Frequently Asked Questions About Long-Term Residence Permit

What is a long-term residence permit and what rights does it provide?
Who can apply for a long-term residence permit?
What are the requirements for applying?
What documents must be submitted for the application?
How is the long-term residence permit application made?
How long does the application process take?
For how many years is the long-term residence permit granted and can it be renewed?
What can be done if the application is rejected?
Does receiving social assistance in the past prevent the application?
Under what circumstances can the long-term residence permit be canceled?
Does a change of residence address affect the application process?
Can the application be made without health insurance?
What happens if the income documents are insufficient?
How does submitting incomplete or incorrect documents affect the process?
Is legal support mandatory for applications in İzmir and Karşıyaka?
Can a new application be made after a rejection?
Does a long stay outside Turkey affect the residence permit?
What should be done if the permit is canceled for public security reasons?
Is family reunification possible with the long-term residence permit?
How can applicants stay informed about legal changes after applying?

What is a Long-Term Residence Permit?

The long-term residence permit is a special type of residence permit granted to foreign nationals who have legally and continuously resided in Turkey for many years and meet specific criteria. Those who have legally lived in Turkey for at least eight uninterrupted years, are covered under the social security system, and have no public order or security issues can apply. This permit grants the right to live indefinitely in Turkey, work, access education, health services, and other public benefits.

Professional applications supported by “Karşıyaka lawyers,” “Karşıyaka foreign law attorneys,” or “İzmir residence permit lawyers” make it easier and smoother to obtain. It is the key to a permanent and secure life in Turkey for long-term residents.

Legal Basis for the Long-Term Residence Permit

The long-term residence permit is regulated by Law No. 6458 on Foreigners and International Protection and the Residence Permit Regulation. Article 42 of the law and related regulations detail the application requirements, rights, and obligations. Updated circulars and guidelines from the Directorate General of Migration Management define current procedures.

Changes in legislation directly affect the application process. Applications guided by residence permit lawyers in İzmir or foreign law attorneys in Karşıyaka ensure compliance and up-to-date tracking.

Who Can Apply for the Long-Term Residence Permit?

Eligible applicants include:

Those who have legally and continuously resided in Turkey for at least eight years,
Those who have not received social assistance in the last three years,
Those with regular and sufficient income,
Those with valid health insurance,
Those with no threat to public order or security.

Student residence durations count as half, other residence permits count fully. Those under international or temporary protection cannot apply.

Applicants must ensure all legal conditions are met. Applications supported by citizenship law attorneys or application consultants in Karşıyaka properly assess eligibility and detect possible obstacles.

Requirements for the Application

At least eight years continuous legal residence,
No social assistance used in the last three years (with limited exceptions),
Sufficient and regular income for self and dependents,
Valid health insurance,
No public order or security concerns.

Before applying, previous residence and visa periods must be complete with no gaps. Use of social assistance generally disqualifies the application.

Meeting all conditions is crucial for success. Support from Karşıyaka or İzmir residence permit lawyers helps avoid rejection or delays.

Required Documents

Commonly requested documents:

Application form (filled online via e-Residence system),
Valid passport or travel document,
Residence permit card (if available),
Residence documents covering last eight years,
Official document proving no social assistance in last three years,
Proof of sufficient and regular income (bank statements, payslips),
Valid health insurance policy,
Recent biometric photo,
Proof of residence address (rental contract, deed, student dorm registration),
Criminal record certificate (if required),
Payment receipts for fees.

Documents must be complete and current. Additional documents may be requested.

How to Apply

Fill application online via e-Residence system,
Book appointment at local migration office,
Prepare all documents fully,
Submit documents in person and attend interview if needed,
Track application status online,
Receive permit card by mail upon approval.

Working with a lawyer ensures smooth and timely processing.

Application Evaluation and Result

The migration office reviews residence continuity, social assistance status, income adequacy, and public order compliance. Missing or incorrect documents may cause rejection or requests for supplements. Processing time depends on workload, averaging 1-2 months in İzmir and Karşıyaka. Approved applicants receive their permit card by mail.

Rejected applicants receive a reasoned decision and may file administrative appeal. Legal support improves appeal effectiveness and prevents repeated errors.

Duration, Renewal, and Cancellation of the Permit

The long-term residence permit grants indefinite stay without renewal requirement but can be canceled if:

The holder stays outside Turkey continuously for more than one year,
There are threats to public order or security,
The application was based on false information or forged documents,
The holder commits crimes that impede lawful residence.

After cancellation, a new permit application is necessary. Legal advice helps protect rights and avoid cancellation risks.

Common Problems and Solutions

Common issues include:

Incorrect calculation of residence duration,
Receipt of social assistance blocking eligibility,
Incomplete or outdated documents,
Unregistered or outdated address,
False declarations,
Delayed submission of additional documents.

Careful preparation with legal support minimizes risks.

Importance of Support from K&L Legal Consultancy

K&L provides expert guidance in İzmir and Karşıyaka, ensuring complete and compliant documentation, legal oversight of obligations, attorney-guided online application and appointment handling, rapid problem resolution, continuous legal updates, confidentiality, and client-focused service.

With K&L, applicants secure their right to a safe and legal long-term stay in Turkey.