Turkey is a beautiful country that attracts millions of tourists every year. However, some people decide to stay in Turkey permanently.

If you are a foreigner and want to live in Turkey permanently, several options are available to you. In this article, we will discuss the requirements and procedures for obtaining permanent residency in Turkey.

1. Temporary Residency

Before you may apply for short-term residency in Turkey, you must first get a 90-day temporary travel visa. This visa allows you to stay in Turkey for a set amount of time. The period of your permit is determined by the purpose of your stay.

As a tourist, you can get a visa for up to 90 days. You must apply for a short-term residence permit if you intend to stay for more than 90 days.

2. Short-Term Residence Permit

A short-term residence permit in Turkey will allow you to remain in the country for up to two years. In order to be considered for this permission, you will be required to present a variety of supporting documentation.

3. Family Residence Permit

If you are married to a Turkish citizen, you can apply for a family residence permit. This permit allows you to stay in Turkey with your spouse and children. To be eligible for this permit, you must provide evidence of your marriage and your spouse's Turkish citizenship.

If your spouse has been employed for more than a year, the second alternative is to use your spouse's work permit to apply for family permit.

You also need to provide evidence that you can support yourself and your family financially.

4. Work Permit

If you want to work in Turkey, you need to obtain a work permit. This permit allows you to work for a specific employer in Turkey. To be eligible for a work permit, you must have a job offer from a Turkish employer.

Your employer must also provide evidence that they cannot find a Turkish citizen to fill the position. You also need to provide evidence that you have the necessary qualifications and experience for the job.

5. Student Residence Permit

If you are a student in Turkey, you can obtain a student residence permit. This permit allows you to stay in Turkey for the duration of your studies. To be eligible for this permit, you need to provide evidence that you are enrolled in a Turkish university or college.

You also need to provide evidence that you can support yourself financially during your studies.

6. Long-term or Permanent Residency

If you meet certain criteria, you can apply for long-term residency in Turkey. To be eligible for permanent residency, you need to have lived in Turkey for at least eight years with a valid residency permit.

You also need to provide evidence that you have not received any social assistance during your stay in Turkey. You must also have a valid passport and a clean criminal record.

Conclusion

Living in Turkey as a foreigner is possible, and several options are available to you. If you want to stay in Turkey permanently, you need to obtain a temporary travel visa first. After that, you can apply for a short-term residence permit, a family residence permit, a work permit, a student residence permit, or permanent residency after eight years of uninterrupted residency.

Each of these permits has its own requirements and procedures, so it's important to do your research before applying. Good luck!

Do you need to apply for a residence permit in Turkey? At Ikamet, we can guide you through the process and provide you with valuable information on living in Turkey. With our help, you can settle in seamlessly and enjoy all that Turkey has to offer. Contact us to get started!