WORK PERMIT, RESIDENCE PERMIT AND RELATED EXCEPTIONS AND EXEMPTIONS IN TÜRKİYE

WORK PERMIT, RESIDENCE PERMIT AND RELATED EXCEPTIONS AND EXEMPTIONS IN TÜRKİYE

 

Pursuant to the Law No. 6735 on International Labour Force, a “foreigner” is a person who does not have citizenship ties with the Republic of Türkiye. In this study, the conditions for work and residence permits for foreigners in Türkiye and their exemption conditions have been analysed and the following guideline has been prepared for obtaining the relevant permits.

 

1. WORK PERMIT

 

Work permits issued by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security or by public institutions and organisations authorised to issue work permits in their own legislation are accepted as residence permits as long as they are valid. These foreigners and foreigners holding a Work Permit Exemption Confirmation Certificate (Çalışma İzni Muafiyet Teyit Belgesi) shall not obtain a residence permit certificate provided that they pay the residence permit fee. International protection applicants are exempt from this fee.

 

Foreigners applying for a work permit or extension of a work permit shall not be among the foreigners who will not be allowed to enter Türkiye. Institutions authorised to issue work permits may issue work permits provided that they obtain the positive opinion of the Directorate General of International Labour Force (“Directorate General”) on this matter.

 

The expiry date of the work permit is also the expiry date of the residence permit. Foreigners who do not extend their residence permit after the expiry of their work permit or do not obtain a residence permit in accordance with their new status are deemed to have violated their residence permit.

 

Work permit and Work Permit Exemption Confirmation Certificate periods are included in the total period in the calculation of residence permit periods.

 

Public institutions and organisations issuing work permits share up-to-date information on work permits with the Directorate General.

 

1. INDEPENDENT WORK PERMIT

 

It is a work permit issued on behalf of the foreigner without being affiliated to an employer and gives the foreigner the right to work on their own behalf and account in Türkiye. Independent work permit shall be issued for a fixed term. In the evaluation of the independent work permit in line with the international labour force policy, the foreigner's level of education, professional experience, contribution to science and technology, the impact of their activity or investment in Türkiye on the country's economy and employment, their capital share if they are a foreign company partner, and other issues to be determined by the Ministry in line with the recommendations of the International Labour Force Policy Advisory Board (Uluslararası İşgücü Politikası Danışma Kurulu) shall be taken into consideration.

 

The following foreigners may be granted an independent work permit:

 

1. Professionals to be determined by the General Directorate.

These persons cannot do work that is incompatible with their profession.

 

2. Cross-border service providers working independently or affiliated to an employer established abroad, whose activities in Türkiye will exceed the periods stipulated under the first paragraph of Article 48.

 

3. Foreigners who are company partners of limited liability companies, company partners of joint stock companies, members of the board of directors of joint stock companies, managers of limited partnership companies with capital divided into shares, established in accordance with the Turkish Commercial Code.

 

4. Foreigners who are company partners and managers of other companies established in accordance with the Turkish Commercial Code.

 

The persons specified in the above paragraphs may be granted the right to work in more than one workplace, provided that the provisions of the relevant legislation are complied with and an application is made through the system.

 

Those who complete their work permit application within this scope may be issued an independent work permit application certificate which is not subject to any fees or charges.

 

2. DEPENDENT WORK PERMIT

 

Dependent work permit is a work permit issued to a foreigner for a period of up to one year at the first application, provided that the foreigner works in a specific workplace belonging to a real or legal person or public institution or organisation, or in their workplaces in the same line of business, in a specific job and under an employer, provided that it does not exceed the duration of the employment or service contract.

 

3. FOREIGNERS TO BE EXEMPTED FROM WORK PERMIT

 

Provided that the provisions contained in special laws and the obligations arising from other laws for the employer of the foreign national are reserved;

 

1. Foreigners who will work within the scope of scientific, cultural, and artistic activities, for up to one month,

 

2. Foreigners who will come for training on the use of goods and services exported from or imported into Türkiye, or for training on the assembly, maintenance, and repair, or operation of machinery and equipment imported into Türkiye, or to receive delivery of such equipment, or for the repair of vehicles that have broken down in Türkiye, for up to three months in total,

 

3. Foreigners who are cross-border service providers, for up to three months,

 

4. Foreigners working in Türkiye who are non-resident board members of joint stock companies and non-executive shareholders of other companies, and foreigners who are not shareholders in these companies but authorized to represent and bind at the highest level, for up to three months,

 

5. Foreigners residing abroad who are of Turkish descent and whose status is certified by the Ministry of Interior or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for up to three months,

 

6. Foreigners who will work within the scope of sports activities, for up to four months,

 

