Renewing Your Student Residence Permit in Turkiye: A Comprehensive Guide
When Should You Apply for Renewal?
Start Early: Begin your renewal application up to 60 days (two months) before your current residence permit expires.
Deadline for Application: You must apply for the extension before the expiry date. If your permit expires, you have a 10-day grace period to submit a “first application” with a petition explaining the delay; after this window, staying without a permit can lead to penalties and require a new application upon re-entry to Turkiye.
Key Steps to Renew Your Student Residence Permit
1. Prepare and Update Your Documents
Ensure all documents are current and complete before starting your application, including:
- Proof of registration at your university.
- Valid health insurance documentation.
2. Online Application
Visit the official residence permit application portal and select “extension of the duration of residence permit.” Complete the form, print it, and sign it.
3. Pay the Necessary Fees
Pay the residence permit card fee (for example, 356 TL as of 2025) via the official payment portal. Always keep the original payment receipt and submit it with your application.
4. Gather Required Documents
Collect all supporting documents and check with your university’s international office to ensure completeness. Missing documents may result in rejection or delays.
5. Submit Your Application
Submit your application documents in person at the designated migration office on your appointment date. Some universities may require students to present documents to the international students’ office for review before submitting them to migration authorities.
Required Documents for Renewal
- Print-out of your completed and signed online application form.
- Two-sided photocopy of your current (old) residence permit card.
- Valid passport (original and photocopy) with at least 60 days’ validity beyond the requested permit end date.
- Passport entry stamp page and, if applicable, visa/e-Visa pages.
- Current student enrollment certificate from your university.
- Four recent biometric passport photographs (white background, 4×6 cm).
- Proof of valid health insurance covering the extension period.
- Official address registration document (“Yerleşim Yeri Belgesi”) obtained from the e-Devlet system.
- Proof of accommodation (rental contract, dormitory letter, etc.).
- Original fee payment receipt for the residence permit card.
- If under 18, notarized parental consent and birth certificate.
Note: Additional documents may be required depending on individual circumstances or changes in regulations. Always check with your university’s international office for updated lists.
Special Notes and Common Issues
Address Registration
You must register your address with the local civil registry. The official address certificate is mandatory for all renewal applications. Failing to register your address can delay or invalidate your application.
Academic Status
Your student residence permit is only valid as long as you maintain active student status (registered and attending courses). If you freeze your studies, withdraw, or take leave (except for recognized exchange programs), the permit may be canceled.
Expired Permit Applications
If you miss the renewal deadline, you must submit a new (“first time”) application and provide a letter explaining the delay. Delays beyond 10 days after permit expiry require you to leave Turkiye, potentially incurring penalties.
Duration and Validity
The extension can be granted for up to two years or until the end of your study program, subject to approval by migration authorities and based on your university enrollment status.
The process from application to receiving your new card can take up to 90 days, though this may vary. Start early to avoid gaps in your legal residency.
Contact and Support
For questions or individual cases, contact your university’s international students’ office. Always refer to the official information provided by Turkish migration authorities and your university for updates, as regulations may change.
Take the Next Step with Study in Turkiye
Explore further opportunities to enhance your educational journey in Turkiye.