Short-term Residence Permit for Scientific Research
Turkey
Last updated: December 29, 2025
2 years (renewable)
$160-$190
4-8 weeks
Medium
About this Visa
This visa lets you live in Turkey while doing scientific research. You can work as a researcher at universities, museums, or research centers. You don't need a separate work permit for your research job. This visa is for people doing advanced research—like PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and visiting scholars. You need a Turkish institution to sponsor you. The visa is renewable and currently active. Turkey accepts applications from all countries.
Key Benefits
- Legal right to live in Turkey for 2 years
- Conduct scientific research without additional permits
- Bring spouse and children with family permits
- Open Turkish bank account
- Enroll children in Turkish schools
- Travel freely in and out of Turkey
- Work other jobs with separate work permit
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Age 18 or older
- No serious criminal record
- No deportation orders from Turkey
- Turkish institution must sponsor research
- Valid passport
- Minimum $773 USD monthly income or $9,268 USD savings
- Valid health insurance for entire stay
- Medical exam showing no serious infectious diseases
- Cannot register in closed Istanbul neighborhoods: Avcılar, Bahçelievler, Bağcılar, Başakşehir, Esenler, Esenyurt, Fatih, Küçükçekmece, Sultangazi, Zeytinburnu
Financial Requirement
Approximately $773 USD per month in income OR $9,268 USD in savings, proven with 3 months bank statements
Documents
- Application formCompleted from online e-İkamet system
- Valid passportMust be valid 60+ days after permit ends
- Biometric photos2-4 recent photos, white background, within 6 months
- Bank statementsLast 3 months showing financial stability
- Health insuranceValid coverage for entire stay
- Proof of residenceRental agreement or property deed
- Sponsor letterFrom Turkish university, museum, or research center describing research
- Criminal record certificateFrom home country
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.