Immigration & Citizenship Law

Most residence permit applications do not require a lawyer. Legal support is usually needed when something has gone wrong, or is about to: an application has been refused, a permit cancelled, a deportation order or entry ban code issued, or a citizenship application has been pending for a long time without an answer. This practice area also covers the questions that come with moving countries: a marriage abroad that was never registered, property bought before the residence permit, an inheritance involving two countries.

Scope of work

• Residence permits. Short-term, family, student and long-term residence permits under the Law on Foreigners and International Protection (No. 6458), as well as humanitarian residence permits and permits for victims of human trafficking.

• Refusals and cancellations. Annulment actions before the administrative court against refused or cancelled permits.

• Deportation orders. A case must be filed with the administrative court within seven days of notification (Law No. 6458, art. 53). With some exceptions, filing the case stops the deportation until the court decides.

• Entry bans and restriction codes. Finding out which code has been placed on your record, and applying for its removal or challenging it in court.

• Turkish citizenship. By marriage (at least three years), by five years' residence, by investment (for example real estate worth at least USD 400,000), through the Turquoise Card, and by birth or descent.

• Cross-border family and inheritance matters. See the Family Law and Inheritance Law pages.

What should I do if I receive a deportation order?

Do not wait. The seven-day period to file a case runs from notification, and it is short. Keep a copy of every document you were given and note the date you received it. If you are held under administrative detention at a removal centre, the detention itself can also be challenged before the criminal judgeship of peace.

Citizenship by marriage: what is checked?

You must have been married to a Turkish citizen for at least three years, the marriage must be continuing, and you must be living together as a family. The authorities check whether the marriage is genuine and may visit your home. You must also not engage in activities incompatible with the marriage, and must not pose a threat to national security or public order (Turkish Citizenship Law No. 5901, art. 16).

Frequently asked questions

Does a court case allow me to stay in Turkey?

A case filed within seven days against a deportation order stops the deportation until the court decides, with some exceptions. A case against a refused residence permit does not by itself give you a right to stay, so your legal status needs to be checked separately.

How long does Turkish citizenship take?

It depends on the route and the file. Applications by investment are often decided faster than those based on residence or marriage. A realistic estimate can be given once the documents have been reviewed, but not a guaranteed time frame, since the decision rests with the administration.

I overstayed my visa or permit. What happens?

An administrative fine is usually imposed on departure, and depending on the length of the overstay, an entry ban may follow. The rules have changed several times in recent years, so have your situation checked before you leave.