Renewing Your Student Residence Permit Annually in Türkiye
When to Renew
Understanding the timeline and procedures for renewing your student residence permit is essential. Here are the key guidelines:
- Start Early: Initiate your renewal (extension) application within 60 days before your current permit expires. Early application is crucial; do not wait until your permit has expired.
- Expired Permits: If your residence permit has already expired, you must apply for a “first-time application” within 10 days after expiry. In such cases, provide a letter explaining your late application. If you miss this crucial window and do not apply within 10 days, you must leave Türkiye and may incur a penalty.
Renewal Application Steps
To successfully renew your residence permit, follow these structured steps:
- Online Application
- Visit the official Residence Permit Application platform and select “extension of the duration of residence permit.”
- Complete the online application form, ensuring your passport is valid for the duration you wish to extend.
- Collect Required Documents
Make sure you have the following documents ready:
- A valid passport
- Your current student residence permit card
- Proof of health insurance covering the new permit period
- A student certificate (öğrenci belgesi) from your university, such as Aydin University or Uskudar University
- Recent biometric passport photos
- Proof of accommodation (e.g., dormitory letter or rental agreement)
- Payment receipt for the residence permit fee
- Any other documents requested on the application platform.
- Appointment and Submission
- After submitting your online application, you’ll receive an appointment date and time from the Immigration Office in your city.
- Print your application form and gather all documents for submission at your appointment.
- If you have missed the standard renewal window, submit a signed statement (in Turkish) explaining your situation along with your documents.
Important Notes
- Passport Validity: Ensure your passport does not expire before your residence permit. Renew your passport if necessary before applying for renewal.
- Fees: Be aware that the residence permit fee must be paid (e.g., approximately 810 TL for 2025). Keep the payment receipt for your records.
- Health Insurance: Your health insurance must cover the entire duration of the requested permit extension. For those with multi-year insurance plans, verify coverage for the new period.
- Processing Time: Expect it may take up to two months to receive your new residence permit after document submission. Therefore, it’s advisable to apply as early as possible within the 60-day window.
If You Miss the Renewal Deadline
If you apply late but within 10 days after expiry, you need to:
- Submit a petition explaining your delay, including your name, residence permit application number, and passport number. This letter must be in Turkish and signed. Submit it at your appointment and also to your university’s International Students Office.
If you do not apply within 10 days of expiry, you must leave Türkiye and may have to pay an overstay penalty. Upon return, you must file a new (first-time) residence permit application.
Practical Tips
- Set Reminders: Check your permit’s expiry date and set reminders for the 60-day period before it expires.
- Documentation: Gather all required documents well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
- Utilize University Resources: Leverage your university’s International Office, such as those at Medipol University or Beykent University, for guidance throughout the application process.
By applying early and meticulously following all outlined procedures, you can ensure an uninterrupted legal stay and a fulfilling educational experience in Türkiye.
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