When embarking on your academic journey in Turkey, obtaining a student visa is a crucial step. To initiate this process, students must secure a student visa from the nearest Turkish Republic Consulate. Given that visa procedures can be time-consuming, it is imperative to apply for a student visa as soon as you receive your admission letter.

1. Student Visa Procedures

Before traveling to Turkey, international students must obtain a student visa from the nearest Turkish Republic Consulate or Embassy in their home country. This visa allows entry into Turkey for study purposes.

How to Apply for a Student Visa?

✔ Receive Your University Admission Letter – You must have an official admission letter from a recognized Turkish university before applying for a visa.
✔ Prepare Your Documents – Required documents may vary by country, but generally include:

• Valid passport (with at least six months of validity)
• Completed visa application form
• Recent passport-sized photos
• University admission letter
• Proof of financial support (bank statements, scholarship letter, etc.)
• Travel health insurance (if required)
  ✔ Apply at the Nearest Turkish Consulate – Submit your application in person at the nearest Turkish Republic Consulate or Embassy.
  ✔ Track Your Application – Processing times vary, so apply early! Student visas usually take 4 to 8 weeks to be issued.

Check visa requirements for your country at the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Foreign Affairs website: Visa Information for Foreigners.

Apply for a visa online through the official Turkish Consulate Portal: Online Visa Application.

2. Residence Permit Procedures
After arriving in Turkey and completing university registration, students must apply for a residence permit to legally stay in Turkey beyond their visa duration. This is an essential document that allows students to live, study, and travel in Turkey without a visa.

How to Apply for a Student Residence Permit
✔ Register at Your University – Before applying, ensure you have completed your university enrollment.
✔ Apply Online – Visit the e-ikamet system to fill out the residence permit application form:
🔗 e-ikamet Migration Portal
✔ Gather the Required Documents – The standard requirements include:

Passport copy (with student visa page)
Biometric passport photos
Student certificate (Öğrenci Belgesi) from your university
Health insurance valid in Turkey
Payment receipt for the residence permit application fee
✔ Attend Your Appointment – After submitting the application, you’ll be scheduled for an appointment at the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management (Göç İdaresi). Some universities also facilitate this process via their international student offices.
✔ Receive Your Residence Permit Card – Once approved, your residence card will be sent to your registered address in Turkey.

• 3. Important Notes for International Students

1. Your residence card replaces the need for a visa – If your residence permit is valid, you can leave and re-enter Turkey without needing a new visa.
2. Renew your residence permit on time – Apply for a renewal at least 60 days before expiration to avoid any legal issues.
3. Changing universities? Update your residence permit! – If you transfer to another university, update your residence permit accordingly.
4. Lost your residence card? – Report it immediately to local authorities and apply for a replacement through the e-ikamet system.