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Residence Permit

Student Residence Permit Guide for Türkiye (2026 Update)

5 min read

Türkiye has become a global education hub, opening its doors to thousands of international students every year. Just as important as academic success, however, is the Student Residence Permit process that allows you to remain in the country legally.

In this article we've put together everything you need to know in light of the 2026 regulations, including the changes to how documents are submitted.

What is a student residence permit?

A student residence permit is the legal stay document issued to foreign nationals who will study at a Turkish higher-education institution at the associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral level. Throughout the duration of studies it grants the holder the right to be exempt from a visa and to reside in Türkiye legally.

Core eligibility requirements

To apply for the permit, the following core criteria must be met:

  • Active enrolment

    You must be enrolled at an educational institution and actively attending classes.

  • Valid passport

    Your passport must be valid for at least 60 days beyond the end of the requested residence period.

  • Health insurance

    You must hold a comprehensive private health insurance policy that is valid in Türkiye.

  • Address details

    You must document your address in Türkiye (KYK dormitory, private dormitory, or notarised lease agreement).

Critical update

Documents are now submitted through universities

Under the rules introduced in late 2024 and rigorously applied in 2026, students no longer need to book an appointment and visit the Migration Management offices in person. After completing the online application, physical documents are handed in to the university's International Student Office or Student Affairs unit, which then submits the files in bulk to the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management.

Step-by-step guide

  1. 1

    Online application

    On e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr, choose 'First-time application' or 'Extension application' and complete the form.

  2. 2

    Payments

    Pay the residence card fee and any required duties online to the tax office or partner banks; keep the receipt safe.

  3. 3

    Prepare the file

    Print the online form and assemble it with the other required documents in a transparent file.

  4. 4

    Submit to your university

    Hand the prepared file in to the university's student office within the deadline announced by the institution, against signature.

  5. 5

    Outcome

    Once approved, the residence card is sent directly to the address you provided via PTT courier.

Required documents checklist

To avoid having your application rejected, make sure the following documents are complete:

  • Signed residence permit application form
  • Passport original and a copy (photo page, entry stamp, and any visa pages)
  • 4 biometric photos (taken within the last 6 months, white background)
  • Student certificate (current document from the university or e-Devlet)
  • Valid health insurance policy
  • Receipt for the residence card fee
  • Proof of address or lease agreement
  • UETS (National Electronic Notification System) registration document, obtained from PTT