Introduction

Foreign nationals planning to stay in Turkey for extended periods can apply for various types of residence permits, depending on their purpose of stay. Governed by Law No. 6458 on Foreigners and International Protection and related regulations, these permits allow foreigners to live, study, or work in Turkey. This guide covers the most common residence permits available in 2024, including the updated rules for real estate-based permits.

Purpose:

• This permit is for foreigners who wish to stay in Turkey temporarily for reasons such as tourism, business, or short-term academic studies. It is also granted for foreigners engaging in cultural exchange or research programs.

• Suitable for foreign nationals who can provide valid reasons for their stay and have appropriate documentation. Property owners who own real estate but do not qualify for the investment-based residence permit can also apply.

• This permit is typically issued for up to two years and can be renewed.

• Applicants must submit their application online through the Directorate General of Migration Management (DGMM) portal, followed by an in-person appointment. Required documents include proof of financial stability, valid health insurance, and accommodation details.

Purpose:

• The family residence permit is granted to foreign nationals who are the spouse, child, or dependent of a Turkish citizen or foreigner holding a valid residence permit. It allows these individuals to live in Turkey with their sponsor.

• The sponsor must be either a Turkish citizen or a foreigner with a valid residence permit. Financial resources, health insurance, and proof of family ties are required for the application.

• This permit is issued for up to three years, depending on the sponsor’s residence status. It is renewable if the eligibility conditions are met.

• Applicants need to submit proof of family ties (e.g., marriage or birth certificates), insurance, and financial documents. Applications are made online, and an in-person interview is required.

Purpose:

• This permit is available to foreign nationals who purchase real estate in Turkey and is part of the government’s effort to attract foreign investment. The property must be designated for residential use.

• As of October 16, 2023, foreign nationals must purchase real estate worth at least $200,000 USD to qualify for a residence permit​. This threshold applies across most metropolitan areas in Turkey, and the property must be registered in the applicant’s name.

• The residence permit based on real estate is initially issued for one year but can be renewed as long as the property remains under the applicant’s ownership.

• The required documents include the title deed (Tapu), proof of purchase, health insurance, and sufficient financial means. The application is submitted online via the DGMM website, followed by an in-person interview at the local migration office.

Purpose:

• This permit allows foreigners to reside in Turkey indefinitely, without the need for renewal, as long as they meet the eligibility criteria.

• Foreign nationals who have continuously and legally resided in Turkey for at least eight years on a valid residence permit are eligible. Applicants must not have received social assistance and need to demonstrate sufficient financial resources and health insurance.

• The long-term residence permit is indefinite and does not require renewal.

• Applicants must provide evidence of continuous residence, health insurance, and proof of financial resources. They must also prove good conduct by showing no criminal record during their stay in Turkey.

Increased Minimum Investment for Real Estate-Based Residence Permits:

• As of October 2023, the minimum real estate investment required to obtain a residence permit has been raised to $200,000 USD. This update aims to attract higher-value investments and stabilize property prices in major cities​.

• The entire residence permit application process has been streamlined and can now be managed through digital platforms. This improvement allows applicants to submit their documents online and track the progress of their applications more efficiently.

Foreign nationals planning to stay in Turkey have several residence permit options depending on their purpose of stay, such as tourism, family reunification, or investment. The updated real estate-based residence permit rules reflect Turkey’s growing emphasis on attracting high-value investments. Understanding these permits and their eligibility criteria is essential for a smooth application process.