Iranian Passport Renewal in Turkey

The Importance of Timely Passport Renewal in Turkey

Turkey is a second home to many Iranians; from students and business people to tourists. For all these individuals, a passport is not just a booklet, but their identity document and legal residence permit. Iran's consular service systems have undergone many changes in recent years and have become electronic. If you are not familiar with the "Mikhak" system or do not know exactly which consulate to visit, you may lose a lot of time and money. In this guide, we explain all the steps to you in simple and practical language.

Which Iranian Consulate in Turkey is Right for You?

Iran has four main representations in Turkey. Although the Mikhak system allows you to register your application for any of them, it is better to visit the center closest to your residence to speed up your process:

• Iranian Embassy in Ankara: For residents of the capital and central and southern cities. (Çankaya district)

• Consulate General of Istanbul: The busiest center, suitable for residents of Istanbul and surrounding cities (Marmara region). (Fatih district)

• Consulate General of Erzurum: The best option for residents of Eastern Turkey and those traveling overland.

• Consulate General of Trabzon: Responsible for handling affairs for Iranians residing in the Black Sea coastal cities.

2. The Mikhak System; The First Step for Passport Renewal

What is the Mikhak System and Why is it Necessary?

No more filling out paper forms in the embassy queue! The Mikhak system (mikhak.mfa.gov.ir) is your gateway to consular services. All identification and application registration steps must be completed on this website before an in-person visit. Experience has shown that most people's problems at the consulate stem from incomplete information in this system.

Guide to Registration and Obtaining a Tracking Code

To start, register on the site using your National ID and mobile number (or email).

• Important Technical Tip: Be sure to use the Google Chrome browser for the site to function correctly.

• Document Upload: Prepare scanned copies of documents (Birth Certificate, National ID Card, previous passport) in JPG format and a size less than 300 KB. Low photo quality will cause the file to be returned.

Solving the "Identity Information Discrepancy" Problem

If you encounter the terrifying "Information Discrepancy" error, do not worry. There is no need to travel to Iran. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has designated a special WhatsApp number (+989108106635) to resolve this issue. Simply send a message and the documents, and the problem will be solved in the system.

Tracking Code; The Key to Consular Entry

After completing the forms, the system will give you a 12-digit tracking code. Be sure to print this code. Without this sheet and its barcode, nothing will be done for you at the consulate.

3. Online Appointment Scheduling; How to Get an Embassy Appointment?

Goodbye to Long Queues

To visit any of Iran's consulates in Turkey (Ankara, Istanbul, Erzurum), you must book an online appointment in advance. The appointment website (appointment.mfa.ir) is separate from the Mikhak system, but you usually need the Mikhak tracking code to book a passport appointment.

Best Time for Visit

• Working Hours: Usually mornings (8:30 to 12:00) are dedicated to submitting documents. In the afternoons, consulates are either closed or dealing with internal affairs.

• Golden Tip: Consulates are closed during official Iranian and Turkish holidays. Check the calendar of both countries before booking a trip to another city.

4. Required Documents for Passport Replacement (Checklist)

When Should We Apply?

The best time is when less than one year remains before your passport expires. You should also apply for replacement if your passport pages are full or your name has changed.

Essential Documents You Must Not Forget

1. Current Passport: You must submit the original passport.

2. Birth Certificate with Photo: Mandatory for individuals over 15 years old. (If your birth certificate is old, you must also pay a replacement fee of 30-35 Euros).

3. Smart National ID Card: Original card or application receipt.

4. Turkish Residence Card (Kimlik): Original valid residence card. This document proves you are legally in Turkey.

5. Biometric Photo: One new photo (taken within the last 6 months), full face, white background, without a hat or glasses. Women (over 9 years old) must have full hijab (the round shape of the face must be visible).

6. Military Service Completion Card: For men aged 18 to 50.

What is Change of Residence?

If your previous passport stated your place of residence as "Iran" and you now reside in Turkey, you must apply for a "Change of Residence." This costs about 20 Euros but provides benefits such as customs exemptions when returning to Iran.

5. Special Conditions for Students, Conscripts, and Women

Free Student Passport Replacement!

If you are studying at universities approved by the Ministry of Science or Health in Turkey, the good news is that you can get a passport for free.

• Necessary Condition: You must create a student file in the Mikhak system and have your educational documents (Görünci Belgesi) approved.

• Advantages: In addition to a free passport for yourself (and your spouse and children), you can get a student exit stamp and travel to Iran without collateral.

Military Conscripts

Men who have not completed military service but have 3 years of legal residence abroad can obtain a "Special Exit Stamp for Conscripts" by paying a fee and travel to Iran twice a year.

Women and Spousal Consent

According to the law, married women require the written consent of their husband to receive a passport.

• Easy Method: The husband can enter the Power of Attorney section in the Mikhak system (even from Iran) and register "Spousal Exit Consent." The tracking code for this consent is sufficient for the consulate in Turkey, and there is no need to send a paper document.

6. Lost Passport in Turkey; Immediate Actions

What Should We Do if the Passport is Lost?

1. Immediately go to the Turkish police and get a lost property report (Kayıp Eşya Tutanağı). 2. Register a "Lost Passport" application in the Mikhak system. 3. If you are a resident of Turkey, apply for a new passport (it costs more). 4. If you are a traveler and need to return quickly, apply for an "Emergency Travel Document" (Bargh-e Obour), which is issued faster and is cheaper (only for return to Iran).

7. Passport Replacement Fees in Turkey (1403-1404 / 2024-2025)

Service Price Table (Euros and Lira)

Prices are set in Euros, but payment at the consulate is usually made with Turkish Lira (equivalent to the daily rate) and only with a bank card. Do not bring cash!