Introduction: Bayraktar Attorneys is committed to providing legal assistance to individuals seeking asylum in Turkey. In this blog post, we will discuss the process of seeking asylum in Turkey, the rights and responsibilities of refugees, and the legal support services available to them.
Asylum Application in Turkey: Under the Mülteci Hakları Merkezi (Refugee Rights Center), individuals who have been forced to leave their countries due to war and persecution can seek asylum in Turkey. The center offers comprehensive and free legal consultation and support services to all foreigners applying for or considering asylum in Turkey. Our legal services primarily cover the following areas:
Temporary Protection for Syrian Refugees:
- Information and consultation on the rights, obligations, and procedures under the “temporary protection regime” for Syrian refugees.
- Assistance with questions and issues encountered during the application process.
International Protection Procedure for Non-Syrian Nationals:
- Guidance on the rights, obligations, official application, and evaluation procedures for individuals from countries like Iraq, Afghanistan, Iran, and Somalia seeking international protection in Turkey.
- Legal advice and support in case of negative decisions and appeal options.
Legal Assistance for Administrative Procedures:
- Support and legal representation in challenging negative decisions and exploring legal avenues for those under “temporary protection” or “international protection” administered by the General Directorate of Migration Management (GİGM).
Legal Assistance for Detained Individuals:
- Guidance and legal representation for individuals detained in deportation centers or administrative custody at airports or border crossings who wish to apply for “temporary protection” or “international protection.”
- Assistance with understanding their rights, legal procedures, and avenues for appeal.
UNHCR Procedures:
- Legal consultation and assistance regarding negative decisions and appeal options for procedures conducted by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Turkey Office within their jurisdiction.
Special Considerations:
- Tailored legal support and advocacy for individuals with special vulnerabilities, such as unaccompanied minors, victims of gender-based violence, and those at risk of such violence.
Understanding Asylum Application: The right to seek asylum is protected by the 1951 Geneva Convention. Individuals forced to leave their home countries can request asylum from the responsible authorities in their host country.
Depending on the country’s protection laws, different documents may be required during the application process. In Turkey, asylum applications must be submitted in writing and with a wet signature. Applicants must personally submit their requests to the relevant authorities.
Where to Apply for Asylum in Turkey: The primary authority responsible for protecting individuals within Turkish territory is the Republic of Turkey.
The location for asylum application in Turkey depends on whether the foreigner entered the country legally or illegally.
In cases where valid reasons for illegal entry can be established, no criminal action will be taken. In both cases, an initial application for “temporary protection” must be made, and applicants are required to reside in designated satellite cities.
The “temporary protection” document prevents individuals from being forcibly returned to their home countries against their will. The General Directorate of Migration Management (GİGM) is the agency responsible for international protection procedures in Turkey.
Asylum seekers must register in person at the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management (İl Göç İdaresi Müdürlüklerine, İGİM). Subsequently, their stay in Turkey becomes legal with the issuance of an application document.
During the registration process, the UNHCR may request the completion of a refugee status determination application form. Once registration is complete, the foreigner receives a “Refugee Document” and an appointment card from the office.
On the appointment day, the applicant provides detailed information on reasons for fleeing their home country and other relevant information. If the reasons for seeking asylum in Turkey are deemed sufficient, the applicant is granted refugee status.
Conclusion: Seeking asylum is a fundamental right protected by international law. Bayraktar Attorneys is dedicated to providing legal support and guidance to refugees navigating the asylum process in Turkey.
Our legal expertise ensures that asylum seekers understand their rights and have access to the necessary legal resources to protect their interests throughout the application process. If you require legal assistance or have questions about seeking asylum in Turkey, please do not hesitate to contact us for expert advice and representation.
Moreover, you can get in touch with us through our residence permit application services.
