Naturalization Process and Immigrants Rights in Turkey

Due to its geopolitical position and historical texture, Turkey has long been a country that people want to migrate to. In this context, the process of obtaining citizenship and the rights of migrants in Turkey are among the important issues that attract the attention of both local and international public opinion. The process of obtaining citizenship in Turkey has been shaped by various legal regulations and practices. This process is completed with different criteria and stages, rules that applicants must comply with and the provision of the necessary documents.

The main issues to be considered by individuals who wish to acquire citizenship of the Republic of Turkey are as follows:

1. Basic Criteria for Citizenship:
   • Citizenship by Birth: Persons born in Turkey or who have at least one parent who is a Turkish citizen are directly entitled to citizenship.
   • Citizenship through Marriage: Foreigners who have been married to a Turkish citizen for at least three years and whose relationship continues may apply for citizenship.
   • Citizenship by Residence: Foreigners residing in Turkey for five years without interruption may also apply for citizenship by fulfilling certain conditions.
2. Steps of the Application Process:
   • Filling in the Application Form: The forms required for citizenship application must be filled in with complete and correct information.
   • Preparation of Required Documents: Documents such as birth certificate, proof of residence, medical report should be prepared.
   • Submission of the Application to the Relevant Authorities: Applications are submitted to Provincial Directorates of Population and Citizenship or Turkish Embassies abroad.
   • Evaluation Process: Applications are thoroughly examined and finalised by the relevant institutions.
3. Rights and Obligations of Migrants:
   • Right to Work: Migrants legally residing in Turkey have the right to be employed in certain sectors.
   • Right to Education: Migrant children can receive free education in public schools in Turkey.
   • Health Services: Immigrants can benefit from health services under the General Health Insurance.
   • Right to Legal Representation: Migrants have the right to access legal advice and representation in legal matters.

The process of obtaining citizenship and the rights of immigrants in Turkey are important for ensuring social cohesion and integrating immigrants into society. The correct and effective functioning of these processes will lead to positive results at both individual and social levels.

Types of Citizenship in Turkey

Types of citizenship in Turkey are determined on the basis of various criteria and each can be acquired in different ways. They are generally grouped under three main headings: citizenship by birth, citizenship by marriage and citizenship after long-term residence.

Citizenship by Birth

1. Citizenship on the Basis of Parentage: A child born to a Turkish citizen mother or father is a Turkish citizen by birth. It does not matter where the child was born.
2. Adopting the Place of Birth Principle: A child born in Turkey to persons whose parents are unknown or stateless is granted citizenship by birth.

Citizenship by Marriage

1. Marriage with a Turkish Citizen: Foreigners who have been married to a Turkish citizen for at least three years and reside in Turkey permanently may apply for Turkish citizenship through marriage.
2. Residence after Marriage: For post-marriage applications, a real family union and uninterrupted residence in Turkey are required.

Citizenship after Long-Term Residence

1. Legal Residence Period: Individuals with at least five years of uninterrupted legal residence in Turkey can apply for citizenship.
2. Material and Spiritual Investments: Individuals who invest a certain amount of money in Turkey or meet the conditions for risk-free investment in certain areas can also obtain citizenship.
3. Achievement and Outstanding Service: People who contribute to Turkey in the fields of science, arts, sports or similar fields can exceptionally obtain citizenship.

Exceptional Citizenship Status

1. Refugees and Asylum Seekers: Refugees or asylum seekers granted special permission by the Government of Turkey may exceptionally become Turkish citizens.
2. Presidential Decree In rare cases, persons of special importance for Turkey may be made Turkish citizens by presidential decree.

Citizens of the Past

1. Those who renounced their citizenship while being a Turkish Citizen: Former Turkish citizens can reapply for citizenship under certain conditions.
2. Citizens of the Ottoman Empire: Some persons who were citizens or descendants of citizens who were citizens during the Ottoman Empire may be re-granted Turkish citizenship through simplified processes.

Under these categories, citizenship applications of individuals are examined in detail and citizenship is granted if the specified conditions are met. Each individual's case is evaluated by the Directorate General of Migration Management and the Ministry of Interior.

