Previously, foreigners wishing to reside in Turkey for an extended period often opted for a tourist residence permit. However, the situation has changed, and obtaining a residence permit through this method has become significantly more difficult. We still offer full support for this type of Turkish residence permit, but we now recommend considering other options. One accessible alternative is the student residence permit in Turkey. This type of permit is popular among citizens of Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and many other countries.
A student residence permit can be obtained by children and adults up to age 36 who enroll in Turkish educational institutions (both public and private), such as:
- Primary and secondary schools, or lyceums;
- Colleges;
- Universities (bachelor’s, master’s, postgraduate, doctoral, or medical residency programs).
Students who attend Turkish language preparatory courses at a local university may also qualify.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Student Residence Permit
Pros:
- Higher chances of obtaining a family residence permit for the student’s close family (limited to spouse and children – not available for parents, siblings, or grandparents).
- Legal employment opportunities during the study period (with a prior permit from the Ministry of Labor and Social Security).
Cons:
- Difficulty switching to a long-term residence permit after graduation (only half of the student residence period counts toward citizenship eligibility).
How to Obtain a Student Residence Permit in Turkey (for Russian citizens)
- Enroll in a Turkish educational institution and receive an acceptance letter and visa.
- Prepare the required documents (see list below). It’s best to begin the process while still in your home country, as local authorities allow only 1 month after arrival to apply.
- Upon arrival, purchase a local Turkish SIM card (~300 TRY). Within 3 months, register your smartphone with the tax office or buy a new one in Turkey.
- Fill out an online application at the e-Ikamet website and print the completed form.
- Obtain a tax number.
- Pay the state fee in cash (~326 TRY; the exact amount will appear after form submission).
- On your appointment date, go to the regional migration office, submit the full document package and payment confirmation.
- Wait for a decision from the migration office (can take up to 3 months or more in some cases).
- Wait for courier delivery of the residence card (ikamet). You may not leave Turkey for 15 days or more during this waiting period. If you must leave, take a migration-certified copy of the application and the receipt.
Required Documents:
- Copy of passport (main page + visa page);
- 4 photos (taken within 6 months prior to application);
- Bank statement and other proof of financial solvency;
- Copy of health insurance policy or confirmation of application for it;
- Proof of residence in Turkey (e.g. lease contract / property ownership certificate / dorm contract / letter from relatives hosting the student);
- Letter from the educational institution confirming enrollment (must include full university name and program details);
- Copy of birth certificate (on request, typically for minors);
- Parental consent from the second parent/legal guardian (for minors, if only one parent applies).
All Russian documents must be apostilled, translated into Turkish, and notarized. Documents issued in Turkey must bear an official or electronic signature and seal.
Validity of the Residence Permit
The permit duration depends on the academic program:
- Bachelor’s: up to 4 years;
- Master’s/PhD: up to 2 years;
- General education schools: usually renewed annually.
If the student fails to complete the program within the allotted time, the permit can be extended for up to one year. This must be done at least 3 months before the current permit expires and requires:
- 2 notarized color copies of the current ikamet;
- Bank statement;
- 2 new biometric photos;
- Health insurance (copy + notarized);
- Police clearance confirming no violations in Turkey;
- Parental consent (in Turkish, notarized, for minors);
- Letter from the university confirming program extension.
Reasons for Permit Cancellation
The student residence permit may be revoked if:
- The student transfers to another province — a new permit is required;
- The student drops out or graduates — unless they obtain a new permit type, they must leave Turkey;
- The student spends more than 183 days per year abroad.
Student Residence Permit as a Legal Pathway
In some cases, a student residence permit can be an effective way to legally reside in Turkey and later find employment in a local company.
We Offer Full Student Residence Permit Processing in Turkey Within 4–5 Days
You’ll need:
- High school diploma (original + notarized Turkish translation), or university degree;
- If presenting a high school diploma, you also need a transcript (grades from grades 9–11, from your school) + notarized Turkish translation;
- Passport + notarized Turkish translation;
- 8 biometric photos.
Tip: Make sure you have at least 14 working days left on your tourist visa before applying.
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