Before Arrival in Istanbul
Welcome to Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakıf University (FSMVU). Before arriving, please review the essential steps that will help you begin your Erasmus+ journey smoothly. This guide covers your residence permit, health insurance, departure preparation, airport arrival, orientation process and emergency contacts.
Residence Permit
Apply within 30 days after entering Türkiye.
Insurance
Valid coverage is required for your entire stay.
Preparation
Review your documents, accommodation and contact details.
Orientation
Get ready for your first week at FSMVU.
Residence Permit
Official process for your legal stay after arrival in Türkiye.
All international students must apply for a residence permit within 30 days after entering Türkiye. Applications are made through the official website of the Directorate of Migration Management.
Residence Permit ApplicationHealth Insurance
Essential coverage for a safe and compliant mobility period.
All incoming students are required to have valid health insurance covering their entire stay in Türkiye. The policy must include inpatient and outpatient treatments and be recognized by Turkish authorities. Students may obtain international or local insurance before or after arrival.
Full Duration
Your insurance must remain valid throughout your full mobility period in Türkiye.
Medical Coverage
The policy should include both inpatient and outpatient treatment coverage.
Official Recognition
The insurance should be accepted by the relevant Turkish institutions and authorities.
Pre-Arrival Checklist
Interactive personal checklist to help you prepare before travel.
Readiness Tracker
Tick the items you have completed before travelling to Istanbul.
Airport Information
Compare Istanbul’s two international airports in a more practical way.
Istanbul has two international airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side. Public transportation options — metro, Havaist/Havabus buses, and taxis — are available.
Istanbul Airport
Located on the European side of Istanbul and connected to the city through metro, airport buses and taxis.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | European side of Istanbul |
| Public Transport | M11 metro line, Havaist airport buses, municipal connections |
| Taxi | Available 24/7 from official airport taxi zones |
| Best For | Students arriving from major international destinations |
Sabiha Gökçen Airport
Located on the Asian side of Istanbul with city access via Havabus, public buses, metro links and taxis.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Asian side of Istanbul |
| Public Transport | Havabus, municipal buses, metro-linked transport routes |
| Taxi | Available 24/7 from designated airport taxi stands |
| Best For | Students arriving through regional, low-cost and Asian-side connections |
Orientation Week
Your first structured introduction to the university and student life.
At the beginning of each semester, FSMVU organizes an Orientation Week for new incoming students. Participants are introduced to the campus, registration procedures and academic system. Social and cultural events are also held to help students integrate smoothly.
Campus Introduction
Learn your way around FSMVU campuses, services and student facilities.
Administrative Procedures
Receive guidance on registration, course procedures and institutional systems.
Social Integration
Take part in cultural and social activities to connect with the university community.
Emergency & Useful Contacts
Keep these details accessible during your arrival and stay in Istanbul.
Prepare Early, Arrive Confidently
Keep both printed and digital copies of your important documents, double-check your insurance and accommodation details, and follow the official guidance shared by FSMVU and the relevant Turkish authorities.