7. Foreigners who will intern under student exchange programs executed between Turkish universities and foreign universities and approved by the Council of Higher Education, for up to four months,

 

8. Foreigners to be employed in seasonal agricultural and livestock work as determined by the Directorate General, for up to six months,

 

9. Foreigners who will work in fairs and circuses operating outside the premises of licensed tourism establishments, for up to six months,

 

10. Foreigners reported by relevant public institutions and organizations as able to provide significant services and contributions to Türkiye in the fields of economy, socio-cultural and technological matters, and education, for up to three years,

 

11. Foreigners who will work as representatives of tour operators, for up to eight months,

 

12. Foreigners who will intern under international internship exchange, recent graduate internship exchange, or youth exchange programs approved by the Directorate General, for up to twelve months,

 

13. Foreigners coming to universities and public institutions and organizations in Türkiye for the purposes of conducting research or enhancing their knowledge and experience, limited to the duration of education and, in any case, for no more than two years,

 

14. Foreign professional athletes and coaches, as well as sports doctors, physiotherapists, mechanics, masseurs or masseuses, and similar sports personnel who come to Türkiye with the approval of the Ministry of Youth and Sports or the Turkish Football Federation, for the duration of their contracts with sports federations or clubs,

 

15. Foreign seafarers employed on ships registered with the Turkish International Ship Registry and operating outside of cabotage lines, who have obtained a Certificate of Conformity from the relevant authority in accordance with bilateral protocols made under Rule I/10 of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, for the duration of their employment or service contract,

 

16. Foreigners assigned to programs or projects conducted under Türkiye-European Union Financial Cooperation Programs, for the duration of their assignments,

 

17. Foreign students enrolled in a formal education program in Türkiye who are required by applicable regulations to undertake an internship with an employer as part of their vocational training, for the duration of their compulsory internship,

 

18. Foreigners employed in schools, cultural institutions, and religious institutions operating as affiliated units of diplomatic and consular missions of foreign countries in Türkiye, for the duration of their duties,

 

19. Foreigners employed in the private service of individuals working as members of the diplomatic staff, consular officers, administrative and technical staff, and consular service staff at the diplomatic and consular missions of foreign countries in Türkiye, as well as those working as international officers or administrative and technical personnel at international organizations in Türkiye, for the duration of their employment or service contract,

 

20. Foreigners who will be employed at military factories and shipyards operating under the Ministry of National Defense and at the Machinery and Chemical Industry Corporation, for the duration of their employment or service contract,

 

21. Foreign personnel, researchers, or executives who will work at the Turkish-Japanese Science and Technology University, for the duration of their employment contract,

 

22. Foreigners undergoing specialist medical or dental training pursuant to the Regulation on Specialty Training in Medicine and Dentistry published in the Official Gazette dated 26 April 2014 and numbered 28983, for the duration of their training,

 

23. Foreigners falling within the scope of Articles 46 and 91 of Law No. 6458, as notified by the Ministry of Interior via the system, within the scope and duration specified in the notification,

 

24. Foreign press members holding permanent press cards, provided that the approval of the Directorate of Communications of the Presidency is obtained, for the duration of their assignment,

 

shall be deemed exempt from the work permit requirement.

 

4. EXCEPTIONS TO WORK PERMIT REQUIREMENTS

 

Exceptions to the requirement for a work permit are granted to foreigners possessing certain qualifications, as stipulated under the International Labour Force Law, and are applied under limited conditions. Such permits may be issued solely on the basis of special circumstances provided for in the relevant legislation, without being subject to some of the general procedures and requirements applicable to standard work permits. Therefore, a more flexible assessment process is applied in comparison to other types of permits.

 

1. QUALIFIED LABOUR FORCE AND QUALIFIED INVESTOR

 

In determining qualified labour force, the Directorate General requires the foreign national to meet at least three of the following criteria:

 

1. Having received education at a reputable higher education institution.

 

2. Having an annual total income equal to or above twelve times the upper limit of earnings subject to premium as determined by the Social Security Institution.

 

3. Possessing professional experience in the field of Research and Development (R&D) or design.

 

4. Having professional experience at well-known national or international higher education institutions or at prominent organisations in the fields of science and technology.

 

5. Possessing advanced proficiency in foreign languages, other than the mother tongue, as determined by the Directorate General.

 

6. Being employed in sectors considered strategic for national development by the Directorate General.

 

7. Fulfilling other conditions to be determined in accordance with the international labour force policy by the Directorate General.

 

In determining whether a foreign national qualifies as a qualified investor, the Directorate General requires the fulfilment of at least three of the following conditions, or the commitment that they will be fulfilled within no more than two years. The thresholds shall be adjusted annually in line with the revaluation rate:

1. 1. The investment capital amount is one million Turkish Lira or more.

