One of the most frightening situations for international students and foreign nationals considering or already living in Turkey is being deported. You don’t want to experience this, believe me! However, knowing the reasons and your legal rights will give you a great advantage in this process. Here are the most common reasons for deportation in Turkey, the process and your rights.
Reasons for Deportation in Turkey
Deportation in Turkey is regulated by the Directorate General of Migration Management and is governed by Law No. 6458 on Foreigners and International Protection. The table below shows the most common reasons for deportation:
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Immoral or unlawful behavior | Committing crimes, disturbing public order, or engaging in terrorist activities. |
| National health and security threat | Posing a risk of contagious disease or threatening public safety. |
| Living without a residence or work permit | Staying in Turkey without a valid residence or work permit. |
Behavior Contrary to Morality and Law
Turkey takes particularly harsh measures against foreigners who commit crimes or pose a threat to public order. Therefore, drug trafficking, human trafficking or similar offenses can trigger a deportation order.
National Health and Safety Threats
It is mandatory to undergo a health check when entering Turkey. If you are at risk of infectious diseases or threaten national security, you may be deported.
Living without a work or residence permit
This is one of the most common reasons. It is not legally possible to stay in Turkey without a student visa or work permit.
Deportation Process in Turkey
The deportation decision is not just the arbitrary decision of the police; it is carried out by the Migration Management according to a specific procedure. So how does this process work?
Implementation of Out-of-Border Transactions
When the decision is finalized, if the foreigner does not leave Turkey within the specified period, he/she will be deported accompanied by the police or gendarmerie. In this process, it is of great importance to get the support of a lawyer for your rights.
Your Legal Rights Against Deportation
It is absolutely your right to appeal against the deportation decision. The legal system in Turkey also provides legal protection to foreigners.
Idari Dava ve İtiraz Yollari
You can file a lawsuit against the deportation decision to the administrative court within 15 days of receiving the notification. Deportation is usually suspended pending the trial.
Legal Support and Lawyer Service
Legal support can make a huge difference both in the process of filing a case and in your defense. This process can be complicated, especially for international students, so be sure to read Change of Immigration Status in Turkey: Be sure to read our article titled Options and Processes.
How a Deported Foreigner Can Come Back
A foreigner deported from Turkey must fulfill certain conditions to re-enter the country. Everyone is afraid that “I’ve been deported, I can’t go back”, but in some cases it is possible to return.
Back Entry Ban and Duration
Deported foreigners may be banned from entering Turkey. This period usually ranges from 1 to 5 years. If you have left the country voluntarily (e.g. before a deportation order is issued), this period may be shorter.
Re-application Process and Permits
After the expiry of the re-entry ban, you can apply for a new visa or residence permit. However, this application takes into account your commitment to Turkey, your previous reasons for deportation and your new purpose of living. For example, if you want to return as a student, you can apply for a student visa in Turkey.
Transition from Student Visa to Work Visa in Turkey
Many international students want to obtain a work permit after starting their education in Turkey. This process is also very important to reduce the risk of deportation. Because working without a work permit is one of the reasons for deportation.
Change of Immigration Status in Turkey: Options and Processes
If you are in Turkey on a student visa or short-term residence permit, you have the right to change your immigration status under certain conditions. For example, you can switch to a family residence permit or a long-term residence permit. In this process, it is very important that you submit the documents requested by the Directorate General of Migration Management in full.
Be Prepared for Deportation in Turkey!
Living as a foreigner in Turkey can sometimes involve complicated procedures, but remember: You have rights! Learn each step well, prepare your documents completely and get professional support. Now is the time to take a step so that your dream of living in Turkey is not interrupted!
Frequently Asked Questions
In which cases is it deported?
Deportation can be ordered in cases such as overstaying a visa/stay in Turkey, entering illegally, participating in terrorist activities, threatening public security or violating an administrative detention order.
Why Turkey’s entry ban happens
The entry ban is imposed for reasons such as deportation, visa/residency permit violation, threat to public order/security or public health, use of false documents or involvement in international crimes.
Can a deported person return?
Yes, a deported person can return to Turkey in some cases but this is not an automatic or guaranteed process.
Is deportation lifted upon marriage?
Marriage can be a reason for lifting the ban, but it does not automatically lift the ban, it is necessary to apply to the competent authorities.
What does the code V164 mean?
V-164 is an important entry ban/restriction code. The cause is usually related to a serious breach of security, order or health/law. Abolition is possible, but it requires a process and there is no guarantee of success in all cases.