What is a Residence Permit (Residence Permit)?

As a lawyer specializing in Foreigners Law, I will explain how foreigners residing in Turkey can obtain a residence permit (ikamet izni).

A residence permit is a legal document that foreign nationals staying in Turkey for a period longer than the designated visa duration need to obtain from the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management (İl Göç İdaresi). This permit determines the period a foreign national can legally stay in Turkey and is applicable beyond the regular visa period. The legal regulations regarding residence permits are outlined in the Law on Foreigners and International Protection and the Law No. 5683 on the Residence and Travel of Foreign Nationals in Turkey.

Except for those exempt from needing a residence permit, foreign nationals are required to obtain a residence permit to stay in Turkey beyond their visa duration. This requirement is a result of international law, serving the country's interests by maintaining public health and order, preventing adverse situations, and enabling the identification and control of foreigners residing in the country.

Various types of residence permits exist in accordance with the purpose of stay in Turkey. These include Short-term, Long-term, Family, Student, Victims of Human Trafficking, and Humanitarian residence permits. Once you determine the appropriate type of residence permit for your situation, you can proceed with your application.

Residence permit applications are now processed through an online system. You can submit your application through the e-residence system on the website of the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management. Ensure that you fill out the application form accurately and provide all necessary information.

After completing the application form, you need to schedule an appointment with the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management to finalize the application process. Appointments can be made through the e-residence system.

Upon securing an appointment, submit the completed application form and the required documents to the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management. Additionally, the signed application form grants you a legal right to reside in Turkey until the appointment date. Application results are typically announced within 90 days, and the residence permit card is sent to you via PTT Cargo.

What Should Individuals Do If Their Residence Permit Application is Rejected?

If your residence permit application is rejected, you have 60 days from the date of rejection notification to file an annulment lawsuit at the administrative court. It is advisable to consult with a lawyer to effectively manage this process and protect your rights.

For further information, you can contact me at:

Email: aykutyavuzlaw@gmail.com
Instagram: aykutyavuzlaw
Lawyer Aykut YAVUZ