Humanitarian Residence in Türkiye

Humanitarian residence in Türkiye is a suitable solution for people who cannot return to their country due to the serious human rights conditions and the difficulty of humanitarian conditions.

Although the period of humanitarian residency is temporary, it gives its holder the opportunity to live and work legally in Türkiye.

It is important to adhere to Turkish laws and keep the documents required to ensure continued residence or the possibility of switching to another residence in the future.

 What is Humanitarian Residence ?

Humanitarian residence (İnsani İkamet) in Türkiye is a type of residence permit granted to individuals who cannot obtain other types of residence permits, such as a tourist or family residence permit, due to exceptional circumstances related to human rights or severe humanitarian conditions.

This type of permit is issued to individuals facing significant risks if they return to their home country, such as war, political persecution, or natural disasters. It falls under Article 46 of the Law on Foreigners and International Protection No. 6458 in Türkiye.

 How to Apply for Humanitarian Residence in Türkiye?

To apply for humanitarian residence in Türkiye, follow these steps:

• Submit an application to the Directorate of Migration Management (Göç İdaresi) in the province where the applicant resides.

• Provide the required documents that prove the applicant’s need for humanitarian protection, such as a passport (if available) and any documents that support their legal and humanitarian status.

• Attend an interview with the relevant authorities to explain the reasons preventing the applicant from returning to their home country.

• Wait for the decision from the Directorate of Migration Management, as they will review and assess the application.

 Eligibility Criteria for Humanitarian Residence in Türkiye

To qualify for humanitarian residence in Türkiye, the applicant must meet the following conditions:

• Be unable to return to their home country due to compelling reasons such as war, persecution, or natural disasters.

• Have no possibility of obtaining another type of legal residence permit in Türkiye.

• Have no serious criminal record or pose a threat to Türkiye’s national security.

• Provide valid documents or evidence supporting their need for humanitarian protection.

 Cost of Documents and Application for Humanitarian Residence in Türkiye

• Application Fees: Free of charge, as Türkiye does not impose fees for humanitarian residence applications.

• Document Processing Costs: These vary depending on the case and may include fees for document authentication, translation, or medical reports.

• Additional Fees: Costs may arise from temporary residence arrangements, translation services, or legal representation (if hiring a lawyer).

 Waiting Time for Humanitarian Residence Approval in Türkiye

• There is no fixed processing time, but typically, the process takes between two to six months, depending on the number of applications and the complexity of the case.

• In some cases, the waiting period may be longer if there are missing documents or delays in review by the migration authorities.

 Validity Period of Humanitarian Residence in Türkiye

• Humanitarian residence is usually granted for one year, with the possibility of renewal based on the applicant’s situation.

• Upon expiration, a renewal application can be submitted if the conditions that led to the initial approval still exist.

 Reasons for Rejection or Cancellation of Humanitarian Residence in Türkiye

A humanitarian residence permit may be denied or revoked in the following cases:

• If the reasons for granting the permit no longer exist (e.g., improved conditions in the home country).

• If the applicant provided false information or fraudulent documents.

• If the applicant poses a threat to national security or has a serious criminal record.

• If the applicant violates Turkish laws or is convicted of serious crimes.

 Benefits of Humanitarian Residence in Türkiye

Holding a humanitarian residence permit in Türkiye provides several rights and advantages, including:
✅ Legal residence in Türkiye without needing a visa.
✅ The possibility of working in certain sectors after obtaining a work permit.
✅ Access to healthcare services in public hospitals to some extent.
✅ Free education for children in public schools.
✅ The ability to travel within Türkiye without restrictions.
✅ The opportunity to apply for other residence permits later, such as permanent residence or even Turkish citizenship in some cases.