Overstay Penalty in Turkey 2024
The overstay penalty in Turkey is an important issue that travelers and tourists need to be aware of. Individuals who stay in the country beyond the allowed period without legal permission may face legal consequences. These penalties are typically calculated based on the duration of the unauthorized stay and the type of visa or entry permit. In some cases, individuals may be required to pay significant fees, and restrictions on re-entering Turkey may be imposed. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of the regulations related to residency and visas in Turkey.
In this article, we will examine key points about overstay penalties, prevention methods, and the necessary steps to resolve issues related to unauthorized stay. This information will help travelers have a smooth and worry-free experience when visiting Turkey. If you are planning to buy an apartment in Istanbul, you can contact our experts for assistance.
How much is the overstay penalty in Turkey?
The overstay penalty in Turkey depends on the duration of the unauthorized stay and is typically calculated at a fixed amount for each additional day. These penalties start at 100 Turkish liras for short-term stays and gradually increase as the length of the unauthorized stay extends. In general, for the first month, the penalty is 50 USD, and for the following months, an additional 10 USD is added to the fine. In cases where individuals stay in the country for an extended period, heavier penalties may be imposed, and in some circumstances, restrictions on re-entry to Turkey may apply.
If a person leaves Turkey without paying the fine, a deportation order will be issued for them, lasting for five years. Since 2021, the deportation amnesty for not paying fines has been lifted, and anyone leaving without paying a fine will face deportation for up to five years. After paying the fine, the person has 10 days to either leave Turkey or apply for re-entry permission (this is known as conditional entry). Otherwise, after the 10 days, the person will be considered an illegal immigrant, and if caught, they will be deported.
How to pay the overstay penalty in Turkey?
Paying the overstay penalty in Turkey is a straightforward yet essential process that must be carried out carefully. Once the duration of the unauthorized stay is determined, the first step is to visit the local immigration office or police station, where the exact amount of the fine will be calculated, and you will be provided with the necessary payment details. For this, you can visit the Visa Violation Office. These offices are located at airports, and it is the place where visa violations are paid. Foreigners can visit these offices to pay their fine. The process includes the following steps:
Payment Options
Several options are available for paying the fine. One of the most common methods is to pay cash at the immigration office. If you are paying in person at the tax office, be sure to bring your passport and the rendezvous form with you. In some cases, online payment through official government websites is also possible. To pay online, you will need to pay the land fee for Turkey. In this case, you can proceed with the online payment method, but you must have a bank card from one of Turkey’s banks.
If you have a Turkish bank card, it is better to use the bank card for payment because this method might be simpler and faster. This option can be useful for those who do not wish to visit in person. Additionally, in some areas, the fine can be paid through banks.
Getting a Receipt
After paying the fine, receiving an official receipt is essential. This receipt serves as proof of your payment, and you may need it for future processes, such as applying for a visa or re-entering Turkey. Therefore, keeping this receipt is strongly recommended to avoid any issues later. Before making the payment, it is advisable to carefully check all your documents related to your stay. Additionally, if you have any questions or uncertainties, consulting an immigration lawyer or consultant can help you understand the payment process and avoid potential problems.
Ban on Entry to Turkey Due to Overstay
A ban on entry to Turkey due to unauthorized stay is one of the serious consequences for individuals who have not complied with their visa’s validity period. In such cases, the individual may face issues that include being prohibited from entering the country in the future. This type of ban is typically imposed for a specified period and varies based on the length of the unauthorized stay.
How to check the ban on entry to Turkey
There are several ways to check the entry ban status for Turkey:
- Official website of Turkey’s immigration office: Contacting the Turkish immigration office or visiting their official website and reaching out to the relevant department can provide you with accurate information.
- Turkish embassy: If you are outside Turkey, you can contact the Turkish consulate or embassy in your country for the necessary information.
- Local police: If you are in Turkey, you can visit the local or border police, as they can provide you with information regarding your legal status and entry ban.
- Consulting with an immigration lawyer: If you have any doubts about your status, it is recommended to consult with a qualified immigration lawyer. These experts can guide you in understanding the situation and help you find solutions for entry ban issues.
The duration of overstay in Turkey. | The duration of the entry ban in Turkey. |
---|---|
Less than 3 months | The person will not be banned from entering. |
Between 3 months and 1 year | The person will be banned from entering for 3 months. |
Between 1 year and 2 years | The person will be banned from entering for 1 year. |
More than 2 years | The person will be banned from entering for 2 years. |
How to Lift a Deportation from Turkey
Lifting a deportation from Turkey is a legal process that can be done for various reasons. Individuals who have been deported due to illegal stay or immigration law violations can apply for return to the country. Below are the main steps in this process:
- Identify the Reasons for Deportation: The first step is to identify the reasons for deportation. These reasons include staying beyond the allowed period, violating visa conditions, or engaging in illegal activities. Understanding the exact cause of deportation helps the individual take more effective actions.
- Consult with an Immigration Lawyer: Consulting with an experienced immigration lawyer can be very helpful. The lawyer will provide necessary guidance on documents and legal steps and assist the individual in preparing an official request for lifting the deportation.
- Gather Documents and Evidence: The deportation lifting request should be submitted with the required documents. These documents may include birth certificates, residence documents, supporting letters, and any other evidence that shows changes in the individual’s circumstances or valid reasons for re-entry into Turkey.
- Submit the Request: After gathering the documents, the deportation lifting request should be submitted to the immigration office or the relevant authorities. The individual may have to wait for the authorities’ review and decision.
- Follow Up on the Request: Regular follow-up on the status of the request and communication with the lawyer can help speed up the process. In some cases, an interview may be required.
Deported individuals can only return to Turkey with an invitation visa such as a student visa, work visa, or marriage visa. The type of visa must match the individual’s circumstances; otherwise, the request may be denied.
New Turkish Residency Law 2024
For obtaining permanent residency in Turkey, there are various costs that need to be considered. These costs include translation fees, legal fees, medical examination costs, and other legal expenses. To calculate the exact costs of permanent residency in Turkey, it is recommended to consult with experts at Forkey Group. One significant change in the Turkish tourist residency law since August 2023 is the increase in the minimum value of a property required for permanent residency through property purchase from $250,000 to $400,000. You can read the linked article for information on how to live in Turkey at the lowest cost.
Conclusion
As discussed, the issue of overstay fines in Turkey in 2024 is important and costly, requiring travelers and tourists to pay special attention. With changes in immigration laws and increased associated costs, being aware of the details and strictly following the laws can prevent serious problems.
Those who overstay without extending their legal permit will face financial penalties and may even be banned from re-entering Turkey in the future. Therefore, it is advisable to gather sufficient information about residency and immigration laws before traveling to Turkey and seek legal advice if necessary. Adhering to these guidelines will help you make the most of your trip and avoid any potential issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much is the fine for illegal stay in Turkey?
The fine depends on the length of illegal stay, with a specific amount charged for each extra day. This amount starts at 100 Turkish lira and increases with the duration of the illegal stay. - What documents do I need to pay the fine?
You will need documents such as your passport and relevant residency papers. It is also advisable to carry copies of your documents. - Will illegal stay affect my future visa?
Yes, an illegal stay and the associated fines may have a negative impact on your future visa application or re-entry into Turkey. - How can I avoid fines for illegal stay?
To avoid fines, it is essential to monitor the validity of your visa carefully and leave the country before it expires. Consulting with immigration lawyers can also help you better understand the conditions.