Residence in Türkiye: permits and requirements
Living legally in Türkiye is possible through 6 permit types: temporary, family, study, permanent, investment, international protection. Each program has its own requirements; below are the duration, renewal, costs and documentation according to the country's official sources.
Short-Term Residence Permit (Kısa Dönem İkamet İzni)
Residence type #1 of 6
For temporary stays for work, studies, real-estate ownership, family ties, extended tourism or other grounds. Applied for online through e-İkamet.
Requirements
- Valid grounds: work, study, property, family, medical treatment, tourism
- Sufficient means of subsistence
- Registered accommodation (lease agreement or title deed)
- Health insurance valid in Türkiye
Documentation
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- e-İkamet application form
- Biometric photos (4 units)
- Health insurance
- Lease agreement or property deed (Tapu)
- Proof of income/funds
- Criminal record certificate (apostilled and translated)
- Address registration sheet (Adres Kayıt Belgesi)
- Proof of fee payment
Frequently asked questions about residence in Türkiye
How many types of residence permits are there in Türkiye?
Türkiye offers 6 residence permit types, grouped into the categories temporary, family, study, permanent, investment, international protection. Each permit has its own requirements, duration and documentation, detailed in this fact sheet according to the country's official sources.
How long do residence permits in Türkiye last?
Durations vary by permit type: Up to 2 years (according to the grounds); Maximum 3 years per grant, never longer than the sponsor's permit (renewable); For the duration of the study programme (never longer; renewable); Indefinite. The exact details of each type appear in the corresponding fact sheet.
Can residence permits in Türkiye be renewed?
It depends on the type: 5 of 6 permits are renewable. Each fact sheet on this page indicates whether the permit in question allows renewal.
What documentation is usually required to reside in Türkiye?
Although each permit requires its own file, the most recurrent documents are: Datos biométricos; Formulario de solicitud; Seguro médico; Valid passport. The complete list by residence type appears in each fact sheet, together with the corresponding official link.
Does residence in Türkiye lead to nationality?
Yes, through the Naturalization by residence pathway, which requires 5 years of continuous residence in Türkiye before applying. The complete requirements are in the nationality fact sheet of Türkiye.
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Anything to correct or add about Türkiye?
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