Turkish Residence Permit and ways to get it

Getting a tourist residency in Turkey is a frequent method of acquiring a Turkish residency and it is especially popular among foreigners who apply for it annually. The requirements for obtaining a Turkish tourist residency are legally defined as follows:

• Renting a property by providing a place to live
• Purchasing real estate
• Enrolling in Turkish language courses as mandated by the Turkish government
• Engaging in scientific and academic research
• Attending training programs
• Getting a residency for the purpose of marriage as per the laws of the Turkish government
• Working and starting a business venture in compliance with the laws of the Turkish government
• Being a tourist in Turkey

As previously noted, the tourist residency is valid for one year and, if extension is desired, the individual must submit their application two months prior to its expiration. After the one-year validity period has passed and if the individual’s circumstances have not changed and there are no legal issues, it is possible for them to extend their residency and apply for a residency card.

Residence through the purchase of property

The Turkish government has opened up the possibility for foreign nationals to obtain residency by acquiring a home in any city within Turkey. To receive residency, one must purchase a property with a value of at least 75,000 dollars in Istanbul or 50,000 dollars in other cities. This residency status will extend to the foreign buyer, their spouse, and any dependent children under the age of 18.

It is important to note that residency and citizenship are distinct concepts. Acquiring Turkish residency does not grant the benefits of Turkish citizenship and passport. To enjoy the benefits of citizenship and a Turkish passport, an individual must purchase property with a value exceeding 400,000 dollars.

Turkish residence through company registration

An alternative means of obtaining Turkish residency is by establishing a business within the country. Those who wish to set up a company in Turkey must do so at least three months prior to the expiration of their current stay, and then convert their tourist visa into a work visa by obtaining a work permit.

Obtaining Turkish residence through work

By presenting a job offer from a Turkish company and a full-time legal employment contract, one can acquire Turkish residency through employment. The benefit of this form of residency is the opportunity to obtain a Turkish passport after 5 years of legal work in Turkey, provided that you have a work permit, known as “chalishma izini” in Turkish. This type of residency also comes with additional perks such as free health insurance.

If you possess the language proficiency in Turkish and have the required skills and qualifications, you can search for job opportunities by submitting your credentials and resume on Turkish job websites. Additionally, speaking English fluently will also increase your chances of finding a good job in Turkey.

The most prevalent form of residency in Turkey is obtained through education and can be achieved in two methods. The first method involves enrolling and paying tuition fees at a Turkish university. By being admitted to a Turkish university and registering for classes, your residency card can be extended until the completion of your studies. It’s worth mentioning that after graduation, students can remain in Turkey for an additional year to search for full-time employment.

The second method of extending your stay is by participating in Turkish language courses that have been approved by the Turkish government. These courses adhere to educational standards and those who apply to attend these courses will be granted a Turkish residency card that is valid for one year.

Residence by investment

To obtain Turkish residency through investment, you must either make a deposit of a minimum of $500,000 in Turkish banks or become a shareholder in a well-respected Turkish company. However, a disadvantage of this form of residency is that you will be unable to withdraw the invested funds for a period of three years. If you meet the minimum investment requirement, you and your family will be granted Turkish residency and citizenship privileges and can enjoy the benefits that come with it.

Residence through marriage in Turkey

Obtaining Turkish residency through marriage to a Turkish citizen is another option for foreigners. Initially, a short-term residency is granted and after three years of marriage, the individual can apply for Turkish citizenship. If one of the parents is a Turkish citizen and the family starts a family in Turkey, the child born to the family will have the right to Turkish citizenship and a Turkish passport.