The difference between tourist and real estate residence in Turkey

In this article, we will learn about the difference between tourist and real estate residence in Turkey, what are the criteria and conditions for obtaining each of them, and all the details under

Turkey is considered one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, as it combines its ancient history with the beauty of its charming nature. With the increasing interest in visiting and living in Turkey, the Turkish government has provided alternatives to the traditional entry visa, including tourist and real estate residence.

In this blog, we will explore the difference between tourist and real estate residency in Turkey, we will take a look at the duration of residency, application methods, and the benefits available for each type of residency, you will learn about the criteria and conditions required to obtain each type of residency and how it can be renewed, you will also discover the main goal of each type of accommodations and how they can meet your personal needs and goals.

What is the difference between tourist and real estate residence in Turkey?

Turkish lands are witnessing a great demand from people wishing to enter them for a variety of reasons, and the methods of applying for residency differ according to each individual and the type of residency he desires, whether to visit Turkey or live in it in search of better living conditions or for investment and work and therefore, Turkish laws have established different forms of residence in Turkey other than the entry visa, including tourist residence and real estate residence and the difference between these two types of residency lies in the duration of residency, the method of application, and the purpose of obtaining and renewing residency.

As for the duration of the stay, the tourist residence is granted for a limited period that is subject to cancellation or modification in accordance with the applicable Turkish laws that depend on the changing circumstances, as for the real estate residence, it is granted for an unlimited period, and there is no law that allows it to be canceled as long as the title deed to the property exists.

With regard to the method of application, a rental contract must be available when applying for a tourist residence permit, while obtaining a real estate residence permit requires a title deed for the desired property

The goals of obtaining residency in Turkey differ according to each individual, and therefore not all types of residency are suitable for every person who desires them and some people want to obtain a tourist residence permit for the purpose of doing business, for actual tourism, or for treatment for a period exceeding 90 days, while the goal of obtaining a real estate residence permit is to own a property on Turkish soil.

With regard to residency renewal, real estate residency renewal is easier than tourist residency and if you own a real estate residency, it is sufficient to prove your continued ownership of the real estate on which the residency was obtained, as for the tourist residence, you need a reason every time you try to renew it, in addition to following some necessary conditions.

Learn about the advantages of tourist accommodation in Turkey

1. It is a prerequisite for obtaining work residency in Turkey

2. The possibility of opening a bank account in the name of the residence owner in Turkish and international banks.

3. The possibility of entering and leaving Turkey without the need to obtain a visa each time.

4. The ability of the residence holder to easily enter many countries that Turkey allows.

5. The possibility of easily obtaining a Schengen visa for one of the European countries through the tourist residence.

6. Facilitating the movement of businessmen and merchants on Turkish soil.

7. The possibility of owning and investing in real estate in Turkey, with the exception of some prohibited nationalities.

8. The ability of the owner of the tourist residence to obtain a driver's license and to buy a car in Turkey.

9. Facilitating the admission of children to Turkish universities and schools.

Who is entitled to obtain a tourist residence permit in Turkey?

1. People who want to study projects and business in Turkey.

2. Residents wishing to travel for more than 90 days without a visa.

3. Residents seeking treatment for more than 90 days.

4. Expatriates to Türkiye to conduct scientific research that will benefit them.

5. Expatriates to Turkey to learn the Turkish language or attend educational courses.

Pros of obtaining real estate residence in Turkey

1. Ease of annual renewal of the real estate residency, different from other types of residency.

2. After eight years of renewing the real estate residence permit in Turkey, its holder can obtain a long-term residence permit in Turkey.

3. The possibility of obtaining services such as education and health care for free or at a small cost.

4. The possibility of applying for Turkish citizenship if the property price exceeds $400,000.

Who are the categories allowed to obtain real estate residence in Turkey?

1. Everyone owns a property in Turkey, provided that the price of the property is not less than 75,000 USD.

2. Everyone wants to invest in Turkish lands.

Notes when obtaining real estate residence in Turkey

1. In the event that the residence application is submitted for all family members, a separate file must be submitted for each member.

2. The application fee must be paid in the local currency (Turkish lira) and a stamped receipt proving this.

3. If any deficiency or defect is discovered in the residency application, the foreigner will be given thirty days to correct the deficiency.

4. The buyer's passport must be valid for at least six months.

Is it possible to renew the real estate residence permit in Turkey?

Yes, the real estate residence permit can be renewed annually, and renewal procedures vary based on current laws and regulations.

Common questions

How can I obtain a tourist residence permit in Turkey?

The tourist residence application must be submitted to the Turkish authorities and the required documents such as a valid passport, valid entry visa, a personal photograph and the rental contract, if any, must be provided.

What is the validity period of the tourist residence permit in Turkey?

The duration of the tourist stay ranges from 30 to 90 days, and it can be renewed in a limited manner based on the circumstances and the directives of the Turkish authorities.