Istanbul Districts That Still Grant Residence (2025)
A list of Istanbul districts that still grant residence permits to foreigners in 2025, with key tips for buying or renting property there.
After many Istanbul districts were closed to residence permit registration for foreigners, one of the most frequently asked questions is:
"Which Istanbul districts still grant residence permits?"
The good news is that in 2025 there are still fully open and safe districts in Istanbul for renting a home, buying property and getting a residence permit. However, the wrong choice can lead to a residence permit rejection.
In this article, we review the most up-to-date list of open districts in Istanbul.
🟢 Istanbul Districts Open for Foreigners' Residence Permits (2025)
⚠️ Note: residence permit status can change at the neighborhood (Mahalle) level, not just for a whole district.
🏙️ 1. Başakşehir
One of the safest and most popular districts for foreign residents.
Advantages:
- Fully open for residence permits
- New, family-oriented projects
- Excellent metro access
- Suitable for buying property for residence
📌 Suitable for: families, property buyers, long-term residence
🏙️ 2. Beylikdüzü (some neighborhoods)
Beylikdüzü is still open for residence permits in some parts and is popular with foreigners.
Advantages:
- More affordable than the city center
- New projects
- Green and quiet surroundings
⚠️ Be sure to check the exact neighborhood before renting or buying.
🏙️ 3. Arnavutköy
A growing district near the new Istanbul Airport.
Advantages:
- High growth potential
- Suitable for buying land and new projects
- Open for residence permits in 2025
📌 Suitable for investment + residence
🏙️ 4. Kartal
One of the best districts on Istanbul's Asian side that still grants residence permits.
Advantages:
- Access to the metro and the sea
- Modern projects
- Good for living and renting
📌 An excellent choice for foreigners on the Asian side
🏙️ 5. Çekmeköy
A quiet, green, family-friendly district.
Advantages:
- More affordable prices
- Villa and residential projects
- Open for residence permits in 2025
❌ Districts You Should Not Choose (Important Reminder)
Even if you buy a property, residence permits are not granted in these districts:
- Fatih
- Esenyurt
- Avcılar
- Zeytinburnu
- Bağcılar
🔗 (Internal link to the article: Closed Areas in Turkey for Foreigners' Residence Permits)
🧭 Key Points Before Renting or Buying Property
✅ Make an official inquiry with the Immigration Office
✅ Check the Mahalle status
✅ Do not rely on a consultant's verbal word
✅ Get an official contract with the exact address
✅ Use a consultant who specializes in residence permits
✅ Summary
In 2025 it is still possible to get a residence permit in Istanbul, but only in specific, open districts.
Choosing the right district is the most important factor in getting a Turkey residence permit.
If you plan to live in Istanbul or buy property, check the district first, then take action.