Erdal Nuhbasa – Law and Consulting Firm – Legal Services
Erdal Nuhbasa – Law and Consulting Firm – Legal Services
Humanitarian residence permit is a type of residence right granted to foreigners who must remain in Türkiye under special and exceptional circumstances defined in the Law on Foreigners and International Protection (LFIP) No. 6458. It is generally a temporary and exceptional residence permit based on humanitarian considerations and human rights, prioritizing the foreigner’s specific situation and need for protection. Therefore, not everyone can apply for this permit. More accurately, if you apply without meeting the necessary conditions, your application will be rejected.
In general terms, the humanitarian residence permit serves as a safeguard mechanism or safety net for foreigners who do not meet the conditions of other residence permit types or who, despite not meeting those conditions, cannot be returned to their home country. This permit type, regulated under Article 46 of the Law on Foreigners and International Protection, is issued for a maximum period of one year.
In this article, I will explain the application process and conditions for obtaining a humanitarian residence permit. If you would also like to learn about the process and details of applying for a short-term residence permit, you can click the link below.
Turkey Short-Term Residence Permit 2025: Application Process & Tips
The reasons for granting a humanitarian residence permit in Türkiye are generally exceptional circumstances where foreigners cannot obtain other types of residence permits or where extraordinary humanitarian situations exist. Therefore, applying for the permit based on the correct reason is important for a positive outcome in the process.
Main humanitarian reasons for application include:
The required documents for a humanitarian residence permit application are as follows:
The application process for a humanitarian residence permit is different from other residence permits and is based on direct application. This permit is not available for online application through the e-Residence system. Therefore, the foreign national wishing to apply must personally go to the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management in the province where they are physically located.
Since the humanitarian residence permit covers extraordinary humanitarian situations, all procedures are conducted face-to-face and are subject to a detailed assessment by the Directorate. The application is completely free of charge (no fee or card payment is required). Applications must be submitted in person to the provincial migration directorates.
In order for your humanitarian residence permit application to be reviewed, you must first include all documents related to the reason you declared in your application file. After your application, the Directorate of Migration Management will send you an SMS notification to schedule your interview, so it is very important to provide a valid phone number in your file.
After a detailed examination of your file, if deemed appropriate by the Directorate, a humanitarian residence permit valid for up to one year will be issued to the foreign national.
Even if you hold this permit, it is prohibited to work for pay without a legal work permit. When the permit expires, an extension application can be made if the same humanitarian reason or necessity continues.
However, the time spent in Türkiye under a humanitarian residence permit is not counted toward the legal residence period required for permanent residence or Turkish citizenship applications after 10 years.
As a general rule, a humanitarian residence permit is issued to foreigners for a maximum of one year. However, at the end of this period, if the humanitarian reasons underlying the permit still exist, the permit can be extended upon a new application by the foreign national.
The application for renewal must be submitted within 60 days prior to the permit’s expiration date.
In Turkey, you have the right to appeal the rejection of a humanitarian residence permit. First, you can file an administrative appeal with the Directorate of Migration within 30 days, and if the outcome is negative, you can then pursue judicial action.
You can submit a written appeal to the Provincial Directorate of Migration that issued the rejection within 30 days. In your appeal petition, you should:
The Directorate of Migration evaluates your appeal within 30 days and either overturns or upholds the original decision.
The lawsuit must be filed within 60 days from the notification of the rejection.
The case should be brought before the Administrative Court. Filing a lawsuit alone does not automatically suspend or delay the decision; a separate Stay of Execution must be requested.
The court examines whether the decision complies with the law, and if it does not, it can annul the Directorate’s decision.
Failing to respect the deadlines for appeal or lawsuit may result in the loss of your rights. Therefore, it is crucial to submit complete documents supporting the rejection reason. You can contact us for legal assistance.
Republic of Türkiye … Governorate
Provincial Directorate of Migration Management
Subject: Appeal Against the Rejection of My Humanitarian Residence Permit Application
Name Surname: …
Passport No:
Address: …
Phone / E–mail: …
Explanation:
My application for a humanitarian residence permit, submitted on [application date], was rejected on [rejection date and decision number]. I hereby wish to appeal this decision. The rejection of my application is not legally justified. The reasons why my application should be reconsidered in my favor are outlined below:
[Reason 1] – For example, health condition, family situation, risk of human rights violations, etc.
[Reason 2] – Supporting documents: [reports, petitions, official letters, etc.]
In light of the reasons stated above, I respectfully request that my humanitarian residence permit application be re-evaluated and approved.. ../../2025
Attachments:
[List of attached documents]
Signature:……………
The humanitarian residence permit is an important right granted to individuals who are outside the international protection mechanisms in Türkiye but need to stay in the country for humanitarian reasons. The application process is sensitive, and each case is evaluated individually. Seeking professional assistance is important, as accurate information, strong justifications, and timely applications are the most critical steps in the process.
Remember: This permit is not just a legal status; for many, it is a vital safeguard. Know your rights, follow the process carefully, and seek expert support when necessary.
