Essential Turkish Visas For Your Next Stay In Turkey

Are you dreaming of the vibrant bazaars, stunning landscapes, world-class cuisine, and the rich cultural tapestry of Turkey? The allure of a new life in this enchanting country might pique your interest after seeing all this country has in store.

Have you ever found yourself lost in reverie, imagining the serene beauty of Cappadocia or the bustling streets of Istanbul? At first, it might look like holding a ticket to a movie you've always wanted to watch, but you're not quite sure how to step into those scenes. Picture yourself sipping aromatic tea by the Bosphorus, your mind swirling with thoughts of a fresh start. With the right visa, it’s certainly possible to make this dream a reality.

In today’s article, we'll break down the various types of Turkish visas, guiding you through each pathway so that you pick the one that suits you the best. From tourist visas for short-term exploration to investment visas for those seeking a new beginning, we've got you covered.

If you feel that Turkey is calling, hang on tight because you'll find your way in this article. Let's begin.

Crystal clear water of Kaputas Beach

TOURIST VISAS

If you want to test the waters before establishing your roots in Turkey, the tourist visa is the right choice for you. Imagine stepping off the plane onto Turkish soil, and you’re ready for the adventure. But, you might wonder, “How can I get in on this journey?”

E-VISA FOR TOURISM OR SHORT-TERM BUSINESS TRAVEL

Let’s talk about tech. The e-visa, your digital passport for exploration, is what you need for short stays. Believe it or not, it’s straightforward. You don’t need long lists of documents to collect or visit any Turkish embassy or consulate. You just need your valid travel document and a debit or credit card. Then, go to the e-visa application system website and follow the instructions: apply, make the payment and download. Simple. 

In addition, if you stay for less than 90 days, in many cases, you wouldn’t even need this visa – your passport is enough. You can check this website for detailed information. 

RESIDENCE PERMITS

Now, picture yourself drowning in the charm of Turkey, not for a fleeting moment, but for a more extended stay. That’s where residence permits come into play, trying your visit into a full-length feature. 

According to the official government website, Turkey offers a range of residence permits tailored to different situations, each opening a door to a unique experience:

• Short-Term Residence Permit;

• Family Residence Permit;

• Long-Term Residence Permit;

• Student Residence Permit;

• Humanitarian Residence Permit;

• Residence Permit for Victims of Human Trafficking.

Expats often resort to the first three options. Moreover, in a previous article, we delved into the myriad routes by which one can obtain Turkish citizenship by investment. If your financial position is robust, you can go for real estate investments, government bonds, and foster employment. Now, let's explore the visas you can use to make your next stay in Turkey a reality.

Alanya, Turkey

SHORT-TERM RESIDENCE PERMIT

The beauty of this permit lies in its versatility, catering to a multitude of expat categories. As defined in Articles 31-33 of the Law on Foreigners and International Protection, a broad spectrum of individuals, from scholars and students to interns and travellers, can apply. 

• Expats aspiring to own property in Turkey: An enticing avenue, especially for those seeking to test the waters without diving into a substantial real estate investment of $400,000 USD. The property must serve as a primary residence in order to qualify. Moreover, the warmth extends to your household; if your kin shares the same abode, they too can seek this permit, adding a family-friendly flair;

• Foreigners seeking medical treatment: While health insurance may not always be necessary for ailments posing no public health threat, providing documentation of full expense coverage is crucial;

• Foreigners who will attend a language course: Should you choose the path of mastering Turkish, you're entitled to apply for this permit twice. This is only valid, of course, when you enroll in an institution approved by the Ministry of National Education. If you embark on a course lasting less than a year, your residence permit cannot extend beyond the course’s duration;

• Foreigners who wish to stay for tourism purposes.

Additional profiles that qualify for securing this residence permit encompass citizens of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, individuals endeavouring to forge commercial and business ties, and participants enrolling in educational programs, among various other cohorts. Turkey's embrace of diverse backgrounds is evident through its multitude of prospects for short-term residence, welcoming individuals from all walks of life.

Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge over the Bosphorus strait, Istanbul, Turkey

LONG-TERM RESIDENCE PERMIT

This is your path when you've been in Turkey for a while. According to Articles 42-45 of the Law on Foreigners and International Protection, the governorates, along with approval from the Ministry of Interior, can grant a long-term residence permit. The catch? You must have been continuously in Turkey for at least eight years under a permit.

But there are some restrictions. Refugees, conditional refugees, beneficiaries of subsidiary protection, humanitarian residence permit holders, and those under temporary protection don't qualify. To get this permit, you need to meet these criteria:

• Stayed in Turkey for a solid eight years without leaving;

• Have valid medical insurance;

• Haven't received social assistance for the last three years;

• It can show you've got a stable income to support yourself (and your family if they're here);

• It hasn't caused any serious public order or security issues;

• Now, about the benefits. Being a long-term resident means you get a lot of rights. You're almost like a Turkish citizen, but there are a few things you can't do. You can access social security benefits, as long as you meet the rules. On the flip side, you won't have to do military service, but you won't get to vote, work in public service, or bring in vehicles duty-free.

But watch out for a couple of things that could lead to cancelling your long-term residence permit:

• If you do something that seriously affects public order or security;

• If you're out of Turkey for more than a year without a good reason, except for health, education, or mandatory service in your home country.

Related content: Turkey Residency By Investment: Everything You Need To Know

Colorful Buildings in Balat, Istanbul

FAMILY RESIDENCE PERMIT

This is a solid choice, especially if you're married to a Turkish national. According to the specifics laid out in Articles 34-37 of the Law on Foreigners and International Protection, a family residence permit can be granted for up to three years to these groups:

• Spouses of Turkish citizens, folks under Article 28 of Law 5901, foreigners with different types of residence permits, refugees, and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection;

• Children of foreign nationals or minor children of their Turkish spouse;

• Dependent foreign children or dependent foreign children of their spouse.

Here's what the sponsor (the person already living in Turkey and applying for a family residence permit on behalf of their family) needs to meet:

• A monthly income equivalent to or higher than the minimum wage for each family member, totalling at least a third of the minimum wage;

• A year's residence in Turkey under a residence permit;

• Being part of the address-based registration system;

• Furnishing a criminal record certificate demonstrating a clean record regarding family offence-related crimes over the past five years;

• Dwelling in a place that's up to snuff with health and safety standards, fitting for the number of family members;

• Carrying medical insurance covering everyone in the family.

On the flip side, foreigners seeking a family residence permit to stay with a sponsor in Turkey must:

• Provide info and documents confirming their eligibility, as per Article 34 of the Law on Foreigners and International Protection;

• Assert that they currently live with or plan to live with the individuals listed in Article 34;

• Not have tied the knot with a Turkish citizen solely to nab a family residence permit;

• Be above 18 years of age for each spouse;

• Not fall under Article 7 of the Law on Foreigners and International Protection (for example, a child born to a married Turkish parent, whether in Turkey or abroad, or a child born out of wedlock to a Turkish mother and a foreign father).

Finally, it's good to keep in mind situations that could lead to the cancellation of your family residence permit:

• If the conditions laid out in Articles 35(1) and 35(2) aren't met or no longer apply;

• If a short-term residence permit application is turned down due to the conditions for getting a family residence permit no longer being met;

• If it's discovered that the permit is being used for reasons other than its intended purpose;

• If there's a valid decision for removal or a ban on entry to Turkey for foreigners.

Related content: The Pathway To Turkey Through The Citizenship By Investment Program

Canyon Goynuk in Turkey

CONCLUSION

In this journey through the realm of Turkish visas, we've uncovered the avenues that can transform your dreams of a life in Turkey into reality. Each visa offers a unique passage into this captivating land. Whether you're seeking a short-term adventure or contemplating a long-term residence, Turkey's diverse visa options cater to various aspirations.

As you navigate the labyrinth of choices, remember that this is just the beginning of your exploration. Turkey's rich tapestry of culture, history, and landscapes awaits, ready to embrace you with open arms. With the right visa in hand, your story in Turkey is waiting to be written. So take that step, embark on this journey, and let the magic of Turkey unfold before you. The Bosphorus breeze, the scent of spices in the bazaars, and the warmth of Turkish hospitality are all waiting. Welcome to your Turkish adventure.