Incoming Researchers
To ensure smooth visa procedures and maintain accurate institutional records, all academic units hosting international researchers are kindly requested to take note of the following procedures.
1. Official Invitation Letter with QR Code
The International Students Office issues official invitation letters with QR codes for international researchers invited to Ankara University. These letters facilitate visa procedures and may be verified by embassies when necessary.
To request an official invitation letter, the hosting academic unit should submit the following documents to the International Students Office via the e-BEYAS system:
- A signed petition/request letter;
- The research or work plan of the invited researcher.
The QR-coded invitation letters are accepted not only for embassy visa applications but also for applications to TÜBİTAK and relevant governmental funding bodies.
2. Registration in the VARSİS System
To ensure proper recording of international mobility activities, information regarding the following individuals must be entered into the “International Office” section of the VARSİS system by the VARSİS representatives of the relevant units.
Incoming Visitors
- All international researchers visiting Ankara University outside the Erasmus programme;
- International academic and administrative staff;
- Short-term visitors, even if the duration of the visit is only one day.
Outgoing Staff
- Academic and administrative staff of Ankara University travelling abroad for research, training, projects, or academic collaboration outside the Erasmus programme.
3. Contact Information
For inquiries and requests regarding official invitation letters, please contact:
International Students Office
Ankara University
📧 iso@ankara.edu.tr
☎ +90 312 380 00 53
📍 International Center Building, Beşevler 10th Year Campus, Ankara, Türkiye
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can receive an official invitation letter?
International researchers, visiting scholars, and academic staff invited by an academic unit of Ankara University for research, teaching, project activities, or academic collaboration purposes.
Which documents are required for an invitation letter?
- A signed request letter from the hosting unit;
- A research/work plan prepared by the invited researcher.
How far in advance should the request be submitted?
To avoid possible delays in visa procedures, requests should preferably be submitted a month before the planned arrival date.
Can invitation letters be issued for TÜBİTAK fellows?
Yes. QR-coded official invitation letters may also be used for TÜBİTAK fellowship and other governmental funding applications.
Is VARSİS registration required for one-day visits?
Yes. All international researchers and personnel visiting Ankara University outside the Erasmus programme must be registered in the VARSİS system, regardless of the duration of their stay.
Does the International Students Office handle visa applications?
No. Visa applications are the responsibility of the individual researcher. However, the International Students Office provides official invitation letters and guidance regarding the required procedures.