The full document list
- Valid passport & high-quality color copies (bio page + entry stamps)
- Signed e-İkamet online application form (printed from goc.gov.tr)
- 4 biometric passport photos (white background, taken within 6 months)
- Potential Tax ID Number (generated via ivd.gib.gov.tr)
- Compliant private Turkish health insurance policy
- Notarized Turkish rental contract (signed at notary, with landlord TAPU)
- Verified building address UAVT registration code
- Proof of sufficient financial means (roughly $1,000-$1,500 USD/month of requested stay, via bank balance or certified income)
- Receipt of paid application & card fees
What actually trips people up
The notarized lease and UAVT code are the two most common blockers — the apartment or neighborhood turns out not to qualify, or the landlord hasn't registered the building correctly. Confirm both before you sign anything. The proof-of-funds requirement is the other common surprise: a casual bank balance screenshot often isn't accepted — it typically needs to be an official bank letter or statement.
Some documents originating outside Türkiye may also need a sworn translation or apostille — see the next page for which ones.
Next: translation & legalization
Which documents need a certified Turkish translation or an apostille, and where to get it done.
Read Translation & Legalization