Documents and Requirements for Citizenship Application

People who wish to apply for citizenship in Turkey must fulfill various documents and conditions. The documents and conditions to be complied with during the application process are as follows:

Required Documents

1. Application Form: Fully and accurately completed process form.
2. Identity Document: Passport, birth certificate or other official document proving identity.
3. Residence Permit Certificate: A document showing that you have resided in Turkey for a certain period of time.
4. Criminal Record: Criminal record showing that the applicant has not been involved in any crime.
5. Health Report Official health report stating that you are in good health.
6. Biometric Photograph: A biometric photograph of the specified size and taken within the last six months.
7. Documents Demonstrating Financial Status: Documents proving that the person has the financial means to make a living.
8. Language Proficiency Certificate: A document showing the level of proficiency in the Turkish language.

Application Requirements

• Age Requirement: The applicant must be at least 18 years old.
• Residence Period: There is a requirement to reside in Turkey for at least five years without interruption.
• Material Sufficiency: The need to have the means to earn a living.
• Health Status: Having a health condition that does not pose a danger to public health.
• Language Proficiency: Proof of proficiency in Turkish language is mandatory.
• Criminal Record: Criminal record must be clean.
• Community Order One should have behaviors and attitudes that do not pose a threat to social order and security.

Applicants are required to submit the above-mentioned documents completely and accurately and to fully comply with the conditions set out. Applications must be submitted to the Directorate of Population and Citizenship Affairs in the province where the applicant is located. These documents and requirements constitute important steps in the process of acquiring Turkish citizenship. The evaluation and finalization of the applications are at the discretion of the relevant authorities, and it is extremely important to fulfill all the requirements in full in order to successfully complete the process.

Application Process and Stages

The process of applying for citizenship in Turkey involves specific steps and procedures. This process is detailed below:

1. Control of Application Requirements:
   • The applicant must have resided in Turkey for at least five years.
   • Must have stayed in Turkey legally for the uninterrupted period of residence.
   • He/she must have good morals and not be in a situation that may jeopardise public order.
2. Collection of Necessary Documents:
   • Photocopy and original identity card.
   • A document showing residence in Turkey (residence permit).
   • Health report
   • Proof of income or work permit.
   • Two biometric photographs.
3. Making the Application:
   • An application is made to the Directorate of Migration Management of the province or district of residence.
   • It is important that the application is made with complete and correct documents.
   • The officer in charge receives the application and the required application fee is paid.
4. Preliminary Examination and Research:
   • The application is examined by the Migration Management.
   • The applicant's situation in Turkey, criminal record and social environment are investigated.
   • As a result of the realised research, a positive or negative response is given.
5. Evaluation and Finalisation of the Application:
   • If the application is approved, the decision is forwarded to the General Directorate of Population and Citizenship Affairs.
   • In the negative case, the applicant will be given reasons and may be asked to remedy the deficiencies.
   • The decision period may take approximately 6-12 months from the date of the application.
6. Taking Oath and Citizenship Certificate:
   • When citizenship is approved, the applicant attends an oath ceremony.
   • After this ceremony, a certificate of transition to Turkish citizenship is issued and transmitted.

The most important point that applicants should pay attention to during the application process is to prepare all documents in full and not to leave any missing documents during the application. Disruptions that may occur during the application process may cause the process to be prolonged.

Acquiring Citizenship by Birth

Acquiring citizenship by birth means that an individual becomes a citizen of a country from the moment of birth under certain conditions. In Turkey, acquisition of citizenship by birth is determined within the framework of Turkish citizenship laws and is mainly acquired in two ways: "by descent" and "by place of birth".

Citizenship on the Basis of Descent

Citizenship by descent (jus sanguinis) allows an individual to acquire citizenship based on the citizenship status of their parents. According to the Turkish Citizenship Law, the main rules regarding the acquisition of Turkish citizenship on the basis of descent are as follows:

• If One of the Parents is a Turkish Citizen: Regardless of whether born in Turkey or outside Turkey, a person whose mother or father is a Turkish citizen becomes a Turkish citizen by birth.
• Births out of Marriage: For children born out of wedlock, if the mother is a Turkish citizen, the child becomes a Turkish citizen by birth. If the father is a Turkish citizen, the child acquires Turkish citizenship if paternity is recognized.

