The question of How to Get Turkish Residency has emerged a popular question for expatriates seeking a new home base for a myriad of reasons, including its favorable climate, rich history, and strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. However, obtaining residency in Turkey requires navigating through a series of legal procedures and regulations. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of the process of applying for a Turkish residence permit.
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Turkey is a country that straddles both Europe and Asia, offering a unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures. It has a diverse and vibrant economy, making it attractive to investors and entrepreneurs. Turkey’s rich historical heritage, combined with its stunning natural landscapes, makes it a popular destination for tourists and expatriates alike.
According to the Law no 6458 on Foreigners and International Protection, foreigners who wish to stay in Turkey for more than the duration allowed by their visa or visa exemption must obtain a residence permit.
Types of Turkish Residency
There are several types of residence permits available for foreigners in Turkey, each catering to different needs and circumstances. These include:
Short-Term Residency
This permit is ideal for foreigners who own real estate in Turkey or intend to establish a business or make business connections in Turkey. It is typically issued for a maximum of two years. However, foreigners who intend to invest in Turkey in amounts and scopes attested by the Council of Ministers can be granted a five-year short-term residence permit.
Long-Term Residency
Foreigners who have continuously resided in Turkey for at least eight years are eligible to apply for a long-term residence permit. This permit is issued indefinitely, meaning there is no need for renewal.
Family Residency
A family residence permit can be granted to the foreign spouse of a Turkish national, their minor children, and their dependent foreign child.
Applying for a Turkish Residency
To successfully apply for a Turkish residence permit, foreigners need to submit several documents and meet certain criteria. All applications are submitted through the e-residence system and processed by the relevant Provincial Directorate of Migration Management (İl Göç İdaresi Müdürlüğü).
For related subject you can read our following article: İkamet Application in Turkey
How to Get Turkish Residency: Short-Term Residence Permit
The initial application requires the following documents:
- Residence permit application form
- Copy of passport or equivalent travel document
- Four biometric photographs
- Proof of financial sufficiency for the duration of the stay
- Documents/receipts for the payment of residence permit fee and card fee
- Valid health insurance
- Title deed proving the applicant’s ownership (if applicable)
Turkish Residency: Application for Extension
Applications for an extension of the residence permit should be made 60 days prior to its expiration. The following documents must be submitted:
- Residence permit application form
- Notarized copy of passport or equivalent travel document
- Four biometric photographs
- Submission of the previous residence permit document
- Proof of financial sufficiency for the duration of the stay
- Valid medical insurance
Legal Assistance in Turkey
Navigating through the complex process of obtaining a Turkish residence permit can be challenging. Professional legal assistance can be invaluable in ensuring a smooth and successful application process. At Han & Partners Law Firm, our English and Turkish speaking team of attorneys are well-versed in Turkish immigration law and are ready to guide you every step of the way.
Our attorneys can help with various aspects of immigration law, including:
- Residence permit applications
- Work permit applications
- Turkish citizenship applications
- Legalization of foreign documents
- Enforcement of foreign court decisions in Turkey
- Company establishment in Turkey
You can learn more about our services and the expertise of our lawyers by visiting our official website.
Important Notes
- The Turkish government encourages foreigners to use the official ministries’ websites for immigration and residence permit procedures and questions. You can visit the official website of the Directorate General of Migration Management for more information.
- Foreigners must ensure that their passport or equivalent travel document is valid for at least 60 days beyond the expiration date of their visa, visa exemption, or residence permit.
- The Turkish government may deny or cancel a residence permit if it is used outside the purposes of those it is issued for, or if the foreigner violates Turkish law.
- The Turkish government may grant an additional 30 days for the completion of missing documents. However, if these documents are not submitted within the specified time, the application may be canceled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main purpose of a Turkish residence permit?
A: A Turkish Residence Permit allows foreigners to live, study, get married, convert to a Turkish driver’s license, get a tax number, open a bank account, purchase property, make investments, and more in Turkey.
Q: How long can I stay in Turkey with a short-term residence permit?
A: A short-term residence permit is typically issued for a maximum of two years. However, foreigners who intend to invest in Turkey in amounts and scopes attested by the Council of Ministers can be granted a five-year short-term residence permit.
Q: Can I work in Turkey with a residence permit?
A: A residence permit does not grant the right to work in Turkey. To work in Turkey, you must obtain a separate work permit.
Q: How can I extend my Turkish residence permit?
A: Applications for an extension of the residence permit should be made 60 days prior to its expiration. You will need to submit a new application form, a notarized copy of your passport or equivalent travel document, four biometric photographs, the previous residence permit document, proof of financial sufficiency for the duration of the stay, and valid medical insurance.
Q: Can Han & Partners Law Firm assist me with my Turkish residence permit application?
A: Our team of experienced attorneys at Han & Partners Law Firm specialize in Turkish immigration law and can assist you throughout the entire application process.
In Conclusion
Securing a Turkish residence permit can be a complex process requiring an understanding of Turkish law and careful preparation of necessary documents. It is recommended to seek professional legal assistance to navigate this process. At Han & Partners Law Firm, our team of experienced attorneys are ready to assist you every step of the way. Do not hesitate to contact us for more information and assistance with your Turkish residence permit application.
