A long-term residence permit is a permit to stay in Turkey for a long-term (usually indefinite) stay. This leave is usually requested for reasons such as working, studying, living with family members or spouses, or retirement. Documents required to apply for a long-term residence permit may include a photocopy of passport or identity card, health insurance, documents showing financial resources, documents required for work or education, marriage certificate, etc. In applying for a long-term residence permit, it is important that the documents reflect the reality and are not incomplete. In the event that the application for a long-term residence permit is rejected, the applicant can find out the reasons for the decision to reject the permit and take the necessary steps to complete the missing documents or remedy the deficiencies.
What are the Conditions for a Long-Term Residence Permit?
In order to be granted a long-term residence permit, certain conditions must be met. Any foreigner who meets these conditions can apply for a long-term residence permit.
- Having lived in Turkey for at least eight years without interruption as a residence permit holder
- Not having received social assistance in the last three years
- Have enough regular income to support yourself or your family
- Have valid health insurance
- Not pose a threat to public order or public safety
What are the Rights of a Long-Term Residence Permit?
This residence permit is granted when the conditions for obtaining a long-term residence permit are met. A long-term residence permit provides its holder with some important rights. These rights are set out in Article 44 of Law No. 6458 on Foreigners and International Protection. article is regulated as follows:
- Foreigners with long-term residence permits are exempt from military service.
- They cannot participate in elections, they cannot vote in elections, they do not have the right to elect and be elected.
- They cannot work in public positions where Turkish citizenship is compulsory.
- Foreigners with long-term residence permits are not entitled to import tax-free vehicles.
In addition to the above, foreigners with long-term residence permits benefit from the rights of Turkish citizens, provided that they maintain their social security rights and use these rights in accordance with the relevant legislation.
How to Apply for a Long-Term Residence Permit?
The application for a long-term residence permit in Turkey is usually handled by the General Directorate of Migration Management (GIGM). The application process can usually include the following steps:
- Filling in the application form: The application form for a long-term residence permit must be completed. This form is usually provided by the GIGM.
- Collection of necessary documents: Documents required for a long-term residence permit include a photocopy of passport or identity card, documents showing financial resources, health insurance policy and documents required for work or study.
- Submitting the application: The application for a long-term residence permit must be submitted to the GIGM. The application can usually be made online.
- Evaluation of the application: Applications are evaluated by the GIGM. Once the application is found to be valid, permission is granted.
- Obtaining a permit: A long-term residence permit is issued with documents if the application is accepted.
When is a Long-Term Residence Permit Revoked?
A long-term residence permit in Turkey may be revoked in the following cases:
- When the validity period of the permit expires: The long-term residence permit is automatically revoked at the end of the granted period.
- When it is found that the purpose of the permit is not fulfilled: A long-term residence permit may be revoked if it is found to be used for purposes other than those for which it was issued. For example, a work permit is revoked if it is used for tourism instead of work.
- Failure to submit the required documents: A long-term residence permit may be revoked if the required documents are found to be incomplete or misleading.
- In case of insufficient financial resources: A long-term residence permit may be revoked if it is found that the financial resources required to stay in Turkey for the duration of the granted period are insufficient.
- When found to have violated the law in Turkey: A long-term residence permit can be revoked if a person is found to have violated the law in Turkey.