Changing Your Address with a Residence Permit in Turkey: Step-by-Step Guide

Changing your address with a residence permit in Turkey: step‑by‑step guide

Why updating your address matters

Holding a residence permit (residence card) in Turkey allows foreigners to legally reside in the country, but it comes with obligations. One key requirement is living at the registered address.

Failing to notify authorities of a move can lead to fines, refusal to renew your residence permit, or even its cancellation.

This guide provides a clear step‑by‑step process for updating your address in Turkey:

• Why you must notify authorities
• Step‑by‑step procedure (online and in‑person)
• Required documents
• What to do if you miss the deadline
• Consequences of living at a non‑registered address
• Common mistakes and how to avoid them

1. Why a residence permit is linked to your address

Your residence permit is issued for a specific address, verified through:

• Rental agreement (minimum 6–12 months), or
• Property ownership document (Tapu)

The Göç İdaresi (Immigration Office) checks:

• Whether your actual residence matches the registered address
• If you are renting or subletting unlawfully
• That you are not absent for long periods without updating your registration

Consequences of non‑compliance:

❌ Refusal to renew your residence permit
❌ Fines ranging from 500 to 5,000 TL
❌ Possible cancellation of your residence permit for repeated violations
❌ Problems if authorities check your registered address

2. How to change your address correctly

Step 1: Prepare your documents

Before visiting the immigration office, gather:

• ✅ Valid residence permit (original + copy)
• ✅ Passport (notarized translation if required)
• ✅ New rental agreement or Tapu (for purchased property)
• ✅ Two passport‑sized photos (4×6 cm)
• ✅ Valid health insurance
• ✅ Tax number (Vergi Numarası)
• ✅ Payment receipt for the administrative fee (~160–300 TL)

Important: Rental agreements longer than 1 year must be registered with the tax office. If renting from a relative, a notarized agreement is required.

Step 2: Submit your application

Option 1: Online via e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr

• Visit https://e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr/
• Select “İkamet Adresi Değişikliği” (Change of Address)
• Fill out the form and upload your documents
• Wait for an SMS with your appointment date at Göç İdaresi

Option 2: In‑person at the Immigration Office

• Make an appointment via ALO 157 or the official website
• Submit your documents and receive a ticket for your new residence card

Deadlines: Notify authorities within 20 days of moving. Your new residence card is typically ready in 7–14 days.

Step 3: Receiving the new residence card

After verification, you will receive a new residence card with the updated address.

Old card: ✅ Must be surrendered to the immigration office – ❌ Keeping the old card is a violation.

✅ New card with correct address = fully compliant resident.

3. What happens if you don’t update on time?

• If you miss the 20‑day deadline, submit your application as soon as possible (a fine may apply, but your permit will usually remain valid)
• If the move is hidden for more than 3 months, renewal may be refused
• Police checks may result in fines or immediate requirement to register

Tips to avoid problems: Always update your address within 20 days. If delayed, prepare a written explanation.

⏳ 20‑day rule: Count from moving day. Even one day late = risk fine, but apply immediately.

4. Frequently asked questions

• Can I live somewhere other than my registered address? ❌ No, exceptions are only short trips or relocations with notification.
• Do I need to update if I move within the same neighborhood? ✅ Yes, the address must always be up‑to‑date in the system.
• What if my landlord refuses to register me? Try to negotiate (agents often help). Find another property where registration is possible. If the property belongs to a relative, use a notarized agreement.
• Can I buy a property and not notify authorities? ❌ No, even after purchase, you must update your address within 20 days.

5. Key rules to remember

• Update your address within 20 days of moving
• Don’t hide your move — this risks losing your residence permit
• Always have a valid rental agreement or Tapu
• Check your residence permit before renewal to ensure all address information is current

Tip: If in doubt, consult a migration lawyer. Mistakes when changing your address can be costly.

? Official resources: www.goc.gov.tr · e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr · ALO 157 (free)

Source: Republic of Turkey Directorate General of Migration Management · February 2026