Entry bans (giriş yasağı) are administrative sanctions imposed by Turkish migration authorities to prevent certain foreigners from re-entering the country for a fixed period. These bans are usually triggered by deportation decisions, visa violations, public order concerns, or illegal entry attempts. The duration can range from 3 months to 5 years, and bans are recorded in Turkey’s national migration system, GÖÇNET. However, entry bans are not absolute. Foreigners have the legal right to challenge these decisions based on humanitarian grounds, legal status, or procedural errors. Our Turkish Law Firm assists clients in removing or reducing entry bans, filing legal objections, and ensuring compliance with Turkish and international law. With the help of an English speaking lawyer in Turkey, foreign nationals can regain access and protect their immigration rights.
When Are Entry Bans Imposed in Turkey?
Entry bans are commonly imposed in cases such as overstaying a visa, working without a permit, being deported for administrative violations, or attempting unauthorized re-entry. The DGMM (Directorate General of Migration Management) has broad discretion in assigning these bans. The standard durations are: 3 months (minor violations), 6–12 months (moderate violations), 2–5 years (serious or repeated violations). Our Turkish Lawyers assess the legal basis of the ban and whether procedural safeguards were followed. Criminal Defence Lawyer in Turkey also intervenes when the ban is linked to a criminal allegation.
Notification and GÖÇNET Record of Entry Bans
Once an entry ban is issued, it is registered in the GÖÇNET system and enforced at border gates. Foreigners may not always be formally notified of the ban, discovering it only during travel attempts or residence applications. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey requests migration files, ban notices, and entry clearance details from DGMM or border control units. Turkish Law Firm then prepares written legal objections and initiates administrative review procedures.
Legal Objection to Entry Ban Decisions
Foreigners may file an objection (itiraz) to the entry ban with the local Governor’s Office or Migration Directorate. This should include a written petition, identity documents, and legal justifications. If the ban was linked to a previous deportation, a cancellation or mitigation request may also be filed. Company Lawyer Turkey ensures that business owners, employees, or investors facing bans submit tailored legal arguments based on economic contribution and administrative proportionality. Turkish Lawyers emphasize due process violations, lack of formal notification, or family ties as grounds for relief.
How Long Do Entry Bans Last and Can They Be Shortened?
Entry bans are not fixed permanently. Authorities have discretion to shorten or lift bans early based on humanitarian reasons, marriage to Turkish citizens, or valid residence permit applications. The most common durations are: 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey drafts petitions with supporting documents (marriage, health, education, or business records) to request early removal. Turkish Law Firm follows up with provincial directorates and coordinates personal interviews when required.
Visa Applications During an Active Entry Ban
Foreigners subject to a ban may still apply for a visa from a Turkish consulate. However, the consulate will require a clearance decision from the Ministry of Interior before issuing any visa. Company Lawyer Turkey prepares consular petitions explaining the situation, justifying the need for travel, and demonstrating ties to Turkey. Turkish Lawyers coordinate with both consulates and DGMM officials to ensure the ban record is cleared or marked with a temporary waiver flag. Related: Understanding Deportation and Entry Restrictions
Humanitarian Grounds for Lifting Entry Bans
Entry bans may be lifted if the foreigner demonstrates that continued exclusion would result in disproportionate hardship—such as family separation, medical need, or education disruption. Turkish authorities assess humanitarian exemption requests under the discretion provided by Law No. 6458. Our Turkish Lawyers prepare detailed justification files with medical reports, dependent child documentation, and social service evaluations. English speaking lawyer in Turkey ensures that all evidence is appropriately translated and filed within legal standards.
Family Ties and Exemptions from Entry Bans
Foreigners who are married to Turkish citizens, have Turkish children, or provide care to family members may be exempt from entry bans. Courts and migration authorities prioritize family unity, especially in cases involving minor children. Turkish Law Firm provides legal representation in residence permit applications and appeals linked to family reunification. Criminal Defence Lawyer in Turkey intervenes if the ban is linked to a criminal case that affects the family unit.
