Residence Permit in Turkey for Foreigners in 2025: Full Guide with Costs, Examples, and Tips
Turkey remains one of the most attractive destinations for Russians looking to relocate or stay long-term. In 2025, the process of obtaining a residence permit (ikamet) has undergone significant changes: stricter regulations, higher minimum investment amounts, but also new opportunities.
In this guide, we explain the types of residence permits available, how long you can stay without a visa, the exact costs involved, which regions are restricted, and how to avoid rejection.
🕒 How Long Can Russians Stay in Turkey Without a Visa in 2025?
Russian citizens can stay in Turkey for up to 60 days per visit, with a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. Overstaying can result in fines or entry bans:
- 1–15 days overstay – fine starting from 500 TRY (~16 USD)
- 16–90 days – fine up to 2500 TRY (~80 USD)
- More than 90 days – potential entry ban of 6 months to 5 years
➡️ To avoid fines or deportation, apply for a residence permit before your visa-free period expires.
🏠 Types of Residence Permits in Turkey (2025)
1. Short-Term Residence Permit (İkamet) – 6 months to 2 years
Issued based on:
- Real estate purchase of at least $200,000
- Long-term rental (limited to selected regions)
- Tourism (strictly limited in 2025)
Costs:
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Government Fee | from 6300 TRY (~200 USD) |
| Health Insurance | from 5000 TRY (~130 USD/year) |
| Notary & Translation | from 4000 TRY (~110 USD) |
📌 Example: To get a short-term residence permit in Antalya via property purchase, the property must be worth at least $200,000. Renting is not sufficient in many districts due to new restrictions.
2. Family Residence Permit – up to 3 years
Granted to spouses and children of Turkish citizens or foreign residents with long-term permits.
3. Student Residence Permit
Valid for the duration of education. Requires proof of enrollment in a Turkish university.
4. Long-Term Residence Permit
Granted to foreigners who have legally resided in Turkey for 8 years continuously without interruption.
📋 Step-by-Step: How to Get a Residence Permit in Turkey
Step 1: Online Application
Visit https://e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr to fill out the form, choose permit type, and upload documents.
Step 2: Prepare Documents
✅ Passport (original + copy)
✅ Valid health insurance
✅ Property deed or rental contract
✅ 4 biometric photos
✅ Payment receipts (fees and taxes)
Step 3: Attend Immigration Appointment (Göç İdaresi)
On the scheduled date, attend the interview and submit documents.
Step 4: Wait for Approval
Processing time: 1 to 3 months
Step 5: Receive Your Ikamet Card
Once approved, the residence permit card is delivered by PTT (Turkish post).
📌 If rejected, you can file an appeal or apply through another legal ground.
💰 Total Cost of Residence Permit in 2025
| Permit Type | Gov. Fee | Insurance* | Other Costs | Total Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short-Term | 6300 TRY | 5000 TRY | 4000 TRY | ~450–500 USD |
| Family | 6300 TRY | 5000 TRY | 4000 TRY | ~450–500 USD |
*Health insurance prices will increase starting April 1, 2025
💡 Tip: It’s cheaper to apply on your own without third-party agencies.
🚫 Restricted Areas for Residence Permits in 2025
As of 2023, 1169 neighborhoods are closed to foreign residents due to high foreign population density.
Popular restricted areas include:
- Antalya: Liman, Hurma, Sarisu
- Istanbul: Fatih, Esenyurt, Avcilar
- Alanya: Mahmutlar, Kestel, Avsallar, Kargicak
📌 Check the full list of restricted districts on the official portal: https://ru.goc.gov.tr
🇹🇷 How to Get Turkish Citizenship Through Residence?
Foreigners may apply for Turkish citizenship if they:
✔ Have lived in Turkey for 5 continuous years on a residence permit
✔ Speak basic Turkish (no exam required)
✔ Have stable income and legal housing
📌 Example: A Russian family buys an apartment in Ankara for $85,000, lives there for 5 years with a residence permit, and becomes eligible for citizenship.
Alternative: Investment-Based Citizenship
Invest at least $400,000 in Turkish real estate (with a 3-year hold). Citizenship is granted immediately.
✅ Should You Apply for a Turkish Residence Permit?
✔ Yes, if you plan to live in Turkey longer than 90 days
✔ Yes, if you’re aiming for Turkish citizenship
✔ Yes, if you're buying real estate
❌ No, if you only plan short visits (less than 90 days per 6 months)
Applying for a residence permit is the first step toward living in Turkey legally and comfortably. With the right preparation and awareness of current rules, the process can be smooth and successful.
ℹ Need Help with Your Residence Permit in Turkey?
We offer expert guidance for Russian-speaking clients:
📩 Contact MyAntalya® for a free consultation!
