Turkey Short-Term Residence Permit 2025: Complete Guide for Foreigners
Planning to stay in Turkey longer than your tourist visa allows? A short-term residence permit (ikamet izni) is the legal solution for foreigners who want to live in Turkey beyond 90 days. In this 2025 guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know: requirements, documents, costs, new rules, and step-by-step application tips.
Turkey has become one of the most popular destinations for expats, digital nomads, retirees, and investors. With its unique culture, affordable lifestyle, and strategic location, many foreigners prefer to live here rather than just visit for a short holiday. However, to stay legally, obtaining a residence permit is essential.
In recent years, the Turkish government has updated regulations, making the process stricter in some areas, especially regarding financial proof and housing requirements. This guide is designed to give you clear, up-to-date, and practical advice so that your residence permit application in 2025 goes smoothly without unnecessary stress.
What Is a Short-Term Residence Permit in Turkey?
A short-term residence permit is the most common type of residence permit issued in Turkey. It is ideal for foreigners who want to stay longer than their visa allows but are not applying for long-term or family permits.
- Allows foreigners to stay in Turkey from 3 months up to 2 years.
- Can be issued for tourism, property ownership, study, research, business, or medical treatment.
- One of the most common permits for digital nomads, retirees, investors, and expats.
Who Can Apply for a Short-Term Residence Permit?
Not every foreigner is eligible for this permit. Turkish law outlines several specific conditions under which you can apply. The most frequent cases include property ownership, extended tourism stays, and education.
You may apply if you:
- Own property in Turkey (with a valid title deed / tapu).
- Want to stay for tourism purposes beyond your visa duration.
- Are enrolled in a Turkish language course or study program.
- Conduct academic or scientific research.
- Receive medical treatment (non-contagious).
- Switch from a family residence permit or another permit type.
Required Documents (2025 Updated List)
Applying for a residence permit in Turkey requires preparation and accurate paperwork. The migration authorities are very strict about documents, and incomplete files often cause delays or even rejections. Below is the updated 2025 list:
Required Documents
Completed residence permit application form (from the e-ikamet system).
Valid passport (must be valid at least 60 days beyond the requested permit period).
2 biometric photos (white background, less than 6 months old).
Proof of financial means (bank statements from the last 3 months; minimum ~$500–$1000 per month of stay).
Health insurance valid in Turkey for the full duration.
Proof of address: rental contract, property deed, or notarized commitment (taahhütname).
Residence permit card fee & application fee receipts.
Address Registration Certificate – (required for renewals). (Yerleşim Yeri Belgesi)
Step-by-Step Application Process
The residence permit application is straightforward if you follow each step carefully. Missing an appointment or forgetting a document may cause serious delays, so preparation is key:
- Pre-Application Online – Register on the e-ikamet and fill the forms.
- Book Appointment – Choose the nearest Provincial Migration Office.
- Prepare All Documents – Ensure originals and photocopies are ready.
- Pay Fees – Permit fee, residence card fee, and possibly single-entry visa fee (depending on nationality).
- Attend Appointment – Submit documents; biometric photo and fingerprints may be taken.
- Receive Residence Card – Delivered to your registered Turkish address.
Costs of Short-Term Residence Permit (2025)
Before applying, it’s important to know the financial side of the process. The costs vary depending on nationality, duration of stay, and insurance type.
- Residence permit card fee: ₺810 (about $25–30).
- Permit fee: ₺800–₺3,500 depending on nationality & duration. For most countries it is $25 for first month and $5 for other months. For more detailed information check here.
- Single-entry visa fee (for some nationalities): 7882,70 TL.
- Health insurance: $50–200/year (age dependent).
How to Pay the Residence Permit Fee?
When applying for a residence permit in Turkey, you must pay the official application and card fees. These payments can be made in two different ways:
1. Online Payment
- During the online application process, you can pay your residence fee directly through the system.
- Once the payment is completed, the system generates a payment receipt (dekont).
- You must print this receipt and include it in your application documents.
