9. Turkish Residence Permit / IKAMET

Turkish Residence Permit

Turkey offers several types of residence permits, each catering to different purposes of stay. The available Turkish residence permit types include:

  1. Short-term Residence Permit: This permit is suitable for foreigners planning to stay in Turkey for a short period, usually up to one year. It can be issued for various purposes, such as tourism, business, education, or family visits.
  2. Family Residence Permit: If you are a family member of a Turkish citizen or a foreigner with a valid residence permit, you can apply for this permit to join your family in Turkey.
  3. Student Residence Permit: This permit is for international students pursuing education in Turkey. It is usually granted for the duration of the academic program.
  4. Long-term Residence Permit: If you have legally resided in Turkey for at least eight years without leaving for more than 180 days in a year, you may be eligible for a long-term residence permit.
  5. Humanitarian Residence Permit: This permit is granted for specific humanitarian reasons, such as medical treatment or other urgent cases.
  6. Residence Permit for Victims of Human Trafficking: Victims of human trafficking can apply for this special residence permit.
  7. Residence Permit for Victims of Domestic Violence: This permit is for foreign nationals who are victims of domestic violence in Turkey.
  8. Residence Permit for Stateless Persons: Stateless individuals can apply for this type of residence permit.
  9. Residence Permit for Victims of Forced Migration: This permit is available for foreigners who are forcibly displaced due to extraordinary situations in their home countries.

How to obtain Turkish residence permit?

  1. Determine the Type of Turkish Residence Permit: Turkey offers various types of residence permits, such as short-term, family residence, student residence, long-term residence, etc. You need to identify which one is suitable for your purpose of staying in Turkey.
  2. Requirements and Eligibility: Check the specific requirements and eligibility criteria for the type of residence permit you wish to apply for. These requirements can vary depending on your nationality, the purpose of your stay, and other factors.
  3. Application: You can apply for a residence permit through the Turkish consulates or embassies in your home country or directly at the Directorate General of Migration Management (DGMM) offices in Turkey. Make sure to complete the application form and provide all necessary documents.
  4. Documents: The documents required for a residence permit may include your passport, passport-sized photos, application form, proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay, health insurance, rental contract or property deed (as proof of accommodation), and other specific documents related to your residence type.
  5. Biometric Data: Depending on your nationality, you might be required to provide biometric data (such as fingerprints) during the application process.
  6. Application Fee: Pay the required application fee. The fee amount may vary depending on the type and duration of the residence permit.
  7. Waiting Period and Approval: The processing time for residence permit applications can vary, but you should be patient during this period. Once your application is approved, you will receive a residence permit card.
  8. Renewal: Turkish residence permits have a limited duration, and you will need to apply for renewal before it expires if you intend to stay longer.

It’s important to note that the application requirements and procedures may vary depending on the type of Turkish residence permit you are applying for. Additionally, immigration laws and regulations can change over time, so it’s crucial to verify the latest information from the official Turkish government sources before making any application. Also, learn more about the meaning of the letters on the IKAMET card here.

For more information about different types of Turkish Residence Permit and how to obtain them please contact our legal department. Our legal team will provide all necessary information to you.