How to Apply for a Family Residence Permit in Turkey
Family unity is an essential aspect of relocating to another country, and Turkey recognizes this by offering a Family Residence Permit for the family members of Turkish citizens and foreign residents. If you are a Turkish citizen or if you are residing in Turkey with a valid residence permit and wish to bring your family to join you, this article will guide you through the necessary steps, requirements, and key considerations when applying for a Family Residence Permit in Turkey.
- Understanding the Family Residence Permit
The Family Residence Permit allows the spouse and dependent children (under 18 years old) of a Turkish citizen or a foreign resident with a valid residence permit to live in Turkey. The permit’s validity is determined by the sponsor’s residence permit. It can be taken up to 3 years.
- Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a Family Residence Permit, the following conditions must be met:
- The sponsor (the person holding Turkish citizenship or a valid residence permit in Turkey. Usually the family residence permit is given to family members of work permit holders).
- The sponsor must have a monthly income sufficient to support their family members (at least the minimum wage in Turkey for each family member).
- The family members must not pose a public health threat or have a criminal record.
- Applying for the Family Residence Permit
To apply for a Family Residence Permit, follow these steps:
- Register on the e-Residence system (e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr) and complete the online application form for the Family Residence Permit. Take appointment date.
- Prepare the required documents, which include:
– Copy of residence permit application form
– A valid passport for each family member
– Copy of visa and entry stamp on passport.
– Four biometric photos taken within the last six months for each family member
– Four biometric photos taken within the last six months for sponsor
– Proof of health insurance coverage valid in Turkey for each family member
– Receipt of residence permit tax and card fee
– Proof of the sponsor’s Turkish citizenship card or residence permit
– Proof of the sponsor’s income and financial means (Last 3 months bank account or payroll)
– Proof of the family relationship, such as marriage and birth certificates (apostilled and translated into Turkish)
– Adress Registration Document of sponsor (Yerleşim Yeri Belgesi from e-devlet)
– If the sponsor is Turkish, Proof of birth certificate (Vukuatlı nüfus kayıt örneği from e-devlet)
– If the sponsor is Turkish or a work permit holder, Social Security Coverage document (SGK Provizyon)
– If the sponsor is Turkish or a work permit holder, Social Security Service Breakdown document (SGK Hizmet Dökümü from e-devlet)
- Attend the appointment and submit the required documents.
- Important Considerations
Keep in mind the following points when applying for a Family Residence Permit:
- The Family Residence Permit does not grant the right to work in Turkey. If a family member wishes to work, they must obtain a separate work permit.
- If the sponsor’s residence permit expires or is canceled, the Family Residence Permit will also be canceled.
- Family Residence Permits can be renewed, provided that the sponsor maintains their residence permit and meets the eligibility criteria.
- Adult children over the age of 18 and other family members (such as parents or siblings) are not eligible for a Family Residence Permit but may apply for other residence permits depending on their circumstances.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can successfully obtain a Family Residence Permit for your loved ones in Turkey. Make sure to carefully prepare all the required documents and follow the application processes accurately to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. We wish you and your family a joyful reunion and a comfortable stay in Turkey.
