The long-term residence permit is a great advantage for foreign students and professionals who want to live in Turkey and build a permanent life here. When I first arrived, I started with a short-term residence permit; it was quite a hassle to renew it every year, collect documents and make appointments. Then, when I heard about the long-term residence permit, I thought, “This is for me!” Indeed, for many foreigners, this permit opens the door to establishing a permanent settlement in Turkey. Now let’s take a look at what a long-term residence permit is, who can get one and how to apply.
What is a Long Term Residence Permit?
Long-term residence permit is a type of permanent residence permit issued to foreigners who have stayed in Turkey for at least eight years without interruption with a legal residence permit. With this permit, you have the right to reside in Turkey for an unlimited period of time and you do not have to worry about renewing your documents every year. There is also the opportunity to benefit from social rights and, in some cases, to take the first step towards naturalization. In my eyes, this permit is like a “VIP ticket” for foreigners who want to put down roots in Turkey!
Who is Eligible for a Long-Term Residence Permit?
Certain requirements must be met to obtain a long-term residence permit. Chief among these is having resided in Turkey for at least eight uninterrupted years with a legal residence permit. The term “uninterrupted” is important here, as if your total number of trips abroad exceeds one year, your eight-year period can be reset to zero. You also need to not pose a threat to public order or security in Turkey and not be a recipient of social assistance. This was the most confusing aspect of my initial application; they even asked for proof of social assistance!
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
To apply, you need to go to the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management in person. The first step is to make an appointment through the e-residency system. On the day of the appointment, you go to the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management with the long-term residence permit application form and the necessary documents and start the procedures. The Migration Management examines the documents and approves your application if it finds it appropriate. The process can take a few weeks to a few months depending on the volume of applications. My first application was finalized in 2 months, patience is very important! You can view the application details on the official page of the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management here.
Required Documents and Conditions
When applying for a long-term residence permit, you need to prepare certain documents. At first I remember thinking, “Oh, that’s a lot of paperwork!” but it all makes sense. Here are the most basic documents:
- Passport or equivalent document (or photocopy): It is important that it is valid and that all information is readable.
- Residence permit: Documents of your previous residence permits in Turkey (to prove the 8-year period).
- Biometric photograph: Taken within the last 6 months, clear and up to standard.
- Document showing income status: You need to prove that you have the financial means to make a living in Turkey. If you are considering a long-term stay on a student visa, you can check out our article titled Proof of Financial Sufficiency for a Student Visa in Turkey.
- Health insurance: Insurance valid for the duration of your stay in Turkey.
- Criminal record: It is requested to show that you do not threaten public order in Turkey.
In addition, the Provincial Immigration Authority may request additional documents from you, such as a copy of the lease agreement or a copy of the title deed confirming your residential address. In my experience, the address declaration stage took the most time, as I had to get the lease agreement notarized instead of the title deed. So be patient at this stage. If you are coming for a short-term program or education, be sure to check out Short-Term Education Visa Options in Turkey. In my experience, the address declaration stage took the most time, instead of the title deed, I had to get the lease contract notarized. So I would say be patient at this stage.
A detailed list of documents can be found on the Migration Administration’s official website.
Long Term Residence Permit Advantages and Your Rights
Life in Turkey becomes much easier after obtaining a long-term residence permit. You avoid the hassle of renewing your permit every year and you gain the opportunity to benefit from social rights. For example, advantages such as access to health services in public hospitals, education and work rights come into play. You also have most of the rights of Turkish citizens (except the right to vote and be elected).
Another advantage is that long-term residence permit holders are more likely to apply for citizenship. Of course, there are separate requirements for this, but getting a long-term permit definitely puts you one step ahead. In my experience, my friends always ask me, “Did you get this permit?” because it is a kind of permanent attachment to Turkey.
By obtaining a long-term residence permit in Turkey, you are both strengthening your ties with Turkey and taking an important step towards establishing a permanent life here. Now is the time to take action and apply for this permit!