If you're a foreigner planning to extend your stay in Turkey, you'll need to obtain a residence permit. This guide provides a detailed overview of the requirements for obtaining short-term and long-term residence permits in Turkey.
Short-term residence permits are ideal for those who own property, intend to establish a business, or make business connections in Turkey. Here are the key details:
- Residence permit application form
- Copy of your passport or equivalent travel document
- Four biometric photographs
- Proof of financial sufficiency to cover your stay
- Payment of residence permit and card fees
- Valid health insurance
For Property Owners:
- Title deed proving ownership of property in Turkey
For Business-Related Permits:
- Letter of invitation from the person or company you'll be working with
- Notarized company activity certificate
- Notarized tax registration certificate
- Notarized trade registry gazette
- Notarized signature circular
For Investors:
You must meet one of the following criteria:
1. Minimum fixed capital investment of USD 500,000, as attested by the Ministry of Industry and Technology.
2. Acquiring property worth a minimum of USD 400,000 with a title deed restriction on resale for three years.
3. Creating jobs for at least 50 people.
4. Depositing a minimum of USD 500,000 in Turkish banks for three years.
5. Buying government bonds worth a minimum of USD 500,000 for three years.
6. Investing in real estate investment fund shares or venture capital investment fund shares worth USD 500,000 for three years.
7. Depositing a minimum contribution of USD 500,000 in private pension funds for three years.
To extend your residence permit, follow these steps:
- Submit the required documents to the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management within five business days after applying through the e-residence system.
- You can apply for an extension up to sixty days before your permit expires.
- The required documents include the residence permit application form, notarized passport copy, four biometric photographs, proof of financial sufficiency, title deed (if you own property), and other documents as required.
Long-Term Residence Permit
For those who have lived continuously in Turkey for at least eight years, a long-term residence permit is an option. Here's what you need:
- Residence permit application form
- Original and copy of your passport or equivalent travel document
- Copy of your previous residence permit
- Four biometric photographs
- Proof of no social aid from governmental institutions in the last three years
- Proof of financial sufficiency
- Police record document
- Valid medical insurance
Conclusion
Obtaining a residence permit in Turkey involves various requirements, depending on your situation. Make sure to prepare all the necessary documents and follow the application process carefully to ensure a smooth transition to living in this beautiful country.
