For most nationalities with a Turkish tourist visa, the maximum stay is 90 days within a 180-day period.
This timeframe is usually enough to decide whether one wishes to stay longer in Turkey. While a Turkish residency permit doesn’t grant the right to work, it does provide the ability to reside in the country for the time period granted.
Turkey offers both short-term and long-term residency permits, with several subcategories under each.
The most common permit is the short-term Tourist residency permit, which is valid for one year with the option to extend for selected nationalities.
If you want to explore investment opportunities or facilitate your business in Turkey, you may acquire a long-term Residence Permit for Establishment up to one year.
Applicants must also prove that they have enough money / financial means for themselves as well as any family members who may be accompanying them.
Moreover, those purchasing real estate for at least $400,000 USD and maintaining ownership for three years can apply for Turkish citizenship through this route.
Long-term residency permits are available for those who have resided in Turkey for at least eight consecutive years.
Applicants must show proof of financial independence, no history of receiving financial support from the Turkish government, and a clean criminal record.
Student residency: A foreign student who wins admission to an accredited Turkish institution of higher learning receives a Student Residency Permit for the duration of his/her studies.
Applicants must include an acceptance letter from the institution, proof of private health insurance and show they can support themselves financially for their entire studies.
Foreigners who hold work permits have the option for their spouses and dependents under the age of 18 to apply for a family residency permit.
This allows the family to live in Turkey under the main applicant's work permit status.
Once you’ve determined which residency permit suits your needs, it’s crucial to apply before your current visa expires.
While your application is being processed, you are legally allowed to remain in Turkey until your residency appointment and evaluation are completed, even if your visa has already expired.
To apply, first, gather all the necessary documents and ensure that your paperwork is in order before beginning the online application process on the E-ikamet website.
Essential documents include a biometric digital passport photo and proof of health insurance.
Double-check that all information, such as spelling, is correct to avoid issues during processing or renewal.
Once your application is submitted, you will receive an appointment date, time, and location via email or text from the Goc Idaresi (Migration Office).
Your appointment confirmation will include an application number and the local office where you must submit your documents to a provincial immigration agent.
There are fees associated with the residency permit, and the amount will depend on your nationality and the type of permit.
After your application is successfully processed, you’ll receive a text from the Goc Idaresi notifying you of your approval.
You will be issued a foreign identification number starting with 99, and your residency card will be sent to the address you provided in your application via postal service.
If any problems arise during the process, you can contact the Directorate of Migration Management by calling 157.
They offer support in several languages, including Arabic, English, Farsi, German, Russian, and Turkish.
In any way you need to register yourself in the government with your address at Nufus
Turkey Advisors can assist you through the residency application process, ensuring that all your documents are in order and guiding you step-by-step through the system.
When it comes to Turkish Citizenship by investment, you need to get the investor resident permit after getting the title deed and we will help you with that from A to Z.
Whether you’re applying for a Touristic permit, business residency, or long-term residency permit, our team provides the knowledge and expertise needed for a smooth application process.
By partnering with Turkey Advisors, you can confidently navigate the complexities of the Turkish residency system, allowing you to focus on your new life in Turkey.
Contact us today for further guidance on acquiring a Turkish residence permit.
For more details about Life in Turkey and investment opportunities:
Health Services for foreigners in Turkey And the Medical Tourism industry
How to become Turkish Citizen through Real Estate Investment