Turkey's immigration framework is governed by robust national laws and regulations that dictate visa requirements, residence permits, and work permits for foreigners. Here's a concise summary:

Visa Requirements

Foreign nationals generally require a visa to enter Turkey, except for those from countries with visa exemption agreements. Visa types include:

• Tourist/Business Visa: Allows stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
• Student Visa: For students enrolled in Turkish educational institutions.
• Work Visa: For individuals employed in Turkey.
• Family Visa: Facilitates family reunification.
• Humanitarian Visa: Issued to individuals in need of protection.
• Key Legislation: Law No. 6458 on Foreigners and International Protection governs visa application processes and requirements.

Residence Permits

Foreign nationals staying in Turkey for more than 90 days must obtain a residence permit, which can be:

• Short-Term Residence Permit: For tourism, business, or similar purposes.
• Family Residence Permit: For family members of Turkish citizens or foreign residents.
• Student Residence Permit: For international students studying in Turkey.
• Long-Term Residence Permit: Available to those who have continuously lived in Turkey for at least eight years.

Humanitarian Residence Permit:

Granted to individuals in need of protection or during emergencies.

Application Process: Applications are submitted online through the e-Ikamet system, requiring documents like a passport, biometric photos, proof of financial means, health insurance, and accommodation details.

Key Legislation: Law No. 6458 on Foreigners and International Protection and its implementing regulations detail residence permit procedures.

Work Permits

Foreigners intending to work in Turkey must obtain a work permit, categorised as:

• Temporary Work Permit: Valid for one year, renewable annually.
• Independent Work Permit: For self-employed individuals.
• Permanent Work Permit: Available after eight years of continuous residence and six years of legal employment in Turkey.

Application Process: Employers initiate the work permit application with the Ministry of Family, Labor, and Social Services, requiring a valid passport, signed employment contract, and relevant professional qualifications.

1. Entry into Turkey (FAQ)

https://en.goc.gov.tr/entry-into-turkey#:~:text=1- Foreigners should submit their passport or, travel,be held for a maximum of four hours.

2. Visa for Turkey (Database)

https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/

3. Visa and residence permit

https://www.mfa.gov.tr/visa-information-for-foreigners.en.mfa#:~:text=If you have a valid visa, you do,Türkiye, regardless of the validity of their visa.

4. Permit of stay for study purposes

https://www.studyinturkiye.gov.tr/StudyinTurkey/ShowDetail?rID=Egqvn0o1tiU=&&cId=PE4Nr0mMoY4=

5. Guide for asylum seekers in Turkey

The employment of foreign nationals in Turkey is governed by robust legislation aimed at ensuring fair treatment and compliance with Turkish labour standards. Here’s a concise overview:

1. Work Permits:

• Temporary Work Permit: Valid for one year, extendable up to three years for the same job and employer.
• Independent Work Permit: Allows foreigners to work independently, renewable annually.
• Permanent Work Permit: Available to those residing in Turkey for at least eight years with six years of legal work.

Application Process

Employer's Role: Submission of the work permit application to the Ministry of Family, Labor, and Social Services, including the employment contract and the foreigner's qualifications.

Employee's Role: Providing a valid passport, relevant qualifications, and proof of previous work experience if required.

Key Legislation:

• International Labor Force Law No. 6735: Regulates employment of foreign nationals.
• Labour Law No. 4857: Governs rights and duties of all employees and employers in Turkey.

2. Rights of Foreign Workers

Equal Treatment

• Equal Pay: Foreign workers entitled to the same wages as Turkish employees for similar work.
• Non-Discrimination: Protection against discrimination based on nationality, race, or religion.

Social Security

Entitlement to benefits including health insurance, pensions, and unemployment benefits. Employers must register foreign employees with the Social Security Institution (SGK).

Working Conditions

Right to safe and healthy working environments. Employers are mandated to comply with occupational health and safety regulations.

Key Legislation:

• Social Insurance and General Health Insurance Law No. 5510: Provides social security coverage.
• Occupational Health and Safety Law No. 6331: Ensures safe working conditions.

