Istanbul Residence Permit: Current Application Status for Foreigners

Misleading Reports and the Truth

Lately, misleading information has been circulating on social media, suggesting that 39 districts in Istanbul are no longer accepting residence permit applications from foreign nationals. Some even went as far as claiming that the entire city of Istanbul is denying and revoking all residence permits for foreigners. However, it's crucial to clarify that these claims are unfounded, and the Turkish government has explicitly stated that it will continue to accept and process residence permit applications from foreign nationals.

Turkish Government Refutes the Claims

To put an end to the confusion and prevent misinformation from spreading, the Turkish government issued a press release on July 16, 2023, titled "Press Release Regarding the Allegations of '39 Districts in Istanbul Being Closed to Residence Permit [Applications] by Foreigners'." In this statement, the government emphasized its commitment to inform the public accurately and prevent panic.

The government clarified that the Directorate of Migration Management conducts periodic population density analyses of the foreign national population in provinces across Turkey, both at the neighborhood and district levels. This analysis aims to ensure a fair and balanced distribution of foreign populations and prevent overcrowding in certain areas.

As part of these measures, the government made the following decisions:

1. In 2019, Istanbul was closed to address registration applications for Syrians under temporary protection.
2. In January 2021, the government stopped accepting new residence permit applications in the Fatih and Esenyurt districts of Istanbul.
3. In October 2022, the government added the districts of Avcılar, Bahçelievler, Başakşehir, Bağcılar, Esenler, Küçükçekmece, Sultangazi, and Zeytinburnu to the list of districts no longer accepting new residence permit applications.

As of July 1, 2022, a total of 1,169 neighborhoods in 63 provinces across Turkey, where the ratio of foreign nationals to Turkish nationals exceeded the 20% limit, have been closed to new registrations by foreigners. In Istanbul, there are currently 54 neighborhoods that do not accept residence permit applications.

The government's statement conclusively refuted the claims that 39 districts in Istanbul were closed to residence permits, clarifying that only 10 districts in Istanbul are currently closed to new residence permit applications.

Checking Eligibility for Residence Permits

For those uncertain about whether their neighborhood or district is affected by these measures, the Turkish government provides an interactive map and downloadable list to check the current status of residence permit applications by foreigners.

Easiest Types of Residence Permits to Obtain

As of now, the most favorable residence permits to apply for are family permits, reunification visas and permits, medical permits, and student permits. Renewing existing residence permits appears to be a smooth process, provided all necessary supporting documents, such as a utility bill in your name, a 6-month Turkish bank statement with sufficient funds, and a registered address at your residence, are complete.

In case you're interested in learning more about opening a blocked bank account in Turkey, feel free to check out our blog.

Conclusion

In summary, the claims circulating on social media about Istanbul no longer accepting residence permit applications from foreigners are not true. The Turkish government remains committed to accepting and processing applications for residence permits from foreign nationals. It's essential to rely on official statements and accurate information to avoid confusion and unnecessary panic.