Turkey Permanent Residency: How to Live Permanently in Turkey

To live in Turkey permanently, foreign nationals must obtain either permanent residency, officially known as the Long-Term Residence Permit issued by the Presidency of Migration Management (PMM), or acquire Turkish citizenship.

Permanent residency allows foreigners to reside in Turkey indefinitely without the need to renew their permit each year or prove a legal basis for staying. 

Turkish citizenship, on the other hand, grants full and unconditional rights, including political participation and unrestricted travel abroad. Individuals can obtain citizenship through naturalization, marriage, or investment.

This guide explains all legal pathways to staying in Turkey permanently and clarifies the key differences between permanent residency and citizenship.

At Aloikametsigorta, we make living in Turkey easier for foreigners. We provide fast and reliable health insurance solutions, assistance with residence permits, and support for permanent residency or citizenship applications. Let our experts guide you through the process smoothly so you can enjoy your life in Turkey with complete peace of mind.

How Can I Stay in Turkey Permanently?

Foreign nationals can stay in Turkey permanently through several legal pathways: 8 years of continuous legal residence qualifies for a Long-Term Residence Permit, while marriage to a Turkish citizen or investment in real estate worth at least $400,000 can lead directly to Turkish citizenship. Highly qualified professionals may also obtain a Turquoise Card, granting indefinite residence and work rights with a pathway to citizenship.

1. Long-Term Residence Permit in Turkey (Permanent Residency)

Foreign nationals can obtain permanent residency in Turkey through the Long-Term Residence Permit after 8 years of continuous legal residence. The 8-year requirement generally means not being outside Turkey for more than 180 days in a single year or 365 days total during the last 5 years.

The 8-year (96-month) residency is calculated based on legal, uninterrupted stays with a valid residence permit. Most residence permits, including short-term permit, work permit, and family residence permits, count 100% of their duration, while student permits count 50%.

Applicants must maintain a valid residence permit throughout the period, demonstrate stable and sufficient income, not have received social assistance in the last 3 years, and maintain a clean criminal record.

Unlike short-term or renewable residence permits, the Long-Term Residence Permit is indefinite. It does not require renewal and allows the holder to live in Turkey permanently under conditions similar to those of Turkish citizens, except for political rights and certain public-sector positions.

Eligibility Requirements for Long Term Residence Permit in Turkey

To qualify, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• 8 years of uninterrupted legal residence in Turkey
• Not having stayed outside Turkey for more than 180 days in a single year or more than 365 days in total during the last 5 years
• Not receiving social assistance in the last 3 years
• Demonstrating stable and sufficient income
• Holding valid health insurance
• Having no criminal record or threat to public order

If the holder remains outside Turkey for more than one continuous year (except for health, education, or compulsory national service), the long-term residence permit may be cancelled.

Refugees, conditional refugees, and subsidiary protection beneficiaries are not eligible for long-term residence permits.

How the 8-Year Period Is Calculated

The 8-year (96-month) period for permanent residency in Turkey is based on legal, uninterrupted stays with a valid residence permit.

• Student residence permits count for 50% of their duration.
   
• Work, family, and short-term permits (tourism, property ownership) count 100%.
   
• Continuous stay requirement: You cannot be outside Turkey for more than 180 days in a single year, and total absences cannot exceed 365 days during the last 5 years.
   
• The calculation is done backwards from the application date.

2. Permanent Residency in Turkey Through Marriage

Foreign nationals married to a Turkish citizen may apply for Turkish citizenship after 3 years of marriage.

They initially obtain a family residence permit. After three years of a genuine and ongoing marriage, they may apply for Turkish citizenship.

Marriage does not automatically grant permanent residency. However, it provides a legal pathway to long-term stay and eventual citizenship, which offers full and unrestricted rights in Turkey.

Applicants must demonstrate that the marriage is legitimate, that they live together as a family unit, and that they do not pose a threat to public order or national security.

3. Turkey Citizenship by Investment (Real Estate $400,000)

You may obtain Turkish citizenship directly by purchasing real estate worth at least $400,000 and holding it for a minimum of 3 years.

This pathway grants citizenship rather than permanent residency.