2. In Person at the Tax Office
- Alternatively, you can visit the nearest vergi dairesi (tax office) and make the payment in cash.
- The tax office will give you an official stamped receipt, which must also be placed inside your residence permit application file.
Health Insurance for Foreigners in Turkey
Having valid health insurance is one of the mandatory requirements for a residence permit. The insurance must fully cover the duration of your stay.
- Normally, insurance contracts are around 15 pages long, but you only need to submit the first 4–5 pages (including policy number, insured person details, and validity period).
- If you purchase insurance online, a color PDF printout is sufficient – there is no need for a wet signature.
- The insurance must cover the entire residence permit period. If it expires earlier than your requested permit, your application will be rejected.
Example: If you request a residence permit from November 18, 2024 to November 18, 2025, you must provide an insurance policy valid for this exact period.
💡 You can arrange insurance through Turkish insurance agencies or directly online by searching for “yabancı sağlık sigortası” (foreigner health insurance).
Proof of Accommodation: Where You Live Matters
When applying for the first time, you must show where you will stay in Turkey. There are several ways to prove accommodation, depending on your situation:
a) If You Own Property
- Copy of the title deed (tapu)
- DASK (earthquake insurance) certificate
- Numarataj (official address document) from the municipality
- Original title deed must be shown at the appointment
b) If You Rent an Apartment
- Notarized rental agreement (regular contracts not notarized are not accepted)
- Copy of the title deed of the rented property
- DASK policy of the property
- Copy of the landlord’s ID and your passport must be attached to the rental contract
✅ New Rule (2025): Rental contracts signed via e-Devlet (Turkey’s e-Government system) are now accepted.
c) If You Stay with a Third Person
- A notarized commitment (taahhütname) from the host
- If the host is married, both spouses must sign
- Utility bill (electricity, water, or gas) or subscriber agreement under the host’s name (internet bills are not accepted)
d) If You Stay in a Dormitory or Hotel
- Dormitory certificate signed by the institution, or
- Hotel/pension certificate confirming your stay
Closed Neighborhoods: Where You Cannot Apply from
In 2025, the Ministry of Interior announced restrictions on certain districts and neighborhoods where foreigners can no longer register their addresses for residence permits. This rule was introduced due to overpopulation of migrants in specific areas.
❌ Districts in Istanbul closed to new residence permit applications:
- Avcılar
- Bahçelievler
- Bağcılar
- Başakşehir
- Esenler
- Esenyurt
- Fatih
- Küçükçekmece
- Sultangazi
- Zeytinburnu
If your address is in one of these closed districts, your residence permit application will be automatically rejected. Make sure you choose a valid address before applying.
Missing Documents During Application
Don’t panic if you attend your appointment and realize you forgot a document. The Migration Office does not immediately reject your application.
- Instead, the officer will give you a written list of missing documents.
- You have 30 days to complete and submit the missing items.
- If you fail to provide them within this period, your application will be considered withdrawn.
Renewal Process
Residence permits are not indefinite. To continue living in Turkey legally, you need to renew your permit before it expires. Renewal applications are usually easier than the first application, but they still require updated documents.
- Renewal applications must be made within 60 days before your current permit expires.
- You cannot apply after your residence card has expired. In that case, you must leave Turkey and reapply from abroad.
- Ideally, apply 2 months before the expiration date to avoid last-minute issues.
- Provide updated health insurance, bank statements, and address registration.
If you fail to renew before your permit expires, you will be considered to have overstayed. Overstaying can result in administrative fines and sometimes an entry ban for a certain period. In such cases, you must leave Turkey and apply for a new residence permit from your home country or consulate.
Read: How to Revoke Entry Ban to Turkey through here: https://erdalnuhbasa.com/ban-on-entry-into-turkey-a-guidebook-for-how-to-revoke/
Additional Notes for Families and Children
When applying as a family, extra documents may be required for children:
- Passports of children (showing parent details; if not clear, a notarized birth certificate is needed).
