How to get residence permit in Turkey

We are pleased to offer comprehensive assistance in obtaining a residence permit in Turkey. This document is required for legal stay in the country after 60 days of residence. A residence permit allows you to reside in the Republic for the duration of its validity.

After 5 years of continuous residence, a property owner can apply for citizenship. Our specialists are always ready to provide consultation on residence permits for foreigners.

Learn about the benefits and specifics of the procedure in our material.

Contents:

• Reasons for obtaining a residence permit in Turkey
• Grounds to get a residence permit in Turkey
• Buy property in Turkey and get residence permit
• Residence permit for starting a business
• Residence permit through marriage
• Residence permit for students
• Tourist residence permit
• Residence permit for medical treatment
• Residence permit for scientific research
• Residence permit for exchange study programs
• Residence permit in the event of losing family residency
• Residence permit by sponsorship
• Foreigners residing in Turkey by court decision
• What you need for residence permit in Turkey
• What documents are needed for residence permit in Turkey
• Insurance in Turkey
• Contacting the Migration Service
• Cost of residence permit in Turkey and application processing time
• Validity period and renewal
• Residence permit application process
• How to pass residence permit interview in Turkey
• Reasons for denial
• Advantages of Turkish residence permit
• Simplified process for obtaining Turkish passport through property purchase
• Professional assistance with property purchases

Reasons for obtaining a residence permit in Turkey

The main reason for obtaining a residence permit is to legalize your stay in the country for an extended period. This opens up a number of advantages for a foreign citizen:

• The ability to receive medical treatment under insurance in local medical institutions.
• The right to enroll children in local public schools.
• The right to buy a car.

In addition to privileges, this document also imposes certain obligations on the owner. For example, after six months of residence, the foreigner becomes a tax resident and is obliged to pay taxes to the Turkish treasury.

Grounds to get a residence permit in Turkey

You can apply for a Turkish ikamet in the following cases:

• Family reunification.
• Work permit.
• Doing business or investing.
• Studying at local universities.
• Humanitarian reasons: victims of human trafficking, refugees.
• Receiving medical care in local clinics.

Let's take a look at the most common types of residence permits in Turkey.

Buy property in Turkey and get residence permit

According to the laws of the Republic of Turkey, a foreign citizen who buys local real estate for a certain amount is granted the right to live in the country. The owner needs to prove ownership of Turkish real estate, i.e., to have a property deed (TAPU).

The minimum investment threshold for obtaining a residence permit in Turkey when buying a property is $200,000. Previously, it started at $50,000. The document is valid for 1-2 years and can be extended if the ownership right remains. The applicant for a residence card can invest in both secondary housing and new residential complexes in Turkey. However, the property must be located in an open quarter (mahalle) as of 1 July 2022, the country does not register applications for residence permits in 1,169 quarters in 15 provinces.

In addition to the investor, family members such as the spouse, parents, and minor children can be included in the application for an investor residence permit in Turkey.

If you are planning to buy property on the Turkish coast, we will show you how to make the most of it. We not only select the optimal property and provide professional transaction support but also help you quickly apply for a residence permit in Turkey.

Residence permit for starting a business

Foreign entrepreneurs planning to register a company in Turkey or find business partners are allowed to apply for a 3-month ikamet. To do this, they must submit a business plan and financial solvency documents to the migration service. An invitation letter from partners may also be required.

Residence permit through marriage

Immigration after marriage is a popular way to move to Turkey and eventually become a citizen. Women who marry Turkish citizens can apply for a residence permit. To do this, they need to provide documents confirming the marriage. The certificate is preferable to be issued by Turkish authorities, but this is not necessary. In the latter case, translation and certification will be required. After submitting the documents, the application review process by the migration service may take several months.

Men who marry Turkish women can also obtain a residence permit on similar terms. It is important to note that the residence permit obtained based on marriage can be extended if the marriage continues. To qualify for citizenship, one must live in a legal marriage with a Turkish citizen for at least 3 years. In case of divorce, the permit is not cancelled. However, if it is proven that the marriage was fictitious, citizenship can be revoked.

Residence permit for students

Foreign students studying at local universities can also obtain a residence permit. In this case, the student's relatives do not have the right to permanent residence in the Republic of Turkey. The permit is only valid for the student and lasts no longer than the duration of their studies.

