Expats's Guide for Getting a Residence Permit in Turkey

Foreign country citizens who wish to extend their stay in Turkey for more than 90 days must obtain a residence permit. Getting a Turkish residence permit is a smooth process that comes with a wide range of options.

This article explains all about Turkey’s residence permits, from types to the application process.

Types of Resident Permit in Turkey

There are 6 types of residence permits in Turkey. These are:

1. Short-Term Residence Permit

The duration of a short-term residence permit in Turkey is 1 to 2 years, depending on the purpose of the visit. The visa serves numerous purposes. These include tourism, medical treatment, scientific research, business, academic research, education, or internship.

The best way to obtain a short-term residence permit is to make a real estate investment of over USD 200.000. You can enjoy a 2-year residence permit after buying real estate. You can renew your visa as long as you hold your property.

Another good way to obtain short-term residence is to apply for a Digital Nomad Visa. You can spend 1 year as a digital nomad in Turkey and reapply 2 times. A Digital Nomad Visa does not grant a work permit, just like a tourist residence permit.

2. Family Residence Permit

Foreign spouses, minor children, and dependent children can apply for a family residence permit in Turkey. The permit is valid for up to 3 years. The family residence permit also allows minor children to get an education without a student visa.

3. Student Residence Permit

Student residence permits target secondary education students over the age of 18. The duration depends on the length of education. Students can apply for a short-term visa following the 6 months of their graduation. This second visa is not renewable and allows up to 1 year of residence.

4. Permanent (Long-Term) Residence Permit

You can apply for an indefinite long-term residence permit after 8 years of stay in Turkey.

Long-term visa holders have the same rights as Turkish citizens, except for joining elections, military service, or working in public service. If you want to obtain Turkish citizenship and a Turkish passport, you can read our related blog post.

Application criteria for a permanent residence permit include:

• Not having been abroad for 180 days in the last year and 365 days in the last five years
• Not having any criminal records
• Not having received any financial aid from the government
• Holding a valid health insurance
• Having enough financial resources

5. Humanitarian Residence Permit

The humanitarian residence permit targets refugees who suffer from human rights violations and civil war. It can also be granted for a child’s best interest. The visa grants a 1-year residency right.

6. Resident Permit for Victims of Human Trafficking

The permit duration is 30 days, which can be extended for up to 6 months. The maximum duration of the visa can be 3 years.

Obtaining a Residence Permit with Property Investment

Buying real estate in Turkey is the most popular option for obtaining residence permits. The property must be residential and used for that purpose. Spouses and minor and dependent children are also included in the visa. It is essential to keep the property at hand.

The duration of a property residence permit is 2 years. You can reapply after this period. It is possible to get a permanent visa after 8 years of total residence.

FAQ

Here are the most frequently asked questions about Turkish residency permits.

Q1. Why get a Turkish residence permit?
A. There are various advantages to getting a residence permit. Here are some:

• Visa-free entry to Turkey
• Work permit after 6 months of residence
• Enjoying marvelous cities like Antalya, İzmir, İstanbul, Ankara, or Muğla
• Access to high-quality health services
• Receiving accredited education
• Shortcut to affordable Turkish citizenship after long-term residency

Q2. How to Get a Residence Permit in Turkey?
A. You can apply for a residence permit in a Turkish consulate in your home country. The second option is to arrive in Turkey with a tourist visa and apply afterward.

It is possible to apply for a Turkish residence permit online. You need to fill in the residence permit application form on e-ikamet website. When your application is approved, you need to visit a Migration Management office.

Q3. What are the requirements for a Turkish residence permit?
A. The exact application requirements depend on the residential purpose. In general, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Must have valid health insurance (if the applicants are between the ages of 18 and 65).
• The main applicant must be over the age of 18.
• Must hold sufficient financial resources.

Q4. Which documents do I need for a residence permit application?
A. Necessary documents depend on the nature of your application. They often include notarized Turkish translations of:

• Copy of your passport
• Biometric photograph
• Financial declaration
• Health insurance
• Address documentation

Q5. How much is a residence permit in Turkey?
A. The residence permit document costs TL 565.00 in 2024. The fee amount depends on the applicant's citizenship. Please refer to the official Migration Management website for exact fee amounts by country.

Q6. Do I need a residence permit if I have a work permit?
A. No. Your work permit also serves as a residence permit.

Q7. How do I renew my Turkish residence permit?
A. You need to apply to a Presidency of Migration Management 60 days before your residence permit expires. See if your residential permit is renewable in nature.

Q8. How to get a residence permit with real estate investment?
A. First, you need to find a residential property worth at least USD 200.000. Secondly, you need to apply for a residence permit through the Presidency of Migration Management. Your application will be concluded within a couple of weeks. The documents you need include:

• Photocopy of the original, signed/e-signed, and sealed/stamped title deed
• Your passport and its sworn translation
• 4 biometric photos
• Valid health insurance

Build Your Dream Life in Turkey

Getting a residence permit in Turkey is a hassle-free process with the right guidance. Our in-house lawyers offer legal assistance and power of attorney services to ensure a smooth process.

Turkey is an amazing country, offering a tranquil atmosphere, vibrant city life, lush green nature, and pristine beaches. If you want to buy a property for sale in Turkey, you can contact our team of experts. They are ready to find the perfect home according to your needs, dreams, and budget.

Ready to start your new life in Turkey? Contact our team for expert assistance and enjoy a smooth and secure property-buying journey!

*For more information about the residence permits, feel free to reach out to us or visit the official Migration Management website.

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