If you are planning to study in Turkey, understanding the visa and residence permit procedures is essential. In this guide, we explain all the steps and documents required to obtain a student visa and residence permit in Turkey.
Visa Types for Students
There are two main types that international students need:
Student Visa
A temporary entry visa granted for 90 days, which must be obtained from the Turkish embassy in your home country before traveling. Required for entering Turkey for study purposes.
Student Residence Permit (İkamet İzni)
Must be applied for within 30 days of arrival in Turkey. Covers the entire study period and is renewed annually. Application is made through the e-ikamet online system.
Required Documents
- 1Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond the visa expiration date.
- 2Official university acceptance letter from the Turkish university.
- 3Recent biometric passport photos (2) with white background.
- 4Valid health insurance covering the duration of stay in Turkey.
- 5Bank statement proving financial ability to cover living and tuition costs.
- 6Completed and signed visa application form.
Application Steps
Get University Acceptance
Apply to Turkish universities and obtain an official acceptance letter. You can apply for free through Betabrights.
Book Embassy Appointment
Schedule an appointment at the Turkish embassy or consulate in your country through the official website.
Submit Application & Documents
Visit the embassy at your scheduled appointment and submit all required documents. Processing typically takes 2-8 weeks.
Travel to Turkey
After receiving your visa, travel to Turkey and go to your university to complete registration.
Apply for Residence Permit
Within 30 days of arrival, apply for a student residence permit through the e-ikamet online system and prepare for the interview appointment.
Important Tips
- 1Start visa procedures at least 3 months before the start of the academic term.
- 2Ensure all documents are translated to Turkish or English and officially certified.
- 3Keep digital copies of all your documents on your phone or in the cloud.
- 4Contact the international students office at your university for assistance with residence procedures.