Residency

Turkey — Residency: Visa Overview

Many nationalities are visa-exempt in Turkey for up to 90 days in any 180; others use an e-Visa for tourism or commerce, and work or study visas come from Turkish missions.

VerifiedGovernment / official sourceTurkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, visa information for foreigners (page dated 2022)Last reviewed: 2026-10-26

Why this matters

Understanding the visa requirements and regulations is crucial for a successful relocation to Turkey, as it affects the individual's ability to work, study, and live in the country.

Key facts

  • Many nationalities are exempt for up to 90 days in any 180-day period; some exemptions are shorter, such as 30 days for Belarus and Brunei.
  • The e-Visa at evisa.gov.tr is valid only for tourism or commerce, is usually issued in about three minutes and is cheaper than a visa on arrival; it is usually valid for one month, single entry.
  • Visas for work, study and other purposes are issued by Turkish embassies or consulates.
  • Passport must expire at least 60 days after the intended stay (Law No. 6458); six months validity is recommended.
  • Anyone living, working or studying must register with local police on arrival. Page dated 2022; confirm with a Turkish mission.

Steps

  1. Step 1: Determine Visa Eligibility — Check if your nationality is eligible for a specific visa category and review the application requirements.
  2. Step 2: Gather Required Documents — Collect necessary documents such as a valid passport, proof of income, and health insurance.
  3. Step 3: Submit Application — Submit your visa application through the Turkish government's e-Visa system or at a Turkish embassy/consulate.

← Back to Turkey guides