In order to extend their stay in Turkey beyond the period of a visa or visa exemption, foreign nationals must obtain a residence permit under Law No. 6458 on Foreigners and International Protection. The law provides for several types of residence permits — short-term, family, student, long-term, humanitarian, and victim of human trafficking — each subject to a different purpose and set of conditions.
A short-term residence permit may be requested for purposes such as establishing business connections, participating in education or a student exchange program, tourism, receiving medical treatment, or remaining in Turkey at the request of judicial or administrative authorities. A family residence permit is issued to foreign nationals married to Turkish citizens and to the dependents for whom they are responsible, while a student residence permit is issued to foreign nationals enrolled in formal education.
A long-term residence permit is granted for an indefinite period by the governorate, with the approval of the Ministry, to foreign nationals who have resided in Turkey continuously for at least eight years and who meet certain conditions. Applications are made by booking an appointment through the e-residence system, and applicants are required to provide valid health insurance, sufficient and regular financial means, and residential address information.
In the event of an application refusal, permit cancellation, or non-extension of a permit, foreign nationals have the right to pursue administrative appeals and legal action. Because the process may vary depending on the individual's specific circumstances and the purpose of the application, it is advisable to seek the assistance of an attorney for residence permit proceedings.