How to Obtain a Residence Permit in Turkey?

Conditions and Advantages of Obtaining a Residence Permit in Turkey

A residence permit is a legal document that every foreign national who will stay in Turkey for more than the visa or visa exemption period or more than ninety (90) days must obtain from the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management where the foreigner is located. Foreign nationals must obtain a residence permit to stay in Turkey beyond the period covered by their visa. The residence permit is of great importance in maintaining public order, preventing potential adverse situations, and identifying foreign nationals residing in the country. Depending on the need to stay in Turkey, the types of residence permits are as follows: short-term, long-term, family, student, and humanitarian residence permits. Once the appropriate type for the foreign national is determined, the residence permit application can be made.

Working and Residence Permit in Istanbul: How to Get a Residence Permit?

1. How to Obtain a Residence Permit?

You can make a pre-application for a residence permit online. Foreign nationals can apply for a residence permit through the E-residence system on the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management's website. The person who wants to apply must use the option "I am applying for a residence permit for the first time." Then, it is crucial to fill out the "Pre-Registration Form" accurately and completely. After completing the form, an appointment must be made from the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management where you want to reside. On the appointment day and time, you must be present at the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management with the necessary documents for the residence permit, along with a signed copy of the completed Pre-Registration Form.

2. What Documents are Required to Obtain a Residence Permit?

After making the application through the E-residence system, you need to go to the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management at the appointment day and time and present the required information and documents. These documents vary according to the type of residence permit.

2.1. Documents Required for Short-Term Residence Permit

  • Residence Permit Application Form
  • Original and photocopy of passport or equivalent document
  • 4 biometric photos (in ICAO standards)
  • Health insurance
  • Criminal record
  • Documents proving sufficient financial means for the residence permit duration

2.2. Documents Required for Long-Term Residence Permit

  • Residence Permit Application Form
  • Original and photocopy of passport or equivalent document
  • 4 biometric photos (in ICAO standards)
  • Health insurance
  • Criminal record
  • Documents proving sufficient financial means for the residence permit duration
  • Sealed and signed document proving no social assistance was received in the last 3 years
  • Document showing registration in the address registration system (AKS)

2.3. Documents Required for Student Residence Permit

  • Residence Permit Application Form
  • Original and photocopy of passport or equivalent document
  • 4 biometric photos (in ICAO standards)
  • Health insurance
  • Criminal record
  • Active student certificate
  • Documents proving sufficient financial means for the residence permit duration

2.4. Documents Required for Family Residence Permit

  • Residence Permit Application Form
  • Original and photocopy of passport or equivalent document
  • 4 biometric photos (in ICAO standards)
  • Health insurance covering all family members
  • Criminal record
  • Documents proving sufficient financial means for the residence permit duration
  • Document proving marriage
  • Original and photocopy of the sponsor's identity card
  • Document showing registration in the address registration system (AKS)

3. Residence Permit Fees

The costs of a residence permit can change each year. For 2023, the updated amounts are as follows:

  • Residence Permit Card Fee: 356 TL
  • Residence Permit Fee: 1,040 TL
  • Single Entry Visa Fee: 2,304.20 TL
  • Health Insurance Fees: 1,000 TL – 4,000 TL (Varies by the age of the foreign national) (Mandatory for those under 65 years old)
  • Notary and Translation Fee: 1,800 TL
  • Apostille Certification Fee: 89.23 TL / Per page (May not be necessary)
  • If handled by a lawyer, + Lawyer's Fee

4. Extension of Residence Permit

The extension of the residence permit can be done 60 days before the expiry date of the current permit and must be done before the expiry date in all circumstances. To apply for a residence permit extension, you need to use the "I am applying for a residence permit extension" button on the E-Residence website. After filling out the online application form completely through this button, you need to make an appointment from the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management to complete the application process. On the appointment day and time, you must be present with the necessary documents and a printed and signed application form. During the residence permit extension process, if the permit period expires, the foreign national can stay in Turkey until the application is concluded. Residence permit applications are examined by the competent authorities and concluded within 90 days, and can be checked via E-Residence or E-Government.

5. Documents Required for Residence Permit Extension

  • Residence Permit Extension Application Form
  • Original and photocopy of passport or equivalent document
  • 4 biometric photos (in ICAO standards)
  • Health insurance
  • Criminal record
  • Documents proving sufficient financial means for the residence permit duration
  • Additional information and documents required depending on the type of residence permit

6. Rejection, Cancellation, or Non-Extension of Residence Permit

According to Articles 30 and following articles of the Law on Foreigners and International Protection, the regulations regarding the rejection, cancellation, and non-extension of residence permit applications are detailed. Generally, the following conditions are specified in the law as grounds for rejection, cancellation, and non-extension of residence permit applications:

  • Failure to meet one or more of the residence permit conditions or their elimination
  • Determination that the residence permit is used for purposes other than those for which it was granted
  • Existence of a valid deportation or entry ban to Turkey decision against the applicant

