Everything you need to know about obtaining a short-term residence permit in Turkey. Covering eligibility, required documents, application process, fees, renewal, and common pitfalls to avoid.
The short-term residence permit is the most common type of residence permit issued to foreigners in Turkey. It covers a wide range of purposes including tourism, property ownership, business, medical treatment, and more. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the short-term residence permit application process in 2026.
Under Article 31 of the Law on Foreigners and International Protection (Law No. 6458), a short-term residence permit may be granted to foreigners who fall under one of the following categories:
For those who wish to stay in Turkey for tourism beyond the 90-day visa period
Foreign nationals who own residential property in Turkey meeting minimum value requirements
For individuals establishing business connections, attending meetings, or exploring commercial opportunities
For those seeking medical treatment in Turkish healthcare facilities with proper documentation
For foreigners enrolled in Turkish language courses at accredited institutions
For foreigners involved in ongoing legal proceedings or administrative processes in Turkey
To qualify for a short-term residence permit, you must meet these core requirements:
Visit the official e-ikamet portal (e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr) and complete the online residence permit application form. You'll need to select "Short-Term Residence Permit" and the appropriate sub-category. Print the completed form and signed declaration.
After completing the online form, you'll be directed to the appointment booking system. Select a date and time at your nearest Provincial Directorate of Migration Management (Göç İdaresi). Appointment availability varies by city — Istanbul appointments may have longer waiting times.
Pay the residence permit application fee through designated banks or the online payment system. Keep the payment receipt — it must be submitted with your application. Fees vary based on your nationality and the permit duration.
Arrive at the Migration Directorate on your appointment date with all documents. Your biometric data (fingerprints and photo) will be collected. An officer will review your documents and may ask questions about your stay in Turkey.
If approved, your residence permit card will be mailed to your registered Turkish address via PTT. Processing typically takes 30-60 days. You can track your application status online using your application number.
Short-term residence permits are typically issued for a maximum of 2 years at a time, depending on the purpose:
Tourism & short stays
Property owners & business
Medical treatment cases
Can be renewed before expiry
Foreigners who overstay their visa or permit by more than 90 days may face entry bans. The duration of the ban depends on the length of overstay. Always apply for renewal before your current permit expires.
Our experienced immigration lawyers ensure your application is complete and accurate — minimizing the risk of rejection and delays.
