Proof of address, which can be a rental agreement or a utility bill in your name.
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the nearest Tax Office (Vergi Dairesi) in Turkey.
  • Provide your passport and fill out the Tax Number Application Form.
  • Receive your Tax Identification Number, which is necessary for opening a bank account and other legal transactions.
• Open a Turkish Bank Account (optional but recommended)
  • Go to a Turkish bank with your passport and Tax Number.
  • Fill out the necessary forms and provide the initial deposit if required.
  • Obtain your bank account details, which may be needed for proof of financial means.
• Obtain Health Insurance
  • Choose a health insurance provider that is recognized in Turkey.
  • Purchase a policy that meets the minimum coverage requirements for the residence permit application.
  • Obtain the policy document in Turkish to submit with your application.
• Apply for the Residence Permit
  • Create an application on the e-Residence system at e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr.
  • Fill out the online application form accurately and completely.
  • Upload the required documents in the correct format and size.
  • Choose a date and time for your appointment at the local DGMM office.
  • Pay the application fee online or at a designated bank.
• Attend the Residence Permit Appointment
  • Go to the local DGMM office on the date of your appointment with all original documents and copies.
  • Submit your documents and provide any additional information if requested.
  • Provide your fingerprints for biometric data collection if it's your first application.
• Receive Your Residence Permit
  • After your application is approved, the residence permit card will be mailed to your address in Turkey.
  • Check the status of your application online at the e-Residence system.
  • If there are any issues or additional requirements, respond promptly to the requests from the DGMM.
• Register with the Address Registry System
  • After obtaining your residence permit, visit the local Population Directorate (Nüfus Müdürlü?ü) to register your address.
  • Provide your residence permit and proof of address.
  • Ensure that your address is correctly entered into the system to avoid any legal issues.

Please note that the process and requirements for obtaining residency status in Turkey can change, so it is important to check the latest information from official sources. Additionally, some steps may vary depending on your nationality and the specific type of residence permit you are applying for.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Turkey?

"In order to visit Turkey, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, and a passport-sized photograph to the Turkish Embassy or Consulate in the applicant's home country. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Turkey, foreign nationals must apply for a residence permit. The process of applying for a residence permit involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, proof of financial means, and proof of health insurance to the local immigration office. Depending on the purpose of the residency, additional documents may be required," commented one member living in Turkey.