Türkiye Student Visa and Residence Permit: A Step-by-Step Guide
Student visa and student residence permit for international students in Türkiye: required documents, the 30-day deadline, health insurance and renewal.
International students who will study at a university in Türkiye need two documents: a student visa to enter the country and a student residence permit to stay during their studies. They are different documents and are obtained one after the other.
1. Student visa
A student visa cannot be obtained as an e-visa. After receiving your acceptance letter, you apply in person, with your documents, to the Turkish embassy or consulate general in the country where you live.
- Valid passport
- Acceptance letter from the university
- Completed visa application form
- Biometric photo
- Proof of financial means (bank statement, sponsor or scholarship letter)
- Health insurance
- Parental consent for applicants under 18
2. Student residence permit
After entering Türkiye with your student visa, you must apply for a student residence permit within 30 days of entry. The application is made through the e-ikamet system of the Presidency of Migration Management; at many universities, documents are submitted via the international student office.
- Final enrolment at the university First days after arrival
You need a student certificate for the residence permit, so complete your enrolment first.
- e-ikamet online application Within 30 days of entry
Fill in the form, book an appointment or follow your university's instructions.
- Submitting documents Appointment day
Documents such as your passport, student certificate, photo, address details and health insurance are submitted.
- Receiving the card A few weeks
The approved residence card is sent to your address by post.
Health insurance
International students who apply to the Social Security Institution (SGK) within three months of their first university enrolment can benefit from general health insurance (GSS) by paying a premium. Those who miss this period have to buy private health insurance. The premium is updated every year; check the current amount with SGK.
Renewing your residence permit
Your residence permit is renewed throughout your studies. You must apply for renewal through e-ikamet before your permit expires. Overstaying can lead to penalties such as fines and entry bans.
Can I work while studying?
A student residence permit does not by itself give you the right to work; you need a separate work permit. Restrictions on the first year and on weekly working hours apply to associate and bachelor's students.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I miss the 30-day deadline?
How long does the visa application take?
Does TurkUniversity help with this process?
Sources: Presidency of Migration Management, e-İkamet, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye, SGK. Regulations and fees may change; check official sources before applying.