With the implementation of a protocol (“Protocol”) between the Directorate General of Migration Management (Göç İdaresi Başkanlığı) and the Union of Notaries (Noterler Birliği), significant changes have been introduced to the process of applying for residence permits in Turkey. This regulation, which came into effect on July 17, 2024, brings notable innovations aimed at improving the efficiency and transparency of the application process.
Legal Framework for Residence Permits in Turkey
Under the Law on Foreigners and International Protection, foreigners who are not prohibited from entering Turkey and who comply with the Passport Law can legally reside and travel within the country. However, foreigners intending to stay in Turkey beyond their visa or visa-free period, or for more than 90 days, are required to obtain a residence permit.
The purpose of these regulations is to ensure that long-term stays are conducted under a legal framework, thereby supporting foreigners’ legal residency in Turkey.
Types of Residence Permits and Application Procedures
Residence permit applications in Turkey vary depending on the duration and purpose of the foreigner’s stay. Applications require compliance with specific procedures and the submission of relevant documentation.
Traditional Procedure Before the Protocol
Before the introduction of the Protocol, residence permit applications in Turkey were initiated online through the Directorate General of Migration Management’s official website (goc.gov.tr). This initial step served as a pre-application, allowing applicants to secure an appointment with the Migration Office (Göç İdaresi Müdürlüğü) in the relevant city.
On the appointment date, applicants were required to present completed documentation to the Migration Office. Key steps in the process included:
- Document Submission: Ensuring all documents were complete and accurate.
- Fingerprinting: A mandatory step for identity verification and formalizing the application.
- Application Review: Authorities reviewed the submitted documents and provided updates regarding the application status.
Following the review, applicants were notified about the outcome of their applications through the contact details provided during the application process.
New Developments Under the Protocol
Under the new Protocol, effective July 17, 2024, residence permit applications can now also be processed through notaries. This new procedure complements the traditional method and introduces several enhancements to the application process.
Key Changes Introduced by the Protocol
- Integration with Notaries:
- New Documentation Process:
- Geographic Restrictions:
- Fingerprinting:
Benefits of the New System
The introduction of the notary-based application process offers several advantages:
- Reduced Workload and Wait Times:
- Enhanced Document Security:
- Streamlined and Reliable Processes:
- Protection Against Fraud:
What This Means for Foreign Residents in Turkey
The Protocol introduces a dual pathway for residence permit applications, allowing foreigners to choose the most convenient and efficient option for their needs. While the traditional method remains in place, the inclusion of notaries provides an alternative that is likely to be faster, more reliable, and less stressful for applicants.
At Bayraktar Attorneys, we are committed to helping our clients navigate these changes seamlessly. Our team offers expert legal guidance to ensure that your residence permit application complies with the latest regulations and is processed without delays.
Whether you are applying for a residence permit for the first time or renewing an existing one, our team is here to assist with every step of the process. Contact us today for a consultation and let us make your transition to life in Turkey as smooth as possible.
