What Is a Long-Term Residence Permit? Who Can Obtain It?
Türkiye offers a special residence category known as the long-term residence permit for foreigners who have lived in the country for many years and have established a permanent life in Türkiye. This permit is particularly significant as it grants eligible foreigners the right to reside in Türkiye indefinitely.
The long-term residence permit is regulated in detail under:
• Articles 42–45 of the Law on Foreigners and International Protection No. 6458,
• Articles 40–43 of its Implementing Regulation.
Who Can Obtain a Long-Term Residence Permit?
According to the legislation, a long-term residence permit may be granted to:
• Foreigners who have resided in Türkiye continuously for at least 8 years, or
• Foreigners who meet special conditions determined by the Ministry (under exceptional evaluation).
The permit is issued by the provincial directorates and becomes valid with the approval of the Ministry.
Who Cannot Apply?
The following categories of foreigners are not eligible for a long-term residence permit:
• Refugees,
• Conditional refugees,
• Beneficiaries of subsidiary protection,
• Holders of humanitarian residence permits,
• Foreigners under temporary protection.
The Long-Term Residence Permit Is Permanent
Once issued, a long-term residence permit:
• Is valid indefinitely,
• Does not require renewal.
In this respect, it is the strongest residence status providing permanent stay in Türkiye.
Requirements for a Long-Term Residence Permit
Under Article 43 of the Law, the applicant must meet the following conditions:
- Continuous residence in Türkiye for 8 years
• Half of the duration under student residence permits is counted.
• All other types of residence permits are counted in full. - No social assistance received in the last 3 years
- Sufficient and stable income
- Valid health insurance
- No threat to public order or public security
(The Migration Policy Board may exempt certain individuals from this requirement.)
Foreigners meeting these requirements may apply for a long-term residence permit.
Rights Granted by the Long-Term Residence Permit
A long-term residence permit grants foreigners rights that are very similar to those of Turkish citizens. Holders enjoy broad privileges, except that they cannot:
• Perform military service,
• Vote or be elected,
• Enter public service positions,
• Import vehicles duty-free.
Other than these exceptions, long-term residence permit holders benefit from most rights afforded to Turkish citizens. Social security rights are governed by separate legislation.
In summary, the long-term residence permit is the strongest residence status available to foreigners in Türkiye.
When Is a Long-Term Residence Permit Cancelled?
A long-term residence permit is cancelled in the following circumstances:
• If the foreigner poses a serious threat to public order or public security,
• If the foreigner stays outside Türkiye for more than one year for reasons other than health, education, or compulsory public service.
Cancellation is carried out by the provincial authority.
Can a Cancelled Long-Term Residence Permit Be Reissued?
Yes. The Law provides a simplified procedure for reapplications:
• Applications may be filed with Turkish consulates abroad,
• Or with provincial directorates if the foreigner is in Türkiye.
Importantly, the 8-year continuous residence requirement is not re-evaluated during reapplication. The application must be finalized within 1 month.
This is a significant advantage, especially for foreigners who remained outside Türkiye for compulsory reasons.
A long-term residence permit provides the most advantageous residence status for foreigners wishing to secure permanent life in Türkiye. After 8 years of uninterrupted residence, it is possible to obtain an indefinite residence right. However, requirements such as stable income, valid health insurance, no social assistance, and compliance with public order and security remain mandatory.
This residence category is one of the strongest legal mechanisms enabling foreigners to live long-term in Türkiye without obtaining citizenship.
Legal Support (Hukuk Desteği)