通过学生居留许可获得土耳其公民身份
Learn how to obtain Turkish citizenship through student residence permit. Discover eligibility rules, required documents, and how to transition to other residence types after graduation
Foreign students often ask whether it is possible to obtain Turkish citizenship through student residence permit. While holding a student residence is a helpful start, it alone is not enough. There is a legal path that includes transitioning to other residence permits after graduation and maintaining long-term residency in Turkey.
Can You Get Turkish Citizenship Through Student Residence Permit?
Yes, it is possible. Time spent in Turkey with a student residence permit is fully counted toward the 5-year continuous residence requirement for Turkish citizenship.
To apply for Turkish citizenship:
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You must have legally resided in Turkey for at least 5 years without interruption.
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You must not have spent more than 1 year total outside Turkey during this period.
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You must show financial stability, good character, and genuine intent to settle in Turkey.
After graduation, continuing with a valid residence permit (e.g., work, family, or property-based) ensures the five-year period is completed without legal interruption.
Transitioning to Another Residence Type
After completing your university education, you need to switch to a different permit to continue accumulating residency time:
1. Property Residence Permit
For graduates who own property in Turkey. This is a valid basis for legal stay post-student status.
2. Family Residence Permit
If married to a Turkish citizen or residing with Turkish family members.
3. Work Permit
Granted upon obtaining a job offer in Turkey. This is a direct and popular route for university graduates.
Make sure to apply for your new permit within 6个月 after graduation to avoid any gaps in legal residency.
Documents Required for Citizenship Application
When applying for Turkish citizenship through student residence permit, you will need the following documents:
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Valid passport
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Current residence permit
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Proof of financial means
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Criminal record certificate (from Turkey and your home country)
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General health report from a fully-equipped Turkish hospital
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Marital status certificate, officially translated and notarized
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Residency day-count document (ikamet süresi gün sayımı belgesi) showing that you have not spent more than 1 year outside Turkey in the last 5 years
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Important: The first step of the application process is to request the official day-count calculation from the immigration authority. Only if this document confirms your eligibility (i.e., less than 365 days abroad in 5 years), can you proceed with the full application and submit the remaining documents.
After submission, applicants are scheduled for an official citizenship interview.
Interview and Language Evaluation
During your interview, a citizenship commission will conduct a short general conversation to evaluate:
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Your Turkish language skills
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Your integration into Turkish society
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Your intent to live in Turkey permanently
Residency and Legal Requirements
To maintain eligibility throughout your application process:
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Stay legally in Turkey for 5年, with no more than 1 year total spent abroad.
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Switch from student permit to another valid residence type after graduation.
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Keep your residence permits active and renewed on time.
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Prepare all documents accurately and submit translations when needed.
结论
Earning Turkish citizenship through student residence permit is a realistic goal if approached with the right strategy. While the student permit helps you start your life in Turkey, citizenship requires continued legal residency, permit transition, and meeting legal criteria.
By completing the five-year requirement and attending the citizenship interview successfully, you can gain both a Turkish degree and a passport.