 

1. 2. The export volume amounts to at least one million five hundred thousand Turkish Lira annually.

 

1. 3. The direct and continuous employment of at least ten Turkish citizens.

 

1. 4. Investment in sectors considered strategic for national development by the Directorate General.

 

1. 5. Establishment of an R&D or design centre in compliance with the relevant legislation within the investment structure.

 

1. 6. The investment is made in regions prioritised for development, as designated by the Directorate General.

 

1. 7. Ownership in Türkiye of moveable or immoveable assets, or intellectual or industrial property rights, with a minimum monetary value of two million Turkish Lira, other than the investment itself.

 

1. 8. Fulfilment of other conditions determined in line with the international labour force policy by the Directorate General.

 

In the case of investments involving multiple shareholders, the assessment of the criteria set out in subparagraphs (a), (b), (c), and (g) shall be based on the shareholding proportion of the foreign national for whom the work permit application is made.

 

Work permits for foreigners considered as qualified labour force or qualified investors may be issued for a period of up to five years.

 

2. EMPLOYMENT OF FOREIGNERS IN FIXED-TERM PROJECTS

 

The work permits of foreigners employed in a project carried out by public institutions and organizations in Türkiye, or a project deemed by the Directorate General to provide significant contributions to the national economy or create a high number of employments, may be granted for up to three years, provided that they do not exceed the duration of the employment or service contract.

 

3. FOREIGNERS OF TURKIC ORIGIN

 

Foreigners of Turkic origin, as officially notified by the Ministry of Interior or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, may apply to work in professions and crafts required in Türkiye under the “Law on the Freedom of Profession and Art for Foreigners of Turkic Origin and Their Employment in Public and Private Institutions or Workplaces,” for occupations reserved for Turkish citizens.

 

The Directorate General is authorised to determine, in consultation with relevant public institutions, organisations, and professional bodies when necessary, the professions and crafts reserved for Turkish citizens that are in demand, in accordance with Article 1 of the aforementioned Law, by considering developments in employment and the labour market, as well as sectoral and economic changes.

 

In the case of a work permit application made on behalf of a foreigner of Turkic origin, the permit may be issued for up to five years, provided that it does not exceed the duration of the employment or service contract.

 

4. CITIZENS OF THE TURKISH REPUBLIC OF NORTHERN CYPRUS

 

Citizens of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus may work in public institutions and organisations in Türkiye without obtaining a work permit. However, those intending to work outside public institutions and organisations are required to obtain a work permit. These individuals are subject to the same rules and procedures applicable to other foreign nationals in terms of work permit applications. Work permits may be granted for a period not exceeding five years, provided that they do not exceed the duration of the employment or service contract.

 

5. FOREIGNERS MARRIED TO A TURKISH CITIZEN

 

In the case of work permit applications made on behalf of foreigners who have been married and cohabiting with a Turkish citizen in Türkiye for at least three years, the work permit may be issued for a period not exceeding three years, provided it does not exceed the term of the employment or service contract.

 

6. FOREIGNERS TO BE EMPLOYED AS R&D, INNOVATION OR DESIGN PERSONNEL

 

In applications for work permits on behalf of foreigners to be employed as R&D, innovation or design personnel at firms with an R&D or design centre established under Law No. 5746 on the Support of Research, Development and Design Activities, or at enterprises operating in technology development zones and specialised technology development zones established under Law No. 4691, the favourable opinion of the Ministry of Industry and Technology is required.

 

7. FOREIGN ENGINEERS AND ARCHITECTS

 

Foreigners who have obtained the title of engineer or architect by completing their education at a faculty of engineering or architecture at a higher education institution in Türkiye, or at an institution abroad recognised by the relevant authorities of that country and the Council of Higher Education, may practise their professions under this Law by obtaining project-based and temporary work permits.

 

Foreign contractors or foreign entities may employ foreign engineers and architects under a work permit solely for engineering or architecture-related tasks contracted to state agencies, public or private organisations or individuals in Türkiye, whether independently or jointly with local entities. Work permit applications under this category are evaluated following the opinion of the Union of Chambers of Turkish Engineers and Architects. For such opinions to be issued regarding diploma holders from foreign institutions, recognition or equivalence under Law No. 2547 is not required.

 

For work permit applications concerning foreign engineers and architects outside the scope of the above-mentioned provisions, the opinion of the Union of Chambers of Turkish Engineers and Architects is sought and considered in the evaluation.

