Until July 2010, foreign nationals living in Turkey used to pop over to Greek Islands along the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts and renew their visas on return for another 3 months. Each time they entered Turkey, they would receive a 3 monthly visa. Many ex-pats took advantage of these extensions and renewed over and over again without having to apply for residency in Turkey.
As of July 2010, foreign residents living in Turkey are no longer able to make short trips out of the country to renew their visa. The authorities are now issuing a 90-day tourist visa that is valid over 180 days, so if you try and return to Turkey after 90 days you will not be allowed and you will have to wait a further 90 days to apply for another tourist visa.
This is great news for holidaymakers who make several trips to Turkey over the course of a year, spreading out their 90 day allowance over six months. However, for those who wish to live in Turkey on a permanent basis, it means the end of visa runs. Residents should instead apply for a residence permit. We have outlined the hows and whats below, but should you have any questions please call us on + 44 (0) 20 8371 0059.
What type of residence permit will I need?
The longest term a resident permit is granted for is five years. However, usually permits of only two years are granted on initial application. After a residence permit expires it can be renewed four times. To renew, you must apply to your local police headquarters within 15 days of expiry. If you wish to stay in Turkey longer than 4 renewals (which in theory could be up to 14 years), then it is best to apply for permanent residency from the outset as opposed to renewing residency each time. There is again a process that applies to permanent residency and also acquiring Turkish citizenship.
How to obtain a residency permit
You can get an application from your local Foreigners Department, at your local police station. You will need the following documents:
- A valid passport with photocopies of the last entry stamp and details page
- A completed application form
- Five recent passport-sized photographs
- A valid Turkish visa (eg, a holiday visa)
- The application fee
- Bank statement from a Turkish bank proving you are in good financial standing (this varies from place to place. The general rule is that you must have 250 euros in for each month you intend to register in Turkey. For example, if you want a 12-month permit, you will need 3000 euros).
You may also need, where applicable:
- Evidence of your marriage (if married to a Turkish national)
- Property title deeds
- Employment details (if employed in Turkey)
Changing your permit details
If you move to another region, you must report your move to the local police station within 48 hours. If your marital status changes you must submit a signed statement to the local authorities within 15 days of the change in order for your details to be changed on your residence permit.
Residence permit costs as of 2010:
One year 370 GBP
Two years 730 GBP
Three years 1090 GBP
Four years 1450 GBP
Five years 1810 GBP
Note: On first application, you will need to pay a 138 YTL administration fee. You will not need to pay this upon renewal.
Please note that your Turkish residency permit does not give you right to employment or self-employment in Turkey. In order to work in Turkey, you will need to apply for a work permit or a permit to set up a business in Turkey.
