Citizenship and Immigration Law

Many people want to get Turkish citizenship or immigrate to Turkey. However, it is a broad field and sometimes a long process. For this reason, as Istanbul Lawyer Firm, we provide you with all the necessary information about Turkish citizenship and immigration law to help you before you get your Turkish citizenship or start your immigration process. 

Our Turkish law firm, Istanbul Lawyer Firm, tries to help you with your legal cases in Turkish citizenship and immigration law. With our professional and qualified professionals who are also experienced in the field of citizenship and immigration law in Turkey, we provide you with legal consultancy services and all the information you need. If you are looking for an immigration law attorney, you can contact us and get information from our English-speaking lawyers in Turkey. 

Key Components of Turkish Immigration Law 

Turkish citizenship and immigration law includes several factors. These key components of Turkish citizenship and immigration law are visa types and requirements, types of residence permits in Turkey, citizenship through investment, and citizenship through bank deposit. All of these factors are explained below. 

Visa Types and Requirements 

There are several visa types in Turkey. These visa types are Tourist Visas, Working Visas, Internship Visas, or other visas for Archaeological Excavation, Exploration Purposes, Documentary Purposes, Tour Operator Representative, Medical Treatment Purposes, or Accompaniment Purposes. 

Within the scope of Turkish citizenship and immigration law, the requirements for a Turkish visa include a valid passport, a recent biometric passport photo, a signed Turkey visa application form, financial proof, proof of medical insurance, and information about accommodation. 

Types of Residence Permits in Turkey 

Regarding Turkish citizenship and immigration law, some types of residence permits exist in Turkey. These are: 

  • Short-term Residence Permit is for people who want to stay in Turkey for less than a year and are typically granted this permit. Tourists, students, business travelers, and people seeking medical treatment can all apply for it. 
  • Student Residence Permit is for people who want to pursue education in Turkey. 
  • A long-term Residence Permit is for foreigners who have legally resided in Turkey for a certain period, usually eight years. 
  • Work Permit is for individuals who want to work in Turkey. 
  • A Family Residence Permit is for family members of foreign nationals with active residence permits in Turkey.

    Citizenship Through Investment 

    Through the Turkish Citizenship by Investment program, eligible investors from other nations and their families may become citizens of Turkey by making significant financial contributions to the country—the program aimed to promote economic growth and draw in foreign direct investment. 

    Citizenship Through Bank Deposit 

    To improve economic growth, citizenship through bank deposits has been introduced. People who deposit a minimum of 500,000 USD or equivalent currency in banks in Turkey and commit to keep it for three years are eligible for citizenship. 

    Challenges and Solutions in the Immigration Process 

    The rules and regulations about Turkish citizenship and immigration law aim to enable people to have an easier and smoother process. Yet, people who want to have Turkish citizenship or immigrate to Turkey to study, work, live, or other reasons may face several challenges. 

    When you have a problem during the immigration process, it is better to seek a professional solution. You can contact our Istanbul Lawyer Firm for legal consultancy in the Immigration field. 

    Understanding Legal Requirements 

    To easily adjust to a foreign country, it is essential to understand the legal requirements during the immigration procedure. It can be difficult to navigate these rules, but it can be achieved through research, planning, and expert advice. Understanding the legal terminology in the Turkish citizenship and immigration law field can be challenging. Yet, you can get help from immigration consultants or legal experts. 

    Language and Cultural Barriers 

    Language and cultural barriers make it harder for newcomers to interact with officials and navigate administrative processes. However, learning basic Turkish words related to this field, taking language and cultural courses, and getting help from English-speaking lawyers can help them overcome this challenge. 

    Financial and Employment Hurdles 

    Another challenge that individuals might face during the immigration process in Turkey is financial and employment hurdles. For financial ones, managing funds in a foreign currency and becoming familiar with the local banking system might take a lot of work. To solve this problem, it is recommended to research different banks and their services to find the one that best suits the needs. Also, immigration procedures frequently demand that applicants demonstrate they have the resources to support their family in a new country. Having a financial plan before the immigration process covers living expenses, accommodation, healthcare, and other essentials can be a solution.

    Finding suitable job opportunities and building a professional network can be challenging for employment hurdles. However, searching for employment opportunities on social networks can be helpful. 

    FAQ About Citizenship and Immigration Law in Turkey 

    Turkish citizenship and immigration law can be challenging for people who want to get Turkish citizenship or immigrate to Turkey. Let’s look at the frequently asked questions about citizenship and immigration law in Turkey to understand this field better. 

    What is 5901 Turkish Citizenship Law?

    The Turkish citizenship law, released in Turkey's Official Gazette on June 12, 2009, outlines the guidelines and processes for obtaining and relinquishing Turkish citizenship.

    What Happens If You Overstay Your Visa in Turkey? 

    If you overstay your visa, it can lead to several consequences. Depending on the length of your overstay, you may be deported, subject to penalties or fines, or it can affect your citizenship and immigration process. Due to the Act of Fees Law 492 in Turkey, foreigners who violate the right to a Turkish citizenship law legal stay of more than three months have to make the payment for administrative fines. 

    How Long Does It Take to Get a Turkish Residence Permit? 

    According to Turkish citizenship and immigration law, obtaining a Turkish residence permit includes several factors: submitting the application form or other required documents and an in-person appointment. That is why the length of the process can vary depending on these factors. The type of residence permit can also affect the duration of getting a Turkish residence permit.