4. Turquoise Card in Turkey

The Turquoise Card is designed for highly qualified professionals, investors, scientists, researchers, and artists. It is a fast way to get a permanent residency however, it is not granted easily. It is distinguished by  It does not require 8 years of prior residence.

It grants:

• Indefinite work and residence rights
• Rights similar to permanent residency
• A pathway to full citizenship

5. Turkey permanent residency after 5 years living

After 5 years of continuous legal residence, foreign nationals may become eligible to apply for Turkish citizenship through naturalization, subject to approval and additional requirements.Turkey does not grant permanent residency after 5 years.

Conditions and requirements for applying to Turkish citizenship after 5 years:

• Demonstrating integration into Turkish society
• Having stable and sufficient income
• Speaking basic Turkish
• Maintaining continuous residence
• Having a clean criminal record

Turkey Permanent Residency Requirements

To obtain permanent residency in Turkey (Long-Term Residence Permit), applicants must submit their application to the Presidency of Migration Management through the official e-Residence system.

Key requirements for long-term residency include:

• Demonstrating stable and sufficient income
• Not receiving social assistance in the last 3 years
• Maintaining a valid residence permit throughout the 8 years

Required documents typically include:

• Application form
• Valid passport
• Proof of 8 years of legal residence
• Biometric photographs
• Proof of stable and sufficient income
• Valid health insurance
• Criminal record certificate
• Proof of registered address

Rights and Benefits of Permanent Residency in Turkey

Permanent residency in Turkey offers foreign nationals the right to live indefinitely without renewal, providing near-equal rights to citizens, including working, owning property, and accessing education or healthcare.

Holders of a Long-Term Residence Permit enjoy extensive rights, including:

• Indefinite right to reside in Turkey
• Access to education and healthcare services
• The ability to work (subject to work permit regulations)
• The right to purchase property
• Social security benefits similar to those of Turkish citizens

Can Permanent Residency be Revoked?

Yes, a Permanent Residency (Long-Term Residence Permit) in Turkey is indefinite, but it is not irrevocable. The authorities can cancel it under specific legal grounds defined by the Law on Foreigners and International Protection.

A long-term residence permit may be revoked if the holder:

• Stays outside Turkey for more than one consecutive year, except for reasons such as health, education, or compulsory public service.
• Poses a serious threat to public order or national security.
• Used false or misleading documents during the application process.
• No longer meets the necessary conditions for holding the permit.

Turkey Permanent Residency vs Turkey Citizenship

Permanent Residency (Long-Term Residence Permit) in Turkey allows foreign nationals to live and work in the country under conditions similar to citizens, but with some limitations. Holders can stay outside Turkey for up to one consecutive year, otherwise their permit may be revoked.

 They do not have political rights, such as voting or running for office, and some public-sector positions remain restricted. Social and public services, including healthcare, education, and employment, are largely available, though certain government jobs may be limited. The permit can be lost if legal conditions are violated or extended absences occur.

Turkish Citizenship, on the other hand, grants full and unrestricted rights. Citizens can live or travel abroad without any absence limitations, enjoy complete political rights, including voting and eligibility for public office, and access all social and government services without restrictions. Citizenship is permanent and can only be revoked in exceptional cases, such as fraud or acts of serious treason.

FAQs About Turkey Permanent Residency

 How much money do you need to get residency in Turkey?
For a standard Long-Term Residence Permit, there is no fixed investment amount. You must demonstrate stable and sufficient income to support yourself and your family. For citizenship through investment, a real estate purchase of at least $400,000 is required.

How many years to get PR in Turkey?
Foreign nationals can apply for permanent residency (Long-Term Residence Permit) after 8 years of continuous legal residence in Turkey.

What are the new rules for residence permit in Turkey 2026?
The 2026 rules require foreigners to maintain a valid residence permit, demonstrate stable income, avoid social assistance, and adhere to continuous stay requirements, with a maximum of 180 days outside Turkey per year for long-term residency eligibility.

Does Turkey give citizenship to foreigners?
Yes, Turkey grants citizenship to foreigners through naturalization after residence, marriage to a Turkish citizen, or investment in real estate valued at $400,000 or more.