Turkish Residence Permit: How to Stay in Turkey Long-Term
Obtaining a residence permit in Turkey has become a popular route for foreigners seeking to stay longer than the standard tourist visa allows. Whether you’re looking to live, study, work, or invest in Turkey, there are a variety of options available for securing temporary or permanent residency.
Tourist Residence Permit in Turkey
One of the most common ways to start your journey in Turkey is by obtaining a tourist residence permit. Many foreigners have taken advantage of this route to live in Turkey for an extended period of time, and it’s a great option for those wanting to explore the country before deciding to stay long-term. The tourist residence permit allows individuals to remain in Turkey legally for up to a year.
If you’re already in Turkey and want to extend your stay beyond the 90-day visa-free period, you can apply for a tourist residence permit by meeting the necessary conditions and providing the required documents.
Let’s explore the details of tourist residence permits in Turkey, their duration, and how to apply for them.
Duration of Tourist Stay in Turkey
Visitors from many countries, including those with visa-free access to Turkey, can stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This allows you to explore Turkey without needing a visa. However, this 90-day period does not permit any work or formal education.
If you wish to stay in Turkey for longer, such as for tourism, renting or buying property, or conducting research, you will need to apply for a residence permit, which allows you to remain in Turkey for up to one year. This requires a tourist residence visa and proper documentation.
How to Obtain a One-Year Tourist Residence Permit
If you wish to stay in Turkey for longer than 90 days, you can apply for a one-year tourist residence permit. This option is available for individuals who meet certain requirements and provide the necessary documents. The following reasons may be valid for obtaining a one-year residence permit in Turkey:
Conducting scientific and educational research.
Obtaining tourist accommodation through renting property.
Purchasing property, thus securing residence through real estate investment.
Starting a job or business activity in accordance with Turkish government regulations.
Learning Turkish through approved language courses.
Obtaining residency through marriage to a Turkish citizen.
Participating in training courses.
Can You Work with a Tourist Residence Permit?
While a tourist residence permit allows you to stay in Turkey, it does not permit employment. However, after living in Turkey for six months, particularly through property rental or purchase, you may apply for a work permit. To work legally in Turkey, you will need a work permit and a residence card (Kimlik). This is issued when you have a formal job offer from a Turkish employer, and your insurance is covered.
Rules for Extending Your Tourist Residence Permit
Under new laws introduced in 2022, renewing a tourist residence permit has become more challenging. In the past, people could extend their tourist stay year after year with a simple rental agreement. Now, applicants must provide additional reasons to stay in Turkey, such as employment, education, or investment.
Failure to meet these conditions means that you will need to leave Turkey for at least one year before reapplying for a tourist residence permit.
Opening a Bank Account in Turkey for Foreigners
To obtain a residence permit in Turkey, you will need to provide certain documents, such as proof of accommodation and health insurance. Opening a bank account in Turkey can also help facilitate payments and provide proof of financial stability, which is required for residence permit applications.
Renting a Property in Turkey to Secure Residence
The easiest way to get a residence permit in Turkey is through renting a property. By signing a rental agreement, notarizing it, and providing proof of address, you can apply for a one-year tourist residence permit. However, it is essential to understand that renting a property does not lead to citizenship. Living in Turkey for several years on a tourist residence permit will not qualify you for Turkish citizenship.
Documents Required for a One-Year Residence Permit (Rental Property)
To apply for a one-year residence permit in Turkey, you will need the following documents:
A completed residence permit application form.
A notarized rental agreement.
Health insurance covering your stay in Turkey.
A tax number obtained from the Turkish tax office.
Proof of payment of the land fee and Kimlik card fee.
Four passport-sized photos (6x4).
Rejection of Residence Applications
Your residence application can be rejected for various reasons, including:
Attempting to extend a tourist stay beyond one year.
Providing a false lease agreement.
Invalid or insufficient health insurance.
If your application is rejected, the Turkish immigration office will give you 10 days to leave the country. Failing to do so may result in fines or a temporary ban on reapplying for residence.
Residence Costs in Turkey
The cost of obtaining a one-year tourist residence permit includes:
$80 for the land fee (for individuals over 18).
110 Turkish lira for the Kimlik card issuance.
The cost of health insurance.
New Rules for Turkish Tourist Residence in 2022
As of 2022, new laws have come into effect, making it harder for non-EU and non-OECD citizens to extend their tourist residence permits. After one year, applicants must either leave Turkey or switch to another type of residence permit, such as work, education, or investment.
This change aims to encourage foreigners to either invest in Turkey or transition from tourist stays to permanent residency. It also streamlines the process for those seeking to obtain Turkish citizenship.
Final Thoughts
Turkey remains a highly attractive destination for foreign nationals, with its affordable cost of living, diverse culture, and strategic location. While tourist residence permits offer an easy way to stay for one year, long-term residency requires more effort, such as investing in real estate, finding employment, or pursuing higher education.