Citizenship by Place of Birth

Citizenship according to place of birth (jus soli) means that the individual acquires citizenship according to the country of birth. In Turkey, this principle applies in very limited circumstances. In this case, the acquisition of citizenship is subject to the following conditions:

• Statelessness Status: Children born in Turkey who cannot acquire the citizenship of another country due to foreign parents become Turkish citizens by birth. This is done in order to prevent statelessness.

Additional Information

The rights and obligations of individuals who have acquired Turkish citizenship by birth are the same as those of other citizens. They have the same rights and bear the same responsibilities under the Constitution and laws of the Republic of Turkey. The process of officially registering children who acquire citizenship by birth in Turkey and obtaining their identity documents is carried out through population directorates and foreign representative offices.

The process of acquiring citizenship by birth is an important element in determining the legal status of individuals and it is recommended to carefully examine the relevant legal regulations to obtain detailed information on this issue. It is useful to seek legal advice on the different scenarios and special circumstances of acquiring citizenship by birth in Turkey.

Citizenship by Marriage

Obtaining citizenship through marriage in Turkey is possible if certain conditions are met. In order for a foreign national to apply for citizenship through marriage with a Turkish citizen, the following criteria are taken into consideration:

• Duration of Marriage: The applicant must have been married to a Turkish citizen for at least 3 years.
• Family Unity It must be proven that the couple lives in a family unit and maintains the union of marriage.
• Security Investigation: A security investigation is conducted to determine whether the candidate is a person who may harm Turkey's national security and public order.
• Mutual Duties and Responsibilities: It should be determined that there are duties and responsibilities that are mutually fulfilled in the marriage union.

The application process starts with the preparation of the necessary documents. The documents are as follows:

1. Application Form: The citizenship application form must be completed.
2. Identity Card and Passport: Identity card of the Turkish citizen spouse and passport of the foreign spouse are required.
3. Marriage Certificate: Document showing that the marriage is officially registered.
4. Residence Certificate: A document showing residence in Turkey.
5. Photograph: 4 passport size photographs with biometric compatibility.

Applicants for citizenship by marriage are also assessed on their knowledge of the Turkish language. It is important that applicants have a basic knowledge of Turkish.

Application procedures are carried out through Provincial Directorates of Population and Citizenship. Upon completion of the required documents, the application process starts and the evaluation phase begins. The evaluation process can vary between 6 months and 2 years from the date of application.

Depending on the situation, the granting of citizenship may be subject to Ministerial authorization. It is important that applicants for citizenship through marriage carefully follow the legal procedures and requirements and prepare all necessary documents. Any missing or incorrect information during the application process may result in a prolonged or negative outcome.

Citizenship by Investment

Turkey offers various options for foreigners wishing to obtain citizenship through investment. This process is based on certain types and amounts of investment. Citizenship by investment programs and conditions are discussed below:

Investment Types and Conditions

There are various ways to obtain citizenship through investment in Turkey. These ways differ according to the type of investment:

1. Property Investment
   • Minimum investment amount: USD 400.000
   • The investment must be protected for 3 years.
   • It can be a single property or multiple properties.
2. Capital Investment
   • Minimum investment amount: USD 500.000
   • The capital must be in banks approved by the BRSA (Banking Regulation and Supervision Agency).
3. Employment Creation
   • Minimum number of workers: 50 Turkish citizens
   • Workers must be employed for at least 3 years.
4. Deposit Investment
   • Minimum deposit amount: USD 500,000
   • Deposits must be kept in a bank in Turkey for at least 3 years.
5. Government Bonds or Debt Instruments Investment
   • Minimum investment amount: USD 500.000
   • The investment must not be disposed of for 3 years.

Application Process

The process of applying for citizenship by investment usually consists of the following steps:

• Application Document Preparation:
  • Valid passport
  • Documents proving that the investment has been made
  • Criminal record
• Making the Application:
  • It is made through the Directorate General of Migration Management or foreign representative offices.
  • Following the completion of the investment process, the application file is created.
• Evaluation and Approval Process:
  • Preliminary examination by the Directorate General of Migration Management.
  • It is finalised with the approval of the Ministry of Interior.

