Residence permit in Turkey

You need a residence permit (ikamet izni) to stay in Turkey longer than visa-free entry allows — for citizens of many countries that is 90 days in any 180. The application is filled in on the e-ikamet website, and then you attend the migration office (Göç İdaresi) in person with your original documents.

Main types

• Short-term, based on property. For homeowners. In Antalya and other metropolitan cities (büyükşehir status) the property must be worth at least $200,000 according to the title deed, backed by a currency exchange certificate (DAB). Usually issued for 1–2 years and renewable for as long as you own the property.
• Tourist permit. For people renting a home. Issued for 6–12 months; repeat renewals in Antalya are checked strictly — you need to explain the purpose of your stay and show sufficient funds.
• Family permit. For spouses and children of Turkish citizens or of foreigners holding a permit — up to 3 years.
• Digital nomad permit. For remote employees and freelancers aged 21–55 earning at least $3,000 a month.
• Long-term permit. After 8 years of continuous legal residence.

Documents

1. The e-ikamet application form — printed and signed.
2. A passport valid at least 60 days beyond the permit you request, plus copies.
3. 4 biometric photos.
4. Turkish health insurance covering the whole period.
5. Proof of address: a notarised rental contract or a title deed. For a property-based permit — the title deed, a valuation report and the DAB.
6. Proof of funds (bank statement) — on request.
7. Receipts for the fee and the card (the card costs 964 TRY in 2026; the fee depends on nationality and duration).

How it works

1. Fill in the form on e-ikamet — the system gives you an appointment date.
2. Pay the fees.
3. Attend the appointment with the originals and give your fingerprints.
4. The card is posted to the address in your application — usually within 1–3 months; you can track the status online.

While your application is being processed, your application receipt lets you stay in the country.

After you get the card

• Register your address at Nüfus within 20 working days — otherwise you risk a fine and problems at renewal.
• Apply for renewal within the last 60 days before the card expires — don't leave it to the last minute.
• If your permit has expired, you have 10 days to leave without a fine.
• The number on the card (starting with 99) is your ID number for banks, e-Devlet and contracts.

Good to know

Some neighbourhoods in Turkey have limits on registering foreigners — "closed" areas where foreigners already make up more than 20% of residents. Istanbul lifted these limits in June 2026; in Antalya restrictions may still apply, so check the address before signing a lease. Rules change often, so check the current requirements on e-ikamet before you apply. If you are considering a property-based permit, see also Buying a flat.