3. Duties of Foreign Workers

Obligation to adhere to Turkish labour, tax, and residency regulations.

Professional Qualifications: Must possess necessary qualifications and meet job-specific requirements.

4. Duties of Employers

Work Permit Compliance

• Responsibility to ensure foreign workers possess valid work permits.

Reporting Obligations

• Mandatory reporting of foreign workers to relevant authorities.
• Maintaining records of employment status.

Fair Wages and Conditions

Provision of fair wages and adherence to labour laws.

Key Legislation:

• Labour Law No. 4857 and Social Insurance and General Health
• Insurance Law No. 5510 specifies employer duties regarding wages, conditions, and contributions.

1. Residence permits for employment

https://www.invest.gov.tr/en/investmentguide/pages/obtaining-a-work-permit.aspx#:~:text=In order to obtain a,Directorate of International Labor Force.

2. Rights of foreign workers

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjs6JSJzt6GAxWfRfEDHdO3DMIQFnoECBwQAQ&url=https://isg.ibb.istanbul/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/yabanci-isci-kitap_ing.pdf&usg=AOvVaw0rv763I2lkoJ8xjR0j3FiI&opi=89978449

3. Ministry of Labour and Social Security

https://www.csgb.gov.tr/

Turkey's citizenship laws, governed primarily by Turkish Citizenship Law No. 5901, outline clear pathways for acquisition, loss, and proof of citizenship:

Acquisition of Turkish Citizenship

By Birth: Automatically acquired through descent from Turkish parents (jus sanguinis) or birth in Turkey to stateless parents (jus soli).

By Adoption: Children under 18 adopted by Turkish citizens can acquire citizenship.

By Marriage: Foreign spouses can apply after three years of marriage, meeting certain criteria.

By Naturalization: Requires five years of legal residence, Turkish language proficiency, and demonstrating integration.

Loss of Turkish Citizenship

Voluntary Renunciation: Citizens can renounce citizenship if acquiring another nationality.

Revocation: Citizenship may be revoked for disloyal acts or prolonged absence without notification.

Dual Citizenship

Turkey allows dual citizenship, permitting individuals to hold Turkish citizenship alongside another nationality.

Turkish Citizenship

Understanding Turkish social etiquette is crucial for effective interaction. Here are the key points:

Greetings

• Common: Firm handshake; kisses on both cheeks among close friends/family.
• Respect: Use titles like "Bey" (Mr.) and "Hanım" (Ms.).
• Elders: Greet them first with respectful titles.

Personal Space

• Proximity: Comfortable with closer proximity.
• Touch: Friendly touches are common; be mindful of gender norms in conservative areas.

Social Contexts

• Hospitality: Guests are offered tea or coffee. Accepting is polite.
• Shoes: Remove shoes before entering homes.
• Gifts: Bring small gifts like sweets or flowers when invited to someone's home.

Dining Etiquette

• Wait for the host to start the meal.
• Use utensils; eating with hands is impolite in formal settings.
• Compliment the host on the meal.

Business Etiquette

• Be punctual but flexible.
• Exchange business cards during introductions.

Public Behaviour

• Avoid public displays of affection.
• Dress modestly, especially in religious sites.

Turkish Culture Portal

Respecting cultural differences in Turkey is essential for building positive relationships and avoiding misunderstandings. This involves understanding and acknowledging aspects such as religion, gender roles, and customs.

Religion

• Islam: Turkey is predominantly Muslim, and Islamic practices influence daily life and customs.
• Respect: Respect religious practices, such as prayer times and fasting during Ramadan. Modest attire may be expected, especially in religious settings.

Gender Roles

• Traditional Roles: While modernisation is ongoing, traditional gender roles may still influence social dynamics.
• Respect: Be mindful of cultural norms regarding interaction between genders, especially in more conservative settings.

Customs

• Hospitality: Turkish hospitality is renowned; accept offers of tea or coffee as a sign of politeness.
• Dress: Modesty is valued, particularly in religious places. Cover shoulders and knees when visiting mosques or similar sites.