Benefits and Obligations

Persons who acquire Turkish citizenship through investment enjoy various advantages. However, they also have certain obligations due to their citizenship:

• Advantages
  • Visa-free travel
  • Right to dual citizenship
  • Conveniences for the purchase of property in Turkey
• Liabilities:
  • Responsibilities for tax declarations
  • Obligation to obey the laws of the Republic of Turkey

Special Cases and Exemptions

In some cases, the process of obtaining citizenship in Turkey can be simplified with certain exemptions and exceptions. These exceptional circumstances allow applicants to benefit from certain advantages.

Citizenship by Birth

Under international law, children born in Turkey automatically acquire citizenship if

• Both parents are Turkish citizens.
• One of the parents is a Turkish citizen.
• Failure to determine the status of the parents at the time of the child's birth.

Marriage Status

Certain facilities are provided for the citizenship application process of persons who marry a Turkish citizen:

1. The duration of the marriage must be at least 3 years.
2. The married couple should live together.
3. One of the spouses must not pose a threat to public security.

Extraordinary Services

Foreigners who are not Turkish citizens but have rendered or are committed to render significant services to the country may be granted citizenship. In this case, they may be exempted from the following application stages:

• Length of residence.
• Language proficiency certificate.
• Statement of financial capability.

Refugees and Asylum Seekers

Refugees and asylum seekers who have been granted official status by the United Nations may apply for citizenship under the following conditions

• Minimum 5 years of continuous residence in Turkey.
• Clean criminal record.
• To be able to use Turkish in their daily lives.

Students and Professionals

Certain facilities are offered for people who study in Turkey or provide expertise in certain sectors:

• Students who have studied in Turkey for at least 5 years.
• Professionals who have brought Turkey international achievements in science, culture or sports.

Special Cases

Some special circumstances may also result in exceptional conditions being applied in the naturalization process:

• Persons who are undergoing long-term treatment in Turkey for health reasons.
• Businessmen and investors whose investments and economic contributions in Turkey have been recognized.

Required Documents

The following documents are required when applying for citizenship under special circumstances and exemptions:

• Passport photocopy.
• Photocopy of birth certificate.
• Marriage certificate (if applicable).
• Proof of residential address.
• Criminal record.

Applicants need to prove that they are able to fulfill the requirements in full. Therefore, it is critical that the documentation is complete and accurate.

Review and Finalization of the Application

During the application review and finalization phase, the applicant is assessed in detail. This process involves some specific steps:

1. Control of Documents:
   • It is checked whether the documents submitted during the application are complete and correct.
   • The applicant is given time to correct the missing or incorrect documents.
2. Security Investigation:
   • A security investigation is conducted on the applicant.
   • The Ministry of the Interior and other relevant organisations assess whether the person is a security risk.
3. Criminal Record Examination:
   • The applicant's criminal record is examined.
   • Whether there is a criminal record and, if so, its nature is assessed.
4. Income Status and Economic Sufficiency:
   • It is checked whether the applicant has a regular and sufficient income.
   • Documents such as tax returns and payslips may be requested.
5. Turkish Grammar Test:
   • The applicant's knowledge of the Turkish language must be sufficient according to the citizenship regulations.
   • If necessary, a language test may be administered.
6. Residence Period:
   • During the examination of the application, it is checked whether the applicant has resided in Turkey for a sufficient period of time.
   • Usually at least 5 years of continuous residence is required.
7. Cultural Integration:
   • It is assessed whether the applicant is able to integrate into Turkish society.
   • Family ties, social relationships and general adaptation criteria are taken into account.

Decision Process

• Approval of the Application:
  • If all assessments are positive, the application is approved.
  • The applicant is accepted as a Turkish citizen and a citizenship certificate is issued.
• Rejection of the Application:
  • If the application is unfavourably concluded at any stage, the applicant will be notified in writing with the reasons.
  • There is a right of appeal against the rejection decision and the applicant may apply for judicial remedy.

Process Tracking

• The application process usually takes between 6 months and 2 years.
• The applicant can track the stage of the process via e-Government.
• In case of any problems in the process, the applicant can notify the authorities through a notary public.

The process of examining and finalizing the application is meticulous, based on fairness and transparency at every step.

Rights and Obligations of Migrants

Migrants living in Turkey have certain rights and obligations. These rights and obligations are regulated in accordance with the laws of the Republic of Turkey and have been developed to ensure that migrants live in harmony with society.