 

8. CROSS-BORDER SERVICE PROVIDERS

 

Provided that the work is of a temporary nature;

a) Foreign individuals receiving remuneration from a source outside Türkiye and entering Türkiye as business visitors for purposes such as;

1. Attending meetings, seminars, conferences or trade fairs,
2. Conducting technical, scientific or statistical research,
3. Conducting market research and analysis,
4. Participating in on-the-job training related to business techniques,
5. Acting as a sales representative to receive orders or negotiate contracts,
6. Providing services related to freight and passenger transport,
7. Providing installation, maintenance, repair or similar services under an equipment or machinery sales contract,
8. Providing tour operator services for tours commenced abroad,
9. Providing interpretation or translation services,

 

b) Foreign natural persons who are employees of a foreign legal entity or self-employed professionals delivering services directly in Türkiye to a natural or legal person under a contract,

shall be regarded as cross-border service providers.

 

For cross-border service providers intending to work in Türkiye for a period exceeding the exemption periods set out in the first paragraph of Article 48, a work permit may be granted for a maximum of three years, provided that it does not exceed the duration of the contract.

 

Work permit extension applications are not permitted for cross-border service providers.

 

9. INTRA-COMPANY TRANSFER

 

In the case of a foreign national who is employed at a workplace of a company established abroad and is assigned under an intra-company transfer to work at a workplace of the same company established in Türkiye as a manager or in a position requiring specialised knowledge, a work permit may be granted for a period not exceeding two years, provided that it does not exceed the duration of the employment or service contract.

 

In the case of a foreign national who is employed at a workplace of a company established abroad and is assigned under an intra-company transfer to undertake an internship at a workplace of the same company established in Türkiye, a work permit may be granted for a period not exceeding one year, provided that it does not exceed the duration of the internship.

 

A work permit extension application may be only once submitted on behalf of the foreign national under intra-company transfer and the duration of the work permit may be extended by up to one year.

 

2. RESIDENCE PERMIT

 

Foreigners who intend to stay in Türkiye beyond the duration permitted by their visa or visa exemption, or for more than ninety days, are required to obtain a residence permit. Foreigners who wish to stay for shorter periods may also apply for a residence permit. However, it must be noted that residence permits obtained from abroad shall become invalid if not used within six months of issuance.

 

1. EXEMPTIONS FROM RESIDENCE PERMIT REQUIREMENT

 

The following categories of foreigners are exempt from the obligation to obtain a residence permit:

 

1. Those who enter Türkiye with a visa or under a visa exemption scheme for up to ninety days, for the duration of the visa or visa exemption.
2. Holders of a Stateless Person Identity Document.
3. Diplomatic and consular officers accredited in Türkiye.
4. Persons temporarily assigned to foreign missions resident in Türkiye, whose passports include a temporary assignment annotation granted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs exempting them from a residence permit for a period not exceeding six months.
5. Employees of international organisations with representations in Türkiye, whose status is determined by agreements.
6. Persons who are exempt from residence permit obligations under agreements to which the Republic of Türkiye is a party.
7. Individuals who have lost Turkish citizenship by obtaining an official permit of renunciation.
8. Holders of International Protection Applicant Identity Documents and International Protection Status Holder Identity Documents.
1. Holders of a work permit or a Work Permit Exemption Confirmation Document.
10. Holders of a Migrant Certificate issued under the Settlement Law.
11. Holders of a Temporary Protection Identity Document.

 

1. APPLICATION FOR RESIDENCE PERMIT

 

Applications for a residence permit shall be made to the consulates located in the foreigner’s country of citizenship or legal residence.

 

Foreigners applying for a residence permit must hold a passport or a passport-substitute document valid for at least sixty days beyond the requested duration of the residence permit.

If the required information or documents are incomplete, the evaluation of the application may be postponed until the deficiencies are rectified. The applicant shall be informed of the missing items.

 

The consulates shall forward residence permit applications, along with their opinions, to the Directorate General. The Directorate General, where necessary, may obtain the opinions of other relevant institutions and, upon concluding the application, shall inform the consulate whether to issue the residence permit or reject the application.

 

Applications shall be finalised within no later than ninety days.

 

2. RESIDENCE PERMIT APPLICATIONS FROM WITHIN TÜRKİYE 

 

Residence permit applications may, by way of exception, be submitted to the provincial governorates under the following circumstances:

 

1. Where mandated or requested by judicial or administrative authorities,
2. Where the foreigner’s departure from Türkiye is deemed unreasonable or impracticable,
3. For long-term residence permit applications,
4. For student residence permits,
5. For humanitarian residence permits,
6. For residence permits for victims of human trafficking,
7. When switching from family residence permit to short-term residence permit,
8. For children born in Türkiye to parents holding valid residence permits,
1. Where the grounds for the current residence permit have ceased or changed, and the foreigner seeks to obtain a residence permit in accordance with the new grounds for stay,
10. For applications made under exemption from residence permit obligations,
11. When switching to a short-term residence permit after completing higher education in Türkiye.

