Long-Term Residence Permit: A Detailed Guide and Application Process
Contents:
- What is a Long-Term Residence Permit?
- Who Can Apply for a Long-Term Residence Permit?
- Application Requirements
- Required Documents
- Step-by-Step Application Process
- Application Evaluation
- Rights of Long-Term Residence Permit Holders
- Conclusion and Recommendations
- What is a Long-Term Residence Permit?
A long-term residence permit is a type of residence permit with indefinite validity, granted to foreigners who have resided in Turkey continuously for at least eight years. This permit is issued by the Directorate General of Migration Management and provides the holder with various legal rights.
- Who Can Apply for a Long-Term Residence Permit?
A long-term residence permit can be granted to foreigners who meet the following conditions:
- Have legally and continuously resided in Turkey for at least 8 years.
- Are able to sustain themselves financially without relying on social assistance.
- Have not engaged in activities that threaten public order.
- Have a clean criminal record in Turkey.
- Hold valid health insurance.
Note: Refugees, conditional refugees, individuals with subsidiary protection status, and those holding a humanitarian residence permit are not eligible to apply for a long-term residence permit.
- Application Requirements
To apply for a long-term residence permit, applicants must fulfill the following requirements:
- Resided in Turkey for at least 8 consecutive years with short-term or long-term residence permits.
- Provide proof of financial self-sufficiency.
- Have not benefited from any social assistance program in Turkey.
- Be covered by a general health insurance policy.
- Required Documents
The following documents are needed for a long-term residence permit application:
- Long-term residence permit application form.
- Original and photocopy of the passport.
- Four biometric photographs taken within the last six months.
- Official documents proving legal residence in Turkey for eight years.
- Health insurance policy.
- Financial documentation (e.g., bank statements or payslips).
- Criminal record certificate.
5.Step-by-Step Application Process
1.Online Application:The application is submitted via the Directorate General of Migration Management’s e-residence system.
- Scheduling an Appointment:An appointment date is chosen through the system.
- Document Submission:On the appointment day, required documents are submitted to the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management.
- Evaluation Process:The application is reviewed, and the result is communicated to the applicant.
Important: If the application is approved, a long-term residence permit document is issued.
- Application Evaluation
The submitted documents and the applicant’s past status are carefully reviewed. The following conditions may lead to the rejection of the application:
- Submission of incomplete or incorrect documents.
- Involvement in activities threatening public order or security.
- Participation in illegal activities in Turkey.
If the application is rejected, the applicant has the right to appeal the decision through administrative courts.
- Rights of Long-Term Residence Permit Holders
Holders of a long-term residence permit enjoy numerous rights in Turkey, including:
- The right to reside in Turkey indefinitely.
- Access to the social security system.
- The ability to work without requiring a work permit.
- Access to education and healthcare services.
However, these rights do not include voting, working in public service, or other rights exclusive to Turkish citizens.
- Conclusion and Recommendations
A long-term residence permit offers significant advantages for foreigners who wish to live permanently in Turkey. However, applicants must ensure that they provide all necessary documents accurately and completely. Seeking professional assistance can enhance the chances of a successful application. Our law firm, with its team of experts, is ready to assist you with your long-term residence permit application process.