Tourist residence permit

Travellers can apply for a short-term residency permit in Turkey. To obtain yearlong status, they must submit an appropriate application to the Republic's migration service and pay a registration fee, the amount of which depends on the applicant’s nationality.

They also need to provide health insurance and documents confirming financial solvency and long-term housing, such as a rental agreement.

Residence permit for medical treatment

Foreigners who come to the Republic for medical services may also apply for a residence permit. The duration of the permit will depend on the treatment period. A contract with the clinic and receipts for services paid must be attached to the application.

Residence permit for scientific research

Scientists can apply for a residence permit in Turkey to conduct research in the country. To do this, they must submit the relevant application to the migration service along with a permit to carry out activities. The document can be obtained from the institution or organization with which the research is associated, for example, the Ministry of Energy.

Residence permit for exchange study programs

Exchange students can get a residence permit in Turkey. The permit’s duration equals the length of the study period.

One of the most popular exchange programs in the Republic is Erasmus. To participate, foreign students must have good academic performance, study at their university for at least 1–2 years, and pass a language test in English or Turkish to confirm a B2 level or higher.

Residence permit in the event of losing family residency

Foreigners who lose their family residence permit due to the death of a spouse, divorce, or reaching the age of majority can apply for a short-term Turkish RP. However, former spouses and children are allowed to apply only if they have resided in the country for at least 3 years. This requirement does not apply in cases of proven domestic violence or the death of a spouse.

Residence permit by sponsorship

Residents who have settled in the Republic can invite close relatives to move to Turkey. In this case, the latter receive a residence permit based on sponsorship. At the same time, the inviting party must prove that they will provide housing and financial support for the family members. Holders of this type of permit can reside only at the address specified in the sponsorship.

Documents for a residence permit in Turkey include:

• Completed application form.
• Passport.
• Health insurance policy.
• Photographs.
• Sponsorship letter.
• Documents confirming the residence of the inviting party (e.g., rental agreement or property ownership certificate).
• Documents confirming the financial solvency of the inviting party (e.g., income statement or bank statement).

Foreigners residing in Turkey by court decision

Individuals staying in the country by a court decision are granted a residence permit. The validity of the permit depends on the information specified in the ruling, such as the date of conclusion of the proceedings and related administrative procedures.

What you need for residence permit in Turkey

The main conditions for obtaining a residence permit in Turkey include:

• Being of legal age.
• No criminal record.
• No serious infectious diseases.
• Having purchased or rented housing (either houses or apartments in Turkey).
• Having grounds for staying in the country.
• Financial solvency.

What documents are needed for residence permit in Turkey

Collecting documents is the most important step in the process. The following are mandatory:

• An application, which can be submitted online via the migration service's website.
• A passport valid for at least 60 days beyond the end date of the residence permit—both the original and a copy.
• 4 biometric photos on a white background, taken face forward and centered.
• Documents proving the applicant’s financial stability.
• A property ownership certificate (for the relevant residence permit category).
• A health insurance policy.
• A receipt confirming the payment of the state duty.

In some cases, additional documents may be required. The final set of required papers depends on the grounds for issuing the residence permit.

Insurance in Turkey

Health insurance is a key requirement when applying for a residence permit. It can be obtained from a public or private company. Life-threatening and chronic illnesses can be grounds for denial of insurance and, consequently, denial of a residence permit.

According to the migration service’s requirements, the health insurance must cover:

• Emergency assistance.
• Outpatient services.
• Inpatient treatment.

If you are applying for a short-term residence permit (e.g., for six months), a foreign insurance policy may suffice, provided it meets the migration service’s standards. The policy must be notarized and officially translated into Turkish.

Contacting the Migration Service

The first step in obtaining a residence permit is to submit an application on the migration service's website. Electronic prompts will guide you through filling out the form correctly. Once the application is submitted, you must verify the readiness and accuracy of your document package. The final checklist will appear on the website after applying. The site will also indicate the office where you need to submit your documents and the amount of the state duty. The payment receipt must be attached to your documents. The date of your appointment will be sent via SMS or email.

Cost of residence permit in Turkey and application processing time

When applying for a residence permit in the Republic of Turkey, it is important to consider the costs associated with the state fee, health insurance, and notary services. The fee covers the issuance of a plastic card and the provision of public services. Its amount depends on the applicant’s country of origin and the grounds for applying for a residence permit.

The cost of health insurance varies. The final price depends on several factors, including the scope of services, the applicant’s health condition, and age.

