A family residence permit is an official document that allows Turkish citizens or foreign nationals legally residing in Türkiye to bring their family members (spouse and children) to live together in Türkiye. This permit aims to protect family unity while also enabling foreign nationals to reside in Türkiye for longer periods.

Within the scope of a family residence permit, children are generally required to be under the age of 18 and financially or otherwise dependent on the sponsor.

 

Who Can Apply Under a Family Residence Permit?
In family residence permits, a distinction is made between the “sponsor” and the “applicant”:

  • Sponsor: Turkish citizens and foreign nationals legally residing in Türkiye
  • Applicant: The spouse and children of the sponsor

Turkish citizens and foreign nationals holding a valid residence permit in Türkiye may apply as sponsors for a family residence permit.

Note: Refugees, conditional refugees, and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection are not covered under family residence permits. For these groups, family reunification is regulated under international protection provisions.

 

Requirements for a Family Residence Permit

  • Sponsor Requirements:
    The sponsor must have sufficient and regular income, suitable accommodation, and valid health insurance. When assessing financial sufficiency, criteria such as earning at least a certain proportion of the minimum wage (generally not less than one-third of the minimum wage per family member) and having an income sufficient to cover the needs of all family members are taken into account.
  • Proof of Family Relationship:
    The applicant must prove the family relationship with the sponsor through official documents (such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate).
  • Public Order and Security:
    The applicant must not pose a threat to public order or public security.

 

Duration and Renewal of the Family Residence Permit

  • Validity Period:
    A family residence permit is issued for a maximum of 3 years and cannot exceed the duration of the sponsor’s residence permit.
  • Renewal:
    It may be renewed before its expiration, but the eligibility conditions are reassessed during each renewal process.

 

Advantages of a Family Residence Permit

  • Protection of Family Unity:
    Allows family members to live together under the same roof.
  • Longer Stay in Türkiye:
    Provides foreign nationals with the opportunity for long-term residence.
  • Educational Opportunities for Children:
    Children holding a family residence permit may receive education without obtaining a student residence permit until the age of 18.

 

Grounds for Cancellation of a Family Residence Permit

  • Loss of Required Conditions:
    The permit may be canceled if conditions such as sufficient income or adequate housing are no longer met.
  • Public Order and Security Concerns:
    The permit may be revoked if the applicant is considered a threat to public order or security.
  • Marriage of Convenience (Fraudulent Marriage):
    If it is determined that the marriage was entered into solely to obtain a residence permit, the permit will be canceled.

 

Important Notes

  • Marriage of Convenience:
    If it is established that the marriage was conducted solely for obtaining a residence permit, the family residence permit will be revoked.
  • Children’s Education:
    Children with a family residence permit may continue their education without obtaining a student residence permit until the age of 18.
  • Post-Divorce Situation:
    In the event of divorce, it may be possible to obtain a short-term residence permit if certain conditions are met.