Turkish Ikamet and Kimlik: The differences that are important to know.

In Turkey, foreigners can enjoy quality and affordable vacations, investment opportunities, and consider relocating or studying. Residents of most countries can stay in Turkey without a visa for 180 days per year with a break of half a year.

Thus, the maximum period of legal stay in Turkey for:
Russian citizens - 60 days without a break, or 60+30 days for 180 days.
Citizens of Ukraine - up to 90 days.
Citizens of Belarus - up to 30 days.
Citizens of Kazakhstan - up to 60 days.

But for legal stay of more than 90 days two documents are important: Kimlik (Turkish identity card) and İkamet (residence permit).

What is Kimlik? 

Kimlik is a Turkish citizen's internal passport that certifies identity. Foreigners can obtain it on the basis of:
Based on the following criteria, an identity card (Kimlik) can be obtained:

1. Investments in the Turkish economy, including the purchase of real estate (minimum investment amount - $400,000).
2. Marriage to a Turkish citizen.
3. Descent through a mother or father who is a Turkish citizen.
4. Purchase of real estate and residence in the country for at least 5 years.
5. Obtaining a residence permit in Turkey on the basis of a work visa with subsequent regular extensions for 5 years.

What is İkamet? 

İkamet is a residence permit for foreign nationals. There are short-term and long-term, reflecting different periods of stay.
The grounds for issuing a residence permit (İkamet) are:

1. Availability of real estate in the state.
2. Tourist purposes.
Studying at universities, learning Turkish language, staying under the student exchange program.
3. Treatment in medical clinics of the country.
4. Work and business.
5. Kinship ties.

Differences between Kimlik and İkamet: 

- Kimlik is an indefinite citizen's passport.
- İkamet is a temporary permit with a limited period of time.

What will you choose: perpetual status or flexibility of stay?