Permanent Residence Permit in Turkey

Turkey: A Guide to Permanent Residence

Turkey is a country that draws people with its mild climate, rich culture, and high quality of life. If you wish to live in Turkey without the hassle of regularly renewing your residence permit, obtaining a permanent residence permit is worth considering. In this article, we will outline the conditions you need to meet, the documents you must prepare, and the benefits of holding a permanent residence permit.

How to Obtain a Permanent Residence Permit in Turkey

To qualify for permanent residence, the following criteria must be met:

• Residing in Turkey for at least 8 years: You must live in the country under a temporary residence permit or work permit for 8 years. Note that time spent on a student residence permit counts as half.

  • Example: If you studied in Turkey for 6 years, only 3 years will count toward the 8-year requirement.

• No social assistance for the last 3 years: You must not have received state social assistance in the three years preceding your application.

• Proof of stable and sufficient income: Provide evidence of financial stability, confirming that you can support yourself and your family without state assistance.

• Valid health insurance: You must hold valid health insurance that covers medical expenses in Turkey.

• Compliance with laws and public order: Any criminal record or significant administrative violations can disqualify you from obtaining permanent residence.

Documents Required for Application

To apply for a permanent residence permit, you will need the following documents:

• Passports: A valid passport and copies of all pages with entry and exit stamps.
• Previous residence permits: Include copies of all previous temporary residence permits.
• Proof of income: Examples include bank statements or salary certificates.
• Accommodation documents: These may include a TAPU (title deed) or a valid rental agreement.
• Police clearance certificate: To confirm you have no criminal record.

Benefits of Permanent Residence

Holding a permanent residence permit grants you almost the same rights as Turkish citizens, with the following exceptions:

• No obligation to perform military service.
• Ineligibility to hold public office positions.
• No voting rights in elections.

However, you can:

• Reside in Turkey without needing to renew your permit.
• Access healthcare and social services.
• Legally live and work in the country (with specific restrictions).

Important Considerations

• If you leave Turkey for more than a year without valid reasons, your permanent residence permit may be revoked.
• Time spent under a student residence permit reduces the total duration counted toward the 8-year requirement.

How to Start the Application Process

The process of obtaining a permanent residence permit involves submitting an online application via the e-ikamet system, preparing the necessary documents, and attending an appointment at the immigration office for an interview.

If you have questions, our experts are ready to consult and assist you at every stage of the process.