Essential Guidelines for International Students in Türkiye (2025–2026)

If you're planning to study in Türkiye, understanding the latest legal and residency requirements is crucial. Here are the most important updated regulations and procedures for international students during the 2025–2026 academic year:

1. Student Identification Number

Upon arrival, international students must apply to the Directorate of Migration Management to receive a Foreign ID number (YKN). This number is essential for:

• Registering at your university,

• Opening a Turkish bank account,

• Enrolling in the national health system (SGK), and more.

2. Housing Regulations for Students

• A maximum of 8 students may reside in a single apartment.

• Only 2 or 3 individuals can be named on a rental contract.

• All housing agreements and consents must be signed in front of a Turkish notary public to be considered valid.

3. New Migration Mobile App: Göç Mobil

A mobile app titled Göç Mobil (Migration Mobile) is being developed by the Directorate of Migration Management to simplify student-related immigration processes. Once launched (by 2026 at the latest), students will be able to:

• Track the status of their residence permit applications,

• Apply directly for permits via the app,

• Manage other migration-related procedures digitally.

4. Passport Validity & Residence Permits

To obtain a residence permit for the full duration of your academic program:

• Ensure your passport is valid for an extended period.

• The residence permit cannot exceed your passport’s validity and typically ends 60 days before your passport expires.

• Example: If your passport expires in September, your residence will be valid only until July.

• Renew your passport in time and reapply for a new permit if needed.

5. Temporary Inactivity at University

If you're temporarily not attending university, request your university to update your status as "Active Pending" to preserve your residence permit.

✅ This is allowed only once and for a single semester.

6. Residence Permits for Family Members

Students can sponsor their spouse and children for a short-term residence permit if they meet the financial criteria:

• Minimum $1,000 USD monthly income must be proven.

• Financial eligibility is required both during the visa application and residence process in Türkiye.

• Family members receive a 1-year short-term residence, renewable annually.

• After the first year, they may qualify for a family residence permit.

7. Renewal of Residence Permits

Applications for residence permit renewal must be submitted at least 60 days before the current permit expires to avoid legal complications.

8. Dedicated Student Support in Istanbul

The Cevizlibağ Migration Office in Istanbul now has a Student Support Unit to assist students with residence-related issues.

• No prior appointment is needed.

• You can walk in to complete your application or resolve procedural difficulties.

9. Post-Graduation Residence Options

• After graduation, your student residence permit remains valid until its original expiration date.

• You can apply for a 1-year short-term residence permit within 6 months of graduation to legally stay in Türkiye.

10. Academic Year & Visa Timelines

• University registration for the 2025–2026 academic year is open from July to October.

• Students who receive an official acceptance letter within this period will not be rejected for a student visa.

• Applications submitted after October may not be accepted.

• Graduate programs with mid-year intake will follow the same visa process.

✅ Stay Compliant, Stay Informed

For a smooth academic journey in Türkiye, ensure your documents are up to date, understand the residency rules, and monitor changes from the Directorate of Migration Management or your university's international office.