Humanitarian Residence Permit Requirements, Process, and Application Steps
November 7, 2025 |
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In some cases, foreign nationals residing in Turkey may not be able to obtain standard residence permits, or their current situation may not comply with the conditions of standard residence permits. In such cases, Articles 46 and 47 of the Law on Foreigners and International Protection No. 6458 a humanitarian residence permit may be issued pursuant to.
A humanitarian residence permit is an exceptional type of residence permit granted in extraordinary, compelling, or protection-required circumstances. The aim here is to ensure compliance with the protection of the person’s rights and freedoms, the best interests of the child, the risk of return, public order, and the principles of international humanitarian law.
This guide clearly explains who can obtain a humanitarian residence permit, the application process, the conditions for extension/cancellation, and the critical points to be considered in practice.
Who Can be Granted a Humanitarian Residence Permit? (Legal Basis)
A humanitarian residence permit is issued without seeking the conditions of other residence permits, for periods determined by the Ministry of Interior, with the approval of the Directorate General of Migration Management.
Legal regulation: LFIP ARTICLE 46.
A humanitarian residence permit may be issued if at least one of the following conditions exists:
| Basis Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| a) When the high interest of the child is in question | This permit may be granted if it is necessary or important for the child to stay in Turkey, as required by the principle of children’s rights. |
| b) If departure is not possible despite the existence of a deportation or entry ban decision | If it is de facto or de jure impossible for the person to return to their country, a permit is granted for the purpose of mandatory protection. |
| c) Persons who cannot be deported pursuant to Article 55 | The prohibition of return is valid in countries where there is a risk of life, liberty, or torture. |
| ç) During the judicial remedy application process under Article 53, 72 or 77 | The person may be granted a humanitarian residence permit temporarily until the judicial process is completed. |
| d) While safe third country return procedures are ongoing | Temporary stay is provided during the international protection procedure. |
| e) Situations where it should be allowed to stay in Turkey in terms of public order / security | It applies if it is not possible to obtain one of the other residence types. |
| f) In extraordinary circumstances | War, internal strife, disaster, diplomatic obstacles, etc. |
Source: LFIP Article 46 No. 6458
For how many Years is a Humanitarian Residence Permit Granted?
This permit is usually granted for a period of 1 year and may be extended if the conditions continue.
The period is entirely subject to the evaluation of the Ministry and the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management.
Humanitarian Residence Permit Application Process (Step by Step)
A humanitarian residence permit differs from classic residence applications made by appointment.
The application is often evaluated through the file.
Application steps:
- An explanatory petition documenting the situation is prepared.
- Reports on the best interests of the child / school attendance documents / health reports are added if necessary.
- Objection petition or case information is added if there is a deportation decision.
- The application is made to the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management where the person is located.
- The file is sent to the General Directorate of Migration Management of the Ministry of Interior.
- After approval, a residence card is issued.
Attention: The most critical mistake made in this process is applying with incorrect or incomplete justification.
Incorrect justification → Rejection → may lead to risk of deportation.
Documents Required for Humanitarian Residence Permit
Each file progresses differently depending on the situation; however, general document list:
- Passport or document in lieu of passport
- 4 biometric photographs
- Address registration system document (residence address)
- Petition of justification and explanation regarding the current situation
- If any, judicial process documents or deportation decision samples
- If there are children, birth certificate, custody documents
- Health reports (in mandatory cases)
In which Cases is a Humanitarian Residence Permit Canceled?
Pursuant to LFIP Article 47:
- If the compelling circumstances requiring the permit cease to exist, the permit is canceled by the governorship and not extended.
Example:
If the risk of return has disappeared or the person is now in a position to obtain a standard residence permit, the permit may not be renewed.
Case Study (Application Scenario)
A Syrian mother and her 5-year-old child cannot leave Turkey because the war environment continues in the country.
The family cannot complete the documents required for a normal residence permit.
Due to the best interests of the child;
- The child’s continued education,
- Access to health care,
- Security conditions
since it needs to be protected, a humanitarian residence permit was granted.
The critical element in such applications:
The justification is presented in a correct and legally compliant manner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes. Foreigners with a humanitarian residence permit can obtain a work permit by applying to the Ministry of Labor and Social Security in the normal procedure.
Not on its own; however, it contributes to the long-term legal residence period.
Depending on the file density and Ministry review, it may take 1–12 months.
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Conclusion and Call for Professional Support
A humanitarian residence permit is a sensitive process that can lead to a rejection decision if applied with incorrect justification or incomplete information, and risk of deportation after rejection.
Therefore, the application must be carried out with legal representation.
👉 Contact MFY Legal | Law Office for expert legal support tailored to you.
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