Business and Investment-Based Entry Ban Objections
Foreign investors, shareholders, and executives may challenge an entry ban if it obstructs ongoing commercial activity. Under Turkish commercial law and international investment agreements, such restrictions may violate economic rights. Company Lawyer Turkey prepares commercial justifications, shareholder records, and board resolutions to support the objection. Turkish Lawyers submit these to the Provincial Migration Directorate with accompanying legal petitions and tax records.
Judicial Appeal of Entry Bans in Administrative Court
If administrative objections fail, foreigners may file a judicial challenge (iptal davası) before the Administrative Court. The lawsuit must be filed within 60 days of notification or discovery of the ban. Our Turkish Law Firm builds comprehensive case files including procedural violations, proportionality analysis, and ECHR-based legal arguments. English speaking lawyer in Turkey attends hearings and ensures compliance with Turkish civil procedure rules.
Administrative Discretion and Internal Review Mechanisms
In many cases, the Ministry of Interior or Provincial Governorates have internal review systems to reconsider bans without litigation. These mechanisms are faster and more flexible but require strategic legal presentation. Turkish Lawyers follow up on file progress and submit legal memoranda requesting internal reversal. Company Lawyer Turkey also negotiates directly with immigration officials when business visas or residency applications are affected.
Precedents and Case Law on Entry Ban Cancellation
Turkish courts have repeatedly ruled that blanket entry bans without individualized analysis violate due process and human rights. Recent judgments have overturned bans based on minor infractions or where family reunification would be harmed. Our Criminal Defence Lawyer in Turkey incorporates these decisions into defense files, especially when bans are linked to politically motivated removals or administrative overreach. See also: Deportation Ban Based on Family Unity
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is an entry ban (giriş yasağı) in Turkey? It is a restriction that prevents a foreigner from entering Turkey for a fixed period due to legal or administrative reasons.
- How long do entry bans last? They typically range from 3 months to 5 years depending on the reason (e.g., deportation, overstay, illegal work).
- Can I apply for a visa while banned? Yes, but the visa will only be issued if the ban is lifted or a waiver is granted by the Ministry of Interior.
- Can I challenge an entry ban? Yes. You can file an administrative objection or take the case to the Administrative Court within 60 days.
- What are the chances of success in entry ban appeals? High, if you show humanitarian need, family ties, or procedural violations. We evaluate each case individually.
- Do I need a lawyer to lift the ban? Not mandatory, but highly recommended. Our English speaking lawyer in Turkey ensures proper filing, translation, and legal strategy.
- Is the entry ban automatically removed after the period ends? Yes, in most cases. But it's advisable to verify GÖÇNET status before travel.
- Can I be banned again after re-entry? Yes, if you violate visa terms or commit a legal offense. Compliance is essential.
- What if I was deported unfairly? You may also challenge the deportation alongside the entry ban. We file dual petitions if needed.
- Can family members visit if one person is banned? Yes. Each case is individual. But joint family bans may apply in rare cases. We provide separate legal strategy per person.
- How do I check if I’m banned? GÖÇNET access is limited, but we request status from migration authorities and border offices on your behalf.
- Who is the best lawyer firm in Turkey for entry ban removal? Istanbul Law Firm—with expert Turkish Lawyers, Criminal Defence Lawyer in Turkey, and English speaking lawyer in Turkey support for visa and border defense cases.
Contact Our Turkish Law Firm
If you’ve been banned from entering Turkey or need urgent legal help at the consulate or border, our Turkish Law Firm provides fast, reliable, and strategic legal support. With our English speaking lawyer in Turkey, you’ll receive clear guidance, full documentation support, and aggressive advocacy to restore your legal entry rights. Trust the best lawyer firm in Turkey to reverse entry bans and protect your freedom of travel and family life.