 

3. TYPES OF RESIDENCE PERMITS

 

Residence permits may be granted in the following categories:

 

1. Short-term residence permit
2. Family residence permit
3. Student residence permit
4. Long-term residence permit
5. Humanitarian residence permit
6. Residence permit for victims of human trafficking

 

1. SHORT-TERM RESIDENCE PERMIT

 

The short-term residence permit may be issued for a maximum period of one year at a time. The duration of the residence permit is determined by taking into consideration the applicant’s request, justification, and other relevant factors.

 

Under the provisions of the Law on Foreigners and International Protection, short-term residence permits may be granted to the following categories of foreigners:

1. Those arriving for scientific research,
2. Those who own immovable property in Türkiye,

The nature and value of the immovable property to form the basis for the residence permit shall be determined by the Ministry of Interior.

The property must be residential and used for this purpose. In cases where family members have co-ownership or joint ownership rights over the property, they may also apply for a residence permit under this subparagraph. For family members who do not have co-ownership or joint ownership rights, the property may only serve as a basis for determining financial means.

3. Those who will establish commercial connections or set up a business,

If the residence permit request exceeds three months, invitation letters or similar documents from the persons or companies to be contacted may be requested from the foreigner.

4. Those who will attend in-service training programs,

Residence permits based on this subparagraph are issued for the duration of the program based on information and documents concerning the content, duration, and location of the training provided by the institution or organisation delivering the in-service training.

5. Those who will come for education or similar purposes or for student exchange programs within the framework of agreements to which the Republic of Türkiye is a party,

Foreigners applying for a residence permit within the framework of bilateral or multilateral international agreements or student exchange programs must submit information or documents from the relevant institution. The residence permit duration cannot exceed the duration of the education or similar purpose.

6. Those who will stay for tourism purposes,

In applications for residence permits based on tourism, the applicant’s statements regarding where, when, and for how long they will stay in the country are evaluated. The foreigner may be requested to submit information or documents concerning their travel plan or the purpose of their stay.

7. Those who will receive medical treatment, provided that they do not carry diseases considered a threat to public health,

Foreigners who do not carry any disease considered a threat to public health and who come to Türkiye solely for the purpose of treatment must be admitted by public or private hospitals. Those who document that they have covered all treatment expenses are not required to have health insurance. Residence permits are issued in accordance with the duration of treatment. Foreigners whose accommodation, nutrition or health expenses are covered by the relevant public institutions are not required to prove financial means or have valid health insurance. When necessary, information or documents concerning the foreigner’s treatment may be requested from the relevant hospital or public institution.

8. Those who are required to stay in Türkiye based on the requests or decisions of judicial or administrative authorities,

Foreign press members, who are excluded from the scope of the Law, may be granted a residence permit under this subparagraph if they present a press card issued by the Directorate General of Press and Information. The permit shall not exceed the duration stated on the press card.

The duration of residence permits to be issued under this subparagraph shall be determined based on the period specified in the decision or request. The conditions of having valid health insurance and sufficient financial means may not be required.

1. Those who switch from a family residence permit to a short-term residence permit,

10. Those who will attend Turkish language courses,

May be granted at most twice.

If the course duration is less than one year, the residence permit duration shall not exceed the course duration. The institution providing the Turkish language course must be authorised by the Ministry of National Education. The institution must notify the provincial directorate of the foreigner’s course commencement and attendance status.

11. Those who will attend education, research, internships or courses in Türkiye through public institutions,

A residence permit to be issued to those who will attend education, research, internships or courses in Türkiye through public institutions shall not exceed one year. Foreigners whose accommodation, nutrition or health expenses are covered by relevant public institutions are not required to prove financial means or present valid health insurance. Information or documents may be requested from institutions.

50. Those who have completed higher education in Türkiye and apply within six months of graduation,

If they apply within six months following graduation, they may be granted a residence permit once, for a maximum period of one year.

1000. Those who do not work in Türkiye but will make investments of the scope and amount determined by the President, and their foreign spouse, and their or their spouse’s dependent or minor foreign child,

May be granted for a maximum of five years at a time.

14. Citizens of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

May be granted for a maximum of five years at a time.

Except for the subparagraphs (m) and (n) above, a short-term residence permit may be granted for a maximum of two years at a time.

 

1. Conditions For Short-Term Residence Permit

 

The following conditions are required for the issuance of a short-term residence permit:

1. Making a request based on one or more of the justifications listed above, together with the relevant information and documents,
2. Not being among the foreigners who are prohibited from entering Türkiye,
3. Having accommodation conditions that comply with general health and safety standards,
4. Submitting, when requested, a criminal record certificate issued by the competent authorities of the country of nationality or legal residence,
5. Providing the address information where they will reside in Türkiye.

