Obtaining a Residence Permit
Residence Permits for Foreigners in Turkey: Updated Guide (2025)
Foreigners who enter Turkey with a visa or visa exemption and wish to stay beyond the permitted period (generally 90 days) must obtain a residence permit. Applications are submitted online via the official e-Residence system: e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr, with supporting documents delivered to the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management.
1. Short-Term Residence Permit
Issued for purposes such as tourism, business setup, commercial connections, property ownership, or investment. Typically granted for up to two years at a time.
General Required Documents (first application):
- Residence Permit Application Form (via e-Residence).
- Passport (original + copy).
- Four biometric photos (taken within the last 6 months).
- Valid health insurance covering the stay.
- Proof of sufficient financial means (bank statements, payroll, etc.).
- Proof of address in Turkey (rental contract, title deed, hotel booking, etc.).
- Receipts for residence permit fees and card issuance fees.
Additional Documents Depending on Purpose:
- Property Owners: Title deed (updated copy).
- Business/Commercial Purposes: Invitation letter from Turkish company/partners, plus notarized company documents (activity certificate, tax certificate, trade registry records, signature circulars).
Investment-Based Residence Permit (with Citizenship Path)
Foreign investors meeting legal thresholds may obtain up to 5 years of residence for themselves and dependents, and qualify for fast-track Turkish citizenship.
2025 Investment Criteria (any one of the following):
- Fixed Capital Investment: ≥ USD 500,000 approved by the Ministry of Industry and Technology.
- Real Estate Purchase: ≥ USD 600,000, with a 3-year non-sale annotation on the title deed.
- Employment Creation: ≥ 50 employees registered with SGK.
- Bank Deposit: ≥ USD 500,000 in a Turkish bank, locked for at least 3 years.
- Government Bonds: ≥ USD 500,000 held for at least 3 years.
- Investment Fund Participation: ≥ USD 500,000 in real estate or venture capital funds (minimum 3 years).
- Private Pension Contribution (BES): ≥ USD 500,000 held for at least 3 years.
Renewals: Must be filed via e-Residence within 60 days before expiry and before the permit lapses. Documents are mailed to the Provincial Directorate.
2. Long-Term Residence Permit
Available to foreigners who have legally resided in Turkey for at least 8 consecutive years. Granted indefinitely, with no need for renewals.
Required Documents:
- Application Form (long-term permit).
- Passport (original + copy).
- Four biometric photos.
- Criminal record certificate from Turkish authorities.
- Proof of no social assistance received in the last 3 years.
- Proof of sufficient and sustainable financial resources.
- Valid health insurance.
✅ With clear procedures, Turkey provides multiple residence options for tourists, investors, business owners, and long-term residents, making it a strategic hub for both living and investment.