Most foreign cruisers are only allowed to stay in Turkey for 90 days in any 180 day period. Therefore many cruisers that want to spend longer in Turkish waters apply for a residence permit. This process has just become alot simpler with the launch in May of a new online e-Residence system (as of 18-05-2015) making it easier and faster for foreigners to apply for residence permits and renew online.

Published 10 years ago, updated 6 years ago

This report courtesy of the Ocean Cruising Club.

New e-Residence Application System Goes Online in the Republic of Turkey

The Ocean Cruising Club has been advised by the OCC Finike Port Officer Samet Gölgeci that a new online e-Residence system (as of 18-05-2015) makes it easier and faster for foreigners to apply for residence permits and renew online.

Renewal procedures are done electronically without going to the Provincial Directorates of Migration Management. A valid mobile number and e-mail address must be provided for validation and notification.

This is a welcome development at the start of the cruising season in the Mediterranean.

First applications and applications for transfer between residence permits are received electronically, printed and submitted in hard copy with backup documentation; foreigners are given an appointment for follow-up while the applications are processed. Foreigners must present at the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management on the date of the appointment to complete the procedures. The appointments given by the Foreigners’ Departments prior to 18-05-2015 shall be renewed in the system.

The official promotional flyer for this new service states:

Apply for Residence Permit in 3 Steps

STEP 1 – Fill in the application form

STEP 2 – Collect Documents

STEP 3 – Appear on the Appointment day

Extend Residence Permit in 3 Steps

STEP 1 – Fill in the application form

STEP 2 – Pay the fees

STEP 3 – Send the documentation via postal service

For more information visit the website www.goc.gov.tr

Download the necessary forms and follow the instructions at https://e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr/

The information is presented in English.