A short-term residence permit is issued to foreign nationals who want to stay in Turkey temporarily for a specific reason — owning property, business dealings, tourism, or a non-formal education programme, for instance. It is a separate category from family or work permits, with its own set of required documents. Applications are submitted to the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management through the e-residence system.
- Average Processing Time
- A few weeks (can vary)
- Where to Apply
- Provincial Directorate of Migration Management (e-residence)
- Validity Period
- Varies by case, typically up to one year
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Who It’s For
Property owners in Turkey
Ownership of a residence can form the basis of an application.
Those setting up business ties or a company
For meetings, partnerships, or investment activity in Turkey.
Those staying for tourism purposes
Short-term stays outside formal education.
Those joining a non-formal education programme
Such as a language course or certificate programme.
Those required to stay by a judicial or administrative authority
Assessed according to the relevant authority’s request.
Required Documents
Passport or travel document
Must remain valid for longer than the requested residence period.
Biometric photograph
Taken within the last six months, white background.
Proof of address
A lease agreement or title deed, for example.
Valid health insurance
Coverage must span the full requested residence period.
Document supporting the reason for the application
Such as a title deed, education record, or business correspondence.
Declaration of sufficient and regular financial means
Requested where the system requires it.
The document list can vary by application reason and personal circumstances; the current requirements of the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management apply.
Process Steps
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01
Initial Assessment
Within 1 dayWe clarify your situation and the basis for your application together.
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02
Appointment and System Application
Depends on appointment dateAn appointment is booked through the e-residence system and the application form is completed.
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03
Document Submission
A few daysThe prepared documents are submitted to the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management.
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04
Result and Card Delivery
Varies by caseThe application is reviewed; if approved, the residence card is delivered to your address.
Not sure whether your situation fits this process?
Initial AssessmentLegal Basis
Law No. 6458 on Foreigners and International Protection Article 31
Sets out the types of residence permits available in Turkey; short-term residence is one of them.
Law No. 6458 on Foreigners and International Protection Article 32
Defines, in general terms, who may be granted a short-term residence permit.
Regulation on the Implementation of the Law on Foreigners and International Protection
Application procedure and process details are set out in this regulation.
Common Mistakes
Applying only after the permit has expired
An overstay can lead to administrative penalties and count against future applications.
Not keeping the registered address up to date
A mismatch between the system address and actual residence can lead to rejection.
Health insurance with insufficient coverage
A policy that doesn’t cover the full permit period may not be accepted.
Missing documentation to support the application reason
For example, not submitting a title deed or education record, which delays the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on application volume and the specifics of the file; we can’t promise an exact number of days.
If an expired permit isn’t renewed, staying in Turkey no longer has a legal basis and administrative penalties may follow.
No — a short-term residence permit does not by itself grant a work permit.
A short-term residence permit is personal; family members are assessed separately.
Related Services
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.