How to Obtain a Residence Permit for Medical Treatment in Turkey?
According to the Law on Foreigners and International Protection No. 6458, there are six types of residence permits:
- Short-Term Residence Permit
- Family Residence Permit
- Student Residence Permit
- Long-Term Residence Permit
- Humanitarian Residence Permit
- Residence Permit for Victims of Human Trafficking
Foreign nationals need to gather the required documents and apply to the Directorate General of Migration Management under the Ministry of Interior to obtain these residence permits.
What is a Residence Permit for Medical Treatment?
The residence permit for medical treatment is a type of residence permit that falls under the short-term residence permit category. Foreign nationals must obtain this permit to receive medical treatment in Turkey. The individual must meet the necessary conditions and provide the required documents.
Conditions for Obtaining a Residence Permit for Medical Treatment
To understand the conditions for a residence permit for medical treatment, one must look at the conditions for a short-term residence permit as outlined in Article 32 of Law No. 6458:
- Being free of diseases that are considered a threat to public health under Article 31/1-f of the Law and providing the necessary documents regarding the treatment.
- Not being among the foreign nationals who are prohibited from entering Turkey.
- Having accommodation conditions that meet general health and safety standards.
- Providing a criminal record document issued by the authorities of their country of citizenship or legal residence if requested.
- Providing address information for their stay in Turkey.
Foreign nationals who are prohibited from entering Turkey are further detailed in Article 7 of the same Law:
- Those without a passport, visa, or residence/work permit, or who have obtained such documents fraudulently.
- Those whose passport or equivalent document is not valid for at least 60 days beyond the duration of their intended stay.
Those prohibited from entering Turkey also include individuals who:
- Are deemed a threat to public order, security, or health.
- Have been convicted of crimes warranting extradition.
- Do not have valid health insurance.
- Cannot justify their reasons for entry, transit, or stay in Turkey.
- Lack sufficient and regular financial means for their stay.
These conditions, part of the short-term residence permit requirements, are also applicable to residence permits for medical treatment. Additionally, acceptance by public or private hospitals is mandatory. If all medical expenses are covered and documented, health insurance is not required.
Required Documents for a Residence Permit for Medical Treatment
The following documents are required for an application:
- Residence Permit Application Form (signed by the applicant or their legal representative).
- Copy of the passport or equivalent document (original must be presented during the appointment).
- Four (4) biometric photographs (taken within the last 6 months, with a white background).
- Proof of sufficient financial means for the stay (declared in the Application Form, supporting documents may be requested).
- Receipts for payment of residence permit fees and card charges.
- Valid health insurance covering the duration of the residence permit.
- Proof of address registration (from local population directorates or e-government).
- Accommodation details (e.g., property deed, notarized rental agreement, or hotel reservation).
In addition to the common documents for short-term residence permits, applicants for medical treatment need to provide:
- Documentation from public or private hospitals indicating admission and the start of treatment (must specify treatment duration and be signed/stamped by the head physician).
Foreign nationals must provide apostilled and notarized Turkish translations of documents obtained from their home country.
Extension of Residence Permit for Medical Treatment
The extension of the residence permit for medical treatment follows the same procedure as other permits. Applications must be submitted 60 days before the current permit expires. If the individual’s medical treatment continues and all necessary conditions are still met, they may apply for an extension before the permit expires.
The application must include the necessary documents for the extension, such as a report from the hospital indicating the continuation of treatment. The application should be made to the assigned Directorate of Migration Management.
Transition to Other Residence Permits
For example, a person holding a family residence permit may transition to a short-term residence permit if the conditions for the family permit are no longer valid, such as in cases of divorce or the death of a spouse. Necessary documents include:
- Court decisions or evidence of changed circumstances.
- Proof of sufficient financial means.
- Supporting documents justifying the transition.
Documents required for the transition to a short-term residence permit include:
- Passport
- Residence permit application form
- Four (4) biometric photographs
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- Valid health insurance
- Previous residence permit documents
- Accommodation details
Application Rejection and Legal Remedies
If the application for a residence permit is rejected, the applicant will be notified of the reasons. Foreign nationals have the right to appeal to the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management within 60 days or file a lawsuit at the Administrative Court. The appeal period starts from the date of notification.
Legal assistance is strongly recommended for navigating the appeal process and ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
Why Choose Us?
Applications for residence permits, especially for medical treatment, are critical for foreign nationals undergoing long-term treatments in Turkey. Ensuring accurate documentation and compliance with deadlines is essential to avoid rejections.
At Güneş & Güneş Law Office, we provide professional legal consultancy to assist clients with residence permit applications. Our experienced team identifies potential issues in advance and ensures a smooth application process, adhering to all legal regulations.
Contact us for expert assistance with your residence permit application for medical treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How long is the residence permit for medical treatment valid?
The residence permit for medical treatment, a type of short-term residence permit, is valid for a maximum of two years. The validity period depends on the duration of the medical treatment.
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When will the application be processed?
Applications are typically processed within 90 days, with permits issued within 30 days, depending on workload.
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Can applicants travel abroad during the application process?
Yes, applicants can travel abroad provided they return within 15 days and notify the Directorate of Migration Management.
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What are the fees for the residence permit?
Fees vary based on the applicant’s nationality and include notarization, translation, permit fees, and health insurance.
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What happens if the applicant misses the appointment?
If the appointment is missed, the application will not proceed. If the legal timeframe allows, a new appointment can be scheduled within 10 days, with a penalty fee if applicable.
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What if documents are incomplete?
Applicants will be notified via SMS or email about missing documents and can check the e-residence system or call 157 for updates.
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How long must the passport be valid?
The passport must be valid for at least 60 days beyond the intended duration of the residence permit.
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What are the fee exemptions?
Certain nationalities are exempt from residence permit fees based on reciprocity agreements.
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How are fees paid?
Fees must be paid online via the Tax Office’s website before the appointment date, using the application number provided during the e-residence process.
Contact Güneş & Güneş Law Office for comprehensive guidance and support throughout your residence permit application process.