Destinations / Student visa
Turkey student visa
To study in Turkey you need two things in order: a student visa to enter the country, and then a student residence permit to stay for your course. The visa starts with an acceptance letter from a Turkish university.
Visas13
Turkey
Student visa, then residence permit
- Needs
- University acceptance
- Before travel
- Student visa
- After arrival
- Residence permit
Who it is for
- Bachelor's, master's and PhD students
- Students on a Türkiye Scholarships award
- Language-preparation year students
- Exchange students
Documents for the file
This is the usual list. Yours is written for your case after the first assessment.
- Acceptance letter from the Turkish university
- Passport valid well beyond your first year, and recent photos
- Your certificates and transcripts, translated and attested the way the university asks
- Proof of money for fees and living costs, or your sponsor's or scholarship letter
- Health insurance
- Where you will live: dormitory letter or rental plan
How the application goes
Acceptance letter
The visa cannot start without it. If you already have your letter, we begin with the visa file straight away.
Visa file
We prepare the form and check your certificates, funds and insurance against what the consulate asks for.
Appointment
We book your slot at the Turkish visa application centre. You submit the file in person.
Travel and registration
With the visa in your passport you travel and register at the university.
Residence permit
After registering, you apply for the student residence permit, normally within your first month in Turkey. We tell you what to carry for it before you leave.
How long it takes
The consulate sets the decision time, so apply as soon as your acceptance letter arrives. Universities have registration deadlines, and a late visa can cost you the semester.
Good to know
- The student visa only gets you into Turkey. The residence permit is what lets you stay for the whole course.
- Take the originals of your certificates with you. The university will ask for them at registration.
- A visit visa cannot be used to study. Enter on the right visa from the start.
Questions about the Turkey student visa
Can I apply for a Turkey student visa without admission?
No. The consulate asks for the acceptance letter from a Turkish university, or your scholarship award letter. Once you have it, the visa file can be prepared quickly.
Do I need a residence permit if I already have a student visa?
Yes. The visa is for entry. After you arrive and register at the university you apply for a student residence permit, which covers your stay for the course.
Start your Turkey student visa
Send us the basics and we will tell you what your application will involve.