 

2. Refusal, Cancellation or Non-Extension of Short-Term Residence Permit

 

In the following cases, a short-term residence permit shall not be granted, or if already granted, shall be cancelled, and shall not be extended:

1. Failure to meet or loss of one or more of the conditions required for obtaining a short-term residence permit,
2. Determination that the residence permit is used for purposes other than those for which it was issued,
3. Being outside Türkiye for more than 120 days in total within the last year, except for compulsory public service, duty, education, or health reasons,
4. Having a valid deportation order or entry ban to Türkiye.

 

In applications for short-term residence permits based on scientific research;

1. If scientific research is subject to permission, a permit from the relevant institution or organisation is required; if not, a declaration regarding the research subject is sufficient.
2. For research other than archaeological and surface surveys, institutions shall inform the provincial directorate with the foreigner’s request, the permitted period, and the issued permit including the foreigner’s information. Reports prepared after the research shall be submitted to the relevant institution by the foreigner.
3. Foreigners coming for archaeological excavations or surface surveys must meet the visa requirement appropriate to their purpose.
4. When necessary, information or documents related to the research topic and plan may be requested.
5. If a foreigner already holds a residence permit and wishes to participate in archaeological or surface research, the application shall be submitted to the Ministry along with the opinions of the relevant institutions.

 

Applications for short-term residence permits other than those listed above shall be considered as tourism-based applications.

 

10. FAMILY RESIDENCE PERMIT 

 

Foreigners who will come to Türkiye for the purpose of family unity and are financially supported by the Turkish citizen or foreigner legally residing in Türkiye are referred to as the "sponsor." A family residence permit may be granted based on the sponsor listed below:

1. Turkish citizens,
2. Persons who have lost their Turkish citizenship by obtaining an exit permit,
3. Foreigners who have held a residence permit for at least one year in Türkiye under one of the residence permits regulated by the Law,
4. Foreigners who, except for applicants for international protection, conditional refugees, and temporarily protected persons, have an identity document considered equivalent to a residence permit under the Law (work permits may also be considered in this scope),
5. Refugees and holders of subsidiary protection status.

 

A family residence permit may be granted to the following dependents:

1. The foreign spouse,
2. The foreign minor child or adopted child of the sponsor or their spouse,
3. The dependent foreign adult child of the sponsor or their spouse,
   provided that the duration of the family residence permit does not exceed three years for each instance.

However, the duration of the family residence permit can never exceed the duration of the sponsor’s residence permit.

In case of marriage to more than one spouse under the law of the foreigner’s country of citizenship, a family residence permit will only be granted to one spouse. However, the children of the sponsor’s other spouses under the age of eighteen and the children over the age of eighteen who the sponsor is obligated to support may also be granted a family residence permit.

 

If the parents outside of Türkiye have joint custody on children, the consent of the custodial parent must be obtained for the family residence permit.

 

Family residence permits provide the right to education in primary and secondary education institutions without the need for a student residence permit up until the age of eighteen. Foreigners over the age of eighteen, who are not supported by their legal guardian, are required to obtain a student residence permit if they continue their education. However, foreigners who are supported by their legal guardian may continue to hold a family residence permit and benefit from the rights granted by a student residence permit.

 

Foreigners who have stayed in Türkiye for at least three years with a family residence permit and have turned eighteen may, upon request, convert their family residence permit to a short-term residence permit or apply for another type of residence permit if they meet the conditions.

 

In case of divorce, a foreigner who has been married to a Turkish citizen and has stayed for at least three years with a family residence permit may be granted a short-term residence permit. However, if the foreign spouse is a victim of domestic violence, as established by a relevant court decision, the three-year requirement does not apply. The foreigner retains the right to apply for another type of residence permit if they meet the necessary conditions.,

In the event of the sponsor’s death, family members holding a family residence permit based on the sponsor may be granted a short-term residence permit without any duration requirement, and they may use the family residence permit until the expiration of the sponsor's permit. After this period, the foreigner’s residence permit request will be evaluated based on general rules.

 

When a family residence permit application is made to the consulate, the relevant information and documents regarding the persons who can receive the family residence permit are delivered by the sponsor to the provincial governor’s office where they reside. The family residence permit application is processed once the information and documents are submitted.

 

3. Conditions for Family Residence Permit

 

For family residence permit applications, the following conditions must be met by the sponsor:

1. Having a monthly income that is not less than one-third of the minimum wage per family member, and the total income should not be below the minimum wage,
2. Having accommodation conditions that comply with general health and safety standards according to the size of the family, and having health insurance that covers all family members,

 

3. Submitting a criminal record certificate to prove that the sponsor has not been convicted of crimes against family order within the past five years,

 

4. Holding a residence permit in Türkiye for at least one year

 

Scientific research residence permits, work permits, foreigners who have lost Turkish citizenship by obtaining an exit permit, or foreigners married to Turkish citizens are not subject to this requirement.