Rights

The main rights that migrants have are the following:

• Right to Education: Migrants have the right to free education in primary and secondary education institutions in Turkey.
• Access to Health Services: Migrants can benefit from emergency health services and receive free treatment in public hospitals under certain conditions.
• Work Permit: Migrants residing in Turkey have the right to work, provided they obtain the necessary permits. This right enables them to take part in the registered labor force.
• Right to Housing: Migrants can benefit from prioritized housing projects within the country.
• Access to Justice: Migrants have the right to access to justice in any legal matter and can benefit from free legal counseling services.

Liabilities

The obligations that migrants must fulfill are as follows:

1. Compliance with the Law: Immigrants must act in accordance with the laws in force in Turkey. If they violate the law, they may face criminal sanctions.
2. Registration Migrants are required to register their residential address and personal information in order to officially reside in Turkey.
3. Tax Obligations: Migrants with work permits are obliged to pay taxes such as income tax. This helps the state to finance public services.
4. Social cohesion: Migrants are encouraged to participate in language courses or integration programs in order to integrate into the society in which they live.
5. Notification Obligation: They are required to notify the authorities of important changes, such as changes of residential address.

These rights and obligations of migrants are of critical importance for ensuring social balance and peace in Turkey. These regulations are intended to facilitate the integration of migrants into society and ensure that they live a life worthy of human dignity.

Migrant Integration and Social Services

Migrant integration plays a critical role in the social adaptation of individuals coming to Turkey. Social services stand out as an important supportive element in this process. The following aspects are taken into account in the integration process:

• Language Education: Immigrants learning Turkish enables them to communicate and adapt to the society faster.
  • Public Education Centres and Migrant Support Centres offer language courses.
  • Additional language classes are organised through universities and NGOs.
• Education and School Integration:
  • Migrant children are encouraged to take part in the education system.
  • The Ministry of National Education develops special programmes for refugee and migrant children.
  • Psychosocial Support and Guidance Services are provided.
• Employment:
  • The employment and training of migrants is an important part of integration.
  • Employment and vocational training programmes are organised through the Turkish Employment Agency (İŞKUR).
  • The Vocational Qualifications Authority aims to harmonise with the labour market.
• Health Services:
  • Migrants' access to health services is facilitated.
  • Migrant Health Centres and Ministry of Health hospitals offer free or low-cost health care.
  • Vaccination Programmes and Preventive Health Services are in place.
• Social Assistance and Supports:
  • Migrants are supported economically through social benefits.
  • Social Assistance and Solidarity Foundations (SYDV) provide financial support.
  • Organisations such as AFAD and the Red Crescent provide food and basic necessities.
• Cultural Integration:
  • Migrants are encouraged to participate in cultural activities.
  • Municipalities and NGOs organise cultural programmes and activities.
  • Community Centres support the integration of migrants through cultural and social activities.

The successful integration of migrants is crucial for social peace and cohesion. The integration process is planned and implemented in a way that enhances the participation and contribution of individuals to society. In this context, cooperation and coordination of all stakeholders is vital. Migrant integration maintains social balances by improving the overall well-being of society.

Common Problems and Solutions to Citizenship Applications

Some common problems that applicants may face during the process of applying for citizenship in Turkey and their solutions are detailed below:

1. Incomplete or Inaccurate Documents

Citizenship applications often involve missing or incorrectly completed documents.

• Solution: Applicants are advised to review the full list of required documents and fill them in carefully. The application guidelines published on the website of the Directorate General of Migration Management can be consulted.

2. Language Proficiency

The Turkish language proficiency required for the application to be approved may be a barrier for some applicants.

• Solution: Applicants should improve their proficiency by attending Turkish language courses. In addition, certificates from local language centers can be attached to the application file.

3. Economic Adequacy

Failure to meet certain economic criteria may lead to rejection of the application.

• Solution: In order to ensure the necessary financial capability, applicants should prepare detailed documentation of their financial situation. Financial advice may also be useful.

4. Criminal Record

A negative criminal record can make it difficult to apply for citizenship.

• Resolution: Applicants should review their criminal records and, if any, resolve any inaccuracies or records that need to be corrected with local judicial authorities.

5. Residence Duration Problems

Failure to complete a sufficient period of residence is also a common problem.

