Interested in relocation to Turkey in 2026 for more than 90 days? It is important to apply for a residence permit in Turkey. Please find out information on this subject and then discuss with our Turkish lawyers for representation.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Temporary residence permit types |
– employment, – study, – medical purposes, – training, – family reunification |
|
Time needed to obtain the temporary residence permit (approx.) |
Between 1 and 3 months |
|
Temporary residence permit validity |
Maximum 2 years |
| Documents for obtaining temporary residence |
– valid passport, – proof of sufficient funds and accomodation, – criminal record, – health insurance |
| Mandatory registrations with state authorities (i.e. with the population/municipality register) |
Yes
|
| Dependents can join the temporary permit holder |
Yes |
| Temporary or permanent residency for investment purposes |
Yes |
| Minimum temporary residence before applying for permanent residence | At least 8 years |
| Documents for obtaining permanent residence |
– valid passport, – proof of income, – health insurance, – former temporary residence permit |
| Naturalization requirements |
– living at least 5 years in Turkey, – basic knowledge of Turkish language, – sufficient income |
| Citizenship after permanent residence | Yes |
Table of Contents
Who needs a residence permit for Turkey?
Foreign citizens who want to immigrate to Turkey and spend more than 3 months in this country.
Where do I apply for a residence permit in Turkey?
At the Provincial Directorate of Immigration Administration.
What types of residence permits are available in Turkey?
- Short-term residency,
- Student permit,
- Family permit,
- Long-term residency.
IMPORTANT! The first-time residency application must be made in Turkey.
Below, you can discover an infographic about the Turkish residence permit:
What are the requirements for a Turkish residence permit?
Applicants must present:
- application form;
- the original and a copy of the passport;
- our photos (passport size);
- declaration that they have the necessary resources for staying in Turkey for 2 years and providing documents, if required;
- proof of owning a property in Turkey, or for a rented apartment;
- medical insurance, etc.
NOTE! The medical insurance must be purchased in Turkey. Plus, it is important to submit the application online and check if an appointment is generated.
What is the validity of a residence permit in Turkey?
From 6 months to 2 years, depending on the purpose of the stay in Turkey.
PRECAUTIONS! In 2026, Turkey has regions where residence permit applications are not possible. More than that, the immigration authorities attentively check all applications and might reject some of them at their discretion.
You can also discover our video presentation here:
How can I apply for a Turkish family residence permit in 2026?
- must have a sponsor, respectively, the spouse already living in Turkey,
- a valid health insurance is required,
- provide a monthly income that should not be lower than the minimum wage in Turkey,
- a clear criminal record is also needed,
- supporting documents showing the reason for the stay/family reunification in Turkey.
When can I apply for a long-term residence permit in Turkey?
After 8 years of living in Turkey without interruptions.
NOTE! The application must comprise complete health insurance and not benefit from social aid during these 8 years.
How can foreign students apply for a Turkish residence permit?
- applicants must prove that they are attending studies in Turkey,
- health insurance is required, plus a valid ID/passport.
IMPORTANT! If the studies continue in a different province than the initial one, a new residence permit must be issued with the new address.
Is a humanitarian residence permit available in Turkey?
Yes. This is issued for:
- people looking for asylum due to the social context of their country of origin (war, calamity, etc.)
- parents looking for a safe place to stay for their children,
- people found in extraordinary circumstances (emergency, war, national security, loss of IDs during war, etc.).
Is residency by investment available in Turkey?
Yes, you can access the real estate market and buy a property worth at least USD 200,000 or USD 400,000, depending on the zone.
Are there any exemptions from residence permits in Turkey? Can you give some examples?
Yes, here are some special cases where a residence permit cannot be issued for:
- those who are representatives of foreign establishments/companies in Turkey.
- persons with diplomatic status who have an office in Turkey.
- persons who are prohibited from obtaining a residence permit in Turkey, if this country has concluded/signed an agreement with their country of origin.
- citizens who have an international protection certificate.
Would you like more details about how to get residency in Turkey in 2026? Please feel free to contact our law firm in Turkey and discuss further details. Our lawyers can also help you start a business in Turkey in approx. 2-3 weeks, with TRY 50,000 as minimum share capital for LLC.