Complete Guide to Turkish Residency Permit and Visa Process
Planning a trip to Turkey? For a regular stay, the Turkish government allows tourists to remain in the country for up to 90 days within any 180 days using a Turkish residency permit. For longer stays, consider an extended visa. This saves you the hassle of quick trips out of Turkey just to refresh your passport stamp. What was once a tedious visa application process has now become straightforward, thanks to Turkey’s online visa application system.
Application Process:
Visit the Directorate General of Migration Management’s website to kick-start your visa application. Here, you’ll provide your details and book an appointment at the closest DG a catch: post-application, you’re restricted from freely moving in and out of Turkey. If you must leave, ensure you return within 15 days.
Cost Details:
Residency permit costs vary depending on your intended duration of stay. As you fill out the online application and choose your DGMM appointment, the system calculates these costs for you. Conveniently, you can pay either with a credit card or directly at a local tax office.
Essential Documents:
While the online system tailors the list of required documents to your circumstances, you’ll likely need:
- Four recent biometric passport-size photos with a white background (bring two extra to be safe).
- Two sets of your TAPU/Turkish Title Deeds or rental agreement. Ensure you have the original as they might request it.
- Color copies of your passport, specifically the visa entry stamp and main details page. The passport should cover your entire stay duration.
- Your Turkish tax identification number. If you don’t own one, simply visit a local tax office.
- Health Insurance Documents.
- A bank statement confirming your financial capacity for the stay duration. If you bank in Turkey, get a printed account summary.
- Birth certificates, passports, and photos of immediate family members (for family residency permits).
Post-approval, expect your new Turkish residency permit to arrive via post. First-timers receive a one-year validity. On renewal, you can opt for two years. After an 8-year stay, you become eligible for an indefinite residence permit.
Working with Your Residency Permit:
Your Turkish residency permit doesn’t authorize employment. The government remains stringent against unauthorized employment. Those caught face penalties such as deportation, fines, and residency card revocation. Employers, too, adhere to strict rules on hiring foreigners. Hence, secure a job before heading to Turkey and let your future employer guide you through the work permit process.
Do you have more questions or need detailed insights? Feel free to contact Prestij Consulting or explore our blog page for comprehensive guides and updates.