We continue to share useful information about life in Turkey, and today we focus on one of the most important legal statuses available to foreigners: Permanent Residence.
What Is Permanent Residence in Turkey?
Permanent residence is a legal status granted to a foreign national who lives long-term in a country without holding its citizenship. A permanent resident is allowed to remain in the country indefinitely, usually without any obligation to renew documents regularly.
In Turkey, certain types of residence permits also serve as an official identification document (ikamet), especially in cases where a foreigner does not possess another valid national ID.
Who Can Apply for Permanent Residence?
Here, we look specifically at obtaining permanent residence through property ownership.
If you own real estate in Turkey and have lived in the country on a short-term residence permit for at least 5 years, you may qualify for an indefinite residence permit, often referred to as permanent residence.
Important conditions include:
You must not have been outside Turkey for more than 365 days in total over the last 5 years
orNot more than 180 days in any single year
You must hold a valid property ownership certificate (Tapu)
This option is ideal for those who wish to live in Turkey long-term but do not want to change citizenship or apply for dual citizenship, if dual status is not permitted by their home country.
Rights of Permanent Residence Holders
Permanent residence grants foreign nationals nearly the same rights as Turkish citizens. However, there are a few exceptions. Permanent residents cannot:
Vote or run for public office
Work in certain government positions
Be exempt from customs duties when importing a vehicle
Serve in the Turkish Armed Forces
In all other respects, permanent residents enjoy similar rights to citizens, including the right to live, work, study, and own property.
Important Note: Cancellation of Permanent Residence
Permanent residence can be cancelled if the holder stays outside Turkey continuously for more than one year.
Acceptable exceptions include:
Medical treatment
Education
Compulsory public service
These exceptions should always be confirmed with a qualified legal adviser.
Permanent Residence or Citizenship: Which Should You Choose?
Both options depend on your personal plans and circumstances.
Permanent residence is suitable for those who want long-term stability without changing citizenship.
Citizenship, often obtained through investment or long-term residence, offers full rights but may have implications regarding your current nationality.
Each pathway has different requirements, benefits, and legal consequences.
Important Clarification
The conditions outlined above apply to individuals staying in Turkey on a short-term residence permit based on property ownership.
They do not apply to foreigners living in Turkey through:
Rental agreements
Work permits
Other forms of residence permits
These categories have different rules, which must be consulted separately.