7. Appeal Against Residence Permit Application Rejection Decision

As detailed above, residence permit applications of foreign nationals who meet the requirements specified in the legislation are examined and decided by the administration. In some cases, the administration may decide to reject these applications for various reasons. The reason for rejection may be the failure to meet the conditions specified in the legislation, applying with incomplete or incorrect documents, or the administration's discretion. Foreign nationals whose residence permit applications are rejected can file a lawsuit for the annulment of this decision if they believe the rejection decision is unlawful. These lawsuits should be filed in the administrative court in the place where the decision-making administration is located. The period for filing a lawsuit is 60 days from the date the rejection decision is notified to the applicant. Decisions of acceptance or rejection made by the administration regarding residence permit applications are essentially administrative acts. Therefore, these administrative acts must possess all the elements they are required to have to be legally valid. "Annulment of Administrative Acts" can be decided by the court if one or more elements of purpose, subject, reason, authority, and form are found to be defective.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Is it Mandatory to Hire a Lawyer in Administrative Courts?

Turkish law allows parties to represent themselves in courts without a lawyer, except for certain exceptions. It is not mandatory to hire an administrative law lawyer in administrative courts. However, due to the complex structure of administrative law and the strict and short deadlines in the Administrative Procedure Law, it is advisable to seek legal support from lawyers specializing in "Administrative Law" before taking any action to avoid any legal mistakes.

What is a Residence Permit?

It is a permit document issued by the competent authorities for foreign nationals who will stay in Turkey for more than 90 days.

How to Apply for a Residence Permit?

Residence permit applications can be made online through the E-Residence system. The applicant must make an appointment from the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management in the area where they wish to obtain a residence permit. It is possible to obtain a residence permit if the necessary documents are submitted to the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management on the appointed day and time.

What is a Residence Permit Transition Application?

It refers to the application for a change of residence permit type by foreign nationals who are currently residing in Turkey with a residence permit but have experienced a change in their permit type. For example, a foreign national with a student residence permit transitioning to a short-term residence permit after graduation.

What Should People Whose Residence Permit Application is Rejected Do?

The foreign national must file a lawsuit in the administrative court within 60 days from the notification of the rejection decision to them.

What is the Importance of Legal Consultancy in Terms of Residence Permit?

There are periodic changes in the necessary information and documents for the residence permit application process. The residence permit application procedure is a process that requires attention and care, and it is in the interest of the foreign national applicant to have the process followed by a lawyer after completing the application.

My Residence Permit Application Was Rejected, What Can I Do? 

If your application is rejected, what happens next? Firstly, the decision must be officially notified to the applicant. This rejection notice will include information on the right to file a lawsuit for annulment within 60 days. Additionally, the applicant will be warned that they must leave the country within 10 days. This warning is legally known as an "invitation to leave." If the individual continues to stay in the country despite this warning, administrative actions, including deportation and a ban on re-entry, can be initiated.

Since this decision is a unilateral administrative act carried out using public authority, the applicant has 60 days to file a lawsuit for annulment against the rejection decision. However, filing a lawsuit for annulment does not suspend the 10-day period to leave the country. Even if the applicant files a lawsuit, they must still leave the country within 10 days. If this requirement is not met, the administrative warning will be replaced by administrative actions such as deportation and fines.

If your residence permit application is rejected, you may reapply based on a different reason within six months. However, if the new application is based on the same reason, it can only be made after six months.

Given the critical importance of adhering to the 10-day period for leaving the country and the 60-day period for filing a lawsuit, we strongly recommend seeking assistance from a specialized lawyer in this phase.

How to Obtain a Residence Permit in Turkey?

Are you seeking professional assistance for obtaining a residence permit in Turkey? Our expert legal team is ready to help you. The process of applying for a Turkish residence permit involves navigating legal requirements and various bureaucratic steps with precision. We are here to assist you in overcoming any challenges and ensuring a smooth application process.

Our Expertise

1. Short-Term Residence Permit If you plan to stay in Turkey for a short period, we guide you through the necessary documents and application process for a short-term residence permit. We ensure that your application is complete and accurate.

2. Long-Term Residence Permit If you plan to stay in Turkey for an extended period, our expert team is here to assist you with your long-term residence permit application. We help prepare all required documents and ensure your application is successful.

3. Student Residence Permit We offer professional consultancy services for foreign students wishing to study in Turkey. We ensure that your residence permit remains valid throughout your education.

4. Family Residence Permit For those wishing to live in Turkey with their family members, we provide comprehensive support for family residence permit applications. We take all necessary steps to ensure that all family members can legally reside in Turkey.

5. Residence Permit Extension Do you need to extend your current residence permit? We handle all necessary procedures for your extension application and ensure a smooth process.

Why Choose Us?

  • Expert Team: Our experienced lawyers specializing in foreigner law are at your service.
  • Fast and Effective Solutions: We ensure your applications are processed quickly and efficiently.
  • Full Support: We provide complete support at every stage of your application.

We are here to assist you throughout your residence permit application process in Turkey and to provide you with the best possible service. Contact us for more information and to benefit from our services.

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