Obtaining a Humanitarian Residence Permit (HRP), also known as İnsani İkamet İzni in Turkish, in Turkey is a process that allows foreigners who are in need of international protection and cannot return to their country of origin, to live and work in Turkey on a long-term basis. The HRP grants many rights such as the right to reside, work, and access healthcare and education, however, it does not grant the right to vote in Turkish elections or hold public office.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get a Humanitarian Residence Permit in Turkey:
- Meet the requirements: To be eligible for a HRP, the individual must be a refugee or in need of international protection, and must not be able to return to their country of origin.
- Apply for asylum: To apply for a HRP, the individual must first apply for asylum in Turkey. This can be done through the Turkish government’s Directorate General of Migration Management (Göç İdaresi Genel Müdürlüğü).
- Gather the necessary documents: To apply for a HRP, the individual will need to provide documentation that proves their need for international protection, such as evidence of persecution or fear of persecution in their country of origin. This can include police reports, medical documents, and other official documentation.
- Submit the application: After gathering the necessary documents, the individual can submit their application for a HRP at the nearest Provincial Directorate of Migration Management.
- Wait for a decision: After the application is submitted, the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management will review the application and make a decision. The decision can take several months to process.
- Collect the residence permit: Once the decision is made, the individual can collect their HRP from the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management.
It’s important to keep in mind that the regulations for obtaining a HRP in Turkey may change over time, so it’s best to verify the most up-to-date information with the local authorities and consult with a legal professional or translator if you need help with the application process. Additionally, if the individual’s asylum application is rejected, they may still be eligible for a HRP if they can prove that they have been persecuted or have a well-founded fear of persecution in their country of origin.
In conclusion, obtaining a Humanitarian Residence Permit in Turkey is a process that allows foreigners who are in need of international protection and cannot return to their country of origin, to live and work in Turkey on a long-term basis. The HRP grants many rights, such as the right to reside, work, access healthcare and education, however, it does not grant the right to vote in Turkish elections or hold public office. The process of obtaining a HRP can be complex and time-consuming, so it is important to meet the requirements, gather all necessary documents, and consult with a legal professional or translator for assistance if needed.
It’s also worth noting that holding a HRP does not automatically make an individual eligible for Turkish Citizenship. However, it is an important step towards obtaining Citizenship, as it gives the individual a legal status in Turkey and the ability to legally reside and work in the country for an extended period. After five years of uninterrupted legal residence in Turkey with a HRP, the individual can apply for Turkish Citizenship and fulfill the necessary requirements for it.
It’s also important to note that the regulations and procedures for HRP may vary depending on the individual’s circumstances and the current laws. For example, the processing time for the application may change, new conditions may arise, or new requirements may be enforced. Therefore, it’s recommended to stay updated with the current regulations and seek help from authorities or legal professionals if needed. You can consult immigration lawyers for more information.
In addition to the steps mentioned above, those who are applying for HRP should be aware that living and working conditions, healthcare and education opportunities, social security services and other welfare benefits may also differ based on the province or district they reside. Therefore, it’s important to research and find out what can be expected in terms of these matters in the area they are planning to reside in Turkey.
Lastly, being granted a HRP is not an easy task and it may require a lot of time and effort, but it’s a big step for those who are seeking for better opportunities and a safe place to live and work.