 

5. Having a registered address in the address registration system.

 

For refugees and holders of subsidiary protection status in Türkiye, the above conditions may not be required.

 

Foreigners applying for a family residence permit to stay with their sponsor in Türkiye must meet the following conditions:

1. Submitting the relevant information and documents to prove that they fall within the scope of persons eligible for a family residence permit,
2. Proving that they live or intend to live with the designated sponsor,
3. Not entering into marriage for the sole purpose of obtaining a family residence permit,
4. Both spouses must be over the age of eighteen,
5. Not being one of the foreigners who are not permitted to enter Türkiye.

 

4. Refusal, Cancellation or Non-Extension of Family Residence Permit

 

A family residence permit will not be granted, will be cancelled if granted, and will not be extended under the following circumstances:

 

1. Failure to meet or the loss of the conditions required for the sponsor, or failure of the foreigner applying for a family residence permit to meet the necessary conditions,
2. The family residence permit conditions being invalidated and not being granted a short-term residence permit after the conditions are no longer met,
3. Existence of a valid deportation or entry ban to Türkiye for the foreigner,
4. Determining that the family residence permit is being used for purposes other than those for which it was issued,
5. Being outside of Türkiye for more than 180 days in total during the last year, except for compulsory public service, duty, education, or health reasons,
6. Determining that the marriage was entered into for the sole purpose of obtaining a residence permit.

 

Until the family residence permit application is processed, the foreigner may stay abroad for up to 15 days. If the stay exceeds 15 days, visa regulations will apply.

 

5. Family Residence Permit Requested Through Arranged Marriage

 

Before granting or renewing a family residence permit, if there is reasonable doubt, the local authorities will investigate whether the marriage was made solely for the purpose of obtaining a residence permit. If it is determined that the marriage was made for this purpose, the family residence permit will not be granted, or if granted, it will be cancelled.

 

After a family residence permit is granted, the authorities may continue monitoring to check whether the marriage was arranged.

 

Residence permits obtained through arranged marriages that are later cancelled will not be counted in the total duration of residence permits as outlined in this Law.

 

The following circumstances or a combination of these are considered reasonable suspicion that the marriage was made solely for obtaining a residence permit, and an investigation will be carried out:

1. The spouses not living together or complaints suggesting that the marriage does not continue within the family unit,
2. The spouses not having a common language,
3. A significant age difference between the spouses,
4. The foreigner violating visa or residence permit rules,
5. The spouses declaring that the marriage was arranged,
6. One of the spouses being involved in illegal means of earning a living or working without permission,
7. The family’s income not aligning with their living standards.

 

 

2. STUDENT RESIDENCE PERMIT

 

Foreigners who will study in associate, undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral programmes at a higher education institution in Türkiye, and those enrolled in primary or secondary education without a family residence permit, are required to obtain a student residence permit.

 

A residence permit granted to foreigners studying at a higher education institution in Türkiye may cover the entire duration of the academic programme starting from the date of application. If a student cannot graduate within the standard education period, their permit may be extended for one-year periods without exceeding the maximum duration of study. Residence permits of graduates are terminated as of the graduation date, and such individuals may apply for a short-term residence permit.

 

Foreigners in primary or secondary education, whose expenses are covered by real or legal persons, may be granted a student residence permit annually, subject to the consent of their parents or legal guardians.

 

A student residence permit does not entitle the parents or relatives of the student to obtain a residence permit; however, the student may act as a sponsor for the family residence permit applications of their spouse and children.

 

If the study period is less than one year, the residence permit shall not exceed the duration of study.

Foreigners who come to Türkiye through public institutions and intend to study may be granted a residence permit for the duration of study. Foreign students brought to Türkiye by public institutions who submit documentation confirming that accommodation, subsistence, and healthcare expenses will be covered by such institution are not required to submit proof of financial means.

 

For in-country applications, foreigners intending to enrol in primary or secondary education must hold a visa consistent with their purpose.

 

Students enrolled in Turkish schools or faculties are exempt from residence permit fees. However, students attending schools not considered Turkish institutions—such as consulate, embassy, or international schools—are required to pay residence permit fees.

 

Foreigners who enter Türkiye for university enrolment and are directed by their institutions to attend Turkish preparatory programmes may be granted a student residence permit until the beginning of the next academic term, provided they can document their enrolment status.

 

1. Conditions for Student Residence Permit

 

The following conditions are required for a student residence permit:

1. Submission of all necessary information and documents for the application,
2. Not being among foreigners prohibited from entering Türkiye,
3. Providing address information where they will reside in Türkiye.

