Residency Permit
"What residency options are available for foreign business persons in Turkey?"
Quick Answer
Residence options depend on whether you will actually work in Turkey. A work permit generally also serves as a residence authorization. If you are not working but need to stay longer, short term residence routes may be available depending on eligibility and documentation.
Residence and Work Authorization Framework
Residence permits are regulated under foreigner and immigration rules, while working in Turkey generally requires a work permit. In practice, the first legal question is whether your planned activities qualify as work. If yes, the work permit route is usually the compliant solution. If not, a residence permit may be available depending on purpose of stay and supporting documents.
Key Points to Remember
- Work vs residence: a residence permit does not automatically grant the right to work
- Work permit effect: a valid work permit generally also functions as a residence authorization
- Short term routes: options may exist for legitimate business related stay without local employment
- Compliance: overstays, informal work, or missing documentation can create renewal and entry issues
Practical Steps and Common Pitfalls
Plan the application route before arrival where possible, align your declared purpose with actual activities, and prepare consistent documentation (passport, address proof, health insurance where required, company documents if relevant). If you will manage or work for a Turkish entity, confirm the work permit strategy early. In practice, mismatched purpose statements, incomplete documentation, or starting work without authorization are among the most common risks for foreign business persons.
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We share general information on residence and work authorization rules in Türkiye. Contacting us does not create a lawyer client relationship.
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