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Residence Permits for Foreigners

A residence permit is a legal document issued by the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management that allows foreigners who wish to stay in Turkey beyond their visa duration. This permit specifies the duration the foreigner is allowed to stay in Turkey.

 


Regulations related to residence permits are outlined in the Law on Foreigners and International Protection and Law No. 5863. Foreigners who wish to stay in Turkey beyond their visa duration are required to obtain a residence permit.
 

The mandatory residence permit processes aim to protect public health and order. Additionally, it is crucial to effectively monitor every foreign resident in the country.
 

There are different types of residence permits in Turkey, tailored to various needs:
 

  • Short-Term Residence Permit

  • Long-Term Residence Permit

  • Family Residence Permit

  • Student Residence Permit

  • Victims of Human Trafficking Permit

  • Humanitarian Residence Permit

Short-Term Residence Permit for Foreigners

Individuals who own property in Turkey or plan to start a business in Turkey can apply for a short-term residence permit. Applications must be made through the e-residence system, and required documents must be sent to the relevant Provincial Directorate of Migration Management.

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The key point about short-term residence permits is that they are issued for two years at a time. Exceptionally, foreigners who make investments within the specified amount or scope can obtain a five-year short-term residence permit for themselves and their families. Investors also have the chance to obtain Turkish citizenship or a long-term residence permit.
 

Conditions for Rejection or Cancellation of a Short-Term Residence Permit

  1. A decision is made to deport the foreign national.

  2. The foreign national has stayed abroad for longer than the allowed duration or has a ban on entering the country.

  3. Engaging in activities outside the purpose of the short-term residence permit.

  4. Non-compliance with the conditions of the short-term residence permit.

Long-Term Residence Permit

Foreigners who have stayed in Turkey with a residence permit for eight uninterrupted years are eligible to apply for a long-term residence permit. Applications must be submitted with the necessary documents to the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management. Long-term residence permits are indefinite, so no renewal is required.

Conditions for Rejection or Cancellation of a Long-Term Residence Permit

  • Engaging in behavior that threatens public order and security.

  • Residing outside Turkey for more than one year, except for compulsory reasons.

Student Residence Permit for Foreigners

A student residence permit is a type of permit that allows foreign students to stay in Turkey during their studies. To obtain a student residence permit, the individual must be enrolled in an educational institution affiliated with YÖK (Higher Education Council) or MEB (Ministry of National Education) in Turkey.

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Necessary documents for a student residence permit include a completed application form, health insurance, proof of financial means, a passport copy, a photo, and a current student certificate.
 

Family Residence Permit

A family residence permit is granted to foreigners married to Turkish citizens. Children under 18 who are included in the family residence permit do not need to obtain a student permit for their education.

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In case of separation, foreigners who have lived in Turkey for at least three years with a family residence permit can apply for a short-term residence permit. If the couple divorces, the child’s custody document must be provided.

How to Extend a Residence Permit?

Residence permit extension applications must be made starting 60 days before the permit’s expiration date. Extension applications are made online through the e-residence system.

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After the online application, an appointment must be made, and the relevant fee must be paid.
 

How to Obtain a Residence Permit Linked to a Work Permit?

Having a residence permit alone is not sufficient for foreigners to work in Turkey. Foreigners must also have a work permit to work in Turkey. If a foreigner is found to be working without a work permit, necessary legal actions are taken, and they may be deported.

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A work permit grants the right to a residence permit. Therefore, a residence permit can be obtained based on a work permit. To obtain a work permit, the company must apply on behalf of the foreigner. For detailed processes and important information on work permits, please refer to our foreign work permit article.
 

What Should Foreigners Do if Their Residence Permit Application is Rejected?

If a foreigner's residence permit application is rejected, they must file an appeal in the administrative court within 60 days of the rejection decision.

How to Check Residence Permit Status?

Residence permit applications are made online, and the status of these applications can also be checked online. In addition to the application result, other related queries can be made online as well.

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The e-residence system allows applications to be monitored 24/7, preventing users from wasting time and effort during the residence permit application process.

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