 

2. Refusal, Cancellation, or Non-Renewal of Student Residence Permit

 

A student residence permit shall not be granted, shall be cancelled if already granted, or shall not be extended in the following cases:

1. Failure to meet or the loss of the conditions required for the student residence permit,
2. Emergence of evidence indicating that the continuation of education is no longer possible,
3. Determination that the student residence permit is being used for purposes other than those for which it was issued,
4. Existence of a valid deportation order or entry ban to Türkiye.

 

3. Right to Work for Students

 

Associate, undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students enrolled in formal education in Türkiye may work, provided they obtain a work permit. However, associate and undergraduate students may only exercise this right after the first year of study, and it is regulated by the relevant laws and Presidential decrees.

 

3. LONG-TERM RESIDENCE PERMIT

 

Foreigners who have resided in Türkiye with a residence permit for at least eight uninterrupted years, or who meet the conditions determined by the Migration Policy Board, may be granted an indefinite residence permit by the governorship with the approval of the Ministry.

Refugees, conditional refugees, holders of subsidiary protection status, humanitarian residence permit holders, and individuals under temporary protection are not eligible to transition to a long-term residence permit.

 

1. Conditions for Long-Term Residence Permit

 

Uzun dönem ikamet iznine geçişte aşağıdaki şartlar aranır:

The following conditions must be met to obtain a long-term residence permit:

1. 1. Having resided in Türkiye with a residence permit for at least eight uninterrupted years,
   2. Not having received any social assistance within the last three years as of the date of application,
   3. Having sufficient and regular financial resources to support oneself and, if applicable, one’s family,
   4. Possessing valid health insurance,
   5. Not posing a threat to public order or public security.

For this purpose, interruption is determined as follows:

1. The application date is taken as the basis. Periods spent abroad and periods spent in Türkiye without a residence permit are considered interruptions.If no interruption exceeding 180 days is found in each retrospective one-year segment from the application date, the next segment is examined, and this process continues until the eight years are completed.
2. If there is no interruption exceeding 180 days in any one-year segment, it is then examined whether there is a total interruption exceeding 365 days in the final five-year segment.
3. If, during the eight-year period, a foreigner has stayed abroad or in Türkiye without a permit for a period exceeding six consecutive months (either once or repeatedly), the application is rejected without proceeding to segmental calculation.
   Periods of previous residence permits for foreigners who have been subject to deportation procedures shall not be counted in the total residence period.

 

Regarding sufficient and regular income, the following are taken into account:

1. As of the year of application, the foreigner must have financial means to cover monthly expenses at least equivalent to the net minimum wage.
2. The foreigner must have financial means to cover at least one-third of the minimum wage per household member, including themselves, and not less than the total minimum wage.
3. Commitments by third parties are not accepted as a valid source of income.

 

6. Rights Granted by the Long-Term Residence Permit

 

Foreigners holding a long-term residence permit shall benefit from the rights granted to Turkish citizens, except for;

1. The obligation to perform military service,
2. The right to vote and be elected,
3. Access to public office,
4. The right to import vehicles exempt from tax,

and without prejudice to the acquired rights in the field of social security and subject to the provisions of the relevant legislation concerning the exercise of those rights.

 

7. Cancellation of the Long-Term Residence Permit

 

Long-term residence permits shall be cancelled in the following cases;

1. If the foreigner poses a serious threat to public order or public security,

In such cases, the foreigner may not apply for any other type of residence permit.

2. If the foreigner stays outside Türkiye for more than one uninterrupted year for reasons other than health, education, or compulsory public service in their country of origin.

Cancellations of long-term residence permits are carried out by the governorship with the approval of the Ministry.

 

8. Reapplication by Foreigners Whose Long-Term Residence Permit Was Cancelled

 

• Foreigners whose long-term residence permits were cancelled due to remaining outside Türkiye for more than one uninterrupted year—except for reasons of health, education, or compulsory public service or duty in their home country—may reapply for this permit. Such applications are given priority and concluded within one month at the latest.
• In these applications, whether the conditions for obtaining a long-term residence permit are met is re-examined. However, the requirement of eight uninterrupted years of residence is not re-applied.

 

Evaluation is based on the foreigner’s:

1. Intention to reside in Türkiye permanently,
2. Presence of relatives in Türkiye,
3. Ownership of immovable property,
4. Active employment or business ties,
5.  Social, economic, and cultural connections with Türkiye.

 

 

Apart from the above, in cases where special exemptions from residence or work permit requirements are stipulated by specific laws, individual assessments must be made to determine the most appropriate type of residence or work permit in light of the circumstances of the case.