Settlement services in Turkey provide essential resources and support to help immigrants find housing and integrate into their new community. These services include assistance with locating suitable accommodation, understanding rental agreements, and connecting with local housing authorities.

Key Resources and Support:

• Housing Assistance: Guidance on finding affordable housing options.
• Rental Agreements: Help with understanding lease terms and tenant rights.
• Local Housing Authorities: Connection to municipal services for additional support.

UHCR Resettlement

https://www.unhcr.org/tr/en/ressettlement

IOM Turkey – Migrant Services

Turkey offers various services to help immigrants and refugees find employment and integrate into the workforce:

Job Placement and Matching

• İŞKUR (Public Employment Services): Provides job matching, career counselling, and job fairs.
• NGOs: Partner with businesses to create job opportunities and offer employment counselling.

Vocational Training and Language Courses

• Training Centres: Offer skills development in various trades.
• Language Courses: Improve Turkish language skills, crucial for most jobs.

Legal Assistance and Work Permit Support

• Legal Aid: Assists with employment rights and work permit applications.
• Guidance on Labour Laws: Ensures compliance with Turkish regulations.

Entrepreneurship Support

• Business Training: Offers training in business planning, finance, and compliance.
• Microfinance: Provides loans and grants for starting or expanding businesses.

İŞKUR

In Turkey, linguistic support for migrants and refugees is provided through various programs aimed at facilitating their integration into Turkish society. Key components of these services include:

Language Courses

The Directorate General of Migration Management (DGMM) offers Turkish language courses specifically designed for migrants and refugees. These courses help individuals improve their Turkish language skills, which is crucial for their integration, accessing services, and employment opportunities (European Website on Integration) (UNHCR).

Education Programs

The Ministry of National Education, in collaboration with NGOs and international organisations like the UNHCR, provides educational programs that include language instruction. These programmes cater to both children and adults, ensuring that they receive adequate linguistic support to succeed in school and daily.

Community Centres

Various community centres across Turkey offer language classes and cultural orientation sessions. These centres often receive support from international organisations and local NGOs, providing a safe space for migrants and refugees to learn Turkish and receive other integration support services.

Linguistic Integration of Adult Migrants: Policy and practice | European Website on Integration (europa.eu)

Legal aid services in Turkey are vital for supporting immigrants, refugees, and vulnerable groups by providing legal advice, representation, and assistance with navigating the legal system.

Provision of Legal Aid

Government Services: The Union of Turkish Bar Associations (TBB) offers free legal assistance to those in need, including immigrants and refugees. This covers issues like asylum procedures, family reunification, and employment rights.

NGOs and International Organisations:

Organisations such as Refugee Rights Turkey and UNHCR provide legal aid and support to migrants and refugees, helping them understand and exercise their rights under Turkish law.

Types of Legal Aid:

• Advice and Counselling: Information and advice on legal rights and procedures.
• Representation: Legal representation in courts and administrative bodies.
• Documentation Assistance: Help with preparing and submitting necessary legal documents.

Information about legal aid services and application procedures

Union Of Turkish Bar Associations (barobirlik.org.tr)

Healthcare in Turkey is accessible to both citizens and non-citizens, including immigrants and refugees, through a combination of public and private services.

Public Healthcare System

• Universal Health Insurance (UHI): Managed by the Social Security Institution (SGK), providing coverage for citizens and registered foreigners.
• State Hospitals: Offer comprehensive care, primarily serving those under SGK coverage.

Private Healthcare

Private Hospitals and Clinics: Provide high-quality care at higher costs. Many opt for private insurance plans to cover these services.

Healthcare for Immigrants and Refugees

• SGK Registration: Allows registered refugees and immigrants to access healthcare services.
• Free Primary Healthcare: Available through Migrant Health Centres and Family Health Centres for refugees under temporary protection.
• NGO Support: Organisations like UNHCR and IOM provide additional healthcare support and facilitate access.

Ministry of Health

https://www.saglik.gov.tr/?_Dil=2

UNHCR

Public Schools

• Refugee children have the right to free education in Turkish public schools.
• Language support programmes are available to help with Turkish.

