Student Residence Permit in Türkiye: Requirements
International students and their parents
Short answer
International students admitted to a YÖK-recognised Turkish university enter on a student visa and apply for a student residence permit within 30 days of arrival, issued by the Presidency of Migration Management.
Istanbul hosts many universities and a large international student community. Once you hold an admission letter, the route is clear: a student visa to enter, then a student residence permit to live and study legally for the length of your programme.
Who qualifies for a student residence permit?
Foreign nationals admitted to a university recognised by YÖK (the Council of Higher Education), or to an approved language or preparatory programme. Admission is the basis; the permit follows your registration. Türkiye Scholarships (Türkiye Bursları) is a separate government scholarship programme that some students use to enter.
How do I get from admission to a permit?
- Receive your admission letter from the university.
- Apply for a student visa at a Turkish consulate in your country, if you need one.
- Enter Türkiye and complete registration at the university.
- Apply for the student residence permit within 30 days of arrival, using the e-Ikamet system and a migration office appointment.
How long is the permit valid?
The Presidency of Migration Management (Göç İdaresi) normally issues student permits for a limited period tied to your study, and they are renewed while you remain enrolled. Renewals ask for an up-to-date enrolment certificate.
Can students work?
A student permit is not a work permit. Working while studying requires separate permission under Turkish rules, so check before you accept a job.
Can my family join me?
Parents or spouses who wish to stay longer than a visit usually need their own permit; the family residence or short-term residence service may fit them better.
What does it cost?
Costs include university tuition (which varies widely), the government permit fee and card charge (which change), health insurance, accommodation and translations. We give the current government figures in writing at consultation.
How does DXB.IST help?
We start with a free consultation and eligibility check, advise on the visa step, prepare the document checklist and translations, book your migration office appointment, and follow the file until the card is ready. We also help with accommodation, banking and airport pickup. We work with licensed partners; we are not a government body and cannot guarantee approval or admission.
Who qualifies
- Admission to a YÖK-recognised university or approved programme
- Student visa on entry, where required
- Valid passport
- Accommodation address in Türkiye
- Health insurance, where required
- Application filed within 30 days of arrival
Documents you'll need
- Valid passport and translation
- University admission or enrolment letter
- Student visa, where issued
- Biometric photographs
- Health insurance proof
- Accommodation address or rental contract
- Proof of financial means
- e-Ikamet application form
How it works, step by step
- 1
Choose the programme
We help you check that the university and programme are YÖK-recognised.
- 2
Admission and visa
You receive admission, then apply for a student visa if you need one.
- 3
Arrival and registration
You arrive, collect your keys and register at the university.
- 4
Residence application
We prepare the e-Ikamet file and book the appointment within the 30-day window.
- 5
Biometrics and card
You attend the appointment, and the authority issues the card.
- 6
Yearly renewal
We remind you before expiry and prepare the renewal with your enrolment certificate.
City by city
Frequently asked questions
Within 30 days of arrival, after entering on a student visa where one is required.
