Turkey accepts applications for residence permits (residence permits) for foreign nationals to stay in Turkey for long periods of time. A residence permit allows foreigners to live and legally reside in Turkey for a certain period of time. However, obtaining a residence permit in Turkey is subject to certain conditions and the application process is subject to legal regulations. Therefore, it is of utmost importance for foreigners seeking a residence permit to follow the correct procedures. Here is what you need to know and the application process to obtain a residence permit in Turkey.
What is a Residence Permit in Turkey?
A residence permit is an official document that allows foreign nationals to reside in Turkey and live in the country for a certain period of time. The application for a residence permit in Turkey is handled by the Directorate General of Migration Management under the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Turkey. While a residence permit grants foreigners various rights, it also brings legal responsibilities.
Foreigners who wish to obtain a residence permit in Turkey must comply with the application requirements and submit the necessary documents in full. Residence permits can be issued in two forms: short-term and long-term.
Short-Term Residence Permit
A short-term residence permit is a type of permit that usually lasts less than 1 year. This permit allows foreigners to stay in Turkey temporarily. Short-term residence permits can be obtained for reasons such as student visas, tourist trips, commercial activities.
Long Term Residence Permit
A long-term residence permit is valid for people who want a longer residence permit and provides the right to reside in Turkey for an extended period of time. This type of permit can be applied for by foreigners who have resided in Turkey for at least 8 years.
Documents Required for Residence Permit in Turkey
Foreigners who will apply for a residence permit in Turkey are required to prepare certain documents. These documents may vary depending on the type of residence permit applied for. However, the documents generally required are as follows:
Passport and Identity Document
The official passport of the applicant country must be valid for at least 60 days. A photocopy of the passport must be attached to the application file.
Application Form
The residence permit application form can be obtained from the official website of the General Directorate of Migration Management in Turkey. The form must be filled in completely and accurately.
Biometric Photo
Biometric photographs to be used in the application, usually 2 may be requested.
Health Insurance
Foreigners are required to have health insurance in order to reside in Turkey. Insurance is mandatory in order to benefit from health services in Turkey.
Residence Address
At the time of application, a document proving your residence address in Turkey (lease agreement, title deed, etc.) is required.
Documents Indicating Financial Status
Depending on the type of residence permit applied for, the applicant’s financial situation must be at a certain level. Documents such as bank statements or payslips may be required.
Other Documents (Depending on Application Type)
Documents such as a student certificate for students, tourism documents for touristic applications, employment contract or chamber of commerce registration may be required for business applicants.
Residence Permit Application Process in Turkey
The application process to obtain a residence permit in Turkey should be followed step by step. Here are the basic steps to be followed in this process:
Preparation of Required Documents
The first step is to prepare all the necessary documents for the residence permit application. Once the documents are completed, the place of application is determined.
Making an Application
Residence permit applications are submitted to local units in Turkey that are authorized to issue residence permits for foreigners as determined by the Directorate General of Migration Management. Applications are usually submitted online, but in some cases the application may need to be submitted physically.
Evaluation of the Application
After the application is submitted, the application documents and the correctness of the address are examined by the Migration Management. On average, this process can take up to 30 days.
Delivery of Residence Permit Card
If the application is approved, the foreigner is issued a residence permit card valid in Turkey. This card allows the person to reside legally in Turkey.
Extension of Residence Permit (Residence Permit)
The duration of the residence permit may vary according to the period initially granted. If the foreigner wishes to stay longer in Turkey, the residence permit may be extended. The application for extension of the residence permit must be submitted at least 60 days before the expiry date. The extension application is submitted with the same documents and is evaluated by the Migration Management.
Legal Support to Obtain a Residence Permit in Turkey
Obtaining a residence permit in Turkey can be a complex process in terms of legal procedures and documentation. Seeking legal assistance in this process ensures that the application process goes smoothly and that the correct documents are submitted. An immigration lawyer can assist at every stage, from preparing the appropriate documents for the type of residence permit applied for, to making the application correctly.
As a team of experts in foreigners’ law in Istanbul, we follow your residence permit application process on your behalf. We are at your side to defend the legal rights of foreigners in Turkey and to ensure the correct functioning of legal processes.
Contact Us
You can contact us for legal guidance and professional support at every stage of the residence permit application process. Work with an expert foreigners’ law attorney to get legal residency in Turkey and avoid any difficulties in the application process.
