For foreigners who want to stay in Türkiye longer than their visa or visa-free period allows, the Short-Term Residence Permit is the most popular option. It grants legal stay in Türkiye for a period ranging from 3 months up to 2 years.
As of 2026 the conditions have been tightened: a simple income statement is no longer sufficient; concrete evidence such as a bank statement is required.
Who can apply for a short-term residence permit?
Under Article 31 of Law No. 6458 the permit covers a fairly broad audience:
- Tourism — Foreigners visiting Türkiye for travel and holiday purposes.
- Property owners — Foreigners who own residential property in Türkiye. Since 2024 the property must be worth at least USD 200,000 to qualify for residence on this basis.
- Business connections — Foreigners pursuing commercial activities or setting up a business.
- Scientific research — Researchers conducting authorised academic research in Türkiye.
- Turkish language students — Foreigners coming solely to learn Turkish; this permit is granted at most twice.
- Medical treatment — Foreigners receiving treatment for an illness that does not threaten public health.
Required documents (2026)
Make sure the following are complete to avoid rejection:
- Application form completed and signed via e-ikamet
- Passport original and copy (valid at least 60 days beyond the requested stay)
- 4 biometric photos taken within the last 6 months on a white background
- Proof of financial means: regular income at or above the minimum wage (bank statement)
- Valid private health insurance covering the entire residence period
- Notarised lease agreement, title deed, or other official proof of address
How the application works
- Online registration — Create the application and book an appointment on e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr.
- Pay the fees — Pay the residence card fee (TRY 964) and any duties online or to the tax office.
- Appointment and submission — Attend the Provincial Migration Directorate at the assigned date and submit the documents in person.
- Outcome — Decisions are typically issued within 90 days; the residence card is delivered to your address by PTT.
Don't miss the extension window
Extension applications must be submitted at most 60 days before your current permit expires. Applications filed after the permit has expired are not accepted, and foreigners who miss the deadline lose their legal status.