• Solution: Applicants are advised to follow their residency period meticulously and wait for the legally established deadline for application to be completed.

6. Application Fees

Some applicants may struggle to cover application fees due to low income.

• Solution: It may be useful to know the application fees in advance and save up, and to evaluate financial reports and potential sources of support.

7. Dual Citizenship Status

The fact that some countries do not recognize dual citizenship may cause problems in the application process.

• Solution: It is important to research dual citizenship policies and take strategic steps towards the respective country where necessary.

By paying attention to these common problems and implementing solutions, it is possible to complete the citizenship application process more smoothly.

Current Legal Regulations on Citizenship Application

The legal regulations on applying for citizenship in Turkey set out in detail the rights of migrants and the application process. These regulations include the basic rules that individuals wishing to acquire Turkish citizenship should be aware of.

Basic Requirements

Some basic requirements for those who want to apply for citizenship:

1. Residence Period: To have resided in Turkey for at least five years without interruption.
2. Language Knowledge: Basic knowledge of Turkish and proof of this knowledge.
3. Financial Status: Having an income or assets sufficient to provide for the individual and his/her family.
4. Criminal Record: Not having been sentenced to hard labor for any offense.
5. General Health Status: Not having a disease that poses a danger to public health.

Application Process

The application process proceeds step by step as follows:

1. Making the Application: To apply to Provincial Directorates of Population and Citizenship.
2. Submission of Documents: Submit the required documents in full. These include a passport, proof of residence, proof of income, medical report and criminal record.
3. Evaluation Process: Detailed examination of the application by the General Directorate of Population and Citizenship Affairs.
4. Interview An interview to determine whether the applicant meets the application requirements.
5. Decision Phase: Acceptance or rejection of the application as a result of the review.

Special Cases

Some special circumstances may affect the naturalization process:

• Marriage Status: Foreigners who are married to a Turkish citizen have the right to apply for citizenship if they meet the three-year residence requirement.
• Exceptional Citizenship: Individuals who will contribute to Turkey in fields such as science, art, economy and sports can be granted exceptional citizenship by presidential decree.

Required Documents

The documents required for citizenship application are as follows:

• Notarized copy of passport or similar valid travel document.
• Birth certificate and marital status certificate, if available.
• Proof of residence permit.
• Proof of income or declaration of assets.
• Health report
• Criminal record.

These legal arrangements are designed to ensure that applicants understand the process, take the right steps and protect their rights within the legal framework.

Conclusion and Evaluation

The process of obtaining citizenship and the rights of migrants in Turkey are shaped by various legal regulations and policies. The main stages of this process range from the submission of applications to the acquisition of citizenship. The protection of migrants' rights is guaranteed by international treaties and Turkey's domestic legal system.

Application Process and Requirements

The naturalization process involves certain stages, the most important of which are;

• Application The first step for immigrants to obtain Turkish citizenship is to issue an application document.
• Evaluation: After the application is accepted, the Ministry evaluates the status of the applicants and requests additional documents if deemed necessary.
• Decision After all the assessments, the Ministry makes its decision on the citizenship application.

Migrant Rights

The rights of migrants are not only limited to the process of obtaining citizenship, but also include other rights they enjoyed during their residence in Turkey.

Core Rights:

1. Right to Education: Migrants and their children have the right to education in Turkey.
2. Health Services: Immigrants in Turkey can benefit from public health services.
3. Work Permit: When certain conditions are met, immigrants can obtain a work permit to be employed in Turkey.

Legal Regulations

The process of obtaining citizenship in Turkey and immigrant rights are protected by various legal regulations. Among these regulations are:

• Turkish Citizenship Law: The process for applying for and obtaining citizenship is detailed.
• Law on Foreigners and International Protection: The rights and statuses of immigrants are regulated.
• Universal Declaration of Human Rights: This document is among the international agreements to which Turkey is a party, and it guarantees the rights of immigrants.

Assessment

Turkey's immigration policies and citizenship processes ensure the resolution of applications by evaluating them within the framework of specific criteria and legal regulations. The protection of immigrants' rights and the support of integration processes play a crucial role in the success of immigration policies. In this context, Turkey's legal regulations and practices are critical in protecting immigrants' rights and providing them with social integration.