If your residence permit in Türkiye is about to expire and you want to stay on for the same purpose, you need to apply for an extension. An extension is simpler than a first application; however, missing the deadline means you will be overstaying and may lead to a fine.
When should you apply?
An extension application can be made from 60 days before your residence permit expires and must in all cases be made before it expires. We recommend not leaving it until the last few days: if a system error, a missing document or an insurance problem comes up, you will have time to fix it.
Extension application step by step
- Online form: Select the extension application at e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr and enter your details in full, exactly as they appear in your passport.
- Fee and card fee: Pay the residence permit fee (harç) and card fee calculated in the form before your appointment date.
- Appointment: Since 2019, the appointment system has also applied to extension applications. Attend the İl Göç İdaresi Müdürlüğü (Provincial Directorate of Migration Management) on the specified day and at the specified time.
- Documents: The application form, your passport and a photocopy of it, biometric photos, your current residence permit card and, depending on your purpose of stay, proof of income, health insurance and address documents.
- Result: Applications are concluded within 90 days at the latest from the date the documents are submitted in full. If approved, your new card is sent to your address.
Your rights while you wait
- A foreigner who applies for an extension is given a fee-free application document (müracaat belgesi). Even if your permit expires, you can stay in Türkiye with this document until a decision is made.
- For extension applications, the application document is generated automatically by the system; it must be approved by the İl Göç İdaresi Müdürlüğü.
- With the approved application document and fee receipts, you can travel abroad and re-enter without a visa, provided that you return within 15 days each time.
When does the extended permit start?
The extended residence permit starts from the expiry date of the previous permit. You do not lose any of your permit period because of the waiting time.
If your purpose of stay has changed
Have you got married, finished your studies or obtained a work permit? In that case, you need to make a transfer application (geçiş başvurusu) for the new purpose of stay rather than an extension. Applying for the wrong type is one of the most common reasons for refusal.
Common mistakes
- Health insurance that does not cover the entire requested period
- A passport that is not valid for at least 60 days beyond the requested period
- Not reporting a change of address within 20 working days
- Not paying the fee and card fee before the appointment
- Missing the appointment: if your permit has expired, you are treated as overstaying your residence permit
To see the fee you will pay in advance, you can use our Residence Permit Fee Calculator tool.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance can I apply for an extension?
You can apply from 60 days before your permit expires; at the latest, you must apply before it expires.
Can I travel abroad while waiting for the result?
Yes. You can leave with the approved application document and fee receipts and re-enter without a visa, provided that you return within 15 days each time. If you stay away for more than 15 days, the general visa rules apply.
Is a fee also payable for an extension?
Yes, for extension applications the residence permit fee and card fee are also paid before the appointment. Residence permits for students studying at Turkish schools or universities, however, are issued free of charge.
Legal basis: 6458 sayılı YUKK Art. 23, 24; YUKK Uygulama Yönetmeliği Art. 21; Göç İdaresi Başkanlığı frequently asked questions (residence).
This guide is for general information only and does not replace legal advice. Legislation and practice may change; always consult an expert about your own situation.
