Types of Residence Permits and Application Processes

Short-term residence permits are issued for a maximum of two years at a time. Exceptions apply for investors and citizens of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), who may receive permits for up to five years. Foreign nationals with property ownership or commercial ties can also apply for this permit.

The family residence permit is granted for a three-year period to spouses and children of Turkish citizens or foreign nationals. This permit allows children to access education without the need for a separate student residence permit.

Foreign nationals pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral studies in Turkey can obtain a student residence permit. The permit generally lasts for the duration of the study program and is exempt from fees.

Foreign nationals who have held a residence permit continuously for eight years are eligible to apply for a long-term residence permit. Permit holders enjoy similar rights as Turkish citizens and may apply for an indefinite work permit.

The humanitarian residence permit is granted in exceptional circumstances, such as for children with a high benefit, those who cannot be deported, or those whose international protection applications have been rejected.

Victims of human trafficking receive a residence permit without any conditions. The initial permit is issued for thirty days and may be extended in six-month intervals for up to three years.

Residence permit applications must be submitted within ten days following the expiration of the visa, residence permit, or visa exemption period. Extensions should be requested sixty days before the permit expires but must be finalized before it expires.

Changes in address, marital status, or name must be reported within twenty working days. In cases of loss or theft, the residence permit document will be reissued, with only the document fee being charged.