Turkey

Turkey is not in the EU, so the same rules apply to all international students – EU/EEA citizens included.

Entry: most visitors need a passport. Citizens of some European countries can enter with a national ID card – the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs publishes the list. Many nationalities, including most EU citizens, can come without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, but only for tourism or business; the e-visa is also for tourism and business only.

Student visa: according to Study in Türkiye, students must get a student visa from a Turkish embassy or consulate; you can start the application online at konsolosluk.gov.tr. Apply as soon as you have your admission letter.

Note: Study in Türkiye says a student visa is required, but some universities (e.g. METU, ITU) say you can also apply for the residence permit after visa-free entry – check with the Turkish embassy and your university's international office before you travel.

Student residence permit (öğrenci ikamet izni): you apply online in the e-ikamet system of the Presidency of Migration Management before your visa or visa-free period expires. You will need, among other things:

• the application form and a copy of your passport,
• two biometric photos,
• a certificate of student status and proof of address,
• health insurance for the whole period of your stay.

Instead of a private policy, you can join the Turkish general health insurance (GSS) within 3 months of enrolling. Students do not pay a fee for the permit itself, only for the card – at METU in 2026 this is 964 TL. Many universities help you with the application through their international office.