Types of Residence permit in Turkey

Residences in Turkey are permits provided by the Turkish government to foreigners, granting them legal residency rights. According to Turkish laws, anyone interested in obtaining a Turkish residence can submit an official application to the immigration authorities.

The types of Turkish residences vary based on each individual’s circumstances. Those coming to Turkey can acquire student residency, real estate residency, tourist residency, or even humanitarian residency. The residency procedures can commence as soon as you arrive in Turkey.

In this article, we will focus on discussing the various types of residencies in Turkey and provide you with information to help you choose the one that suits your needs.

Types of residence permit in Turkey

Let’s explore together in this detailed article the various Types of residence permit in Turkey available in Turkey.

Tourist Residency in Turkey

Tourist residency is one of the most popular Types of residence permit in Turkey, where tourists can obtain it to stay in the country for an extended period. Turkey welcomes a significant number of tourists annually, and many of them rely on tourist residency to enjoy the country’s beauty and diverse culture.

Tourist residency grants visitors the right to stay in Turkey for up to 90 days during the permit’s validity, and this residency can be extended if the tourist wishes to stay longer. The presence of a considerable number of people holding tourist residency in Turkey reflects its popularity as a distinctive tourist destination.

Tourist residency offers tourists the opportunity to explore the country’s beauty and experience its diverse culture. It is considered one of the best ways to enjoy an extended stay in Turkey.

Property Residency in Turkey

Property residency is one of the Types of residence permit in Turkey, granted to foreign property owners. Property residency is one of the most suitable residency types for foreigners who own real estate in Turkey.

This residency is usually short-term, granted for only one year, but it can be easily renewed as long as the property is still owned. Buying property in Turkey is an attractive way to obtain this type of residency and benefit from the opportunities of settling in Turkey legally, allowing families to enjoy life in Turkey and fully participate in the community.

Permanent Residency in Turkey

Permanent residency in Turkey is one of the Types of residence permit in Turkey that allows foreigners to stay in Turkey permanently after spending eight years within the country. To obtain permanent residency in Turkey, you must meet specific conditions and requirements, which we will discuss later in this article.

Student Residency in Turkey

Student residency is a permit that can be obtained if you are a student at one of the universities or higher education institutions in Turkey. This residency allows students to benefit from education, medical care, accommodation, transportation, and many other rights under Turkish law.

Around 90,000 people hold student residency in Turkey, making it one of the most distinctive residency types in Turkey. This residency is an important means to allow international students to study and live in Turkey legally and sustainably, combining investment and residency in this promising country.

Humanitarian Residency in Turkey

Humanitarian residency is a special Types of residence permit in Turkey, granted to individuals who have sought refuge in Turkey due to inhumane conditions in their home countries. This residency allows individuals living in Turkey due to suffering in their home countries to settle in Turkey for a period of up to two years. This type of residency can be obtained within just one month of entering Turkey.

Humanitarian residency is a way to help people in need of protection and humanitarian assistance to find a safe haven in Turkey and establish stability during the specified period of residency.

Work Residency in Turkey

Work residency is one of the Types of residence permit in Turkey, and it is essentially a work permit granted to individuals working within the legal framework of Turkish law. Work residency allows recipients to reside and travel within Turkey, and it can be obtained by individuals working for licensed companies in Turkey. The employer is responsible for applying for the work residency for the employee, and the process typically takes approximately 40 days. Work residency is one of the most important types of permits for those who wish to work and settle in the country.

Other types of residence permit in Turkey according to duration

Long-term residence permit Turkey

The long-term residence permit in Turkey ison of the special Types of residence permit in Turkey for individuals who wish to live in the country for an extended period.

 Here are some key points about the long-term residence permit in Turkey:

Eligibility 

To be eligible for a long-term residence permit, you typically need to have legally resided in Turkey for at least eight years on a continuous residence permit.

Duration

The long-term residence permit is valid for an indefinite period, which means it doesn’t need to be renewed as frequently as short-term permits.

Benefits 

Holders of a long-term residence permit enjoy many of the same rights as Turkish citizens, including access to social services, healthcare, and education.

Application Process

The application process for a long-term residence permit involves providing the required documents, such as a valid passport, proof of income, and proof of health insurance. You’ll also need to complete an application form and pay the associated fees.

Keep in mind that immigration regulations can change, so it’s essential to consult with Turkish authorities or a reputable immigration expert for the most current and accurate information when applying for a long-term residence permit in Turkey.

Short term residence permit Turkey

A short-term residence permit in Turkey is designed for individuals who intend to stay in the country for a period of fewer than 12 months.

Here are some key points about the short-term residence permit:

Eligibility

To be eligible for a short-term residence permit, you may need to meet specific criteria, such as having the financial means to support yourself during your stay and not posing a threat to public health or security.

Duration

Short-term residence permits can be issued for various lengths of time, typically up to a maximum of one year. They can be extended depending on the purpose of your stay.

Purposes

Short-term residence permits can be obtained for purposes such as tourism, business, education, medical treatment, attending a Turkish language course, or family reunification. The permit should align with the specific reason for your stay.

Application Process

To apply for a short-term residence permit, you need to complete an application form, provide the required documents (including a valid passport and proof of income), and pay the associated fees. The application process can vary based on the purpose of your stay.

Extension

If you wish to extend your stay in Turkey beyond the initial period granted, you can apply for an extension, provided that you continue to meet the eligibility criteria.

Note: A short-term residence permit does not lead to Turkish citizenship, It is only suitable for temporary stays in Turkey.

Permanent resident in Turkey

It is one of the Types of residence permit in Turkey, it represents an alternative to long-term residence, and for more information, you can refer to the preceding paragraph.

Residence permit Turkey cost

The initial application for a Turkish residence permit is priced at 356 Turkish lira, which is approximately $15. 

Additionally, there is a fee of 490 Turkish lira (equivalent to £20) to cover the first month, and an extra 98 Turkish lira (about £4) for each subsequent month that the residence permit remains valid. 

If an entry visa is required, there is an additional cost of 2,304.20 Turkish lira, which is roughly 100$. 

In total, you should budget around 2,000 Turkish lira, or 85$, for a one-year residence permit, although the precise amount may vary.

In summary, securing a residence permit in Turkey is your gateway to a world of opportunities. Whether you’re pursuing education, investment, or exploration, Turkey offers diverse options to cater to your needs. 

While the process may seem complex, the right guidance and understanding of permit types can make it achievable. Your residence permit is more than a document; it’s the key to a new chapter in a culturally rich country. Embrace the experience, explore Turkey’s wonders, and create lasting memories and connections in this enchanting land.

Edited by: VAAL Real Estate