Higher Education

• Refugees can enrol in universities if they meet academic requirements.
• Scholarships are available through programmes like Turkish Scholarships (Türkiye Bursları).

Vocational Training

• İŞKUR offers vocational courses to improve employability.
• NGOs like IOM provide additional vocational training and language classes.

Ministry of Education

T.C. Millî Eğitim Bakanlığı (meb.gov.tr)

Ministry of Higher Education

Turkey offers diverse opportunities for professional development, catering to citizens, immigrants, and refugees alike. Here’s a concise overview:

Vocational Training

• İŞKUR: Provides vocational training across various fields to enhance employability.
• NGO Initiatives: Organisations like IOM and UNHCR offer tailored vocational training for refugees and immigrants.

Higher Education and Scholarships

• Universities: Offer professional development programmes and scholarships, including Turkish Scholarships for refugees.
• Continuing Education: Many universities provide courses in languages, certifications, and specialised training.

Entrepreneurship Support:

• Business Development: Programmes assist entrepreneurs with management, planning, and funding through organisations like KOSGEB.
• Microfinance: Institutions provide financial support for small businesses.

Language and Integration Programs:

• Turkish Language Courses: Essential for integration; offered by universities and NGOs.
• Cultural Orientation: Helps newcomers adapt to Turkish workplace norms.

İŞKUR

İŞKUR (iskur.gov.tr)

KOSGEB: Support for small and medium enterprises

In Turkey, national networks for immigrants and refugees are established through formal structures like government agencies, NGOs, and international organisations. These networks facilitate integration by connecting immigrants and refugees with the host community through community organisations, religious institutions, and social events.

Key structures include:

• Government Agencies: Such as the Directorate General of Migration Management (DGMM), which collaborates with local and international bodies to provide essential services and support.
• NGOs: Organisations like the Turkish Red Crescent and local community groups offer a range of services from legal aid to education and vocational training.
• International Organisations: Like UNHCR and IOM, they contribute funding, expertise, and coordination to support national efforts.

To build relationships within these networks:

• Engage with community organisations and attend their events.
• Connect through religious institutions that often host community gatherings.
• Participate in social events and cultural celebrations that foster integration.

Directorate General of Migration Management (DGMM)

Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Interior Presidency of Migration Management (goc.gov.tr)

Turkish Red Crescent (Kızılay)

Volunteering opportunities in Turkey for young immigrants and refugees are facilitated through various formal structures, including government initiatives, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and international organisations. These opportunities aim to empower youth by providing them with skills, integration support, and community engagement experiences.

Government Initiatives: The Directorate General of Migration Management (DGMM) in Turkey coordinates with local authorities to promote volunteerism among immigrants and refugees. They may offer programs that provide training and support for young people looking to engage in community service.

Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs): NGOs like the Turkish Red Crescent and local community organisations often recruit volunteers to assist with activities ranging from language tutoring and cultural exchange programs to recreational activities and advocacy efforts.

UNHCR

UNHCR Türkiye

Turkish Red Crescent (Kızılay)

Türk Kızılay | Home Page (kizilay.org.tr)

IOM TURKEY

Cultural activities for young immigrants and refugees in Turkey are organised through various formal structures such as government initiatives, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and international organisations. These activities aim to promote integration, celebrate diversity, and preserve cultural heritage among youth from different backgrounds.

Government Initiatives

The Directorate General of Migration Management (DGMM) collaborates with local authorities to support cultural events and activities that encourage cultural exchange and understanding.

Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs):

NGOs like the Association for Solidarity with Asylum Seekers and Migrants (ASAM) and the International Blue Crescent (IBC) organise cultural workshops, language classes, and artistic projects to help young immigrants and refugees connect with their heritage and adapt to Turkish culture.

International Organisations:

Association for Solidarity with Asylum Seekers and Migrants (ASAM):

SGDD-ASAM – Sosyal Gelişim ve Dayanışma Derneği

International Blue Crescent (IBC)