Turkish Residence Permit

An official authorization and confirmation, or in other words, a residence permit, is necessary in the case of an individual who wants to live in Turkey for over 90 days within a half year. Thanks to the residence permit, it is possible to work, study, or settle in the country legally. Remember that this document is different than a regular electronic visa to Turkey.

When you have a Turkish residence permit, you can live, marry, study, open a bank account, purchase properties, invest in the country, and so much more. As a resident, you have similar rights as Turkish citizens. Note that you need to apply for a work permit in case you move to Turkey just to work and don’t need to be a resident.

Besides there are two main types of Turkish work permits: a short-term residence permit and a long-term residence permit. In some circumstances, visitors can be exempt from getting a residence permit (for example, when they are holders of a Registration Certificate for international protection application).

When is a Turkey Residence Permit necessary?

It is illegal to stay in Turkey for more than 3 months as a foreigner without special approval. So all interested visitors who plan to live in Turkey must first obtain a proper residence permit. It is necessary. Otherwise, they may risk problems and even deportation.

Who doesn’t need a Residence Permit?

If you meet one or more of the following requirements, you don’t need to apply for a residence permit in Turkey:

You are a holder of a Registration Certificate for international protection.
You take part in a multilateral convention with Turkey as a participant.
You hold an office in Turkey and are a consulate or diplomatic officer.
You represent international establishments or offices in Turkey.
Your identity card has the tags of international protection applicant/status or statelessness.
You are a holder of a work permit.

Types of Residence Permit in Turkey

There are several types of residence permits in Turkey that depend on visas (for example, a tourist visa), periods of stay, and travel purposes. Check which permit you need below.

Short-term residence permit

A short-term permit can be used if you travel for:

research related to science
business/commercial links
in-service training programs
education, such as exchange programs or learning courses
tourism
medical treatment.

Also, citizens of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus may apply for it.

Family residence permit

A family residence permit in Turkey can be obtained by married couples with children in situations when one of the parents is a Turkish citizen. It is issued for 3 years, and it is not possible to renew it. After that time, it is possible to get a Turkish citizenship.

Long-term residence permit

According to Turkish authorities, those who have lived for at least 8 years in Turkey without interruption can apply for a long-term residence permit.

If you are a conditional refugee, holder of a humanitarian permit, or secondary/temporary protection holder, you can’t obtain a long-term permit.

How can I apply for a Turkish Residence Permit?

You can apply for a Turkey residence permit within one month of arrival in the country. Decide what kind of permit you need and visit the governmental website. Then:

Complete the form and provide the necessary information (name, surname, profession, nationality, date of birth, etc.).
Visit the Central Appointment System website and make an appointment in the Directorate General of Migration Management office.
Receive information about required documents, available dates, and addresses.
Cover the fee and wait for the approval.

What are the required documents for a Turkey residence permit?

If you want to obtain a Turkey Residence Permit, you must prepare the following documents:

an application form
4 face photo
a valid passport for at least 6 months
a notarized copy of a passport or other travel document
proof of sufficient funds.

The validity period of the Residency Permit to Turkey

Depending on the type, the validity period of the Residency Permit to Turkey varies:

Short-term Residence Permit: can be valid for a period of 2 years.
Long-term Permit: can have indefinite validity.
Student Residence Permit: depends on the length of the course/study program.
Family Residence Permit: the validity period is up to 3 years.
Humanitarian Residence Permit: can be valid for 1 year.
Permit for the victims of human trafficking: it can be used for a period of 30 days.

Aleksandra

Aleksandra is an experienced visa expert passionate about writing and creating professional content. She loves reading fantasy books, traveling, and board games. 📚🐱✨