What e-ikamet is
e-ikamet (e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr) is the online residence permit application portal operated by the Presidency of Migration Management (Göç İdaresi Başkanlığı). It's the mandatory entry point for every residence permit application in Turkey — there is no paper-only alternative.
What happens when you submit
- You enter your details — personal information, permit grounds, registered address, and financial information.
- The system checks your address — the province and district you enter determines which Provincial Migration Directorate will handle your case.
- An appointment slot is assigned — automatically, based on current availability at that directorate. You can't pick a specific date; the system offers what's open.
- You pay the applicable fees — the application fee (harç) and residence permit card fee, via e-Devlet or a designated bank, before your appointment.
Because appointments are drawn from real capacity at each directorate, wait times differ significantly by province and by season. Major cities with high application volume can have longer waits than smaller provinces.
Preparing for your appointment
Between submission and your appointment date, you should have your complete document file ready: original passport, printed application form, photos, address document, health insurance policy, and any ground-specific documents. Bringing an incomplete file is one of the most common reasons for delays or requests to reschedule.
What happens at the appointment
| Step | What it involves |
|---|---|
| Check-in | Your appointment reference and identity are verified at the directorate |
| Document review | An official checks your file against the requirements for your permit type |
| Biometric capture | Fingerprints and a photo are taken — this step requires your personal presence |
| Signature | You sign your application in front of the official |
The appointment itself typically takes around 30–45 minutes, though this can vary depending on how busy the directorate is that day.
Missing your appointment without a valid, documented reason can result in your application being cancelled — meaning you'd need to start the e-ikamet process again from scratch. If something comes up, seek advice on rescheduling as early as possible.
After your appointment
You'll receive an application reference number you can use to track your case online. By law, a decision must be issued within 90 days. If approved, your physical residence permit card is produced and delivered by PTT Kargo to your registered address — no need to collect it in person.