Turkish residence permit (ikamet) for Germans, Austrians and Swiss
Planning to stay in Turkey for more than a few months? We explain the types of residence permit, the e-ikamet application and the documents you need.
If you come from Germany, Austria or Switzerland and want to live in Turkey for a longer period, you will need a residence permit, known as ikamet. Visa-free stays are limited in time. For anything longer you need permission from the migration authority (Göç İdaresi).
The main types
- Short-term residence permit (kısa dönem ikamet izni), for example for property owners, long-stay tourists or people living on their own means
- Family residence permit (aile ikamet izni) for spouses and children of permit holders or Turkish citizens
- Student residence permit (öğrenci ikamet izni)
- Long-term residence permit (uzun dönem ikamet izni) after several years of uninterrupted legal residence
Applying via e-ikamet
The application starts online on the e-ikamet portal of the migration authority. You fill in the form, choose the permit type and then get an appointment at the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management (İl Göç İdaresi Müdürlüğü). Bring originals and copies of your documents. Once approved, the card is usually sent by post to your address in Turkey.
Typical documents
- Passport and copies of the relevant pages
- Biometric passport photos
- Proof of health insurance valid in Turkey
- Proof of address, such as a notarised rental contract or a title deed (tapu)
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- Receipts for the fees paid
Health insurance
Without valid health insurance, an application is usually not approved. Many applicants take out a private Turkish policy. Whether insurance from your home country is enough depends on your situation and on social security agreements.
Deadlines and practical notes
Apply in good time, while your visa-free stay or current permit is still valid. Renewals should also be filed before expiry. In some neighbourhoods, new address registrations are not accepted for certain permit types. Status 2026 – please check the current rules before applying, as requirements and fees change often.
How Türkei App helps
In the app you can book an appointment with a Turkish lawyer who reviews your documents and guides you through the application. For quick questions, our AI assistant is available at any time.
General information, not individual legal advice.