Turkey Simplifies Residence Permit Renewal for Foreign Children
Turkey Simplifies Residence Permit Renewal Rules for Foreign Nationals’ Children
Turkey has introduced important changes to its migration regulations that directly affect foreign families permanently residing in the country. The new rules significantly simplify the procedure for renewing residence permits for adult children of foreign nationals.
Under the updated regulations, unmarried children over the age of 18 who continue to live with their parents can now renew their residence permits even after reaching the age of 25.
textWhat Has Changed
The key change is the removal of a significant administrative hurdle for families.
- Previous Rule: Residence permit renewal under the family status was only possible until the child turned 25.
- New Rule: The age limit has effectively been removed, provided the established conditions continue to be met.
Key Requirement for Renewal
The central requirement for renewing a residence permit under this family status remains proving that the child is unmarried and dependent.
The primary document needed is an official certificate of marital status. Crucially, this document must be:
- Issued by the competent authorities in the individual's home country.
- Legalized with an apostille (for Hague Convention member countries) or through attestation by the Turkish consulate.
Experts note that this change significantly eases life for foreign families who are making long-term plans to live in Turkey and want to avoid the need to change the residence permit status of their adult children to more complex types, such as student or work permits.
Why This Matters
The new regulation is especially relevant and beneficial for families whose adult children:
- Continue their education beyond the age of 25.
- Are financially dependent on their parents.
- Live together with their parents as one household.
Important Note: This provision applies specifically to children holding a Family Residence Permit. Other conditions, such as the parents having a valid permit and sufficient financial means, still apply.
Policy Context
The change is seen as another step toward a more flexible and family-oriented migration policy in Turkey. It is aimed at supporting the stability of foreign residents who contribute to the economy and society, allowing families to remain united without unnecessary bureaucratic obstacles.
Foreign nationals are advised to consult with the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management or legal experts for specific cases and to ensure all documentation, including the apostilled marital status certificate, is prepared correctly for the renewal application.