- If one parent is not present: a notarized consent letter (muvafakatname).
- If a parent has passed away: a notarized death certificate.
- In case of divorce: a notarized custody/guardianship certificate.
- All foreign documents must have an Apostille stamp and be officially translated into Turkish.
Important Updates in 2025
The Turkish government has introduced several new rules for residence permits in 2025. These changes mainly focus on income proof and housing conditions.
- Proof of income: must be backed by bank statements.
- Closed Neighborhoods: Certain districts (especially in Istanbul and other big cities) are restricted, and you cannot use addresses there for residence permits.
- Incomplete documents: Migration offices may grant up to 30 days to provide missing papers.
Tips for a Successful Application
Applying for a residence permit can feel overwhelming, but following these practical tips can help you avoid mistakes and increase your chances of approval.
- Apply early to avoid long waiting times.
- Keep extra copies of every document.
- Show consistent income in your bank account instead of one large deposit.
- Make sure your insurance covers the full requested period.
- Avoid using addresses in closed neighborhoods.
- For tourism permits, having a basic travel plan or itinerary helps.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a short-term residence permit in Turkey?
A short-term residence permit (ikamet izni) allows foreigners to stay in Turkey legally for more than 90 days, usually between 6 months and 2 years.
2. Who can apply for a short-term residence permit?
Foreigners who own property, attend language courses, stay for tourism, receive medical treatment, or conduct research can apply.
3. How do I apply for a residence permit in Turkey?
Applications are made online through the e-ikamet system followed by an appointment at the Provincial Migration Office.
4. What documents are required for a short-term residence permit in 2025?
You need a valid passport, application form, biometric photos, proof of income, health insurance, proof of address, and payment receipts.
5. How much does a residence permit cost in Turkey?
Costs vary depending on nationality, but in 2025 the residence card fee is around ₺810, plus permit fees ranging from ₺800 to ₺3,500, and health insurance.
6. How do I pay the residence permit fee?
You can pay online during application (print the receipt) or at the tax office (keep the stamped receipt). Both are valid.
7. Is health insurance mandatory for a residence permit in Turkey?
Yes, health insurance covering the full duration of your permit is mandatory. Without it, your application will be rejected.
8. Can I use any rental contract for proof of address?
No. Rental contracts must be notarized or signed via e-Devlet. Regular contracts not approved by a notary are not accepted.
9. Which areas are closed to residence permit applications in Istanbul (2025)?
Applications from addresses in Avcılar, Bahçelievler, Bağcılar, Başakşehir, Esenler, Esenyurt, Fatih, Küçükçekmece, Sultangazi, and Zeytinburnu are rejected.
10. What happens if I am missing documents during my appointment?
The Migration Office gives you 30 days to submit missing documents. If you don’t, your application will be withdrawn.
11. How early should I renew my residence permit?
You should apply for renewal at least 60 days before your permit expires.
12. Can children apply for a residence permit in Turkey?
Yes, but they need additional documents such as a birth certificate, custody papers, or notarized parental consent if one parent is absent.
13. Do I need a lawyer or consultant to apply?
Not necessarily. Many foreigners apply on their own, but immigration lawyers or consultants can help if your case is complex.
14. Can my residence permit be rejected?
Yes. Common reasons include insufficient income proof, invalid insurance, incomplete documents, or living in a closed neighborhood.
15. How long does it take to get a residence card in Turkey?
On average, it takes 4–8 weeks after your appointment for the residence card to be delivered to your registered address.
Contact Us Today
Getting a short-term residence permit in Turkey (ikamet izni) in 2025 is easier if you know the updated rules and prepare your documents carefully. With the right preparation, you can legally enjoy living in Turkey for up to two years — whether for tourism, retirement, investment, or study.
📞 Erdal Nuhbasa Law and Consulting Firm
📍 Kartaltepe Mah. Bahçesaray Sok. No:19/3 Bakırköy, Istanbul, Turkey
📧 erdalnuhbasa@hotmail.com
🌐 www.erdalnuhbasa.com
