❗ What to Do If Your Residence Permit Application Is Rejected? Your Legal Rights – 2025

Obtaining a residence permit is a key step for foreigners wishing to live in Turkey. However, not every application is approved. In recent years, more foreigners have encountered residence permit rejections due to changes in administrative policies and legal requirements.

This article explains the reasons behind rejections, the available legal remedies, and specific considerations for expats living in Alanya.

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🚫 Why is a residence permit application rejected?

There are several reasons why your application may be rejected. The Directorate General of Migration Management (DGMM) provides the reason in a written notice.

Common rejection reasons:

Reason	Explanation
Incomplete or incorrect documents	Missing or inaccurate application materials
Insufficient financial resources	Failure to prove you can afford living costs in Turkey
Fake rental contract	Invalid or overcrowded address used in multiple applications
Security/public order concern	Entry bans or criminal records
High volume of touristic applications	Temporary policy changes to reduce demand

👉 For more details, visit the DGMM official website.

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📄 How is the rejection decision delivered?

If your application is rejected, you will receive an official notification from the Migration Office. This notice includes the legal reason for rejection and how long you have to appeal.

📌 The decision is typically sent via PTT (national post) or delivered in person by the immigration office.

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⏳ How long do you have to appeal a rejection?

You have 60 days to appeal the rejection through administrative court, starting from the day you receive the official notice.

You have two main options:

1. Filing a lawsuit in Administrative Court
   • You may file an annulment lawsuit against the rejection decision.
   • It is advisable to work with a lawyer, as the process is complex.
2. Submitting a new application
   • If the reason for rejection has been resolved (e.g., document completed), you can apply again.
   • However, repeat applications are not always accepted right away.

👉 Contact a lawyer specialized in residence permit appeals

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⚖️ How does the legal appeal process work?

In Turkey, administrative lawsuits are based on written procedures.

General steps:

1. Prepare a petition within 60 days after receiving the decision
2. Submit it to the relevant administrative court
3. The court will request a defense from the migration authority
4. Evidence is reviewed and a decision is made (typically within 4–12 months)

💡 Note: During the trial, your legal residency status may be uncertain. Consulting a legal professional is strongly advised.

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🛡️ Can you stay in Turkey after a rejection?

Once rejected, your legal status may become invalid. However, filing a lawsuit may temporarily suspend deportation.

• During court proceedings, deportation is usually delayed
• Leaving Turkey before resolution may prevent future reentry
• Avoid waiting without action—this may lead to illegal stay status

📌 Get professional advice to protect your rights and legal status.

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📍 What to do if your permit is rejected in Alanya?

Alanya is one of Turkey’s top destinations for foreign residents. Due to the high number of applications, extra scrutiny may apply.

• Too many applicants using the same address may trigger rejection
• Tourist applications may be restricted during high seasons
• Informal or undocumented housing is easily flagged in the system

👉 Learn more about residence permit law in Alanya

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📑 Tips and Best Practices

✅ Provide all required documents, fully and accurately
✅ Use a notarized and valid rental contract
✅ If you have a criminal record, get legal evaluation first
✅ Don’t panic—follow procedures calmly and on time
✅ If possible, seek legal support before applying

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)