Translation and notary services will cost around $200.

The processing time for properly submitted documents is up to 90 days. If the application is approved, the plastic residence card will be mailed to you. In case of rejection, an official notice will also be sent, specifying the reasons.

Validity period and renewal

A residence permit can have varying validity periods, ranging from three months to five years, depending on the grounds for issuance. If necessary, it can be extended without leaving the country. For example, family residence permits are issued for up to three years, while short-term permits are valid for up to one year. Those who have lived in Turkey for more than eight years, without leaving the country for more than a year over 5 years or more than 180 days in a year, can obtain permanent residency.

How to extend a residence permit in Turkey? Apply to the migration service in person or online. Foreigners must confirm that they have adhered to the rules of maintaining residency status and have not violated the country's laws.

Residence permit application process

The process of obtaining a residence permit in Turkey by property investment or other grounds includes the following steps

• Property selection: The applicant may purchase a secondary market property or invest in real estate from a developer in Turkey valued at least $200,000. Alternatively, they can sign a rental agreement. The agreement must include the owner’s passport details and tax identification number, as well as the details of all adults applying for residency status. It must be notarized.
• Document preparation and submission: The foreigner must fill out the application form, take biometric photos, obtain a health insurance policy, translate documents into Turkish, and notarize them. Prepared documents can be submitted to the migration service either in person or remotely.
• Interview: The applicant must attend the migration service at the appointed date and time. They will be asked a few questions in English or Turkish. Translators are allowed at the interview.
• Obtaining a Tax Identification Number: After successfully passing the interview, the foreigner must obtain a tax identification number from the Turkish tax office.
• Receiving the residence permit: The residence permit for investments will be mailed to the applicant. A tracking number will be provided via SMS to follow the parcel.

How to pass residence permit interview in Turkey

The interview is a crucial step in the process of obtaining a residence permit for immigration to Turkey. The date and time of the interview will be scheduled after the application is submitted to the migration service.

The applicant must present originals and copies of the documents submitted with the application, as well as a medical certificate, criminal record, and marriage certificate (if applicable). Additionally, the applicant must answer several questions about the purpose of the application, employment intentions, and financial stability.

Upon successful completion of the interview, the foreigner will be granted a temporary residence permit, which acts as proof of application submission. This document is valid until the residence permit is officially issued.

From the moment of application, the applicant must remain in Turkey until the interview day. After passing the interview, they may leave the country for a maximum of 15 days, provided they notify the migration service.

Reasons for denial

Typically, anyone who has legal grounds and submits the necessary documents will receive a residence permit. However, some reasons can lead to denial, including:

• Missing one or more required documents.
• Incorrectly completed documents.
• Submission of falsified documents.
• The applicant being banned from entering the Republic.
• Unpaid fines for visa violations.
• Insufficient financial stability.
• A criminal record or criminal charges.
• Providing false information.
• Lack of grounds for entry.
• A potential threat to national or public security.
• The presence of diseases dangerous to society.

These reasons can lead to the rejection of the residence permit application. Therefore, it’s important to be diligent when completing the form and preparing the required documents. We recommend seeking professional assistance for qualified help in obtaining a residence permit when purchasing property.

Advantages of Turkish residence permit

Obtaining a residence permit in Turkey has several advantages:

• Lower costs for clothing and groceries, with abundant fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Access to quality healthcare services.
• Ample opportunities for building a career and business.
• Excellent climate and good environmental conditions.
• The ability to vacation on the Mediterranean coast at any time.
• The opportunity to provide children with an education that meets international standards.
• The right to apply for permanent residency in Turkey after eight years of residence.

These are just some of the advantages that come with a residence permit in Turkey. Today, it is one of the most popular destinations among foreign property buyers.

NEW!Simplified process for obtaining Turkish passport through property purchase

Purchasing property in Turkey, a residency permit can be obtained as part of the process. But this is not the only opportunity available to foreign buyers. Investors who purchase one or more properties with a combined value of $400,000 or more are eligible to apply for Turkish citizenship.

Professional assistance with property purchases

We are ready to help anyone dreaming of life in a warm country by the sea. With our support, you can successfully purchase a home in a modern complex and quickly obtain a residence permit. Contact us, and we will assist with all tasks related to purchasing property and obtaining an RP in Turkey! Call us now at +90 (533) 782-00-00!